The engine control module (ECM), also commonly referred to as the engine control unit (ECU) or powertrain control module (PCM), is one of the most important components found on virtually all modern vehicles. It essentially functions as the main computer for many of the vehicle’s engine performance and drivability functions. The ECM takes the information from the engine's various sensors and uses that information to calculate and tune engine spark and fuel for maximum power and efficiency.
The ECM plays a crucial role in newer vehicles, where many of the essential functions of the car are controlled by the ECM. When the ECM has any issues, it can cause all sorts of problems with the vehicle, and in some cases even render it undrivable. A bad or failing ECM may produce any of the following 5 symptoms to alert the driver of a potential problem.
1. Check Engine Light Turns On
An illuminated Check Engine Light is one possible symptom of a problem with the ECM. The Check Engine Light usually illuminates when the computer detects a problem with any of its sensors or circuits. There are cases, however, where the ECM illuminates a Check Engine Light mistakenly, or when there is no issue present. Have a mechanic scan the computer for trouble codes to diagnose whether the issue is with the ECM, or elsewhere on the vehicle.
2. Engine Stalling or Misfiring
Erratic engine behavior may also indicate a bad or failing ECM. A faulty computer may cause the vehicle to intermittently stall or misfire. The symptoms might come and go and not appear to have any sort of pattern to their frequency or severity.
3. Engine Performance Issues
Engine performance issues are another symptom of a possible problem with the ECM. If the ECM has any issues, it may throw off the timing and fuel settings of the engine, which can negatively affect performance. A faulty ECM may cause the vehicle to experience a reduction in fuel efficiency, power, acceleration.
4. Car Not Starting
A bad ECM may lead to a vehicle that won’t or is difficult to start. If the ECM fails completely, it will leave the vehicle without engine management control, and will not start or run as a result. The engine may still crank, but it will not be able to start without the vital inputs from the computer. Car-starting problems are not exclusively caused by the ECM, so it's best to get a complete diagnosis by a professional technician to accurately determine the cause.
5. Poor Fuel Economy
Bad fuel economy may occur from a failing ECM. A faulty ECM disallows your engine from knowing how much fuel to burn in the combustion process. Typically, the vehicle consumes more fuel than it should in this situation. You’ll end up paying more for gas than you would with a functioning ECM.
The ECM plays a vital role in engine performance. Any issues with it can cause major problems with the overall functionality of the car. As the computer systems found on modern vehicles are quite sophisticated and complicated, they can also be difficult to diagnose. For this reason, if you suspect that your vehicle’s ECM is having an issue, have the vehicle inspected by a professional technician to determine if your car will need an ECM replacement.
