Circuit/System Description

The rough road sensor is a vertical low G-acceleration sensor. By sensing vertical acceleration caused by rough road conditions, the engine control module (ECM) can determine if the changes in crankshaft speed are due to engine misfire or are driveline induced. If the rough road sensor detects a rough road condition, the ECM misfire detection diagnostic will be de-activated. The rough road sensor at rest output should be between 2.30-2.65 volts. During a rough road condition, the voltage output can vary between 0.5-4.5 volts. The rough road sensor is a capacitive type sensor with 3 circuits:

• A 5-volt reference circuit
• A low reference circuit
• A signal circuit

The ECM provides the rough road sensor with 5 volts on the 5-volt reference circuit and a ground on the low reference circuit. Vibration to the rough road sensor from rough road conditions in the road, provides the ECM with a signal voltage from less than 1 volt to more than 4 volts.