The modern vehicle is made up of a variety of parts and components all working together to achieve a final product: the “car.” These parts and components are assembled in groups to perform various tasks. These groups are referred to as systems. Understanding these automotive systems is crucial for anyone interested in car maintenance and repair.
Car Systems Explained
There are many systems that make up the modern vehicle, some working with others to perform a larger, sometimes more complex task, and others working individually to accomplish a specific job. The following is a list of the major systems that make up the modern vehicle:
- The Engine – including lubrication and cooling.
- The Fuel System – including evaporative emission.
- The Ignition System
- The Electrical System – including starting and charging.
- The Exhaust System – including emission control.
- The Drive Train – including the transmission.
- The Suspension and Steering Systems
- The Brake System
- The Frame and Body
There are many other systems that contribute to the modern vehicle such as the Supplementary Restraint System (seat belts and airbags), Climate Control System (designed to provide passengers with a comfortable environment in which to ride), and everybody’s favorite, the Sound System.
The Engine
The engine is the vehicle’s main source of power. This is where chemical energy is converted into mechanical energy. The most popular type of engine is referred to as the Internal Combustion Engine. This engine burns an air/fuel mixture inside itself in order to drive a series of pistons and connecting rods that in turn rotate a crankshaft, providing us with a continuous rotating motion to drive the vehicle and other components.
The engine also incorporates other car systems, including the lubrication system and the cooling system, all working efficiently together. The cooling system maintains the engine at an ideal operating temperature while the lubrication system ensures that all the moving parts are kept well-oiled to provide a long serviceable life
The Fuel System
The fuel system’s job is to store and supply fuel to the engine. Early vehicle fuel systems were completely mechanical, delivering fuel through the use of a mechanical fuel pump and using a carburetor to atomize and mix the fuel with air. Most of the system today is either electronically controlled and/or monitored. Understanding automotive systems like the fuel system is key for modern vehicle maintenance.
The fuel system may also include the Evaporative Emission System whereby raw fuel vapors that would otherwise be vented to the atmosphere are stored and then drawn in and burned in the engine under normal operating conditions.
The Ignition System
The ignition system provides the spark necessary to ignite the air/fuel mixture inside the engine for it to burn. The spark must be provided at the correct time and sequence to the various cylinders to produce maximum horsepower with the least amount of fuel, thus emitting the lowest amount of harmful emissions.
The Electrical System
The electrical system provides the voltage necessary to operate the many electrical components on the vehicle, such as the vehicle’s lighting system. The main source of power for the electrical system is the battery. The electrical system also includes the starting system and the charging system.
The starting system uses a high-output electric motor to start the engine turning fast enough for the fuel and ignition system to take over. The charging system consists of a large battery charger called an alternator, which is powered by the engine through the use of a drive belt. Knowing how these car systems explained can help in diagnosing electrical issues.
The Exhaust System
The exhaust system moves the burnt exhaust fumes safely and quietly away from the passenger compartment. The exhaust system consists of a series of pipes that interconnect and direct the burned gasses to the tailpipe at the rear of the vehicle. This system also provides some emission control by means of the catalytic converter where any unburned gasses leaving the engine are burned before leaving the exhaust system.
The Drive Train
The drive train transmits the power of the engine to the drive wheels. The drive train includes the transmission, driveshafts, and other various parts. A clutch (manual transmission) or torque converter (automatic transmission) allows the drive train to be disconnected from the engine so that the vehicle may be brought to a standstill without having to stop the engine.
The Suspension and Steering Systems
The suspension and steering systems provide a means of safely controlling the vehicle. The suspension system is designed to isolate most of the vehicle from any road shock and keep the vehicle stable when driving straight or turning. The steering system is intended to allow the operator to control the direction of the vehicle with the least amount of effort.
The Braking System
The braking system allows the vehicle to be brought to a stop safely. The braking system includes both a mechanical and hydraulic system. The hydraulic brake system is the primary braking system, while the mechanical brake system is used mostly as a supplementary system as well as for emergencies. Most modern brake systems include some form of a brake assist, often referred to as “power brakes.”
The Frame and Body
The frame and body provide a foundation on which to build the vehicle. Traditionally, the body and frame were built separately then brought together only in the later stages of assembly. Today’s vehicles incorporate a unitized body, where the body and frame are built together to reduce weight and increase passenger safety and comfort.
Additional Vehicle Systems and Components
There have been many changes and advancements over the past one hundred years, however, these nine (9) systems have been incorporated into the vehicle’s evolution and operation for most of the time. Other important vehicle systems and components include:
- Supplementary Restraint System (SRS): This system includes seat belts and airbags, which are crucial for passenger safety during a collision.
- Climate Control System: Designed to provide passengers with a comfortable environment in which to ride, this system includes heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
- Sound System: Enhances the driving experience by providing entertainment through audio playback.
Understanding the various automotive systems that make up a modern vehicle is essential for maintaining and repairing cars effectively. From the engine and fuel system to the braking system and electrical components, each system plays an important role in the overall operation of the vehicle. By gaining knowledge of these vehicle systems and components, you can ensure a longer and more efficient lifespan for your car.
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