Types of Sensors Used in Cars

In today’s time, the convenience that a car offers is unmatchable. With changing times, there are new advancements taking place so that the convenience that a car offers gets enhanced even more. Now, car owners add a number of additional features like anti-theft devices, rear seat headrests, and more to ensure safety as well as add even more convenience. Moreover, these days cars are equipped with a range of sensors that serves varied purposes. So, in this article let’s shed some light on the different types of sensors used in cars that you can consider installing in your car as well.

What is a Car Sensor?

A car sensor is basically a type of electronic device that monitors the different aspects of the car and sends a signal to the Electronic Control Unit or ECU about the same. In simple terms, it can be said that it is like the different human sense organs like the mouth, tongue, etc that send a signal to the brain and the brain accordingly performs the function. Similarly, car sensors are based on the information to the ECU that the necessary adjustments are made either by the ECU or by the driver. With the help of car sensors installed in cars, it becomes possible to monitor different aspects of the car such as the engine, emission levels, speed, oil level, coolant system, and more. 

A List Of Car Sensors

Here is a list of car sensors that you should be aware of:

• Oxygen Sensor: The oxygen sensor is used to detect the level of oxygen in the exhaust system. Ideally, in a good-conditioned car, the ratio of air: fuel should be 14.7:1. If this ratio is disrupted, then different engine functions can get disrupted. For instance, there can be engine misfires, stalling, etc. Thus, the oxygen sensor is helpful in determining whether the air-to-fuel ratio is good so that the car can function as it should.
• Knock Sensor: The knock sensor is used to detect knocking so that the efficiency of the car is increased. Knocking in a car basically happens when the air-fuel mixture gets ignited before a spark is produced by spark plugs. If knocking is detected, then through the knock sensor, the same can be detected and the spark plug timing can be retarded. So, a knock sensor is extremely helpful in ensuring the driver takes an action as soon as knocking is detected.
• Air Flow Sensor: Another car sensor that you should be aware of is the airflow sensor. The airflow sensor is basically used to detect the total volume as well as density of air that is entering the engine of the car. With the help of air flow sensors, it becomes easier to detect whether the right ratio of air: fuel is entering the engine or not, if not then necessary adjustments are accordingly made. In case the air flow sensor goes bad then that results in greater fuel consumption and poor car performance.
• Engine Speed Sensor: As the name suggests, the engine speed sensor is basically used to monitor the speed of the crankshaft. After detecting the speed, a signal is sent to the ECU which accordingly activates the spark plugs.
• Engine Oil Level Sensor: The engine oil level sensor is another important sensor used to detect the level of oil in the engine. It is one of the most important sensors as the right level of engine oil prevents damage to the car. Moreover, if the engine oil level is not up to the mark, then the same results in wear and tear and the temperature of the engine rises to a great extent, thus affecting the overall performance of the engine.
• Engine Oil Pressure Level Sensor: The engine oil pressure level is used to determine whether the engine oil is rightly circulated to the different parts of the vehicle or not. The position of the engine oil pressure level sensor is at the button of the cylinder.
• Speed Sensors: The name itself implies that a speed sensor is used to keep a track of the speed of the different wheels of the car. This is useful as the same ensures that the speed of all the wheels is maintained and in case any one wheel is at a higher speed, then a signal is sent to the ECU.
• Parking Sensor: A parking sensor is extremely useful when you are parking your car in a congested area. With the help of the parking sensor, it becomes easier to detect what all is around the car so that the car can be safely parked. As per the distance of the object from your car, the parking sensor automatically sends a signal or blinks.
• Temperature Sensor: A temperature sensor is used the measure the temperature of the engine. The right temperature is important for the proper functioning of the car, hence a temperature sensor becomes very important. Moreover, with a temperature sensor, it also becomes easier to monitor the cooling system.
• Rain Sensor: With the help of a rain sensor, it becomes possible for the driver to detect rain as soon as rain droplets start falling. The rain sensor is located on the windscreen and sends signals to the ECU, after which the windscreen wiper starts functioning.
• Coolant Level Sensor: The coolant level sensor is used to monitor the level of coolant and thus prevents the engine from overheating and causing any damage to the car overall. In case the level of coolant drops, then a signal is sent so that the driver can take immediate action.
• Coolant Temperature Sensor: The coolant temperature sensor is useful in monitoring the temperature of the coolant and prevents it from overheating. For instance, if the coolant gets overheated, then a signal is sent. If you receive a signal about the same, then you must immediately stop driving to prevent further heating.

Take Away

So, there is no denying that all of the above-mentioned car sensors are extremely important when it comes to the performance of the car. With the help of these sensors, it becomes easier for the driver to take the right action at the right moment. Moreover, do not forget to buy a car insurance plan for ensuring comprehensive protection for your car.

Also read: Low maintenance cars in India