OBDII - Components - Intake Air Temperature

Intake Air Temperature

- Last Edited: Aug 27, 2023
- Popularity: 2,505 Views


Intake Air Temperature (IAT) refers to the temperature of the air that is being drawn into the engine's intake manifold before it enters the combustion chambers. It is an important parameter that the Engine Control Module (ECM) or Engine Control Unit (ECU) of a vehicle uses to optimize engine performance and efficiency.

The IAT sensor is a component that measures the temperature of the incoming air. This information is used by the ECM/ECU along with other sensor data (such as engine speed, load, coolant temperature, etc.) to make real-time adjustments to the engine's operation, including:

1. Fuel Injection: The ECM/ECU adjusts the amount of fuel injected into the combustion chambers based on the intake air temperature. Colder air is denser and requires more fuel to maintain the proper air-fuel ratio for efficient combustion.

2. Ignition Timing: The timing of the spark ignition is also influenced by the intake air temperature. Timing adjustments help ensure that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently under different temperature conditions.

3. Cold Start Enrichment: In colder temperatures, the ECM/ECU may provide a richer air-fuel mixture during engine startup to aid cold starting and prevent stalling.

4. Emissions Control: Intake air temperature is a factor in the combustion process that affects emissions. The ECM/ECU can use this information to optimize emissions control strategies.

5. Performance: The intake air temperature can also influence engine power output. Cooler, denser air can lead to improved performance, while hotter air may have a slight negative impact on power.

The IAT sensor is typically located within the intake manifold or near the air filter housing to accurately measure the temperature of the incoming air. Overall, monitoring and utilizing intake air temperature data is an essential aspect of modern engine management systems, allowing vehicles to run efficiently and meet emission standards across a wide range of operating conditions.

User Submitted Intake Air Temperature Video