Valeo Engine Management - Sensor Technology and Types

An Overview of Valeo Engine Sensor Technology

Modern engines rely on a variety of sensors to keep track of engine performance and ensure that everything is working properly. These sensors are necessary to achieve the emissions, fuel economy, and performance standards that customers expect and regulations require. Today, there are five main types of sensors, each of which has an ideal use case. In this 20-minute free webinar, we will give you a broad overview of these sensors. 

Engine sensors ensure that the engine performs optimally for fuel consumption, emissions, and other parameters. That means each sensor must be as reliable as possible for its job. We’ll explore the different types of car engine sensor with a focus on the five main types. You’ll understand manufacturers' considerations when deciding which type of sensor to use for a specific purpose. You’ll learn how different sensors measure position, proximity, angle, rotational speed and other parameters. 

Each sensor type works differently as they are designed around a different principle, such as magnetic fields or resistance. We’ll cover some basic principles of magnetic fields and electrical signals to clarify how various sensors use them. We will explain how each sensor works and show a detailed diagram to illustrate their operation. You’ll learn how sometimes different sensor types can do the same job but why a certain type is more common for a specific application. You’ll also learn about variations within one single sensor design. We’ll show you technical diagrams to illustrate how the wavelength and shape of the signal can vary by sensor type. 

We will explore the advantages and disadvantages of each sensor type, which will help you understand their common applications. You’ll discover what each sensor is designed to work with and what it can withstand. We’ll show you where these sensors are located in the vehicle and how the location affects the choice of sensor. You’ll understand which sensors are ideal for high-temperature and high-vibration applications. You’ll also learn which sensors have cost, durability, or operating frequency advantages. 

Considering the increasing safety and emissions equipment on newer vehicles, we’ll take a look at sensor applications for systems like Variable Valve Timing, Electronic Stability Control, and Xenon lamp adjustment. 

Valeo produces an array of engine management parts, including several types of engine sensors. Visit the Valeo Tech@ssist part finder portal to find a specific sensor by part number, model, or VIN.

Call our hotline to speak with our experts and get answers to any questions you may have about working on Valeo sensors. You will find other free sensor-related training in Tech@ssist, like the webinar on camshaft and crankshaft sensors or our webinar on air flow sensors.

In this webinar, you will learn:

• What is the purpose of engine sensors
• What are the main types of car engine sensor
• How do engine sensors work
• The advantages and disadvantages of each sensor type

After the webinar, you can download technical service bulletins on how a camshaft position sensor works and how a crankshaft position sensor works.

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