Abstract: A system and method for controlling an internal combustion engine of a vehicle during an automatic shutdown process, in particular to cool the engine to a predetermined safe shutdown temperature, includes the steps of determining that vehicle-idle conditions exist and whether an engine-associated temperature exceeds a predetermined first threshold temperature value, for which a cooling fan is operated to cool the engine, or higher second threshold temperature, for which at least one of the cooling fan and a coolant pump is operated above idle levels and the engine speed may be increased above idle to cool the engine. Cooling fan and/or coolant pump operation is reduced when the engine temperature is determined to have decreased to below the first threshold temperature value. Finally, engine shutdown is completed when predetermined shutdown conditions are fulfilled.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for detecting the connection of a trailer to a vehicle. The apparatus is connected to a pneumatic pressure line of the trailer's service braking system, and measures the pressure of the system to determine if the trailer is properly connected to the vehicle when the vehicle's engine is running. Further, the apparatus also contains an algorithm that monitors the signals from other vehicle systems, and uses that information to determine the trailer characteristics. The vehicle engine control system receives information from the apparatus and adjusts the various vehicle systems accordingly.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling an internal combustion engine of a vehicle during an automatic shutdown process, in particular to cool the engine to a predetermined safe shutdown temperature, includes the steps of determining that vehicle-idle conditions exist and whether an engine-associated temperature exceeds a predetermined first threshold temperature value, for which a cooling fan is operated to cool the engine, or higher second threshold temperature, for which at least one of the cooling fan and a coolant pump is operated above idle levels and the engine speed may be increased above idle to cool the engine. Cooling fan and/or coolant pump operation is reduced when the engine temperature is determined to have decreased to below the first threshold temperature value. Finally, engine shutdown is completed when predetermined shutdown conditions are fulfilled.