4 Things You Should Know About Your Car's Computers

You may not realize it, but your car gets you where you want to go by operating as a kind of four-wheeled computer center. The computer modules in your vehicle control practically every action that keeps its systems running smoothly, from engine timing and fuel efficiency to gear shifts.

The more you know about the roles your car's computers play, why they might fail, and what kinds of performance issues may point to such a failure, the more easily you can discuss a computer-related problem with your automotive technician when you bring a computer-related problem in for service.

When automotive technicians talk to you about a computer issue in your car, you may hear confusing acronyms such as ECM, TCM, and PCM. ECM stands for engine control module, TCM for transmission control module, and PCM for powertrain control module. Each module performs its own key functions in controlling your vehicle.

The ECM gathers incoming data from various parts of your car's engine system. It uses this data to coordinate engine and ignition timing, camshaft and throttle positions, and cooling system functions. The TCM does much the same to run your car's transmission. The PCM contains both modules, relaying data between them.

Car computer failures don't always originate in the computer modules themselves. Any sensor that wears out or sustains damage can stop feeding the ECM, TCM, or PCM the complete, accurate data it needs to make operational decisions. Your auto technician can locate and replace a failed sensor relatively easily.

A modern car design typically places the computer modules and their wiring under the seats or in the floor-level well of the vehicle. This location makes the computers vulnerable to both friction and water damage. Leaks and spills can corrode the materials and short out connections, while frequent scuffs can damage the wires.

Since your car's computer modules share data, a problem in one module typically impacts the operation of the other modules. The first warning you get of an onboard computer problem may take the form of a simple check engine light. Sooner or later, however, your car will probably start displaying performance changes.

If you can't start your car easily, or if the car frequently stalls or stutters, your ECM may have lost its ability to control the engine timing. However, the problem could also stem from a failure in the PCM that sends bad data to the ECM. Similarly, erratic shifting could mean a failing TCM or faulty data from the PCM.

Other signs of a potential computer issue include a loss of fuel efficiency and the sudden inability to pass a vehicle emission test. If you can't figure out why these problems have popped up, get the professionals to check your car's computer system.

Your auto technician can diagnose a car computer problem by plugging a code scanner into the computer system. This scanner will display error codes the computer generates that point the technician toward the exact problem, from a dead sensor or a blown fuse to a fried circuit board.

A shorted-out computer module may also provide clear evidence to the eyes and nose. Your automotive technician may inspect the computer modules and wiring for scorch marks or even sniff the modules to detect any odor that might indicate electrical burns. 

If you think one of your car's computers has developed a glitch in its behavior, bring the vehicle to Power Transmissions Complete Car Care. Our technicians know how to run computer diagnostics, replace any failed components, and get your car running smoothly again. Contact us today.