Circuit/System Description

The engine control module (ECM) identifies engine misfire by detecting variations in crankshaft speed. Crankshaft speed variations can also occur when a vehicle is operating over a rough road. The ECM receives a rough road signal by a gravity sensing rough road sensor or an electronic brake control module (EBCM), if equipped with the antilock brake system (ABS). The ABS can detect if the vehicle is on the rough surface based on wheel acceleration/deceleration data supplied by each wheel speed sensor. This information is sent to the ECM by the EBCM through a serial data line. The rough road sensor is a vertical low G-acceleration sensor. By sensing vertical acceleration caused by rough road conditions, the ECM determines if the changes in crankshaft speed are due to engine misfire or are driveline induced.