The Engine Computer Is Likely The Greatest Improvement To Cars Since The Car Was Invented

Vehicles, both cars and trucks, have improved drastically since they were first introduced back in the early 1900's. Many aspects about driving a car have also changed. Roads, which used to be dirt, are now paved and smooth (at least comparatively). We go far further in our cars today than they did in the beginning. We use our cars for many more things than they did when they first came out.

Of all of the changes in the car over the years, perhaps none has been more important than the advent of the engine computer. The Engine computer module (ECM) was invented and introduced into cars in large part to improve the efficiency in the way an engine performs. The main benefit of that improved performance is the lower emissions put off by the cars which pose environmental concerns.

A side benefit of the desire to improve the emissions of our cars is the increased gas mileage. The gas mileage of our vehicles has continued to improve as engine computers have improved in their performance. While some people do not care as much about the environment, they will never complain about the improved gas mileage.

The emissions of vehicles have been and continue to be a large issue and point of discussion. The impact on the environment that our cars have is a concern. However, the ECM has been and will continue to be a large factor in the improvement of emission levels. The ECM does this by continually adjusting the fuel, air and spark to the condition of the driving. This reduces the pollution of the vehicle.

The ECM can warn drivers of a potentially serious issue with the engine, such as an engine knock before it is too late. When the computer discovers a potential problem like this, will send a signal to the dash to turn on the check engine light. The trouble code is stored for the auto mechanic to look at.

Another job of the engine control module is to monitor other aspects relating to the engine. The ECM alerts the instrument cluster when there is a problem of something operating out of normal parameters, such as the engine coolant temperature or the oil level. The instrument cluster then will turn on the appropriate light signaling to the driver a potential problem. The ECM also stores a trouble code that a mechanic can retrieve in the diagnosis of the problem so that they can fix it.

The use of ECM's on vehicles could well be argued to be the most improvement of cars since they began. Unlike some of the other major improvements that we have seen in cars, the engine computer is not highly noticed by the common driver.

We will certainly see more improvements to cars as time moves on. There may never be a car like we see in the movie, "Back to the Future", but there will be drastic changes that impact our travel. One such change is very close. Chevy announced a new car, called the Chevy Volt which they claim is able to get 230 miles per gallon. It is scheduled to be on lots in 2010.