4th October 2024
An ‘ECU’ refers to the electronic control unit or an engine-specific ECU, like the engine control unit.
The difference is that the electronic control units monitor many functions inside your vehicle. Most modern vehicles may have tens or hundreds of ECUs embedded in the car’s software. These mini computers can be linked to the brakes, power steering, air conditioning units, airbags and more. However, the engine control unit is near the engine and ensures your car’s engine runs smoothly in all weather conditions.
Discover more about electronic control units, and how they work in our informative guide.
The electronic control units control many things with your car’s electronic systems, from the exhaust to the coolant and fuel injection systems.
Many sensors inside your vehicle provide information to the ECUs, alerting you to any faults with your car’s electrical systems. The engine control unit for example will maintain the right air-to-fuel ratio within the combustion chambers and can set the timing of the ignition system. If an issue develops in your vehicle, you will be made aware via a warning light on your dashboard.
Most modern vehicles will typically have at least four ECUs, including:
However, you may find cars that have 100 or more ECUs controlling various functions, including:
Some vehicles may have more ECUs than others, which must be considered when buying or upgrading your car.
You can find the engine control unit in the engine bay of your car, inside the cabin, in the glovebox or underneath the dashboard. If you are unsure where the ECU is located, it will be noted in the vehicle owner’s manual.
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if you want to remap your car’s ECU. Remapping involves modifying the electronic control unit to improve your car’s performance, fuel efficiency or power, provided the engine and gearbox are in good condition.
Typically, the ECU remapping process involves plugging a laptop into the onboard diagnostics (OBD) port and then tuning the engine settings to improve performance and efficiency.
However, pre-2000 models cannot be remapped as they don’t have the remapping software to optimise your car’s performance. If you want your car’s ECU remapped, we recommend getting it done by a qualified professional to avoid potential engine damage from occurring.
No, a modern car cannot function without ECUs as they control most systems in your vehicle, from fuel injection to electronics.
Are you wondering why your vehicle isn’t running as it should? Could it be an issue with the engine control unit? Our article has ten reasons why your car doesn’t start. Keep your vehicle running by booking a service or MOT at your local Merityre branch across South-East England.