Automotive Fault Detection Technology: Working & More

The automobile industry is ever-changing and constantly evolving. The technology we have in our cars these days is what we once thought was only possible in movies. Today, cars are not just advanced; they are smart. Innovative features like fault detection technology in cars are standard in many vehicles. This feature enables the car to detect any potential fault that may be hindering its performance and efficiency.

In this guide, we will provide you with complete details about fault detection technology, its working and other features.

What is Fault Detection Technology?

The fault detection technology in automotive industry is used to identify any potential malfunctioning in auto parts. It uses different measured signals to identify faults (mechanical and electrical) in sensors, actuators and parts involved in major processes.

The fault detection process is divided into two parts: fault isolation and fault detection. In fault isolation, the location of the fault is identified. Whereas, in fault detection, the nature of fault is identified. Both processes collectively trace faults in the vehicle before illuminating dashboard warning lights.

How Fault is Detected in Cars

Modern vehicles are equipped with computer networks, software and sensors that collectively create a CAN (Controlled Area Network). CAN is cheaper and more efficient, making the usage of fault detection technology in the automotive industry more feasible.

CAN is connected with a number of data point traversals and sensors that provide complete physical and technological information to the system. Data collected from the CAN system is transferred to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) or car computer, which compares the current information with its data set. A warning light referring to the specific fault is illuminated in case of any discrepancy in the measured and ideal readings. It is the latest version of advanced automotive fault diagnosis.

fault detection device — Old way of detecting faults in car by using electronic devices

Category of Faults that can be Detected

A vehicle equipped with a fault detection system is capable of identifying a number of problems that can hinder adequate car functioning. These problems can be segmented into two different categories mentioned below.

Mechanical Faults

The mechanical fault detection system covers different components that play a major role in a car’s working. This includes engine, ancillary system, electronic and power steering, suspension, braking, gear transmission system, torque, hydraulic components, exhaust system and vibrations. Any problem encountered in the above-mentioned system of components will be automatically detected and warned by the fault detection system.

Electrical Faults

Any problem incurred in the electrical components of a car is under the range of CAN. This includes charging, ignition, cruise control system, battery, alternator, fuse problems, lights, alarm system, keyless ignition, misfires and inaccurate display.

Car system check — Car computer running system check to identify malfunctioning parts of the vehicle

Importance of Fault Detection

The fault detection technology is becoming an industry norm with time. The technology is considered to make vehicles efficient and secure. See the following significant impacts of fault detection systems on vehicles.

It increases the life of the vehicle by providing regular updates regarding fault maintenance.
Proper maintenance can also reduce the carbon footprint of your car.
It can make vehicles more secure ensuring the acute working of all the essential components.
Higher driveability and improved fuel economy are also considered the impact of on-time fault detection.

Accuracy of Fault Detection Technology

The automatic fault detection system outweighs the human ability to detect a potential malfunction in different components. Currently, the system is ten-fold more efficient than any expert human, which will increase in the future. Accurate data collection and innovating AI technology will increase the efficiency and accuracy of fault detection systems even more.

The advanced system will increase the overall lifespan of vehicles and reduce maintenance costs.

This was all about fault detection technology in cars. The technology is more common in electric vehicles contrary to combustion engine vehicles. You can browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE. We have also enlisted some car models with fault detection technology.

Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on innovative technologies in cars