{"id":21626,"date":"2021-01-20T19:59:00","date_gmt":"2021-01-21T03:59:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=21626"},"modified":"2023-09-18T17:36:20","modified_gmt":"2023-09-19T00:36:20","slug":"the-essential-car-parts-list-all-the-parts-and-systems-every-driver-should-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/the-essential-car-parts-list-all-the-parts-and-systems-every-driver-should-know\/","title":{"rendered":"The Essential Car Parts List: All the Parts and Systems Every Driver Should Know"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<!-- Added by Post\/Page Specific Custom Code plugin, thank you for using! --><html><head><style>.lwptoc_items .lwptoc_itemWrap  .lwptoc_itemWrap  .lwptoc_itemWrap { display: none; }<\/style>\n<\/head><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 18<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span><style>.kadence-column_a2a937-c9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-width:0px;}.kadence-column_a2a937-c9 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column_a2a937-c9 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column_a2a937-c9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column_a2a937-c9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column_a2a937-c9 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column_a2a937-c9 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column_a2a937-c9{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column_a2a937-c9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column_a2a937-c9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column inner-column-1 kadence-column_a2a937-c9 qk-look-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-e019ac  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-d8ff98\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_d00b5f-ad, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_d00b5f-ad[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_d00b5f-ad\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_d00b5f-ad mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_d00b5f-ad[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_d00b5f-ad\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_d00b5f-ad img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_d00b5f-ad[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_d00b5f-ad\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading_d00b5f-ad summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_d00b5f-ad\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Internal combustion engines have an engine block, a cylinder head, camshaft, crankshaft, pistons and connecting rods, and a timing belt and chain.<\/li><li>Vehicles also have charging and starting systems that draw power from the alternator and battery.<\/li><li>Vehicles need a drivetrain to move. It&rsquo;s a collection of parts and assemblies that transfer rotational force from the engine to the drive wheels.<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Modern cars are made up of a countless number of parts and accessories. To the average driver, getting a handle on all of these components can seem like a daunting task.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To make life easier, we&rsquo;ve put together an essential car parts names list with corresponding photos. While this list is far from all-inclusive, it does contain the most important components that every driver should know.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/parts-of-a-car.jpg\" alt=\"parts of a car\" class=\"wp-image-21653\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/parts-of-a-car.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/parts-of-a-car-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/parts-of-a-car-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/parts-of-a-car-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/parts-of-a-car-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/parts-of-a-car-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Whether you plan on working on your car yourself or taking it to a repair shop, it&rsquo;s helpful to be familiar with fundamental automotive systems and parts.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Essential Car Parts List With Pictures<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Cars contain many systems&mdash;from the engine to the brakes&mdash;that work together to get you down the road safely and comfortably. And each of these systems is made up of many different components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"article-search-widget\">\n<div class=\"cp-search\">\n<div align=\"center\">\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/w_auto,dpr_auto\/carparts\/logos\/badge_wordmark\/full_color\/CP_LOGO_COLOUR_RGB\" alt=\"CarParts.com\" width=\"300\" height=\"56\">\n<\/div>\n<form id=\"cpsearchform\" name=\"cpsearchform\" action=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/search\" method=\"get\" target=\"_blank\" accept-charset=\"character_set\" aria-label=\"search CarParts.com\">\n    <input type=\"text\" class=\"keyword\" name=\"q\" placeholder=\"Search for parts on CarParts.com\" value=\"\" aria-label=\"Search CarParts.com\"><input type=\"submit\" class=\"btn-search\" value=\"Search\" aria-label=\"Search\">\n<\/form>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you plan on working on your car yourself or taking it to a repair shop, it&rsquo;s helpful to be familiar with the fundamental automotive systems and parts listed below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-engine.jpg\" alt=\"car engine\" class=\"wp-image-21707\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-engine.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-engine-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-engine-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-engine-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-engine-75x75.jpg 75w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-engine-600x600.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-engine-928x928.jpg 928w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-engine-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Your car&rsquo;s engine uses energy from the combustion of air and fuel to create mechanical motion.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Engine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your car&rsquo;s engine is a complex assembly that uses energy from the combustion of air and fuel to create mechanical motion. The rotational force from the engine is transferred to the vehicle&rsquo;s drive wheels to set things in motion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All internal combustion engines have these key components:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-block.jpg\" alt=\"engine block\" class=\"wp-image-21708\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-block.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-block-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-block-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-block-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-block-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-block-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The engine block acts as a frame or foundation for the rest of the engine components.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Engine Block<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The engine block is a cast iron or aluminum casting that houses the cylinders, piston assemblies, crankshaft, and (in some cases) the camshaft. Basically, the block acts as a frame or foundation for the rest of the engine components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cylinder-head.jpg\" alt=\"cylinder head\" class=\"wp-image-21709\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cylinder-head.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cylinder-head-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cylinder-head-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cylinder-head-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cylinder-head-75x75.jpg 75w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cylinder-head-600x600.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cylinder-head-928x928.jpg 928w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cylinder-head-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The cylinder head seals the tops of the cylinders inside the engine block.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cylinder Head (s)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>All engines have one or more cylinder heads. Engines with a &lsquo;V&rsquo; or flat configuration have two cylinder heads, whereas engines with an inline or straight configuration have one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The cylinder head seals the tops of the cylinders inside the engine block. Also, the head contains the valves, which allow the air\/fuel mixture to enter the engine and exhaust gases to exit. In some cases, the camshaft (s) are also housed in the cylinder head.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/camshaft.jpg\" alt=\"camshaft\" class=\"wp-image-21710\" width=\"1500\" height=\"684\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/camshaft.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/camshaft-300x137.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/camshaft-1024x467.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/camshaft-768x350.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/camshaft-150x68.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The camshaft is a rotating assembly that opens and closes the engine&rsquo;s valves.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Camshaft (s)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/camshaft\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"camshaft\">camshaft<\/a> is a rotating assembly that opens and closes the engine&rsquo;s valves. Some engines have an overhead camshaft (OHC) design that houses the camshaft in the cylinder head. Others have an overhead valve (OHV) setup with the camshaft in the engine block.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, some engines have two camshafts&mdash;one for the intake valves and one for the exhaust valves&mdash;housed in the cylinder head. This is referred to as a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-piston.jpg\" alt=\"engine piston\" class=\"wp-image-21711\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-piston.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-piston-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-piston-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-piston-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-piston-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/engine-piston-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>There is one piston and connecting rod assembly for each of the engine&rsquo;s cylinders.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Piston and Connecting Rod Assemblies<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There is one <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/piston\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"piston\">piston<\/a> and connecting rod assembly for each of the engine&rsquo;s cylinders. The piston assemblies move up and down during the four-stroke engine cycle. As a result, the crankshaft, which is connected to the piston assemblies, is forced to turn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/crankshaft.jpg\" alt=\"crankshaft\" class=\"wp-image-21700\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/crankshaft.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/crankshaft-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/crankshaft-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/crankshaft-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/crankshaft-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/crankshaft-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The crankshaft converts the linear motion of the pistons into the rotational force needed to propel the vehicle down the road.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Crankshaft<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Like the camshaft, the crankshaft is a rotating assembly inside of the engine. The crankshaft is connected to the pistons and connecting rods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During the combustion process, the pistons move up and down in the cylinders, forcing the crankshaft to rotate. In this way, the crankshaft converts the linear motion of the pistons into the rotational force needed to propel the vehicle down the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/timing-belt.jpg\" alt=\"timing belt\" class=\"wp-image-21702\" width=\"1500\" height=\"998\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/timing-belt.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/timing-belt-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/timing-belt-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/timing-belt-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/timing-belt-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/timing-belt-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The timing belt or timing chain connects the camshaft (s) to the crankshaft, ensuring the two rotating assemblies are in sync.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Timing belt or timing chain<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>All engines have either a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/timing-belt\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"timing belt\">timing belt<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/timing-chain-kit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"timing chain\">timing chain<\/a> that connects the camshaft (s) to the crankshaft to ensure the two rotating assemblies are in sync.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-cooling-system-1.jpg\" alt=\"automotive cooling system diagram\" class=\"wp-image-21701\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1148\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-cooling-system-1.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-cooling-system-1-300x230.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-cooling-system-1-1024x784.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-cooling-system-1-768x588.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-cooling-system-1-150x115.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The cooling system keeps the engine at a certain operating temperature to prevent overheating.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cooling System<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As you might guess, the cooling system keeps the engine at a certain operating temperature to prevent overheating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The cooling system includes the following primary components:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-radiator.jpg\" alt=\"car radiator\" class=\"wp-image-21703\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1058\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-radiator.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-radiator-300x212.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-radiator-1024x722.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-radiator-768x542.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-radiator-150x106.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>When the vehicle is traveling down the road, cool air enters the radiator, which is located behind the grille, to dissipate heat from the coolant.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Radiator<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/radiator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"radiator\">radiator<\/a> is a heat exchanger that transfers heat from the hot engine coolant to the atmosphere. When the vehicle is traveling down the road, cool air enters the radiator, which is located behind the grille, to dissipate heat from the coolant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/water-pump.jpg\" alt=\"water pump\" class=\"wp-image-21704\" width=\"1500\" height=\"871\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/water-pump.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/water-pump-300x174.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/water-pump-1024x595.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/water-pump-768x446.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/water-pump-150x87.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The water pump forces the coolant to circulate through the engine and radiator.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Water pump<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>All vehicles have a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/water-pump\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"water pump\">water pump<\/a> that forces coolant to circulate through the engine and radiator. Depending on the vehicle&rsquo;s design, the water pump may be driven off the engine&rsquo;s drive belt, timing belt, or timing chain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/thermostat.jpg\" alt=\"car thermostat\" class=\"wp-image-21705\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1273\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/thermostat.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/thermostat-300x255.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/thermostat-1024x869.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/thermostat-768x652.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/thermostat-150x127.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The thermostat regulates the engine&rsquo;s operating temperature.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Thermostat<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/thermostat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"thermostat\">thermostat<\/a> regulates the engine&rsquo;s operating temperature. When the engine is cold, the thermostat remains closed to prevent coolant from circulating to the radiator. Doing so allows the engine to get up to operating temperature quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once the engine warms up, the thermostat opens to allow coolant to enter the radiator, where it is cooled before returning to the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/radiator-hose.jpg\" alt=\"radiator hose\" class=\"wp-image-21706\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1115\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/radiator-hose.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/radiator-hose-300x223.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/radiator-hose-1024x761.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/radiator-hose-768x571.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/radiator-hose-150x112.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>There are two primary hoses: the upper and lower radiator hoses.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hoses<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A collection of hoses link the various parts of the cooling system together. The two primary hoses are the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/radiator-hose\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"upper and lower radiator hoses\">upper and lower radiator hoses<\/a> that connect the radiator to the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cooling-fan.jpg\" alt=\"cooling fan\" class=\"wp-image-21690\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cooling-fan.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cooling-fan-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cooling-fan-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cooling-fan-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cooling-fan-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/cooling-fan-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The cooling fan supplies airflow to the radiator when there isn&rsquo;t enough air coming through the grille.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cooling Fan<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/cooling-fan-assembly\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"cooling fan\">cooling fan<\/a> supplies airflow to the radiator when there isn&rsquo;t enough air coming through the grille (i.e., when the vehicle is stopped or traveling slowly). Also, most cars use the fan to provide airflow across the air conditioning condenser.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-system.jpg\" alt=\"exhaust system diagram\" class=\"wp-image-21694\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1162\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-system.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-system-300x232.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-system-1024x793.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-system-768x595.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-system-150x116.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The exhaust system routes exhaust gases away from the engine and out the vehicle&rsquo;s tailpipe.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exhaust System<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/exhaust-system-parts-101-the-basics-diagram-included\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"exhaust system\">exhaust system<\/a> routes exhaust gases away from the engine and out the vehicle&rsquo;s tailpipe. All modern exhaust systems contain the following components:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-manifold.jpg\" alt=\"exhaust manifold\" class=\"wp-image-21697\" width=\"1500\" height=\"998\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-manifold.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-manifold-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-manifold-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-manifold-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-manifold-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-manifold-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The exhaust manifold (s) route spent exhaust gases away from the engine&rsquo;s cylinder head (s) and toward the exhaust pipe.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exhaust Manifold (s)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Engines with a &lsquo;V&rsquo; or flat configuration have two <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/exhaust-manifold\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"exhaust manifolds\">exhaust manifolds<\/a>, whereas engines with an inline or straight design have just one. The exhaust manifold (s) route spent exhaust gases away from the engine&rsquo;s cylinder head (s) and toward the exhaust pipe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/catalytic-converter.jpg\" alt=\"catalytic converter\" class=\"wp-image-21692\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1189\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/catalytic-converter.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/catalytic-converter-300x238.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/catalytic-converter-1024x812.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/catalytic-converter-768x609.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/catalytic-converter-150x119.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The catalytic converter is an emissions control device that transforms dangerous exhaust gases into harmless compounds.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Catalytic Converter<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/catalytic-converter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"catalytic converter\">catalytic converter<\/a> is an emissions control device that transforms dangerous exhaust gases into harmless water, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen. You&rsquo;ll find the converter located downstream from the engine, before the muffler.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/muffler.jpg\" alt=\"muffler\" class=\"wp-image-21691\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/muffler.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/muffler-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/muffler-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/muffler-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/muffler-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/muffler-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The muffler reduces the noise created by the engine.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/mufflers-vs-resonators-heres-the-difference\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Muffler and Resonator\">Muffler and Resonator<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>As its name implies, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/muffler\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"muffler\">muffler<\/a> reduces or &ldquo;muffles&rdquo; the noise created by the engine. The exhaust system also has a resonator, which cancels out engine noises of specific frequencies. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-pipe.jpg\" alt=\"exhaust pipe\" class=\"wp-image-21698\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-pipe.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-pipe-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-pipe-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-pipe-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-pipe-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/exhaust-pipe-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The exhaust pipes connect the different parts of the exhaust system together<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exhaust Pipe<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Various <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/exhaust-pipe\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"exhaust pipes\">exhaust pipes<\/a> connect the parts of the exhaust system together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-starting-and-charging-system.jpg\" alt=\"automotive starting and charging system\" class=\"wp-image-21695\" width=\"1500\" height=\"782\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-starting-and-charging-system.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-starting-and-charging-system-300x156.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-starting-and-charging-system-1024x534.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-starting-and-charging-system-768x400.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-starting-and-charging-system-150x78.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>All of your car&rsquo;s onboard electronics rely on the starting and charging system.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Starting and Charging System<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>All of your car&rsquo;s onboard electronics rely on the starting and charging system. The system includes the following key components:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/starter-motor.jpg\" alt=\"starter motor\" class=\"wp-image-21693\" width=\"1500\" height=\"996\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/starter-motor.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/starter-motor-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/starter-motor-1024x680.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/starter-motor-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/starter-motor-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The starter motor must be rotated first before the engine could start.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Starter motor<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>For the engine to start, it must first be rotated by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/starter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"starter\">starter<\/a> motor. The starter motor has a pinion gear that meshes with a ring gear on the engine&rsquo;s flywheel (or flexplate). When the starter spins, the pinion gear turns the flywheel to crank the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-battery.jpg\" alt=\"car battery\" class=\"wp-image-21699\" width=\"1500\" height=\"983\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-battery.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-battery-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-battery-1024x671.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-battery-768x503.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-battery-150x98.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The battery is an electrical storage device that supplies power to the starter motor.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Battery<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/battery\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"battery\">battery<\/a> is an electrical storage device that supplies power to the starter motor. Also, when the engine is off, the battery provides power to your car&rsquo;s onboard electronics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/alternator.jpg\" alt=\"alternator\" class=\"wp-image-21685\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/alternator.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/alternator-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/alternator-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/alternator-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/alternator-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/alternator-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The alternator charges the battery and supplies power to your car&rsquo;s onboard electronics.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Alternator<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Whenever the engine is running, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/alternator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"alternator\">alternator<\/a> charges the battery and supplies power to your car&rsquo;s onboard electronics. The alternator is driven off the engine by a belt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Modules, Sensors, and Switches<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern vehicles are governed by a wide variety of modules, sensors, and switches. Each type of component has a unique role, as we&rsquo;ll discuss below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-control-module.jpg\" alt=\"car control module\" class=\"wp-image-21686\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1001\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-control-module.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-control-module-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-control-module-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-control-module-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-control-module-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-control-module-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The modules govern certain systems or components.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Modules<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Late-model vehicles contain dozens of computers that are referred to as control <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/engine-control-module\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"modules\">modules<\/a>. The modules govern certain systems or components. In most applications, the modules also communicate with one another over a data network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pressure-sensor-of-a-car.jpg\" alt=\"fuel pressure sensor of a car\" class=\"wp-image-21689\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1125\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pressure-sensor-of-a-car.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pressure-sensor-of-a-car-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pressure-sensor-of-a-car-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pressure-sensor-of-a-car-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pressure-sensor-of-a-car-928x696.jpg 928w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pressure-sensor-of-a-car-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Modern cars have a wide variety of sensors and switches that act as inputs to the modules.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sensors and switches<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern cars have a wide variety of sensors and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/switches-relays-wiring-and-components\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"switches\">switches<\/a> that act as inputs to the modules. The modules use the information from the sensors when determining how to control output devices, such as solenoids, motors, and relays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-fuel-system.jpg\" alt=\"automotive fuel system diagram\" class=\"wp-image-21687\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1196\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-fuel-system.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-fuel-system-300x239.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-fuel-system-1024x816.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-fuel-system-768x612.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-fuel-system-150x120.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The fuel delivery and air induction systems are responsible for delivering that air and fuel to the engine.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fuel Delivery and Air Induction Systems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An internal combustion engine needs the correct amount of air and fuel to run properly. The fuel delivery and air induction systems are responsible for delivering that air and fuel to the engine. The primary components found within these systems include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/air-filter.jpg\" alt=\"air filter\" class=\"wp-image-21688\" width=\"1500\" height=\"997\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/air-filter.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/air-filter-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/air-filter-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/air-filter-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/air-filter-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/air-filter-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine while also promoting airflow.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Air Filter<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/air-filter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"air filter\">air filter<\/a> prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine while also promoting airflow. You&rsquo;ll find the filter located in the air intake, downstream from the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/throttle-body.jpg\" alt=\"throttle body\" class=\"wp-image-21679\" width=\"1500\" height=\"816\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/throttle-body.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/throttle-body-300x163.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/throttle-body-1024x557.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/throttle-body-768x418.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/throttle-body-150x82.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Modern cars have an electronic throttle body with a built-in actuator that operates the throttle plate.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Throttle Body<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern cars have an electronic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/throttle-body\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"throttle body\">throttle body<\/a> with a built-in actuator that operates the throttle plate. The more the throttle plate opens, the more air enters the engine. Older vehicles use a cable (connected to the accelerator pedal) to operate the throttle plate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/intake-manifold.jpg\" alt=\"intake manifold\" class=\"wp-image-21682\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1020\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/intake-manifold.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/intake-manifold-300x204.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/intake-manifold-1024x696.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/intake-manifold-768x522.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/intake-manifold-150x102.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The intake manifold contains passages that distribute air to the engine&rsquo;s individual cylinders.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Intake Manifold<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/intake-manifold\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"intake manifold\">intake manifold<\/a> contains passages that distribute air to the engine&rsquo;s individual cylinders. You&rsquo;ll find the manifold mounted to the cylinder head (s).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-injector.jpg\" alt=\"fuel injector\" class=\"wp-image-21683\" width=\"1500\" height=\"977\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-injector.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-injector-300x195.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-injector-1024x667.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-injector-768x500.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-injector-150x98.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Each of the fuel injector opens when needed to allow fuel to enter the engine.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fuel injectors<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern engines typically have one <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/fuel-injector\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"fuel injector\">fuel injector<\/a> per cylinder. Each injector opens when needed to allow fuel to enter the engine. The fuel combines with air and the mixture is ignited and burned as part of the combustion process. A control module operates the injectors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pump.jpg\" alt=\"fuel pump\" class=\"wp-image-21680\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pump.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pump-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pump-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pump-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/fuel-pump-150x225.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\"><figcaption>The fuel pump draws fuel from the gas tank and sends that fuel to the injectors.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fuel pump<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/fuel-pump\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"fuel pump\">fuel pump<\/a> draws fuel from the gas tank and sends that fuel to the injectors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ignition system<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The ignition system is responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture inside the engine. Although ignition system designs vary, a typical setup contains these key components:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/spark-plugs.jpg\" alt=\"spark plugs\" class=\"wp-image-21681\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1125\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/spark-plugs.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/spark-plugs-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/spark-plugs-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/spark-plugs-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/spark-plugs-928x696.jpg 928w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/spark-plugs-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The voltage coming from an ignition coil jumps a gap at the spark plug&rsquo;s tip, creating an arc that ignites the air-fuel mixture inside the engine.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Spark plugs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Usually, there is one <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/spark-plug\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"spark plug\">spark plug<\/a> for each of the engine&rsquo;s cylinders. Each spark plug receives voltage from an ignition coil. That voltage jumps a gap at the spark plug&rsquo;s tip, creating an arc that ignites the air-fuel mixture inside the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ignition-coil.jpg\" alt=\"ignition coil\" class=\"wp-image-21672\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ignition-coil.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ignition-coil-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ignition-coil-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ignition-coil-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ignition-coil-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ignition-coil-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Each ignition coil acts as a transformer, converting the low voltage from the battery into the high-voltage needed to fire one of the spark plugs.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ignition coils<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern vehicles use coil packs or individual <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/ignition-coil\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"ignition coils\">ignition coils<\/a>. Each ignition coil acts as a transformer, converting the low voltage from the battery into the high-voltage needed to fire one of the spark plugs (or two plugs in a waste-spark ignition system).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Emissions Equipment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In 1970, Congress passed the clean air act, giving the environmental protection agency (EPA) the authority to regulate pollution from cars. Automakers responded by fitting vehicles with more emissions equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, the primary emissions systems include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The evaporative emissions control (EVAP) system<\/li><li>The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system<\/li><li>The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are the key components found within the above systems:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/vapor-canister-1.jpeg\" alt=\"vapor canister\" class=\"wp-image-21723\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1071\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/vapor-canister-1.jpeg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/vapor-canister-1-300x214.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/vapor-canister-1-1024x731.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/vapor-canister-1-768x548.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/vapor-canister-1-150x107.jpeg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The evaporative emission control (EVAP) system prevents harmful fuel vapors from entering the atmosphere.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EVAP Canister and Purge Valve<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The evaporative emission control (EVAP) system prevents harmful fuel vapors from entering the atmosphere. Vapors within the EVAP system are stored inside a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/vapor-canister\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"charcoal canister\">charcoal canister<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When conditions are correct, a device called the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/purge-valve\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"purge valve\">purge valve<\/a> opens, allowing fresh air to be drawn across the charcoal inside the canister. As a result, the fuel vapors are released, then pulled into the engine to be burned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/EGR-valve.jpg\" alt=\"EGR valve\" class=\"wp-image-21673\" width=\"NaN\" height=\"NaN\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/EGR-valve.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/EGR-valve-300x270.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/EGR-valve-1024x922.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/EGR-valve-768x691.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/EGR-valve-150x135.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The EGR valve is a device that opens to allow exhaust gases to pass into the engine&rsquo;s intake manifold.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EGR Valve<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Excessive combustion temperatures lead to an increase in oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions. The EGR system solves this problem by reintroducing a metered amount of exhaust gases back into the engine to be burned. The inert gases lower the combustion temperatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All EGR systems use an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/egr-valve\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"EGR valve&#8288;\">EGR valve&#8288;<\/a>&mdash;a device that opens to allow exhaust gases to pass into the engine&rsquo;s intake manifold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/PCV-valve.jpg\" alt=\"PCV valve\" class=\"wp-image-21674\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/PCV-valve.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/PCV-valve-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/PCV-valve-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/PCV-valve-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/PCV-valve-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/PCV-valve-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The PCV valve is a spring-loaded device that allows the vapors to leave the crankcase, then route back to the engine.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PCV Valve<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The PCV system vents and reroutes engine crankcase vapors to the air induction system so that the vapors can be burned inside the engine. A spring-loaded device, called the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/pcv-valve\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"PCV valve\">PCV valve<\/a>, is the focal point of the system. When conditions are correct, the PCV valve allows the vapors to leave the crankcase, then route back to the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Transmission and Drivetrain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The drivetrain is a collection of components and assemblies that transfer rotational force from the engine to the drive wheels. These are the parts of the drivetrain that you&rsquo;ll want to know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transmission-assembly.jpg\" alt=\"transmission assembly\" class=\"wp-image-21675\" width=\"1500\" height=\"892\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transmission-assembly.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transmission-assembly-300x178.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transmission-assembly-1024x609.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transmission-assembly-768x457.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transmission-assembly-150x89.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>There are four primary types of transmissions that each serves the same purpose: manipulating rotational force from the engine and transferring that force to the rest of the drivetrain.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Transmission assembly<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Transmissions are major assemblies with many internal components, such as gears and shafts. There are four primary types of transmissions: automatic, manual, continuously variable, and dual-clutch. Each design serves the same purpose: manipulating rotational force from the engine and transferring that force to the rest of the drivetrain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/differential-assembly.jpg\" alt=\"differential assembly\" class=\"wp-image-21676\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1001\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/differential-assembly.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/differential-assembly-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/differential-assembly-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/differential-assembly-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/differential-assembly-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/differential-assembly-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The differential assembly allows the inner and outer drive wheels to rotate at different speeds so that the vehicle can corner smoothly.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Differential assembly<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The differential assembly allows the inner and outer drive wheels to rotate at different speeds so that the vehicle can corner smoothly. Also, the differential assembly changes the direction of the rotational force from the engine and transfers that force to the drive wheels. Inside the differential, you&rsquo;ll find a collection of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/your-guide-to-how-spider-gears-work-plus-faqs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"gears\">gears<\/a> and bearings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On vehicles with a front-wheel drive-biased layout, the differential is integrated into the transmission (also known as a transaxle). Meanwhile, cars with a rear-wheel drive-biased layout have a stand-alone differential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/axle-shaft.jpg\" alt=\"axle shaft\" class=\"wp-image-21677\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/axle-shaft.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/axle-shaft-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/axle-shaft-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/axle-shaft-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/axle-shaft-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/axle-shaft-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Axle shafts are sturdy metal shafts that transfer rotational force from the differential to the drive wheels.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Axle shafts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/axle-shaft\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Axle shafts\">Axle shafts<\/a> are sturdy metal shafts that transfer rotational force from the differential to the drive wheels. Vehicles with a front-wheel drive-biased layout have constant velocity (CV) axle assemblies with joints in the middle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transfer-case-mount.jpg\" alt=\"transfer case mount\" class=\"wp-image-21724\" width=\"1024\" height=\"699\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transfer-case-mount.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transfer-case-mount-300x205.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transfer-case-mount-1024x699.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transfer-case-mount-768x524.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/transfer-case-mount-150x102.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><figcaption>The transfer case mounts to the transmission and allows power to be transferred to both the front and rear wheels.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Transfer case assembly<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles have a transfer case assembly (also known as a power transfer unit in some all-wheel drive applications). The transfer case mounts to the transmission and allows power to be transferred to both the front and rear wheels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/driveshaft.jpg\" alt=\"driveshaft\" class=\"wp-image-21665\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/driveshaft.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/driveshaft-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/driveshaft-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/driveshaft-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/driveshaft-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/driveshaft-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Driveshafts  are also known as propeller shafts.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Driveshaft<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Vehicles with a rear-wheel drive-biased layout use one or more <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/driveshaft\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"driveshafts\">driveshafts<\/a> (also known as propeller shafts) to transfer rotational force from the transmission or transfer case to the differential (s).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Brake System<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As you probably know, the braking system creates the friction needed to bring your vehicle to a stop. These are the key components found within the brake system:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/master-cylinder.jpg\" alt=\"master cylinder\" class=\"wp-image-21667\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/master-cylinder.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/master-cylinder-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/master-cylinder-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/master-cylinder-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/master-cylinder-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/master-cylinder-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The master cylinder transfers force from the brake pedal to the brake fluid, then it forces that fluid throughout the brake system.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Master cylinder<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/brake-master-cylinder\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"master cylinder\">master cylinder<\/a> transfers force from the brake pedal to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/low-brake-fluid-symptoms-plus-when-to-change-and-faq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"brake fluid\">brake fluid<\/a>, then it forces that fluid throughout the brake system. From there, the fluid acts on the brake calipers and\/or wheel cylinders to apply the brakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-booster.jpg\" alt=\"brake booster\" class=\"wp-image-21666\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-booster.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-booster-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-booster-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-booster-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-booster-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-booster-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The brake booster provides braking assist, reducing the amount of effort the driver needs to exert to apply the brakes.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Brake booster<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Several decades ago, cars relied solely on the driver&rsquo;s leg muscles to apply force to the master cylinder. Now, vehicles have either a vacuum-operated or hydraulic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/brake-booster\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"brake booster\">brake booster<\/a> that provides braking assist, reducing the amount of effort the driver needs to exert to apply the brakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-calipers.jpg\" alt=\"brake calipers\" class=\"wp-image-21668\" width=\"1024\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-calipers.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-calipers-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-calipers-1024x680.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-calipers-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-calipers-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><figcaption>When the driver presses the brake pedal, pressurized brake fluid forces the brake caliper to squeeze the brake pads against the rotor.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Brake calipers and wheel cylinders<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/brake-caliper\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Brake calipers\">Brake calipers<\/a> are used in a disc brake system, whereas <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/wheel-cylinder\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"wheel cylinders\">wheel cylinders<\/a> are used in a drum brake system. But both components operate similarly. When the driver presses the brake pedal, pressurized brake fluid forces the brake caliper to squeeze the brake pads against the rotor (or the wheel cylinders to push the brake shoes against the drums).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-pad-and-disc.jpg\" alt=\"brake pad and disc\" class=\"wp-image-21669\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-pad-and-disc.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-pad-and-disc-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-pad-and-disc-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-pad-and-disc-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-pad-and-disc-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-pad-and-disc-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>When the driver presses the brake pedal, the brake caliper squeezes the pads against the rotors, creating the friction needed to bring the car to a halt.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Brake pads and rotors<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Disc brake systems use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/brake-disc-and-pad-kit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"brake pads and rotors\">brake pads and rotors<\/a> to stop the vehicle. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the brake caliper squeezes the pads against the rotors, creating the friction needed to bring the car to a halt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-shoes-and-drums.jpg\" alt=\"brake shoes and drums\" class=\"wp-image-21670\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1001\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-shoes-and-drums.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-shoes-and-drums-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-shoes-and-drums-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-shoes-and-drums-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-shoes-and-drums-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-shoes-and-drums-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>When the driver presses the brake pedal, the wheel cylinders force the brake shoes against the brake drums, creating the friction needed to bring the car to a halt.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Brake shoes and drums<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Drum brake systems use brake <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/brake-shoe-set\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"shoes\">shoes<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/brake-drum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"drums\">drums<\/a>. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the wheel cylinders force the brake shoes against the brake drums, creating the friction needed to bring the car to a halt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-lines.jpg\" alt=\"brake lines\" class=\"wp-image-21671\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-lines.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-lines-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-lines-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-lines-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-lines-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/brake-lines-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The brake lines connect the master cylinder to the rest of the hydraulic brake system.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Brake lines<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/brake-hoses-lines-and-components\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Brake lines and hoses\">Brake lines and hoses<\/a> connect the master cylinder to the rest of the hydraulic brake system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Steering and Suspension Systems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The steering system transfers input from the steering wheel to the front wheels. As for the suspension system, it soaks up imperfections in the road and supports the weight of the vehicle. Common Steering and suspension components include the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-gear.jpg\" alt=\"steering gear\" class=\"wp-image-21656\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-gear.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-gear-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-gear-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-gear-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-gear-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-gear-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The steering gear transfers input from the steering wheel (and the steering column) to the steering linkage.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Steering gear<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two primary types of steering gears: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/steering-rack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"steering racks\">steering racks<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/steering-gearbox\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"steering boxes\">steering boxes<\/a>. Both serve the same purpose of transferring input from the steering wheel (and the steering column) to the steering linkage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-linkage.jpg\" alt=\"steering linkage\" class=\"wp-image-21657\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-linkage.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-linkage-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-linkage-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-linkage-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-linkage-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-linkage-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The steering linkage connects the steering gear to the steering knuckles.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Steering linkage<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The steering linkage connects the steering gear to the steering knuckles. In a rack and pinion-style steering system, the linkage consists solely of inner and outer <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/tie-rod-end\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"tie rods\">tie rods<\/a>. On the other hand, systems with a steering gear have additional components, such as an idler arm, a pitman arm, and a drag link.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-knuckle.jpg\" alt=\"steering knuckle\" class=\"wp-image-21658\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-knuckle.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-knuckle-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-knuckle-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-knuckle-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-knuckle-75x75.jpg 75w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-knuckle-600x600.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-knuckle-928x928.jpg 928w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/steering-knuckle-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Each steering knuckle serves as a mounting point for a wheel hub.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Steering knuckle<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/steering-knuckle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"steering knuckle\">steering knuckle<\/a> behind each of the car&rsquo;s front wheels. Each steering knuckle, which is connected to an outer tie rod, serves as a mounting point for a wheel hub. The wheels and tires bolt to the wheel hubs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When the driver turns the steering wheel, the tie rod pulls or pushes on the steering knuckle, causing the wheels to move in or out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/control-arm.jpg\" alt=\"control arm\" class=\"wp-image-21659\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1129\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/control-arm.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/control-arm-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/control-arm-1024x771.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/control-arm-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/control-arm-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The Control arms allow the suspension to move up and down when traveling over imperfections in the road.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Control arms and ball joints<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/steering-knuckle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Control arms\">Control arms<\/a> allow the suspension to move up and down when traveling over imperfections in the road. Many vehicles have an upper and lower control arm behind each of the front wheels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A typical control arm includes a ball joint that connects the control arm to the spindle or steering knuckle. Front ball joints also act as a pivot point for the steering knuckle when the driver turns the car&rsquo;s front wheels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/shock-absorber-spring.jpg\" alt=\"shock absorber spring\" class=\"wp-image-21660\" width=\"1500\" height=\"844\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/shock-absorber-spring.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/shock-absorber-spring-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/shock-absorber-spring-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/shock-absorber-spring-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/shock-absorber-spring-150x84.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The suspension springs soak up bumps in the road while also supporting the weight of the vehicle.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Suspension springs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/coil-springs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"suspension spring\">suspension spring<\/a> at each corner of the car. The springs soak up bumps in the road while also supporting the weight of the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-shocks.jpg\" alt=\"automotive shocks\" class=\"wp-image-21661\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-shocks.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-shocks-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-shocks-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-shocks-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-shocks-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/automotive-shocks-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The shocks and struts are both designed to dampen oscillations from the suspension springs.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shocks and struts<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Although <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/shocks-struts-and-components\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"shocks and struts\">shocks and struts<\/a> are two different parts, they&rsquo;re both designed to dampen oscillations from the suspension springs. There is one shock or strut at each corner of the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/wheel-bearing-kit.jpg\" alt=\"wheel bearing kit\" class=\"wp-image-21662\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1001\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/wheel-bearing-kit.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/wheel-bearing-kit-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/wheel-bearing-kit-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/wheel-bearing-kit-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/wheel-bearing-kit-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/wheel-bearing-kit-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Each wheel bearing allows one of the wheel and tire assemblies to rotate as the vehicle travels down the road.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wheel bearings<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There&rsquo;s a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/wheel-bearing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"wheel bearing\">wheel bearing<\/a> behind each of the car&rsquo;s wheels. Each bearing allows one of the wheel and tire assemblies to rotate as the vehicle travels down the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/power-steering-pump.jpg\" alt=\"power steering pump\" class=\"wp-image-21663\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1001\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/power-steering-pump.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/power-steering-pump-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/power-steering-pump-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/power-steering-pump-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/power-steering-pump-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/power-steering-pump-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The power steering pump pressurizes the power steering fluid and sends it to the power steering gear.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Power steering pump<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>While most modern vehicles have electric power steering, many older applications have a hydraulic system that relies on a mechanical pump.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/power-steering-pump\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"power steering pump\">power steering pump<\/a>, which is driven off of the engine by a belt, pressurizes the power steering fluid and sends it to the power steering gear. When the pressurized fluid acts on the steering gear, it makes the steering wheel easier to turn for the driver.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Heating and Air Conditioning Parts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your car&rsquo;s heating and air conditioning (HVAC) system keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The air conditioning (A\/C) system uses refrigerant, whereas the heating system uses hot engine coolant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are the primary components found within the HVAC system:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-compressor.jpg\" alt=\"ac compressor\" class=\"wp-image-21664\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-compressor.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-compressor-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-compressor-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-compressor-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-compressor-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-compressor-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The compressor is mostly considered to be the heart of the A\/C system.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Compressor<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Most consider the compressor to be the heart of the A\/C system. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/a-c-compressor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"compressor\">compressor<\/a>, which is driven off the engine by a belt, raises the pressure of the vapor A\/C refrigerant. Also, the device forces the refrigerant through the rest of the A\/C system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-condenser.jpg\" alt=\"ac condenser\" class=\"wp-image-21655\" width=\"1500\" height=\"844\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-condenser.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-condenser-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-condenser-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-condenser-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-condenser-150x84.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Once the refrigerant leaves the compressor, it enters the condenser, where it is transformed from a vapor into a liquid.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Condenser<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Once the refrigerant leaves the compressor, it enters the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/a-c-condenser\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"condenser\">condenser<\/a>, where it is transformed from a vapor into a liquid. The condenser is located behind the vehicle&rsquo;s grille, where it can receive ample airflow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-expansion-valve.jpg\" alt=\"car expansion valve\" class=\"wp-image-21654\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1001\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-expansion-valve.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-expansion-valve-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-expansion-valve-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-expansion-valve-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-expansion-valve-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/car-expansion-valve-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The refrigerant enters a restriction&mdash;either an orifice tube or an expansion valve&mdash;after leaving the condenser.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Orifice tube or expansion valve<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The refrigerant enters a restriction&mdash;either an orifice tube or an expansion valve&mdash;after leaving the condenser. That restriction reduces the pressure of the refrigerant before it gets metered into the evaporator core.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/evaporator-core.jpeg\" alt=\"evaporator core\" class=\"wp-image-21717\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/evaporator-core.jpeg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/evaporator-core-300x300.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/evaporator-core-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/evaporator-core-768x768.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/evaporator-core-75x75.jpeg 75w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/evaporator-core-600x600.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/evaporator-core-928x928.jpeg 928w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/evaporator-core-150x150.jpeg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>Low-pressure liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator core.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Evaporator core<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Low-pressure liquid refrigerant enters the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/a-c-evaporator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"evaporator core\">evaporator core<\/a>. The blower motor then sends warm cabin air across the core to remove heat from the vehicle&rsquo;s interior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-accumulator.jpg\" alt=\"ac accumulator\" class=\"wp-image-21718\" width=\"1354\" height=\"1500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-accumulator.jpg 1354w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-accumulator-271x300.jpg 271w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-accumulator-924x1024.jpg 924w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-accumulator-768x851.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/ac-accumulator-150x166.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1354px) 100vw, 1354px\"><figcaption>The receiver drier or accumulator stores refrigerant and removes moisture from the system.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Receiver drier or accumulator<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>All A\/C systems also have a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/a-c-receiver-drier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"receiver drier\">receiver drier<\/a> or accumulator that stores refrigerant and removes moisture from the system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/heater-core.jpg\" alt=\"heater core\" class=\"wp-image-21719\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/heater-core.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/heater-core-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/heater-core-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/heater-core-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/heater-core-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/heater-core-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"><figcaption>The heater core is a heat exchanger that transfers heat from the hot engine coolant into the cabin.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Heater core<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/heater-core\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"heater core\">heater core<\/a> is a heat exchanger that transfers heat from the hot engine coolant into the cabin. A blower motor forces air across the heater core to transfer that heat into the vehicle&rsquo;s interior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/blower-motor.jpg\" alt=\"blower motor\" class=\"wp-image-21720\" width=\"1024\" height=\"823\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/blower-motor.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/blower-motor-300x241.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/blower-motor-1024x823.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/blower-motor-768x617.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/blower-motor-150x121.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><figcaption>The blower motor blows air across the heater core.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Blower Motor<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blower-motor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"blower motor\">blower motor<\/a> is an electric motor with a fan (sometimes called a squirrel cage) attached. To warm the cabin, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-is-a-car-blower-motor-purpose-symptoms-and-more\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"blower motor blows air\">blower motor blows air<\/a> across the heater core. Meanwhile, to cool the cabin, the blower motor blows air across the evaporator core. A blend door controls the path of airflow from the blower motor.<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 18<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>Modern cars are made up of a countless number of parts and accessories. To the average driver, getting a handle&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/the-essential-car-parts-list-all-the-parts-and-systems-every-driver-should-know\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":29,"featured_media":21651,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[52],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[2622],"class_list":{"0":"post-21626","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-diy","8":"entry"},"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>The Essential Car Parts List: All the Parts and Systems Every Driver Should Know - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Cars contain many systems that work together to get you down the road safely. Here&#039;s a list of essential parts every driver should know.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/the-essential-car-parts-list-all-the-parts-and-systems-every-driver-should-know\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Essential Car Parts List: All the Parts and Systems Every Driver Should Know - In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Cars contain many systems that work together to get you down the road safely. Here&#039;s a list of essential parts every driver should know.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/the-essential-car-parts-list-all-the-parts-and-systems-every-driver-should-know\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2021-01-21T03:59:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2023-09-19T00:36:20+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/essential-parts-of-a-vehicle.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1500\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"998\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"31 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/the-essential-car-parts-list-all-the-parts-and-systems-every-driver-should-know\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/the-essential-car-parts-list-all-the-parts-and-systems-every-driver-should-know\\\/\"},\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"$id\":\"29\",\"name\":\"Mia Bevacqua\",\"jobTitle\":\"ASE Master Automobile Technician\",\"description\":\"Mia Bevacqua has over 14 years of experience in the auto industry and holds a bachelor\u2019s degree in Advanced Automotive Systems. 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