Using Diagnostics to Research the Operational Reliability of Electronic Engine Control Systems of Skoda Car

Abstract

Introduction. Some physical processes active in the electronic engine control systems lead to wear and tear of the system elements. Experience in operating and diagnosing vehicles at the service station has shown that there is the operation of vehicles with failures, many of which subsequently lead to malfunctions of different complexities. The purpose of the study is to apply diagnostics for determining the operational reliability and assessing the technical condition of electronic engine control systems. Materials and Methods. A batch of cars was selected to assess the operational reliability of modern electronic engine control system. There were carried out experimental tests of Skoda Octavia cars with 1.8 TSI CDAB 152 hp Euro5 engine and CDAA 160 hp Euro5 engine. The sample consisted of 60 vehicles. Every vehicle was registered for diagnostics, pre-maintenance and computer diagnostics. After a short test, the vehicle was taken back to the service station and subjected to a detailed diagnosis of the electronic engine control system. Results. The results of analyzing reliability of the main elements of the electronic engine control system have been obtained. It can be concluded that most of the failures of the structural elements of the electronic engine control system occur within the actuators of the system, which have moving elements, sensors measuring the parameters of the system wear out to a lesser extent. The analysis of dependence of failure rates of the fuel pump pressure regulator on operating time intervals has been carried out. Discussion and Conclusion. It was determined that the spark plugs have the least mileage lifetime. At the same time, the failure within the fuel pressure regulator of the car fuel system occurs most frequently (19.8% of total). The resource of this element of the electronic engine control system averages 125,000 km. It is proved that diagnostics using modern technological equipment is effective.

An Analysis of the Correct Frequency of the Service Inspections of German Passenger Cars—A Case Study on Kazakhstan and Poland

“…These recommendations are based on various factors such as operating conditions [32], road quality [33], and technical requirements [34]. In Kazakhstan [35,36], the vehicle is operated under conditions that can affect its performance and wear: an extreme, continental climate [37], relatively poor road conditions, low-quality fuel [38], and circumstances promoting corrosion [39]. It may be advisable to perform maintenance before the mileage specified by the manufacturer [40].…”