Here's a breakdown of how it works:
1. Sensors: The ECM receives information from various sensors about the engine's operating conditions. These sensors include:
* Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): Determines how much the throttle is open.
* Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor: Measures the pressure in the intake manifold.
* Oxygen Sensor (O2 Sensor): Measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust, which indicates how well the engine is burning fuel.
* Coolant Temperature Sensor: Monitors the engine coolant temperature.
* Crankshaft Position Sensor: Provides the ECM with information about engine speed and timing.
* Air Flow Sensor: Measures the amount of air entering the engine.
2. Calculations: The ECM uses the data from the sensors to calculate the optimal amount of fuel needed for each engine cycle.
3. Injector Pulse: The ECM sends a signal to the fuel injectors, which are electronically controlled valves. This signal determines the duration of the injector pulse, which directly controls how much fuel is injected into the engine.
Additional factors that influence the fuel injector pulse:
* Engine Load: The ECM will inject more fuel when the engine is under heavier load (e.g., accelerating or towing).
* Engine RPM: Fuel injection duration will vary depending on the engine speed.
* Fuel Pressure: The ECM will adjust the injector pulse to compensate for variations in fuel pressure.
Important Note: Diagnosing fuel injector problems can be complex. If you suspect an issue with your fuel injectors, it's recommended to consult a qualified mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.