Less sizzle, more beef for Detroit in ´86: Increasing electronic content in 1986 models represents serious functions like transmission, engine, and antitheft controls, antilock braking, and diagnostics

To offset potential servicing problems resulting from increased electronic content in their cars, General Motors Co., Ford Motor Co., and Chrysler Corp. are giving high priority to both on-board diagnostics-often an integral part of overall dashboard instrumentation-and highly versatile electronic maintenance aids for their dealers. These also obviate the need for major electronics training for automotive technicians. New diagnostic features are described, and it is shown how advances in electronics are being used for speed control, braking, transmission control, and theft prevention.