Understanding Engine Management

Summary

A solid understanding of vehicle engine management helps you identify and resolve many of the drivability issues you encounter.

This one-hour plus webinar, presented live in the shop by TST’s “G” Jerry Truglia and Pierre Respaut, will offer a quick overview of PCM functions, covering inputs, outputs, and how sensors and actuators regulate engine performance. This class will discuss sensors, actuators, fuel trim, ignition systems, and O₂/Air Fuel sensors essential for efficient engine operation.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Explain the primary functions of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), including how inputs, outputs, sensors, and actuators interact to control engine performance.
• Identify key engine management components—such as fuel trim systems, ignition systems, and O₂/air-fuel ratio sensors—and describe their role in efficient engine operation.
• Apply a foundational understanding of PCM logic to interpret sensor and actuator behavior during real-world diagnostic and performance scenarios.

Sponsored by

About the Presenters

G. Jerry Truglia
Founder/President of Technicians Service Training (TST), G. Jerry Truglia has extensive experience in the automotive field as a technician, service manager, shop owner and technical writer. He is a senior curriculum developer who provides training programs for automotive and truck inspection and repair programs. He has provided on-board diagnostic system, OBDII and automotive training all over the country. He is the owner, curriculum developer and instructor for Automotive Technician Training Services (ATTS) in Mahopac, N.Y.

Pierre Respaut
Pierre has been in the automotive industry for over 55 years as a Master ASE Certified Technician & L1, diagnostician, shop owner and as part of the BIMRs.org, STS and TST among others. The one thing Pierre hasn’t been able to do is “stay retired”!