ECM Operating Modes
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Jeep Patriot and 2008 Jeep Compass. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
As input signals to the ECM change, the ECM adjusts its response to the output devices. For example, the ECM must calculate a different fuel quantity and fuel timing for engine idle condition than it would for a wide open throttle condition. There are several different modes of operation that determine how the ECM responds to the various input signals.