Dige Auto Smart Automotive Technology consultancy
Automotive General Knowledge
repairing Tips
By Instructor Digafe Demise
Addres Bonga,kafa, Ethiopia
30/03/2026
the main sensors shown in the image:
1. Oxygen Sensor (O₂ Sensor)
Measures oxygen in the exhaust gases. The ECU uses this to adjust the fuel-air mixture for better fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
2. Oil Level Sensor
Monitors how much engine oil is in the engine and warns if the oil level is too low.
3. Oil Pressure Sensor / Switch
Checks the engine oil pressure. If pressure drops too low, the oil warning light turns on to prevent engine damage.
4. Coolant Temperature Sensor (CTS)
Measures the temperature of the engine coolant so the ECU can adjust fuel injection and cooling fan operation.
5. Oil Temperature Sensor
Monitors the temperature of the engine oil to ensure proper lubrication.
6. Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP)
Detects the crankshaft speed and position. This is critical for ignition timing and fuel injection.
7. Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP)
Works with the crankshaft sensor to control valve timing and fuel injection sequencing.
8. Knock Sensor
Detects abnormal engine knocking or detonation and signals the ECU to adjust ignition timing to protect the engine.
✅ In short: These sensors act like the “nervous system” of a modern car engine, constantly sending data so the ECU can keep the engine running smoothly.
19/03/2026
14/02/2026
🚗 Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) – Explained
🎮 1) Driver Input (Accelerator Pedal Module)
The pedal is no longer connected by cable.
It contains Pedal Position Sensors (usually PPS1 & PPS2).
• They send voltage signals to the ECU.
• Each sensor has a different scaling (for example one rises while the other falls).
• The ECU constantly compares them to detect errors.
👉 If signals disagree → system goes into fail-safe / limp mode.
🧠 2) The Brain (ECU)
The ECU decides how far the throttle should open based on:
• pedal request
• engine load
• RPM
• coolant temp
• traction/stability control
• cruise control commands
• emission strategy
Important: the throttle opening is not always equal to pedal position.
Mechanics Manual
⚙️ 3) Throttle Body Assembly
Contains:
• Electric motor → moves the plate
• Throttle Position Sensors (TPS1 & TPS2) → report actual angle
• Return spring → brings throttle to a default safety position
🔁 4) Closed-Loop Feedback (Super Important)
After commanding movement, the ECU checks TPS feedback.
If commanded angle ≠ actual angle →
⚠️ trouble code + reduced power.
This constant comparison happens hundreds of times per second.
🛡️ 5) Why So Many Wires? (Redundancy)
Manufacturers use duplicates because:
A wrong throttle opening can be dangerous.
So the ECU checks:
• PPS1 vs PPS2
• TPS1 vs TPS2
• motor response vs expected movement
Any mismatch = protection mode.
🚨 Common Real-World Failures Pros See
🔹 Carbon buildup → plate sticks
🔹 Weak battery → erratic signals
🔹 Broken wiring → correlation faults
🔹 Cheap aftermarket parts → wrong voltage curves
Symptoms drivers notice:
• delayed acceleration
• sudden loss of power
• high or unstable idle
• limp mode
💡 Pro Technician Insight
Never replace the throttle body before checking:
✔ supply voltage
✔ ground integrity
✔ connector condition
✔ live PPS/TPS data
Many units get replaced when the problem is wiring.
Precision airflow = precision power.
Auto Mechanics Center | Smart Diagnostics
07/02/2026
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