Nowadays, cars have electronic sensors that make them run more smoothly and easier to drive. Essentially, these sensors are centred around an Electronic Control Unit or ECU that controls a particular function of the car. The number of ECUs in a car can depend on the kind of technology adopted for the car.
As its name suggests, a car sensor is designed such that it senses certain information about the vehicle and then transmits it to the ECU. The Electronic Control Unit then acts accordingly. Understanding the types of car sensors you may come across can help you choose the right car for yourself and drive it wisely.
Types of Car Sensors You Should Know About
If you browse through a catalogue of car specifications, these are some car sensors you may find:
1. Oxygen sensors
If you are running an ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicle, you may know that it requires an air-to-fuel ratio of 14.7:1. This means that one gram of fuel ideally requires 14.7 grams of air in the combustion chamber.
Oxygen sensors are designed to detect the level of oxygen in the vehicle’s exhaust pipes and transmit the same to the ECU. The Unit then makes changes as required to ensure that the air-to-fuel ratio is ideal for the car’s optimal performance. This sensor (or sensors, as there can be multiple oxygen sensors nowadays) can be found near the exhaust manifold, close to the catalytic converter.
2. Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor
The performance of a car can depend on the temperature of the air that is coming into the engine since the temperature can determine the oxygen molecules present in the air.
The IAT sensor, located near the intake manifold, uses its exposed tip to check the temperature of the air getting in. By sensing the air’s temperature and passing on the same to the ECU, it ensures that the engine gets the right combination of oxygen and fuel.
3. Engine oil sensor
The right amount of engine oil ensures that the engine runs smoothly. If the engine oil is less than required, it could lead to wear and tear and even larger problems in the long run. The engine oil sensor can help avoid this.
The sensor is located on the side of the oil pan. It is attached to the engine oil warning light you may see in most dashboards these days. The light switches on if the sensor detects an alarming reduction in the engine oil.
4. Vehicular Speed Sensor (VSS)
This sensor is a part of the Anti-Brake System found in modern cars. It keeps a tab on each wheel’s speed and transmits the information to the ECU. Guided by this data, the ECU makes vital decisions regarding brakes, overall vehicle speed, air intake, and so on. Thus, the VSS is an important safety sensor, especially for cars with 4x4 tyres.
5. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
This sensor is responsible for monitoring the air pressure of the tyres. Low air pressure in any of the tyres can lead to problems during driving. By informing the driver about the tyre with low air pressure, the TPMS ensures that the issue is resolved at the earliest and that the driving continues smoothly.
Also Read: The Magic Of Car Anti-Lock Brakes: Why They’re A Game-Changer!
Car sensors can help detect issues with the vehicle’s functioning so that it gets the repair it needs. However, car sensors can only play a preventive role– and your vehicle may still face an unfortunate situation, for which you ought to be prepared, financially and otherwise. This is where
car insurance can help.
Car Insurance - Why Your Car Needs It
Just like car sensors take care of multiple aspects of the vehicle, a car insurance policy can take care of repair expenses and other requirements after an unfortunate incident. Here’s what it can cover:
Third-party liabilities*
As per government laws, car owners must have
third-party motor insurance coverage. With this coverage, not only do you meet legal compliances, but also get financial protection against third-party injuries/damage.
Damage due to natural disasters*
As unfortunate as it may sound, natural disasters can strike anytime, anywhere. With a
comprehensive motor insurance plan, you can ensure financial protection for your car against earthquakes, landslides, storms, cyclones, floods, and so on.
Damage due to fire*
If a fire were to cause damage to your four-wheeler, you can turn to your car insurance plan for help and get adequate financial compensation to deal with the repairs.
Damage due to theft*
Despite the best of sensors, cars can still be stolen. In case you lose your car to theft, your
motor insurance plan can offer financial support to cope with the loss.
Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under motor insurance policy.
To know what the premium of comprehensive car insurance would be, you can use a
car insurance calculator.
*Standard T&C apply.
Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.
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