Automotive lingo can seem like a foreign language, requiring translation for those who aren’t familiar with what’s beneath the hood. But it’s important to gain a basic understanding of your vehicle’s components and their role in keeping your car running right. This not only provides a sense of confidence, but helps you recognize when repairs are needed.
Our South Strand CDJR service technicians have detailed your car’s basic parts and their function below. No Pawleys Island car dealer rivals our commitment to car care, so read on to learn more!
A Look Under the Hood
Some of your car’s most important components are found under the hood, including the following:
Engine
An internal combustion engine is a complex machine with several different components, like a timing chain, crankshaft, spark plugs, cylinder heads and valves, and pistons. Each must be properly maintained to ensure your engine generates energy efficiently. To do this, the engine ignites a mixture of gasoline and air.
Transmission
The transmission, also known as the gearbox, transfers the engine’s power to the wheels! Most vehicles have either an automatic or a manual transmission. A manual transmission includes gears, a clutch, and a gear lever, giving you the freedom to manually select and engage the gears with the clutch. Automatic transmissions do this on their own, eliminating the need for a clutch.
Battery
The battery makes sure the electrical parts are operating correctly and provides power when you turn the ignition. Without a battery, your vehicle won’t go anywhere!
Alternator
The alternator is tasked solely with generating electricity. It keeps the battery continuously charging and provides power to the electrical system. If your car has issues starting, or you notice a dimming of the headlights, a failing alternator may be to blame.
Radiator
Your radiator determines your engine’s temperature and helps keep it cool by removing heat from the coolant before it flows back into the engine.
Front Steering and Suspension
The front steering and suspension system includes shocks, ball joints, tie rod ends, and pitman arms, all functioning in tandem to keep the car stable and improve its overall performance on the road.
Other Important Components
Not all of the important parts of your car are found under the hood. These are located under the frame and in the back of your vehicle.
Brakes
A vehicle’s brakes are likely its most important safety system. Found on all four wheels, brakes help your vehicle decelerate or come to a complete stop. There are two types of brake systems: disc and drum.
A disc brake system can be found on the front and back wheels, consisting of brake pads and calipers. Drum brake systems consist of brake drums and shoes, and are found on the back wheels only.
Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is one of the main components of the exhaust system. It reduces harmful gas and pollutant emission by making them less toxic before they enter the air.
Muffler
Without the help of the muffler, your car would emit thousands of tiny explosions. The muffler gets its name because it muffles the sound of these explosions.
Fuel Tank
The fuel tank, located before the rear axle, contains the gasoline used to power your car. Tank placement is key to ensure it isn’t crushed or damaged in a crash.
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension plays the same role as the front suspension – except that it’s located in the back instead of the front. The rear suspension system is made up of shocks, coil springs, all joints, control arms, and CV joints, all working together to provide a smooth, enjoyable ride.
Key Car Servicing Terms to Know
Whether it’s time for a tune-up or you’re looking for new car parts near you, understanding these terms takes any stress out of servicing your vehicle. When speaking with your technician, these terms may come up:
Oil filter: Cleans your engine oil as it circulates throughout the vehicle. During a routine oil change, your mechanic may suggest an oil filter replacement.
Brake Fluid: Used to squeeze the brakes around the rotors to slow or stop the vehicle.
Dipstick: Utilized during an oil change to check fluid levels and oil quality.
Spark Plug: Ignites the fuel-air mixture and powers the engine. A burnt-out spark plug will not properly ignite, causing major issues when you try to start your car.
Battery Corrosion: Caused by water on the outside casing, leaking acid, or rust build-up. If a battery is corroded, a replacement is needed.
Brake Pads: These wear out over time, becoming less effective the thinner they get.
Shocks: Part of the suspension system, shocks ensure your tires maintain contact with the road and suppress any vibrations.
Get Your Car Serviced at South Strand Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM!
Looking for top quality service at a car lot near you? South Strand CDJR can help! Our experienced technicians make it easier than ever to keep your car properly maintained, not only providing exceptional service but the information needed to stay in the know!
Whether you’re on the hunt for the best RAM parts near you or simply searching for Chrysler service coupons, we’ve got you covered. No stress, no hassle!
If it’s time for an oil change or other routine maintenance service, schedule an appointment today. Be sure to maximize your savings with our current RAM, Jeep or Dodge specials – going on now at our Service Center!
Check out our website for the latest service offers, including RAM service coupons! Or visit us in Pawleys Island, SC to shop for car parts or request a specific part online!