Types of Sensors in Cars

A car sensor is an electronic device that tracks and monitors different aspects of the vehicle and transmits the information to the ECU- Electronic Control Unit. The ECU processes the information, takes automated action if needed, and displays the information to the drive in an intelligible manner.

There are several types of sensors in cars that take care of different aspects. Following are some of the notable vehicle sensors that track and display essential information.

1. Monitoring of different car aspects — There are vehicle sensors that monitor the temperature, cooling system, engine functionalities, oil pressure, speed levels, emission levels, etc.

2. Sending of Signals to Mitigate problems — Car sensors send signals to the ECU that acts as a reminder or warns the driver to make appropriate adjustments in case of any issue or malfunction in the car’s system.

• Engine Speed Sensor: This sensor is crucial as it helps in monitoring engine revolutions timely (Per Minute).
• Air Flow Sensor: This car sensor measures the volume and density of intake air, which means the air entering the combustion chamber.
• Coolant Sensor: This sensor monitors coolant overheating in the radiator.
• Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor (MAP Sensor): This vehicle sensor monitors engine load by checking air pressures outside and measuring it against the manifold pressure.
• Spark Sensor: The function of the Spark Sensor is to have constant monitoring of the engine for a smooth ignition process. It also checks for improper fuel burning which can otherwise lead to the knocking of the engine.
• Fuel Temperature Sensor: This sensor senses the fuel temperature. The function of this sensor is to monitor and act as a prevention towards hot or cold fuel issues.
• Oil Temperature Sensor: This sensor works out on the principle of resistance variation and monitors the engine oil temperature. It triggers warnings in case the oil temperature is higher than the permitted one.
• Speed Sensor: The function of vehicle speed sensors is speed detection and prevention of overspeeding.
• Throttle Position Sensor: The throttle Position Sensor senses the position of the throttle. It receives signals that are transmitted from the throttle’s position and sends these signals to the electronic system. In case of any mismatch in the throttle position and the fuel injection, it can hamper engine performance.
• Voltage Sensor: It monitors and manages the idle speed of the car. The function of the Voltage sensor is to check the speed as per throttle movements.
• Oxygen Sensor: O2 sensors are used in automobiles to monitor the O2 levels in the exhaust gas. It is present near the exhaust manifold and after the catalytic converter.
• Nox Sensors: This car sensor monitors the level of Nitrogen in the exhaust gases.

While buying a car, you must pay attention whether your car has all the essential sensors and some more. It is because these car sensors are a contribution of modern automobile technology and for many vehicles these are the USPs. Also, while buying a car, do not forget to purchase a four-wheeler insurance.

How many sensors are there in the car?

A modern car can have somewhere around 60 to 70 sensors.

What is a Maf sensor in a car?

It is a sensor that helps the engine of the card to determine the air-flow mixture, and it measures the air that passes through it.

How many sensors are there in the car engine?

A modern-day car engine can have nearly 15-30 sensors, for tracking and monitoring all the functions.