Car Anatomy: Understanding 12 Systems and Parts of a Car

A car is a complex assembly of more than 30,000 parts. It is basically a maze of components, each with its own unique function. So, covering all car anatomy in a single blog post is impossible.

What we’ll do today is try to understand the primary parts of a car you must recognise as a vehicle owner, which are essential for repair and maintenance. In short, we’ll help you understand how various car systems and their primary components work.

1. Parts of a Car Engine

The engine is the heart of a car. It’s a complex system with more than 200 moving parts that work together to produce power. Here are the key components of a car’s engine:

A. Engine Block and Pistons

The engine block is the foundation of the engine. It’s made of cast iron or aluminium and houses the cylinders. The cylinders (also known as the combustion chambers) are where the combustion process takes place in an Internal Combustion Engine. The pistons move up and down within the cylinders. They convert the force generated from the energy of burning fuel into linear motion.

B. Crankshaft, Camshaft, and Connecting Rod

 The crankshaft is a rotating shaft that converts the linear motion of the pistons into rotational motion. It’s connected to the pistons by the connecting rods. The connecting rods transmit the force of the pistons to the crankshaft. Whereas the camshaft is another rotating shaft in the engine that controls the timing of the valves.

C. Timing Belt and Valve Train

The timing belt, also known as a timing chain in some engines, is crucial for engine synchronisation. It ensures that the camshaft and crankshaft rotate in perfect harmony. On the other hand, the valve train consists of valves, pushrods, and rocker arms. This system controls the flow of air and fuel into the combustion chamber and the expulsion of exhaust gases.

D. Intake and Exhaust Manifold

The intake manifold distributes the air-fuel mixture to each cylinder. It’s designed to ensure equal distribution for optimal engine performance. Conversely, the exhaust manifold collects exhaust gases from the cylinders and directs them towards the exhaust system.

E. Spark Plugs and Starter Motor

Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in petrol engines, also known as the (SI) Spark Ignition engines. When the spark plug fires, an electric current flows between the electrodes, creating a spark that ignites the AF mixture. Please note that Direct Ignition (diesel) engines don’t have a spark plug, they rely on ignition by compressing the AF mixture to the extent of self-combustion. Similarly, the starter motor is an electric motor that cranks the engine to start it. It’s connected to the flywheel by a gear reduction system.

2. Parts of a Car Body

Here are the key parts of the body of a car:

A. Chassis and Pillars

The chassis forms the backbone of a car’s body. It’s a frame that supports all other components and provides structural integrity. Modern unibody designs integrate the chassis with the body for improved strength and weight reduction. Pillars, on the other hand, are vertical supports that connect the roof to the body. They’re typically labelled A, B, and C from front to back. The A-pillar supports the windscreen, the B-pillar separates front and rear doors, and the C-pillar supports the rear window. Some larger vehicles may have a D-pillar as well.

B. Bumpers and Bonnet

Bumpers are the protective shields at the front and rear of a car, designed to absorb impact in the event of a collision. Modern bumpers are often made of plastic or composite materials over a metal reinforcement. Similarly, the bonnet, or hood, covers the engine compartment. It’s typically hinged at the front and latched at the rear for easy access to the engine bay.

C. Head and Tail Lights

Headlights illuminate the road ahead, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions. Taillights, on the other hand, are located at the rear of the car. They serve as a visual warning to other drivers. Taillights are also essential for indicating turns, braking, and reversing.

D. Fenders and Body Panels

Fenders are the curved panels that enclose the wheels and protect them from debris. They are often integrated with the front and rear bumpers. Whereas, body panels, such as doors, roofs, and side panels, form the outer shell of the car. They are typically made of steel or aluminium and are designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.

3. Parts of a Car Drive Train

The drive train is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. It can be in different configurations, such as Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD), and Four-Wheel Drive (FWD). Here are the key components of a drive train:

A. Gearbox

The gearbox, or transmission, is the most crucial component of a car’s drivetrain. Its primary function is to adjust the engine’s rotational speed to match the vehicle’s desired speed. This is achieved through a system of gears that can be shifted into different ratios. Gearboxes come in two primary types: manual and automatic.

B. Driveshaft and Axles

The driveshaft is a rotating shaft that transmits power from the gearbox to the wheels. It typically runs through the centre of the vehicle, connecting the gearbox to the differential or transfer case. Axles, on the other hand, connect the non-powered wheels. The primary difference between an axle and a shaft is that a shaft is attached to a power source at one end, whereas an axle simply connects two rotating points and synchronises their rotation.

C. Differential and Transfer Case

A differential allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds when the car is turning. This is essential because the outer wheels must travel a greater distance than the inner wheels to cover the same ground. On the other hand, a transfer case is used in vehicles with four-wheel drive to distribute power between the front and rear axles. It allows the driver to select different driving modes, such as two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.

D. CV and U-Joint

CV joints are designed to maintain constant rotational velocity while allowing for changes in angle and length. U-joints, on the other hand, are simpler mechanical couplings used to connect two shafts that may not be perfectly aligned, commonly found in driveshafts and steering systems.

E. Clutch and Torque Converter

In manual transmission vehicles, the clutch is the link between the engine and gearbox. The driver controls the clutch pedal to engage or disengage the engine. On the other hand, automatic transmission vehicles use a torque converter instead of a clutch. It allows for smooth power transfer and multiplication of torque at low speeds.

4. Parts of a Car Fuel System

Here are the primary components of a car’s fuel system:

A. Fuel Tank, Pump, and Filter

The fuel tank is the primary storage container for the fuel that powers your car. Next in line is the fuel pump. Usually located within the fuel tank itself, the fuel pump is responsible for drawing fuel from the tank and delivering it to the engine. There’s another crucial component located between the fuel pump and the fuel injectors or carburettors known as the fuel filter. It filters out dirt, rust, and other particles before they can reach the engine.

B. Fuel Injectors or Carburetors and Pressure Regulators

Fuel injectors are electronic devices that spray a fine mist of fuel directly into the combustion chamber. In contrast, older vehicles often rely on carburettors to mix air and fuel. The whole process of fuel delivery is maintained by fuel pressure regulators. They ensure that injectors and carburettors receive an adequate supply of fuel at all times according to the engine load or speed.

5. Parts of a Car Cooling System

Next up, we have the components of the cooling system. If the cooling system of a car fails, it can lead to engine overheating and ultimately a seized engine.

A. Radiator, Radiator Cap, and Fan

The radiator is the heart of your car’s cooling system. It’s a large metal tank filled with coolant that absorbs heat from the engine. The radiator cap is a crucial component that maintains the correct pressure within the cooling system, preventing coolant from boiling over. The fan, typically located behind the radiator, draws cool air across the radiator to help dissipate heat.

B. Thermostat and Coolant Sensor

 The thermostat is a valve that regulates the flow of coolant through the engine. When the engine is cold, the thermostat closes to keep coolant circulating within the engine block until it reaches operating temperature. Once the engine is warm, the thermostat opens, allowing coolant to flow through the radiator to be cooled. A coolant sensor monitors the temperature of the coolant and sends this information to the engine control module (ECM).

C. Water Pump

The water pump circulates coolant through the cooling system. It’s driven by the engine’s timing belt or chain. When the engine is running, the water pump pushes the coolant through the radiator, engine block, and heater core to help dissipate heat.

D. Heater Core and Freeze Plug

The heater core functions like a small radiator inside the vehicle’s cabin. It’s connected to the cooling system and allows hot coolant to flow through it to provide warm air to passengers during colder months. On the other hand, freeze plugs are designed to protect the engine block from cracking in freezing temperatures.

6. Parts of a Car Suspension

Here are the primary components of the car suspension:

A. Shock Absorbers and Joints

Shock absorbers are the most recognisable suspension components, often visible from the outside. They work in conjunction with springs to control the vertical movement of the wheels, preventing excessive bouncing and pitching. Joints, such as ball joints and control arm bushings, provide flexibility and allow the suspension to move up and down.

B. Stabiliser Bar and Lateral Control Rods

The stabiliser bar, also known as an anti-roll or sway bar, is designed to reduce body roll during cornering. Lateral control rods complement the stabiliser bar by maintaining axle positioning under lateral loads. These rods help control the side-to-side movement of the axle, contributing significantly to overall vehicle stability.

C. Arms (Upper, Lower, Knuckle) and Strut Bar

Control arms are essential components that connect the vehicle’s chassis to its wheels. Comprising upper and lower arms, they allow for vertical movement while controlling lateral motion. The strut bar further enhances the suspension system’s rigidity by connecting the upper strut mounts on either side of the vehicle.

7. Parts of a Car Braking System

Next up, you need to understand the basic components of the braking system:

A. Brake Pads and Shoes

At the heart of the braking system are the brake pads and shoes, which come into contact with the rotors or drums to generate friction and slow down the vehicle. Brake pads are typically found in disc brake systems. Brake shoes, on the other hand, are used in drum brake systems. They are pushed outward against the inner circumference of a rotating drum, creating friction.

B. Brake Callipers and Boosters

Brake callipers are responsible for applying pressure to the brake pads or shoes. In disc brake systems, callipers use hydraulic pressure to force the pads against the rotor. There are various types of callipers, including single-piston, dual-piston, and multi-piston designs. Callipers are assisted by brake boosters. They use vacuum pressure from the engine to amplify the force applied to the brake pedal. This is particularly beneficial in larger vehicles where more braking force is necessary.

C. Master Cylinder

The master cylinder is responsible for generating and distributing hydraulic pressure to the brake callipers. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the master cylinder converts the mechanical force into hydraulic pressure. This pressure is then transmitted through the brake lines to the callipers, causing the brake pads or shoes to engage with the rotors or drums.

D. ABS and Speed Sensors

Anti-lock brake systems (ABS) have become a standard feature in modern vehicles. ABS prevents wheel lockup during braking. Speed sensors are used in conjunction with ABS to monitor the rotational speed of each wheel. This information is used by the ABS control module to determine if any wheel is locking up and to adjust the brake pressure accordingly.

8. Parts of a Car Electrical System

Here are the essential components of the car’s electrical system:

A. ECU and Sensors

The Electronic Control Unit (ECU), often referred to as the brain of the vehicle, processes information from various sensors in the car. These sensors monitor everything from engine temperature to vehicle speed. The ECU uses this data to make real-time adjustments, optimising performance, and efficiency. For example, if the engine temperature rises too high, the ECU can adjust fuel injection or activate cooling systems to prevent overheating.

B. Battery and Alternator

The battery is the primary power source for the car’s electrical system when the engine is off. It stores energy and supplies it to components like the starter motor, lights, and radio. Once the engine starts, the alternator takes over the role of generating electricity to recharge the battery and power the electrical system while the engine is running.

C. Fuses and Relays

To prevent electrical overload and damage, fuses, and relays act as safety devices. Fuses are expendable components that melt and break the circuit if excessive current flows through them. Relays, on the other hand, can handle higher currents than fuses. They are used to protect circuits that require frequent switching, such as the headlights or power windows.

D. Wiring and Connectors

The wiring harness is the backbone of the electrical system, connecting all the components. It consists of a bundle of wires that carry electrical signals and power throughout the car. Connectors are used to join the wires together at various points, ensuring a secure and reliable connection.

E. Accessories

Finally, we have accessories, which encompass all electronic features in modern vehicles. These include infotainment systems, GPS navigation, power windows, heated seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Each accessory relies on the car’s electrical system for operation.

9. Parts of a Car Safety System

Let’s see the major components of the car safety systems:

A. Airbags and Seat Belts

Airbags and seat belts are the two most fundamental components of a car safety system. Airbags are inflatable devices that deploy rapidly in a collision, cushioning the driver and passengers from the impact. They are typically located in the steering wheel, dashboard, and side panels of the vehicle. Seat belts, on the other hand, restrain occupants in their seats, preventing them from being ejected from the vehicle or being thrown against the interior.

B. Safety Features Hardware

In addition to airbags and seat belts, modern cars are equipped with a range of safety features and hardware designed to enhance occupant protection and prevent accidents. Some of the features that need dedicated hardware include:

• Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

10. Parts of a Car Exhaust System

Next up, we have listed the primary exhaust system parts:

A. Exhaust Muffler and Pipes

The exhaust muffler reduces the noise produced by the engine. It is designed to muffle the sound of the exhaust gases as they exit the vehicle. Connected to the muffler are the exhaust pipes, which form a network transporting exhaust gases from the engine to the outside atmosphere.

B. Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter’s primary function is to convert harmful gases produced during combustion into less toxic substances before they are released into the atmosphere. Inside the catalytic converter, exhaust gases pass through a substrate coated with metals, which trigger oxidation-reduction reactions. For instance, carbon monoxide is converted into carbon dioxide, while nitrogen oxides are reduced back to nitrogen and oxygen.

C. O2 and Emission Sensors

O2 sensors monitor the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases. This information is used by the engine’s control module to adjust the fuel-to-air ratio, ensuring optimal engine performance and reducing emissions. In addition to O2 sensors, modern vehicles are equipped with various emission sensors that track pollutants in the exhaust.

11. Parts of a Car Inside

Here are some parts found on the inside of a car:

A. Infotainment Screen and Dashboard

The infotainment screen is located in the centre of the dashboard. This touchscreen serves as the interface for functions, including navigation, audio systems, climate control, and vehicle settings. The dashboard itself is the panel that extends across the front of the car, housing the instrument cluster, which displays essential information such as speed, RPM, fuel level, and warning lights.

B. Trims and Storage

The interior of a car is often adorned with various trims, which can be made of materials such as plastic, metal, wood, or leather. These trims add aesthetic appeal and can enhance the overall ambience of the cabin. In addition to trims, the interior features numerous storage compartments to accommodate personal belongings. Common storage areas include the glove compartment, centre console, door pockets, and armrest storage.

12. Parts of a Car Wheels

Car wheels can also be broken down into several parts. Here are a few of those:

A. Tyre and Rims

The tyre is perhaps the most visible part of a car wheel. It is designed to provide traction and absorb shocks while driving. The tread pattern on a car tyre is engineered to enhance grip on different surfaces, ensuring safety during various weather conditions. Moving inward, the rim is the metal circular structure that holds the tyre in place. Rims come in various styles, materials, and sizes, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

B. Valves and Lug Holes

Valves are essential components of a car wheel that allow air to be added or removed from the tyre. They are typically located on the outer rim of the wheel and come in various types. Lug holes are the openings in the rim that accommodate the lug nuts or bolts that secure the wheel to the vehicle’s hub. The number of lug holes varies depending on the vehicle’s make and model.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you sell a car for parts?

Yes, you can sell any car for parts unless it has been classified as a Category A write-off, which requires the entire vehicle to be crushed. One common approach is to sell individual parts, which can yield higher profits but require more effort. Alternatively, if dismantling seems too labour-intensive, you can sell the entire vehicle for scrap.

Exchange My Car can connect you with buyers offering legally compliant car scrapping services in your local area. You can use our scrap car value calculator to see what your scrap car is worth.  

2. Do electric cars have the same parts?

No, electric cars do not have the same parts as traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, primarily due to differences in their powertrains. While both types of vehicles share some common components, such as wheels, brakes, and suspension systems, electric vehicles (EVs) have significantly fewer moving parts overall.

For instance, the car engine parts are reduced from 200 to less than 20 in EVs. The main parts of an EV include the battery pack, electric motor, and a BMS or controller that manages power distribution.

Wrapping Up: Car Anatomy; Major Systems and Parts of a Car

So, there you have it: car anatomy broken down into major systems and parts. Understanding the anatomy of a car is essential for any car owner. By knowing the different parts of a car, you can take better care of it.

This knowledge can also help you identify potential problems and make informed decisions about your vehicle’s maintenance and repairs. The condition of your car parts can also affect its valuation. Please use our free car value calculator to see the current value of your car.