It is important to know the components of your (automatic) vehicle because it allows you to understand how your vehicle works and operates. Knowing your vehicle's components also makes it easier to diagnose and fix any issues that may arise. By having a basic understanding of the different parts under the hood of your vehicle, you can identify any potential problems early on and therefore prevent them from becoming bigger.
INTRODUCTION TO THE DIFFERENT COMPONENTS OF A CAR INSIDE THE BONNET
When you lift your bonnet open, the complex connection and sight of structures and fittings are overwhelming. However, as an ordinary vehicle user, it is not mandatory for you to know every part of what is in the bonnet when it is opened. That's within the expertise and specialty of a professional car technician(mechanic).
Nevertheless, it is necessary to know a few things which comprise the parts below as well as the components of your automatic vehicle because it allows you to understand how your vehicle works and operates. By understanding how the different parts work together, you can stay on top of regular maintenance tasks such as oil changes, brake inspections, and fluid top-offs. This can help ensure that your vehicle stays in good condition and continues to run smoothly for many years to come.
Also Read: What You Should Know About Brake Pads..
Brief Overview of the 7 Essential Parts Under the Hood
ENGINE
The Engine is the main power source of your vehicle. It's very big and bulky in size. It is responsible for generating the power needed to move the car and it is located under the hood, when you lift the bonnet open, you will see the engine block and its various components.
The engine size is generally denoted by how many cylinders a vehicle has. Every vehicle has cylinders. A 4-cylinder vehicle has 4, a V6 has 6, and so on. Most trucks have a 6 or 8-cylinder. Thus, this is one way in which a car engine is classified.
Importance of Engine Maintenance and Common Issues to Look Out for:
Maintaining your engine is crucial to the overall health and longevity of your vehicle. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and coolant flushes are just a few examples of routine maintenance tasks that should be performed on your engine.
Common issues that can arise with engines include overheating, low oil pressure, and a misfiring engine. If you notice any unusual noises, vibrations, or smells coming from your engine, it is important to have it checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
GEARBOX
The gearbox is a crucial component in your vehicle's transmission system. It is responsible for controlling the power and speed of your car by adjusting the gear ratio between the engine and the wheels. The gearbox should be regularly maintained to ensure smooth shifting and prevent wear and tear. If you notice any grinding noises or difficulty in shifting gears, it is important to have it checked by a professional mechanic. Common issues that can arise with gearboxes include low transmission fluid levels and worn-out plates.
BRAINBOX
The brainbox, also known as the electrical control unit (ECU), is the computer that controls and manages the engine's performance. it collects data from various sensors in the vehicle and uses it to optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency.
The brainbox is usually located in the engine compartment or inside the car, depending on the make and model of the vehicle. It is important to protect the brainbox from water damage, as exposure to water can cause it to malfunction and potentially damage the engine.
" If the brain box gets bad, it would never start. That's why when the vehicle is taken to the car wash, the brain box is securely covered. " ----Fortune Bekee.
When taking your car to the car wash, it is important to ensure that the brainbox is securely covered to prevent any water from entering it. If the brainbox becomes damaged, the engine may not start or may experience other issues. If you suspect an issue with your brainbox, it is important to have it inspected by a professional mechanic.
FUSE BOX
Also, this is an important electrical device in your vehicle that contains fuses, which are designed to protect the car's electrical components from damage caused by power surges or short circuits. Each fuse in the fuse box is designed for a specific electrical component in the car, such as the horn, headlights, or air conditioning. the fusebox will usually have a diagram that shows which fuse corresponds to which electrical component. this is useful in troubleshooting electrical issues in your vehicle.
If an electrical component in your vehicle stops working, the first thing to check is the corresponding fuse in the fusebox. if the fuse keeps blowing, it may indicate a more serious electrical issue that should be inspected by a professional mechanic.
" Everything that is electronically connected to the car has a fuse for it. Each fuse will tell you what belongs to what. " ----Fortune Bekee.
SHOCK ABSORBER PAD
The shock pad is part of the suspension system. It is a crucial component of a vehicle's suspension system. It is responsible for absorbing the shock and vibration created by driving on uneven surfaces or roads filled with Gallops and potholes. Without a functioning shock absorber system, the ride quality of a vehicle would be significantly compromised, and passengers would feel every bump and jolt in the road.
AIR FILTER
The air filter is responsible for filtering the air that enters the engine, ensuring that it's free from dirt, dust, and debris that could damage the engine or affect its performance.
The engine requires a mixture of air and fuel to operate. When you start the engine, the air is sucked into the engine's combustion chamber through a pipe or trail that is connected to the air filter. The air filter removes any contaminants from the air, ensuring that only clean air enters the engine. This clean air mixes with fuel in the combustion chamber and is ignited by a spark from the spark plug, creating the power needed to run the engine.
A clogged Air filter can restrict air movement to the engine, thus reducing its efficiency and potentially causing damage over time. It is important to replace the air filter regularly to ensure that it is working effectively.
ANTI-LOCKING BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS)
When you stop on the brake pedal, the ABS modulator rapidly pumps the brakes, allowing the wheels to continue turning while braking. this prevents the wheels from skidding and sliding, which could cause the car to lose control and potentially lead to an accident.
The ABS system works by using sensors to detect the speed of each wheel. If the system detects that a wheel is about to lock up, it will automatically reduce the brake pressure on that wheel, allowing it to continue turning and maintaining the car's stability. This helps the driver to maintain control.
Here, at Ikokuonline, we have a modern, diagnosis system that can correctly run checks and diagnoses on your vehicle's ABS thus, If you notice any issues with your brakes, such as a pulsating brake pedal or loss of braking power, it is important to have your ABS system checked by us.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the components under the hood of your automatic vehicle is crucial for proper maintenance and identifying potential issues. From the engine, gearbox, brainbox, fusebox, air filter, and shock pad, to the anti-lock braking system , these parts work together to ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently. While it may not be mandatory for an ordinary vehicle user to know every part under the hood, knowing the basics of these components can help you take good care of your vehicle and prevent costly repairs down the road. Next time when you lift your bonnet open, take a moment to appreciate the intricate workings of your vehicle.
As a vehicle owner, don't compromise your car's safety and performance. Shop now for all your diagnosis, car parts, and accessories needs at Ikokuonline or send us a DM to place an order on 09069186864.
