Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Effective Control: Notes
Effective control monitors several vehicle systems when the ECON button on the dashboard is on. These systems include PGM-FI, cruise control, CVT control, IMA, and air conditioning. Effective control keeps all of the monitored systems operating efficiently for the best fuel economy. Effective control is activated by the ECON button on the instrument panel. When the green indicator in the button is on, effective control is on.
When the ECON button is off, pressing it sends a signal to the gauge control module, and the gauge control module then sends an ON signal, via F-CAN and B-CAN, to the PCM, the climate control unit, and the MCM. When this occurs, the PGM-FI, cruise control, CVT control, IMA, and A/C systems revert to effective control. In addition, the PCM sends a signal, via F-CAN, to turn on the indicator in the ECON button and to display ECON ON in the MID (see SYSTEM DESCRIPTION ). When the ECON button is on, pressing it sends the opposite signal to the gauge control module, and reverse events occur to turn off effective control.
The ECON mode (on or off) remains set when the ignition is turned to LOCK (0).
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.