Table of content
21 July 2023 What is an ECU and what does it do?
What is an ECU in a car?
You may have seen the abbreviation ‘ECU’ crop up a few times in online tutorials and blogs but still not be familiar with its meaning. It usually stands for electronic control unit and, in many cases, it specifically refers to the engine control unit. An electronic control unit is a small device which controls the functions of one or more electrical systems in the vehicle. The control units process inputs from a variety of sensors and components. They then use the information transmitted to control the system “actuators” that convert the ECU signals into specific actions. They essentially work like mini computers with an integrated chip running on embedded software.
What exactly does an ECU do?
Modern cars may feature over 100 ECUs, regulating the essential functions of the engine, brakes, security systems, HVAC, power steering, airbags, and much more. Each control unit module receives input signals from different sensors or parts depending on its functions. For example, the airbag ECU would receive an input signal from the crash sensors and seat sensors. In the event of a crash, the unit determines when and which airbags need to be deployed and sends this information to the actuators.
The engine ECU is crucial for maintaining the right air-fuel ratio in internal combustion engines, as well as setting the timing of the ignition system. Without proper regulation, the engine would become unstable and struggle to power the vehicle. Several variables are taken into account when adjusting the air-fuel mixture, including the car engine coolant temperature, air pressure, and fuel pumping efficiency.
Article number: 0 986 444 954
£ 176,76
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Article number: 13-0081
£ 19,57
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-61%
Article number: XEI14
compared to
RRP
£ 64,98
£ 25,34
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-61%
Article number: XEI63
compared to
RRP
£ 91,63
£ 34,95
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Article number: 70015
£ 326,20
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
What is ECU tuning?
Also known as remapping or chip tuning, ECU tuning involves altering the settings of the engine control unit in a way that enhances the vehicle’s performance or fuel economy. Third party software is installed onto the car engine control module, overwriting the default software and its settings. This new software can adapt the fuel injection and turbo pressure settings to potentially increase power by 25-30%. You’ll usually find that the manufacturer intentionally limits the capacity of the engine, often to comply with emission or noise regulations.
It is advisable to only install software from a verified company to reduce the risk of harming your engine. It’s better to leave it to the specialists who adapt and test the software on a wide range of models to ensure reliability. Although verified remapping will most likely be safe, overwriting the manufacturer’s settings will make your warranty void, at least for the engine and turbocharger. If something fails, you could end up paying for an expensive engine rebuild or turbo replacement.
How much does an ECU replacement cost?
This will vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the type of ECU and the make and model of the vehicle. If you get it done by a mechanic in the UK, the price of an engine ECU replacement typically ranges from £150 to £500 plus labour costs. It’s possible to buy an electronic control unit at a lower price online, although you should keep in mind that it is a complex device that may require professional tuning. You can find affordable parts for a wide range of models using our online navigation system and catalogue, such a new ECU for your Vauxhall Corsa.
Top products related to this topic:
