Abstract: A method is provided for adjusting a fuel composition estimate. The method generally uses a non-fuel related property to determine fuel composition. In some cases the method can be used after refueling and when the engine is operating without the benefit of oxygen sensor data, which can include evaluating data not based on characteristics of the fuel or exhaust from its combustion, such as engine torque variations while using the fuel. The method can include monitoring estimated engine torque to determine whether first variations in engine torque exceed a threshold, and, if so, modifying the previous estimate of fuel composition prior to the refueling event by a pre-determined amount.

Abstract: A method and system for managing temperatures in an exhaust system of a motor vehicle is disclosed. The method includes a step of predicting an overheat condition of a catalyst and a seal mat included in a catalytic converter. The method also includes a step of selecting a fuel enrichment map to determine a fuel delivery amount based on a predicted overheat condition. The method and system further includes providing a fuel enrichment map for an overheat condition of a catalyst that includes fuel delivery amounts that are less than fuel delivery amounts included in a fuel enrichment map for an overheat condition of a seal mat.

Abstract: A method of controlling an engine during starting is disclosed. During cold starting and following a refueling, a default alcohol value is used to control various systems associated with the engine, including fuel injection and ignition timing. The default alcohol value is used to ensure reliable starting. During non-cold starting and following a refueling, the current alcohol value is used to minimize fuel inefficiencies.

Abstract: A method is provided for adjusting a fuel composition estimate. The method generally uses a non-fuel related property to determine fuel composition. In some cases the method can be used after refueling and when the engine is operating without the benefit of oxygen sensor data, which can include evaluating data not based on characteristics of the fuel or exhaust from its combustion, such as engine torque variations while using the fuel. The method can include monitoring estimated engine torque to determine whether first variations in engine torque exceed a threshold, and, if so, modifying the previous estimate of fuel composition prior to the refueling event by a pre-determined amount.

Abstract: A method and system for managing temperatures in an exhaust system of a motor vehicle is disclosed. The method includes a step of predicting an overheat condition of a catalyst and a seal mat included in a catalytic converter. The method also includes a step of selecting a fuel enrichment map to determine a fuel delivery amount based on a predicted overheat condition. The method and system further includes providing a fuel enrichment map for an overheat condition of a catalyst that includes fuel delivery amounts that are less than fuel delivery amounts included in a fuel enrichment map for an overheat condition of a seal mat.

Abstract: An air-fuel ratio sensor early activation feedback system and method includes an air-fuel ratio sensor for measuring an air-fuel ratio in an exhaust gas generated by an internal combustion engine and a heater for heating the air-fuel ratio sensor. A controller activates the heater prior to startup of the engine based on prior startup times for the engine.

Abstract: An air-fuel ratio sensor early activation feedback system and method includes an air-fuel ratio sensor for measuring an air-fuel ratio in an exhaust gas generated by an internal combustion engine and a heater for heating the air-fuel ratio sensor. A controller activates the heater prior to startup of the engine based on prior startup times for the engine.

Abstract: A heater system for a vehicle has an internal combustion engine fluidly connected to a fuel tank by a fuel line for delivering fuel from the fuel tank to the engine. The heater system includes an in-line heater disposed along the fuel line between the fuel tank and the internal combustion engine for heating fuel within the fuel line. A power cord is operatively connected to the in-line heater for providing electrical power thereto. The power cord has a distal end configured to removably connect to an external power source and a length sufficient to reach the external power source.