5 Key Car Sensors That Influence Fuel Efficiency (See Photos)

1. Oxygen Sensor

This sensor monitors the level of unburned oxygen in the exhaust. When it fails, it can send incorrect data to the engine control unit (ECU), causing the engine to run too rich or too lean—both of which reduce fuel efficiency.

2. Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF)

The MAF sensor gauges the volume of air entering the engine. A faulty sensor can disrupt the air-fuel ratio, leading to poor combustion and increased fuel consumption.

3. Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

This sensor tracks the position of the throttle. If it's not working properly, it can misinform the ECU, leading to inefficient fuel delivery and reduced fuel economy.

4. Fuel Pressure Sensor

It measures the pressure of fuel in the system. Incorrect readings can cause an imbalance in the fuel-to-air ratio, which not only hurts fuel efficiency but may also damage the engine.

5. Engine Temperature Sensor

Responsible for tracking coolant temperature, this sensor helps the ECU manage engine performance. Faulty readings can lead to improper fuel delivery and inefficient engine operation.

Piston and Connecting Rod: The Heart of Your Engine

 

Have you ever wondered what makes your car's engine tick? It's the intricate dance between various components, and two of the most crucial are the piston and connecting rod. Let's delve into how these parts work together to power your vehicle.

The Piston: The Powerhouse

The piston is the heart of the combustion chamber. It moves up and down, compressing the air-fuel mixture and then pushing the resulting gases out of the cylinder. The piston is connected to the crankshaft via the connecting rod.

The Connecting Rod: The Link

The connecting rod serves as the bridge between the piston and the crankshaft. It transfers the reciprocating motion of the piston into rotational motion for the crankshaft. Think of it as a lever, amplifying the force generated by the piston.

How They Work Together

1. Intake Stroke: The piston moves downward, creating a vacuum that draws in a mixture of air and fuel.

2. Compression Stroke: As the piston moves upward, the air-fuel mixture is compressed, creating a high-pressure environment.

3. Power Stroke: The spark plug ignites the compressed mixture, causing a powerful explosion that forces the piston downward.

4. Exhaust Stroke: The piston moves upward again, pushing the exhaust gases out of the cylinder.

Key Components:

* Piston Pin: Connects the piston to the connecting rod.

* Compression Rings: Prevent combustion gases from leaking past the piston.

* Oil Control Ring: Scrapes excess oil off the cylinder wall.

* Connecting Rod Bearing: Reduces friction between the connecting rod and the crankshaft.

In Conclusion

The piston and connecting rod are essential components of any internal combustion engine. Their coordinated movement is responsible for producing the power that propels your vehicle. Understanding these parts can help you appreciate the complexity and ingenuity of modern engineering.

Car Engine Air Sensor Explained!

One of the important pieces in the car engine where it calculates the amount of air that enters the engine, and sends it to the car computer, which in turn adjusts the percentage of fuel until it is pumped into the engine depending on the amount of air,

This sensor has a very important role in maintaining the performance of the engine and when this sensor is damaged or problems arise, a set of symptoms and signs appear on the engine,

What are the signs of air sensor damage?

- The occurrence of a jerk or shake in the car engine when the engine is started and left at idle speed running (i.e. starting the engine without moving the car)

- Weakness in the torque of the car, and as we pointed out, this sensor calculates the amount of air entering the engine and if a malfunction occurs in it, the car computer will not know the appropriate amount of fuel pumping compared to the amount of air inside the engine,

- Irregularity in the RPM signal is among the signs that also indicate damage to the air sensor in cars

- It may lead to increased fuel consumption as a result of the imbalance of the percentage of fuel pumping in the engine and thus the lack of complete combustion of fuel inside the car engine

- In some cars when the air sensor is damaged, the car engine does not work, and this is not limited to all car companies, but only a few of them

- When damaged, the engine bulb appears on the dashboard, the first thing after noticing the symptoms that we mentioned, take the car and examine it by fault diagnostic devices and it will give you the name of the damaged part in your car engine,

The most important reason that leads to damage to the air sensor in the car is its dirt, as the efficiency of its work decreases and the effect of this begins to be clear on the performance of the engine gradually until the sensor is damaged.

Car A/C Compressor: All You Need To Know

This overview explains the components and functions of a swash plate compressor, commonly used in car air conditioning systems.

Key Components:

Swash Plate: Controls the piston's movement.

Connecting Rod: Links the piston to the wobble plate.

Wobble Plate: Transforms rotational motion into piston movement.

Piston: Compresses the refrigerant.

Cylinder Head: Houses the piston and valves.

Intake/Discharge Valves: Regulate refrigerant flow in and out.

Charge Ports: Allow refrigerant to be added.

High/Low Pressure Vapor: Represents refrigerant in vapor states.

Suction/Discharge Connections: Link the compressor to the A/C system.

Cam Rotor: Drives the wobble plate.

Clutch Assembly: Engages or disengages the compressor.

Accumulator: Stores liquid refrigerant.

Orifice Tube: Controls refrigerant flow.

Evaporator: Absorbs heat to cool air.

Condenser: Releases heat from refrigerant to the environment.

AC Compressor: The unit comprising all these components.

How It Works:

1. The cam rotor rotates, moving the wobble plate.

2. The swash plate tilts, causing the piston to compress the refrigerant.

3. Compressed, high-pressure refrigerant moves to the condenser.

4. The condenser cools the refrigerant by releasing heat.

5. The cooled liquid refrigerant passes through the orifice tube.

6. In the evaporator, refrigerant absorbs heat, cooling the air.

7. Low-pressure refrigerant returns to the compressor, repeating the cycle.

Benefits of Swash Plate Compressors:

1. Efficient and reliable performance.

2. Adjustable output to meet cooling needs.

3. Compact and lightweight design.

7 Warning Signs of a Failing Crankshaft You Should Never Ignore

---> What is a Crankshaft?

The crankshaft is a crucial component in an internal combustion engine. It converts the linear motion of the pistons into rotational motion, which ultimately powers the wheels of the vehicle. The crankshaft is connected to the pistons via connecting rods, and it rotates inside the engine block, supported by main bearings. It plays a critical role in engine performance and efficiency.

---> Symptoms of a Bad Crankshaft or Crankshaft Position Sensor:

A failing crankshaft or crankshaft position sensor can cause various engine issues, including:

1. Check Engine Light:

◉ The ECU (Engine Control Unit) monitors the crankshaft's position and speed.

◉ If the crankshaft position sensor is damaged or the rotation is irregular, the Check Engine Light (CEL) may turn on.

◉ A diagnostic scan (OBD-II) can reveal error codes related to the crankshaft.

2. Reduced Gas Mileage:

◉ If the crankshaft position sensor malfunctions, the engine’s timing and fuel injection may be thrown off.

◉ This leads to poor combustion, resulting in lower fuel efficiency.

3. Engine Stalling:

◉ A faulty crankshaft or position sensor can cause the ECU to lose track of the engine’s rotation.

◉ This may lead to random engine stalls while driving or idling.

◉ In severe cases, the engine might not restart at all.

4. Engine Vibration:

◉ A damaged or unbalanced crankshaft can cause excessive vibration.

◉ Worn-out bearings or misalignment can worsen the shaking.

5. Engine Misfire:

◉ The crankshaft position sensor helps with ignition timing and fuel injection.

◉ If it fails, the engine may misfire due to incorrect fuel-air mixture and spark timing.

◉ Misfires can cause rough idling, loss of power, and potential engine damage.

6. Poor Acceleration:

◉ If the ECU cannot accurately read crankshaft data, it may affect the air-fuel ratio and ignition timing.

◉ This results in sluggish acceleration and poor throttle response.

7. Low Oil Pressure:

◉ A worn-out crankshaft, especially with worn bearings, can cause oil pressure to drop.

◉ Low oil pressure can lead to poor lubrication, increased friction, and possible engine failure.

---> Conclusion:

A faulty crankshaft or crankshaft position sensor can cause serious engine issues. If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to get a diagnostic scan and inspect the crankshaft, bearings, and sensor. Early detection can prevent costly repairs and engine failure.

The Engine Block Components Explained

 

This diagram provides a clear breakdown of the essential components found in a typical engine. Let's explore each part and its function:

* Cylinder Head: This crucial component houses the valves, spark plugs, and combustion chambers. It's responsible for compressing the fuel-air mixture and expelling the exhaust gases.

* Engine Block: The foundation of the engine, it houses the cylinders, crankshaft, and other internal components.

* Crankshaft: This rotating shaft converts the linear motion of the pistons into rotational energy, which drives the wheels.

* Pistons: These components move up and down within the cylinders, compressing the fuel-air mixture and converting the resulting explosion into mechanical energy.

* Connecting Rods: These rods connect the pistons to the crankshaft, transmitting the force generated by the pistons to the crankshaft.

* Timing Gear Cover: This protective cover encloses the timing gear, which coordinates the movement of the camshaft and crankshaft.

* Timing Gear: This gear ensures that the camshaft and crankshaft rotate at the correct speeds and in synchronization.

* Camshaft: This shaft controls the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves, regulating the flow of fuel-air mixture into and out of the combustion chambers.

* Oil Pump: This pump circulates engine oil throughout the engine to lubricate moving parts and prevent excessive wear.

* Oil Pan: This component collects used engine oil and prevents it from spilling.

* Oil Drain Plug Gasket: This gasket seals the oil drain plug, preventing oil leaks.

* Oil Cooler: This component helps to cool the engine oil, preventing overheating and maintaining optimal engine performance.

* Water Pump: This pump circulates coolant throughout the engine to regulate its temperature and prevent overheating.

* Water Pump Gasket: This gasket seals the water pump, preventing coolant leaks.

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor (All You Need To Know)

(THE ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE (ECT) SENSOR: A VITAL COMPONENT IN MODERN VEHICLE PERFORMANCE AND EFFICIENCY )

*In the world of automotive technology, where precision and efficiency are paramount, the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor stands as a small but powerful component critical to the smooth and efficient operation of modern vehicles. Embedded within the engine cooling system, this sensor serves as the eyes and ears of the Engine Control Module (ECM) by constantly monitoring the engine's temperature and relaying this vital data to the ECM. By doing so, it ensures that the engine remains in optimal working condition, impacting everything from fuel economy to emission control, engine lifespan, and overall vehicle performance.

*The ECT sensor's primary role is to monitor the temperature of the engine's coolant, a vital indicator of the engine's operating conditions. Since the engine’s performance, fuel efficiency, and emission levels fluctuate with changes in temperature, this data is essential for the ECM to adjust multiple aspects of engine operation. Today’s drivers demand vehicles that are fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly, and perform consistently in all types of weather and driving conditions. The ECT sensor is a key component that enables the ECM to make intelligent, real-time adjustments to meet these demands. It plays a role in regulating the fuel mixture, adjusting ignition timing, and controlling the electric cooling fan, among other functions, helping the vehicle maintain an optimal balance of power, efficiency, and emissions control.

(KEY FUNCTION OF THE ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE (ECT) SENSOR )

*The ECT sensor performs multiple critical functions by feeding temperature data to the ECM, enabling it to make precise adjustments across various engine systems. Here are some of its primary functions:

(FUEL MIXTURE ADJUSTMENT )

One of the primary roles of the ECM is to maintain an ideal air-to-fuel ratio within the engine for optimal combustion. The ECT sensor helps achieve this by signaling the engine's current temperature, allowing the ECM to adjust the mixture accordingly. When the engine is cold, it requires a richer fuel mixture to start and warm up quickly. As the engine heats up, the mixture gradually leans out, helping conserve fuel and reduce emissions. This adjustment is crucial not only for smooth engine operation but also for fuel efficiency, particularly during colder starts when the engine consumes more fuel.

2. IGNITION TIMING

*Ignition timing—when the spark plug ignites the air-fuel mixture—is essential to engine performance, power output, and fuel economy. The ECM, using temperature data from the ECT sensor, adjusts the ignition timing to align with the engine’s temperature. A cold engine generally requires advanced timing for optimal performance, whereas a hot engine may require retarded timing to avoid knocking and pre-detonation. This precise control helps the engine operate smoothly and efficiently across different temperature ranges, improving the vehicle's responsiveness and performance.

3. COOLING FAN CONTROL

*To prevent overheating, the ECT sensor data enables the ECM to activate and regulate the electric cooling fan. When the engine temperature rises beyond an optimal threshold, the ECM signals the fan to switch on, providing necessary airflow to cool the radiator and lower the engine temperature. Once the temperature stabilizes, the ECM may switch off the fan, helping conserve battery power and reduce noise. This fan control system, guided by the ECT sensor, is crucial for maintaining engine health and preventing costly damage due to overheating.

(CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND DIAGNOSTIC ROLE )

*The ECT sensor is also essential for diagnostic purposes. If the sensor detects an abnormal temperature reading or fails altogether, it can trigger the Check Engine Light (CEL), alerting the driver to a potential issue. Additionally, a malfunctioning ECT sensor can result in erratic temperature data, leading to poor engine performance, fuel inefficiency, and even safety risks. By illuminating the CEL, the vehicle alerts the driver to seek maintenance promptly, potentially preventing more significant engine damage or reduced performance.

(IMPORTANCE OF THE ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR)

*The ECT sensor plays a crucial role in ensuring that the engine operates within safe temperature ranges, which is fundamental to overall vehicle efficiency and longevity. Some of the key benefits provided by this sensor include:

(ENHANCED FUEL EFFICIENCY )

By regulating the fuel mixture based on engine temperature, the ECT sensor allows for optimal combustion, which in turn improves fuel efficiency. This is particularly beneficial during cold starts, which are typically the least efficient operating conditions for an engine. A functional ECT sensor helps drivers save on fuel costs over time, reducing the environmental impact of the vehicle.

( REDUCED EMISSIONS )

Modern vehicles are designed to meet stringent emission standards, and the ECT sensor is essential in regulating emissions. When the engine runs at optimal temperatures, fuel combustion is more complete, leading to fewer unburnt hydrocarbons and lower emissions. The ECT sensor's ability to provide accurate temperature data ensures that emissions are kept within acceptable limits, helping the vehicle meet environmental regulations and contributing to cleaner air.

(PROLONGED ENGINE LIFESPAN )

Operating an engine at extreme temperatures can lead to serious wear and tear, ultimately shortening its lifespan. By preventing overheating through accurate temperature monitoring, the ECT sensor protects various engine components from thermal stress and damage. This helps maintain the engine's integrity and extends its operational life, reducing the likelihood of expensive repairs or replacements.

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE INDICATOR

The ECT sensor’s ability to trigger the Check Engine Light when there is a fault provides an early warning system for potential engine issues. A malfunctioning ECT sensor can lead to overheating, poor fuel economy, and reduced engine performance, which can become costly if ignored. By alerting the driver promptly, the ECT sensor supports preventive maintenance, enabling issues to be addressed before they worsen.

(SYMPTOMS OF A FAULTY ECT SENSOR AND MAINTENANCE TIPS )

*When the ECT sensor malfunctions, it often triggers certain symptoms that can impact the engine's performance. Common signs of a faulty ECT sensor include:

*Poor fuel economy due to incorrect fuel mixture

Engine overheating or, in some cases, engine running too cold

Rough idling or misfiring

CEL illumination with error codes related to the ECT sensor

*Regular maintenance and periodic inspections of the ECT sensor can help prevent such issues. For those experiencing any of these symptoms, it is advisable to have the sensor inspected by a qualified technician, as replacing the ECT sensor is a relatively simple and cost-effective repair that can restore optimal vehicle performance.

(IN CONCLUSION )

*The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor may be small in size, but its role in modern vehicle performance is monumental. As a key component in the engine management system, it enables the Engine Control Module to make precise adjustments to fuel mixture, ignition timing, and cooling fan operation, ensuring that the engine runs efficiently, stays within safe temperature ranges, and meets emission standards. By providing accurate temperature data, the ECT sensor allows vehicles to achieve an optimal balance of power, fuel efficiency, and emissions control—attributes that are highly valued by both vehicle manufacturers and drivers.

*Moreover, the ECT sensor’s contribution to preventive maintenance by triggering the Check Engine Light when necessary highlights its importance in protecting engine health and minimizing repair costs. A malfunctioning ECT sensor can lead to a cascade of issues affecting the vehicle's performance and durability. Therefore, regular maintenance and timely replacement of a faulty ECT sensor can save drivers from costly repairs, enhancing the vehicle's reliability and longevity.

*In the ever-evolving field of automotive technology, where efficiency and environmental sustainability are top priorities, the ECT sensor continues to be an indispensable tool in the quest for optimized vehicle performance. Its accurate temperature monitoring allows modern vehicles to deliver a seamless driving experience, conserving fuel, reducing emissions, and maintaining the engine’s health, thereby underscoring the ECT sensor’s vital role in today’s automobiles. See less

Car Engine Timing Belt (All You Need To Know)

A timing belt, often referred to as a camshaft drive belt, is a critical component in internal combustion engines. It plays a vital role in synchronizing the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring that the engine's valves open and close at the right time.

How does it work? 

The timing belt is a rubber band with teeth that connects the crankshaft pulley to the camshaft pulleys. As the crankshaft rotates, the timing belt drives the camshaft, causing the intake and exhaust valves to open and close in sequence. This precise timing is essential for the engine to operate efficiently and produce power.

Key components of a timing belt system:

* Timing belt: The rubber band with teeth that connects the crankshaft to the camshaft.

* Crankshaft pulley: The pulley attached to the crankshaft that drives the timing belt.

* Camshaft pulleys: The pulleys attached to the camshafts that are driven by the timing belt.

* Timing belt tensioner: A device that maintains proper tension on the timing belt.

* Water pump: Often driven by the timing belt, the water pump circulates coolant throughout the engine to prevent overheating.

Why is it important to maintain your timing belt? 

A worn or broken timing belt can cause serious engine damage. If the timing belt snaps, the valves can collide with the pistons, resulting in bent valves, damaged pistons, or even a blown head gasket. Regular inspection and replacement of the timing belt, as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, is crucial to prevent these problems.

Signs of a worn timing belt:

* Noise: A squeaking or squealing noise from the engine could indicate a worn timing belt.

* Misfiring: If the timing belt is slipping, it can cause the engine to misfire.

* Rough idle: A rough idle can also be a sign of a worn timing belt.

Remember: The timing belt is a critical component of your engine, and its proper maintenance is essential for the long life and performance of your vehicle. If you have any concerns about your timing belt, consult a qualified mechanic for inspection and replacement.

Is Your Car Clicking Instead of Cranking? It Might Be the Starter Solenoid (All You Need To Know)

 

The starter solenoid is a small but crucial component that bridges the gap between your battery and starter motor by acting as a switch.

The solenoid is effectively a very high current relay. The starter motor itself can take up to 300A to spin the motor, while the ignition key (in the old days) or the ECU (nowadays) can only comfortably source <= 1A.

Whatever commands the car to start (key or ECU) actually commands the solenoid to close, which provides massive current to the starter. It's a voltage-operated switch (aka relay).

When you turn the key, the solenoid activates, sending power to the starter, which in turn cranks the engine. The solenoid drives the actuator gear forward so that it makes contact with the teeth on the flywheel. Once the car starts the solenoid disengages from the circuit usually due to the action of a helical compression spring.- Signs of a Bad Starter Solenoid

Clicking noise instead of cranking: If it is the solenoid, likely you won’t hear your starter engage the engine. You might hear a single click or series of clicks, or no noise at all, but no noise of the starter. If it is the starter, you may hear a high loud whine of the starter motor as the solenoid tries to kick out the starter gear, or you may hear a loud grinding noise if the gear is fried.

Starter keeps running after key release: If your starter motor keeps spinning even after you've released the key, it's a strong indication of a faulty solenoid which shows that the solenoid did not disengage to stop the current flow. This can damage the starter if not addressed promptly.

Clicking noise without starter engagement: You might hear a clicking sound when you turn the key, but the starter doesn't engage. This could be due to a worn-out or damaged solenoid connection.

JAMB issues alert on fraudulent website targeting candidates who missed 2025 UTME

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued an alert about a fraudulent site requesting payments from candidates who missed the ongoing 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for rescheduling of the examination.

JAMB, in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Thursday by the Board’s Public Communication Advisor, Dr Fabian Benjamin identified the site as “Copyrightwriter Personal J Rescheduling Flw.”

The scam company is reportedly asking candidate who missed the UTME to pay money into account number 8520641017 at Sterling Bank for rescheduling.

However, Benjamin said the account is being exploited to defraud unsuspecting candidates who missed their UTME.

“We issue this urgent notice to inform the public about this nefarious scheme targeting candidates who were unable to participate in the UTME.

“Some unscrupulous individuals are deceitfully soliciting payments of N15,700 under the false pretence of offering rescheduling services for the examination.

“Let us be unequivocal: this, it is a blatant scam, and we are confident that the public will not fall prey to such cheap and regressive tactics.

” The individuals behind this scam have no affiliation with JAMB or any legitimate government agency.

“The account details provided in these communications are entirely fictitious and bear no connection to any official processes; they exist solely for the purpose of perpetrating fraud,” he said.

Benjamin called on Sterling bank to take immediate and decisive action against this criminal activity.

According to him, JAMB has reported the matter to the relevant security agencies and actively pursuing those responsible for this deceitful act.

He further said that “JAMB does not reschedule examinations for candidates who miss their scheduled tests due to reasons unrelated to the Board’s actions”.

He, however, said that the Board is conducting a thorough investigation for candidates whose biometrics failed during verification and were thus unable to sit for the examination.

He said those without discrepancies would be invited to retake the examination at no cost , stressing that “no cost is required”

“It is imperative to understand that JAMB does not charge any fees for examinations after a candidate has completed their registration.

“We strongly urge all candidates to remain vigilant and not to succumb to these fraudulent schemes.

“Protect yourselves and report any suspicious activity immediately,” he explained.

(NAN)

Tinted Glass Permit: Enforcement Commences May 2025 Say Police (Step-By-Step Procedure)

 

PRESS RELEASE

NATIONAL SECURITY: NPF REACTIVATES DIGITAL TINTED GLASS PERMIT SYSTEM 

Emphasizes Role in Enhancing Security, Public Confidence

The Nigeria Police Force, under the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has reactivated the issuance of Tinted Glass Permits (TGP) nationwide through a secure and user-friendly digital platform available at possap.gov.ng.  

This initiative comes in response to widespread public complaints about the harassment of motorists over the use of tinted windows and reflects the need for a clear, transparent, and accountable process for regularizing factory-fitted tinted glass on vehicles. With modern automobiles increasingly manufactured with tinted windows, it has become essential to provide a standardized system that accommodates legitimate use while ensuring public safety.

Tinted vehicles have often been exploited for criminal purposes, including kidnapping, armed robbery, “one-chance” scams, and other forms of banditry. Their use hampers police visibility and impedes effective law enforcement, thereby contributing to public insecurity. The reactivation of the permit system is a strategic move to identify lawful users such as individuals with medical requirements or members of the security community while preventing misuse for criminal activities. It is expected to enhance police investigative capabilities and strengthen national security efforts.

Applicants can now process their permits online, with identity verification integrated through the National Identification Number (NIN) and Tax Identification Number (TIN), alongside biometric capture and background checks. The system also features QR-coded digital permits, with a streamlined processing timeline of 72 hours.

To ensure a smooth transition, a 30-day grace period has been approved, effective from May 1st, 2025, within which motorists are expected to comply. Enforcement will commence at the end of this period. Officers found engaging in unprofessional conduct such as extortion or harassment in the course of enforcement will be decisively dealt with in accordance with extant disciplinary procedures.

The Inspector-General of Police reiterates the Force’s commitment to a technologically driven and citizen-focused policing strategy. He urges the public to embrace the initiative in the interest of safer roads, enhanced public trust, and a more secure Nigeria.

ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI,

FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,

FORCE HEADQUARTERS,

ABUJA

30th April, 2025