초록 ▼

The invention is directed to an on-board diagnostic method wherein a fault is detected but is only registered as a fault when a delay time span has elapsed since its first-time occurrence in an operating phase of an internal combustion engine and when the fault then still continues to occur. The del

The invention is directed to an on-board diagnostic method wherein a fault is detected but is only registered as a fault when a delay time span has elapsed since its first-time occurrence in an operating phase of an internal combustion engine and when the fault then still continues to occur. The delay time span is measured on the consumption of the quantity of fuel which the vehicle can still consume for an almost empty tank. In this way, detected faults, which are attributable to an empty tank, are not registered.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A method for diagnosing an internal combustion engine wherein a fault other than one resulting from a deficiency of fuel is detected and registered under specific conditions, the engine being supplied with fuel from a fuel tank, the fuel having a fill level in said fuel

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A method for diagnosing an internal combustion engine wherein a fault other than one resulting from a deficiency of fuel is detected and registered under specific conditions, the engine being supplied with fuel from a fuel tank, the fuel having a fill level in said fuel tank, the method comprising the steps of:determining the fill level of fuel in said fuel tank; and,when said fill level is below a lower threshold value, registering said fault only when:(a) a delay time span has elapsed since a first-time occurrence of said fault in an operating phase of said engine; and,(b) when said fault still continues to occur after the elapse of said delay time span.