A car has several components that play massive roles in its functioning. And if you are planning to purchase a new car or possess one already, the names of these components might seem foreign to you. As a car owner, you must have basic knowledge of car parts, which will help you take proper care of your car.
Additionally, basic automotive knowledge can be helpful when your car breaks down in an unwanted place. This article will expose you to the essential modern car parts to help you attain basic knowledge of automotive parts.
Basic Modern Car Parts You Should Know
Cars have become more sophisticated than they used to be. Therefore, modern car parts are numerous. However, the following list contains the essential components of every modern car you should know;
- The Engine
- The Battery
- The Brake System
- The Transmission
- The Clutch
- The Axles
- The Spark Plugs
- The AC Compressor
- The Fuel Injector
- The Radiator
- The Shock Absorbers
- The Muffler
The Engine
The engine is the power plant and heart of a car, making it one of the most important car main parts. Modern cars use Internal Combustion engines or IC engines because they help power the car by burning air and fuel, thus converting it into mechanical energy. The engine parts that ensure efficiency include the pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, etc.And the main processes in the engine include:
- Intake: This process involves bringing the air-fuel mixture into the combustion chamber.
- Compression: The compression process compresses the air-fuel mixture.
- Power: The power process ignites the mixture and harnesses the power of the reaction.
- Exhaust: This process ejects the burned gases from the engine.
The Battery
A car will not function without a battery. The reason is the battery lets you turn on the engine. And it does this by igniting the switch, which runs the motor and powers the engine. Additionally, the battery powers electrical car components. Therefore, your battery drains quickly when specific electrical components like lights are left on while your engine is off. However, if your engine is turned on, your battery can recharge itself.
The Brake System
All four wheels cars are equipped with brakes to stop or slow the vehicle. The braking system comprises a brake pad, rotor, calliper, and brake pedal. You should ensure that the brake system is functional when buying a used car because it is vital for safe driving. If there is anything wrong with your brake system and it is left unresolved, you are at risk of totally damaging the system or having an accident.
The Transmission
The transmission is also known as the gearbox and is one of the essential auto car parts. It connects your wheels and engine, causing the wheels to move with the energy from the engine. The gears come in different sizes and transmissions are in two types;
- Manual Transmission: The driver shifts gears manually
- Automatic Transmission: Gear shift occurs automatically
Vibrations or slippage while driving is likely a transmission problem. It may start with a simple issue like a faulty fluid pump and eventually escalate into a gear breakdown.
The Clutch
A clutch system consists of a flywheel, clutch pedal and clutch plates. It is the bridge between the transmission and the engine. It engages and disengages the power transmission from the engine to the gearbox. In other words, it stops the wheels from moving without stopping the engine. In a manual transmission, the driver engages the clutch manually. However, the system operates the clutch in an automatic transmission.
The Axles
Axles are essential components in automobiles as they aid a vehicle’s movement. The axles bear all the vehicle’s weight, including the luggage, components, and humans sitting in it. Additionally, they help in turning, braking and steering. A vehicle usually has a front and rear axle. And when they get faulty, you risk losing control of your vehicle. They are pretty expensive, so you should maintain them properly. .
The Spark Plugs
The spark plugs are small but are essential parts in a car. They ensure your vehicle starts smoothly while improving fuel efficiency and reducing harmful emissions. Spark plugs are durable and usually last about 30,000 miles before needing replacement.
The AC Compressor
The compressor makes the air-con (one of the most crucial electric car parts) run. When it gets damaged, you will realize that the air inside your car is not as cool as it should be. And when this happens, you will be sweating buckets while driving. Therefore, you’ll need to contact a professional to help you resolve the problem as soon as possible.
The Fuel Injector
The fuel injector is a small but vital component that transfers fuel from the fuel tank to the engine. The car engine’s computer regulates its activities. A fuel injector may last the lifetime of a vehicle. However, it may retain contaminants, causing it to consume more fuel. It can also wear off, making your engine misfire or surge. Additionally, if your engine light is on, you can determine that your fuel injector has developed a fault.
The Radiator
The function of the radiator is to prevent engine overheating. It helps to maintain the temperature levels in the car’s engine by flowing coolant, which absorbs heat throughout the engine. The radiator is usually at the front of the vehicle. Therefore, atmospheric air cools the coolant while you are on the move.
The Shock Absorber
The shock absorbers are part of the suspension system. They help ensure a smooth ride by reducing movement over the bumps and uneven parts of the road. Shock absorbers usually last up to ten years if you drive your car in an area with smooth roads. Otherwise, the lifespan is five years. If your car is not handling bumps appropriately, there is probably something wrong with the shock absorbers.
The Muffler
The muffler is a section of the exhaust system that releases gas into the atmosphere. They are also called silencers. The muffler quiets the sound from the exhaust and allows the car to run quietly. Therefore, loud noises are apparent signs that your muffler has some problems.
Final Thoughts
As a car owner or someone getting a new or used car, you must be familiar with some car parts names and the functions they perform. This knowledge would come in handy in certain dire situations.
Go through the car parts list and you might identify some related issues with your car. If you do and would love to buy car parts for your vehicle, visit us at Vann York Toyota. Reach out to us for more inquiries and to make your purchase today.
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