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Basic car knowledge: Car parts you should know about (2024 Updated)
Published on 23 Dec, 2021, 3:54 PM IST Updated on 27 Jun, 2024, 2:20 PM IST
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If you are planning to buy a new car or already own one, the names of car parts and components might seem
like foreign languages. As a car owner, having basic car knowledge and knowing about essential car parts will
go a long way in helping you take care of your car. For instance, basic automotive knowledge can come in
handy if your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere. Read ahead to know more about essential car parts.
Contents
Basic car parts one should know about
A car is a complex machine that comprises several mechanical and electrical components. However,
understanding the basic parts of an automobile is not rocket science. You can go through the car parts list
below to improve your car knowledge.
1. Engine
The engine has multiple cylinders containing pistons that move up and down to generate power from fuel
combustion. The crankshaft converts this up-down motion into rotational motion while the camshaft and
valves coordinate airflow into the cylinders. An ignition system provides sparks to ignite the air-fuel mixture.
The resulting small explosions push the pistons down, turning the crankshaft, which ultimately drives the
wheels through additional drivetrain components.
2. Transmission
The transmission uses a series of gears in shafts to modulate torque and rotation speed coming from the
engine. Bigger gears reduce speed while increasing torque, while smaller gears do the opposite. The
appropriate gear can be selected manually or automatically based on the vehicle speed and power needed.
This ensures the engine stays in an optimal operating range while the wheels get usable torque based on
driving conditions.
3. Clutch
The clutch has a friction disk connected to the engine flywheel on one side and the transmission input shaft
on the other. When the pedal is pressed, a throwout bearing pushes the disc away to disengage the engine
from the transmission. This allows changing gears without transferring power. Releasing the pedal brings the
spinning components together smoothly to prevent abrupt torque transfer.
4. Battery
The lead-acid battery has lead oxide plates immersed in sulfuric acid solution encased in a plastic container.
A chemical reaction between the plates and electrolyte generates electrons, charging the car battery. It
provides a high current in spikes to the starter motor to crank the engine. It also powers all the electronics
continuously or when the alternator is not running.
5. Alternator
The alternator contains magnets and wire coils that spin inside a casing driven by the engine belt. As they
spin, the magnetic field induces current flow in the coils. Diodes convert this alternating current into a 12-volt
DC that charges the battery and powers the electrical system while the engine runs.
6. Radiator
The radiator is a heat exchanger having narrow pipes through which coolant passes. Numerous aluminium
fins surrounding the pipes increase the surface area for heat dissipation. As hot coolant from the engine
flows through the radiator, the moving air absorbs and carries away excess heat, sending cooled fluid back to
prevent engine overheating.
7. Axles
Axles are sturdy shafts fixed to the wheels on both ends that transfer torque from the drivetrain to enable
wheel rotation. Axles must bear the vehicle's weight and force during acceleration, braking and turning. They
allow differences in left and right wheel speeds when cornering and accommodate suspension travel.
8. Steering and Suspension System
The steering and suspension systems in automobiles work together to provide control and stability. The
steering uses a gear assembly to convert rotary motion from the steering wheel into sideways motion to
precisely turn the front wheels left or right as the driver desires. Meanwhile, the suspension bears the entire
weight of the vehicle on axles connected to wheels by linkages and springs. The modern power steering
system uses hydraulic or electric assist to decrease the amount of effort required by the driver to turn the
wheels when steering the car.
9. Brakes
Cars use two kinds of brakes to slow down and stop - drum brakes and disc brakes. Brakes utilise hydraulic
pressure generated when the brake pedal is pressed to stop the wheels from turning. The pressure passes
through fluid lines to drums or rotors at each wheel, where it forces brake shoes or pads against the rotating
surface. The friction created slows the wheels, draining their kinetic energy to halt the vehicle.
10. Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter contains a coated ceramic honeycomb matrix mounted in the exhaust system. It
provides increased surface area for chemical reactions. Pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and
hydrocarbons pass over catalysts like platinum, palladium and rhodium that convert them into benign gases
like carbon dioxide and water vapour.
11. Muffler
The muffler uses perforated tubes and resonant chambers along the exhaust system to cancel out sound
waves and make the exhaust quieter. Sound energy causes pressure waves that dissipate through smaller
reflections and absorption by the muffler packing material like fibreglass or steel wool.
12. Fuel Tank
The fuel tank is a sealed reservoir usually made of plastic or steel that safely contains gasoline or diesel. An
intake pipe with a pump draws fuel, while a float level sender indicates how much is left on the fuel gauge. An
outlet pipe directs pressurised fuel to the engine. Vents allow airflow so fuel flows easily.
13. Wheels
Wheels are circular metal frames made from steel or alloys that bolt onto the vehicle's hubs and hold the tyres
in position. They must support the vehicle weight and cornering stresses. Wheels have an inner bead seat
diameter matched to the tyre size. Stylish covers called hubcaps commonly protect the central mounting area.
14. Shock Absorbers
Shock absorbers contain hydraulic fluid and valves inside a cylinder. As the wheel experiences bumps, the
hydraulic forces dissipate kinetic energy to dampen the up/down motion. This smooths out the ride and
maintains vehicle control. The valves resist quick motion more than slow movement.
15. AC Compressor
The AC compressor intakes low-pressure refrigerant vapour and compresses it rapidly using a piston driven by
the engine belt. The high-pressure gas output gets fed to the condenser up front. Compressing the vapour
raises its temperature so the condenser can shed heat and condense it into a high-pressure liquid for cooling.
16. Starter Motor
The starter motor is a high-torque electric motor that engages with the flywheel ring gear to crank the engine
during starting. When the ignition key is turned, it draws heavy current from the battery and spins the engine a
few hundred RPM to initiate the combustion cycle. Once running, it disengages automatically.
17. Headlights
Headlights contain reflectors and lenses with filament bulbs or LED assemblies. They concentrate and project
light ahead to illuminate the roadway at night or during low visibility conditions. Switches toggle between high
and low beams as needed. Housings pivot to aim the beams.
18. Windshield Wipers
Windshield wipers sweep water, snow and debris off the windshield to maintain visibility for the driver. An
electric motor rocks the wiper arms back and forth using linkages. Variable speed settings allow adjusting
wipe frequency based on conditions. Winter wipers are coated with rubber to resist freezing.
19. Door Locks
Door locks control latching mechanisms that secure doors in the shut position. Manual locks have levers,
while power locks use electric motors or vacuum actuators. Keyed locks provide security, while keyless
systems use remote fobs or touch sensors for convenience. Child safety locks prevent rear doors from being
opened accidentally.
20. Seat Belts
Seat belts restrain occupants using woven fabric straps and buckles attached to the seats. They spread
impact forces during a crash to the stronger pelvis and chest rather than just the ribs and head. Locking
retractors allow leaning forward but restrain excessive forward motion in collisions.
21. Glovebox
The glovebox is a lidded storage bin built into the front passenger dashboard. It provides enclosed, secure
space for small items. A light comes on when opened. Air vents allow cooling and prevent musty smells.
Gloveboxes should be latched while driving to prevent contents from flying out during crashes.
22. Trunk/Cargo Area
The trunk or cargo area offers a sizable enclosed space to carry luggage and other bulky cargo safely. Access
is via a tailgate or trunk lid that can be locked. Rear seats may fold away to create a longer, flat floor for large
items. Tie-downs and cargo nets prevent contents shifting during sharp driving manoeuvres.
23. Bumper
The bumper is a sturdy horizontal beam spanning the vehicle's front and rear. It is designed to protect sheet
metal panels and safety equipment by absorbing low-speed impacts through deformation. Structural
elements like beams, brackets and crash cans underneath dissipate crash energy before it reaches more
critical systems.
24. Windows
Windows are framed transparent panels made from tempered glass that allow visibility outwards. Power
windows move up/down electrically, while manual ones use hand cranks. Tinted windows filter sunlight, while
laminated glass prevents shattering. Heated wires remove fog and ice in cold weather.
25. Mirrors
Mirrors provide rearward and side vision with reflective coated glass mounted in adjustable housings. The
rearview mirror has automatic dimming, while power side mirrors can fold away. Heated mirrors remove ice
and fog. Turn signal indicators, puddle lamps and integrated cameras enhance functionality.
26. Fuel Pump
The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank and connected to the fuel gauge sender. An electric motor spins
an impeller to create pressure that pushes gasoline through lines to the engine. It draws from the tank inlet
pipe via a filter and sends pressurised fuel to the outlet pipe. High-pressure pumps for direct injection are
located outside.
27. Spark Plugs
Spark plugs provide high-voltage sparks to ignite the compressed air-fuel mixture inside engine cylinders.
They are connected to ignition coils that increase the battery voltage to over 20,000 volts for the spark to
jump across the electrode gap. Materials like iridium and platinum enhance conductivity and resist fouling.
Heat range must match engine temperature.
28. Cooling Fan
The cooling fan sits behind the radiator and draws air through the radiator core when the vehicle is stationary
or crawling in traffic. This maintains airflow to remove heat from coolant even at low speeds when the ram air
effect is negligible. The electric fan spins faster as the engine temperature rises and may be directly
temperature-controlled.
Conclusion
Knowing the workings of these basic car systems allows you to make informed decisions regarding
maintenance and repairs. Paying attention to critical components improves safety, extends vehicle life and
prevents major breakdowns. Maintaining the key systems extends vehicle life and prevents major
breakdowns.
Frequently asked questions
Below are some common questions related to basic car parts.
What are the basic parts of a car that one should know about?
The essential car components include engine, gearbox, clutch, battery, brakes, radiator, steering and
suspension. Basic knowledge about these components can be helpful as a car owner.
Which are some of the essential car maintenance tips?
How do I find out the make and model of a car?
How often do I need to service my car?
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Pre-delivery Inspection (PDI) checklist for new cars
Car buying guide: Tips for buying a car the smart way
How to drive a car? Automatic and manual car driving tips
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