Abstract: In the case of a process for determining operating conditions of a motor vehicle from the output signals of a sensor for a relevant operating variable, by means of the output signal of the sensor and additional analyzers, first an analysis takes place of a sensor signal with respect to various relevant operating parameters, and on the basis of the values of the operating parameters, an n-dimensional (for exmaple, two-dimensional) pattern is generated. This pattern, that in principle is also known from the field of speech recognition and speech processing, is compared with preset patterns and permits a simple and fast analysis of the current operating conditions and a fast recognition of an imminent critical operating condition. Corresponding warning and remedial measures can then be carried out without difficulty.