Method for testing engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor in vehicle, involves providing rationality indication in response to evaluation of temperature difference between ECT reading and IAT reading to determines presence of irrationality

摘要

A processor (102) receives ECT reading from ECT sensor (112) and IAT reading from IAT sensor (116). Temperature different between ECT reading and IAT reading is evaluated to determine if irrationality is present. Rationality indication is then provided in response to the evaluating process. The evaluation process comprises monitoring the IAT reading during operation of the vehicle to identify the presence of an engine block heater if the temperature difference exceeds a predetermined threshold. Independent claims are also included for the following: (A) a method for identifying irrationality in ECT sensor in vehicle; (B) a data processing system for vehicle; (C) a device for identifying irrationality in ECT sensor in vehicle; (D) a device for testing ECT sensor in vehicle; and (E) a digital memory for storing instructions.