6 Most Important Car Parts and Features We Love

14 Parts of a Car and Their Functions

Civilization has blessed us with gadgets that leave us amazed at how they are developed.

One classic innovation is the automobile, and many of us can’t shake off the need to know the parts of a car.

It never hurts to have at least a basic knowledge about automobiles.

Whether you self-repair your car or bring it to the repair center, it pays to know the vehicle’s basic parts.

Knowing parts of a car ensures you are capable of making knowledgeable decisions on vehicular maintenance.

The basic parts of a car you should acquaint yourself with includes:

1. Radiator

The radiator is one of the components of the car engine. Its function is to exchange heat, which means it takes heat away from the coolant in your car’s cooling system. This ensures your car’s engine does not overheat.

The hot coolant is navigated via the radiator, where the coolant can trade heat with the passing air. It is one of the most important parts of a car. For basic maintenance on this car part, monitor your coolant levels about two times annually.

Substituting your radiator can take a significant part of your day, but it can be done yourself. If you want to change your radiator, you can go through a guide to execute the job right.

While browsing for a guide on how to change your radiator, endeavor to reference your auto’s repair manual, as each car is slightly different.

2. AC compressor

The AC compressor is that part of the car whose function is to produce air pressure to pump coolant across your auto’s system. Without the AC compressor, the air conditioning system will not function.

Tropical heat shows that your air conditioning system is an essential part of a car. It is a car part you have to ensure is always working if you can’t tolerate hot air.

3. Battery

Batteries are undoubtedly one of the most vital parts of a car. Its function is to store energy in chemical form to be converted to electrical energy, which activates your car’s electrical parts.

Other mechanical jargon you may encounter when discussing a car battery may include:

Battery Terminal : A channel or pathway for connecting the battery to the cars electrical system. The battery terminals are of three types, namely: post or top, side, and L

: A channel or pathway for connecting the battery to the cars electrical system. The battery terminals are of three types, namely: post or top, side, and L Battery Capacity : This is the output of a battery’s energy measured in amp/hours

: This is the output of a battery’s energy measured in amp/hours Cold Cranking Amps : This is shortened CCA , meaning the amount of current that the battery can provide to the car

: This is shortened , meaning the amount of current that the battery can provide to the car Group Size : The simply refers to the size of the battery. The common group sizes include 24, 24F, 25, 34, 35, 51, 51R, 52, 58, 58R, 59 and 65

: The simply refers to the size of the battery. The common group sizes include 24, 24F, 25, 34, 35, 51, 51R, 52, 58, 58R, 59 and 65 AGM: This abbreviation’s full meaning is Absorbent Glass Mat. This is a design where sulfuric acid is assimilated by a fibreglass mat, ensuring the car battery is spill-proof and better at sustaining a charge.

4. Alternator

The car alternator in the light blue scene. Close up of the of an engine part.

The alternator is a device that’s responsible for the generation of electrical energy. Its function is to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy via alternating current.

It is used to provide energy to the electrical system of your car alongside the battery.

The alternator is designed for recharging the battery by making use of mechanical energy generated via the motion of the car’s parts. It isn’t unusual if you observe that your car battery is not functioning or looks swollen.

This may mean that the alternator possibly has a faulty voltage and has charged the battery beyond its capacity.

5. Axle

The axles at the rear and front of the car are cross members supporting the vehicle at the wheel hubs attachable points.

Axles are also part of the components that make up your suspension system. They function by transferring power from the engine to the wheels via the transmission and differential.

They connect the wheels to the car and uphold the weight of each. CV axles have interior and exterior joints with a boot on each end. CV axle failures are typically triggered by a broken or leaking boot.

6. Brakes

Another vital part of a car is the brake. A car’s brake is responsible for stopping or slowing down a car. It also keeps it stationary when stopped or parked. The two most popular brake systems are disc brakes and drum brake systems.

Some of the most popular disc brake components include:

Calliper : Refers to the non-rotational components of disc brakes that sit astride the disc. This includes hydraulic components forcing the brake pads against the rotor to slow down or cease the car’s motion. It can be located in the front or rear of a car

: Refers to the non-rotational components of disc brakes that sit astride the disc. This includes hydraulic components forcing the brake pads against the rotor to slow down or cease the car’s motion. It can be located in the front or rear of a car Brake Pad : The pad contains friction material rubbed against the disc by the calliper to slow down or stop the car’s momentum. It is also a term frequently used for brake lining

: The pad contains friction material rubbed against the disc by the calliper to slow down or stop the car’s momentum. It is also a term frequently used for brake lining Brake Rotor: This is a component shaped like a disc that rotates with the hub and wheel. The lining pads are rubbed against the rotor to give the brake system a friction surface to slow down or stop a vehicle.

Drum brake systems primarily consist of a brake drum and shoes. The shoes are overlaid with friction material rubbed against the drum’s interior to produce friction and slow down the car.

7. Shock absorbers

Shock absorbers can be termed a hydraulic device used at every wheel in the suspension system to regulate the vehicle’s body’s upward, downward, and rolling motion. It does this by slightly moistening the back and forth motions or jouncing the springs when the car moves over bumps.

Its function plays a crucial role in the contribution to vehicular safety and passengers’ comfort. The shock absorber is also called a shock or strut, based on which the vehicle is equipped.

A typical shock absorber has three responsibilities:

Mitigates the impact of spring oscillation to ensure it sustains the ride stabilization of a car

Regulates body sway

Lessens the likelihood of a tire tread to lift off the road’s surface, which is an issue frequently triggered by static unbalance.

8. Transmission

The transmission is a device responsible for the gearing of a car. It creates variable ratios between the output of the engine and the input of a differential.

Automobile transmissions are more sophisticated than bicycle transmissions, but they provide identical essential functions.

They enable the driver or engine computer to choose smaller or bigger gears to enhance driving conditions without overworking the engine. There are two kinds of transmission:

Automatic transmission: It is a transmission in which the gear ratios are alternated automatically via automatic transmission fluid (ATF). The engine computer regulates shifts. Several automatic transmissions are continuously variable (CVT), or shiftless transmissions, which can vary smoothly through a continuous range of operative gear ratios

It is a transmission in which the gear ratios are alternated automatically via automatic transmission fluid (ATF). The engine computer regulates shifts. Several automatic transmissions are continuously variable (CVT), or shiftless transmissions, which can vary smoothly through a continuous range of operative gear ratios Manual transmission: This isa manually shifted gearing device in the power train that enables differentiation on the relationship between engine velocity and road velocity.

9. Catalytic converter

The catalytic converter is an automotive component of the exhaust system. It is manufactured with stainless steel. It also contains a catalyst to lessening nitrogen oxide (NOX), and/or hydrocarbon (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO), emitted via tailpipe(s).

It is utilized to remove pollutants and reduce the harmful effect of these exhaust gases on the environment.

10. Muffler

The muffler is that part just before the extreme of the exhaust pipe. It is responsible for lessening the noise coming from the exhaust system. It limits exhaust gas flow, which results in a quieter ride. Some mufflers limit gas to flow more or less, leading to either a quieter or louder exhaust noise.

11. Tailpipe

Car exhaust pipe

The tailpipe is the pipe that conveys the exhaust fumes from the muffler or catalytic converter to the car’s rear.

12. Fuel tank

It is usually located at the side of the car, close to the rear. It is the storage for premium motor spirit or gasoline.

13. Tires

Photo by Jan Kopiva on

These are round and hollow rubber objects into which the wheels of the car fits. They roll to provide motion for the vehicle.

14. Bonnet

This is the front cover that covers the engine of the car.

10 Important Things You Should Check on Your Car Regularly

Take the time to make sure these 10 things on your vehicle are checked regularly and in good shape to avoid a potential collision or claim:

1. The oil

The oil in your car keeps everything running smoothly, and your car can’t run without the right level of oil. You can check your oil level by simply pulling out the dipstick and seeing where the oil level is. Note the colour of the oil on the dipstick: is it black or gold? If it’s black, you should take your car in for an oil change. On that note, get oil changes on a regular basis as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer or mechanic.

2. The tire pressure

A tire pressure gauge is an affordable and easy-to-use tool that can prevent a flat tire. Be mindful that improperly inflated tires can cause blowouts while you’re driving and may lead to a collision. They can also leave you stranded on the side of the road, especially if you’re not subscribed to a roadside assistance program.

Additionally, the wrong level of inflation affects your fuel efficiency. It’s important to check your tire pressure regularly and be aware that the right tire pressure may change based on the outside temperature. Check with the tire manufacturer for the right pressure.

3. The brakes

Don’t wait for that screeching sound that tells you the brake pads are getting old. Having your brakes checked regularly by a professional keeps your car safe and on the road. If there is one thing on your vehicle you don’t want to take for granted, it’s the brakes.

4. The power steering fluid

Have you ever driven a car without power steering? It’s not fun. Plus, without the correct amount of fluid, your power steering could fail, making it harder to control your car. Like your oil, you can check and refill this one yourself, so make it a habit.

5. Wheel alignment

Is your car veering slightly to the left or right when you drive? That’s a clear sign you should get your vehicle’s wheel alignment checked. Getting your vehicle’s wheel alignment adjusted ensures your car will steer and react the way you want it to when you need to turn quickly.

6. The antifreeze or coolant

In Canadian winters, you will need enough antifreeze in your car to make sure it can run properly. Cold temperatures are hard on your car. On the reverse side of that coin, coolant is also an important fluid to check on your car.

Keeping your car running smoothly relies on the right levels of the fluids it needs. But be advised: you should never add coolant to a hot engine. Wait until the engine has cooled before attempting to add coolant to avoid the possibility of suffering burns or cracking the engine block.

7. The tire treads

It’s not just the pressure in your tires that matters. Your tires depend on the tread to give you traction on the road, and it’s especially important in slippery conditions. Look for signs of wear on your tires and also look for any bulges or odd lumps that could indicate a problem. Low tread or bulges in the tires can cause slipping or a blowout on the road.

8. The air filter

A clogged air filter will cost you in fuel consumption, and it’s bad for the car as well. It costs very little to get it checked and replaced as needed, so make it a regular part of your car maintenance routine. Most places will check it for you, free of charge, when they change your oil.

9. The transmission fluid

If your transmission seizes or fails, your vehicle won’t run, and it will result in an expensive repair. A transmission failure while driving is not something you ever want to experience. Make sure that the transmission fluid is always at the right level (too little or too much fluid can result in problems) and is changed periodically to make sure your car can change gears smoothly.

On many vehicles, you can check your transmission fluid level by withdrawing its dipstick while the engine is running. In addition to the fluid level, check the colour; it should be red. If it’s black, that indicates you may need a transmission flush and the fluid changed.

10. The lights – all of them

Having any of the lights on your car not functioning properly is dangerous. Be sure to check your turn signals, brake lights, reverse lights, and of course, your headlights on a regular basis. Although you are likely to catch a headlight that is out, you may not notice a burnt-out brake light or taillight. These things are vital to letting other drivers know what you are doing or about to do — and preventing collisions. You could also get a ticket if any of the lights on your vehicle are not operating properly.

If you keep your car in good condition, it will keep you safe and in control on the road. You’ll also maximize your investment in the vehicle over time. Make sure the functions of your car aren't the only thing you check periodically. Compare auto insurance quotes at to ensure you’re getting a great rate.

6 Most Important Car Parts and Features We Love

We love our cars and show our devotion to them in the number of miles we drive each year, the way we clean them and how thoroughly they are maintained. The most important car parts or components include some we take for granted. We’ll look at the top ones and how they’ve changed through the years.

Car Features We Cannot Live Without

1. Wipers

Mary Anderson patented the first operational wiper blade in 1903, which still required hand operation to keep the window clean. Yet, that was a lot better than what drivers had to do previously: stop the car, get out and wipe down the windshield. Today, wipers are electronically operated and fitted with durable blades. On some vehicles, they’re also present on the back window and even on the headlamps.

2. Mirrors

Rearview and side mirrors help us see around the vehicle, reducing the chances of an accident. Today’s cars have dual side mirrors and oftentimes they’re power-controlled and have heating elements. The rearview mirror has changed, too. In some vehicles, the camera monitor is set within the rearview mirror.

3. Headlamps

The first car headlamps were fueled by acetylene or oil but were replaced by electric lamps by the end of the 19th century. In modern cars, halogen lamps are common, but high-intensity discharge systems, along with LED daytime running lights are growing in popularity. We’re also seeing greater availability of adaptive headlamps, which pivot up to 15 degrees when turning the front wheels, supplying expanded forward visibility.

4. Seats

Manufacturers have poured extensive resources into improving seat technology and for that, we’re immensely grateful. We often measure a model’s appeal through how well constructed the driver’s seat is. We expect seats to offer ample shoulder, hip and thigh support, but support alone isn’t enough. Materials that breath, seats that tilt forward and fully recline, and heating and cooling features spark interest. Add in a massaging function and no wonder people fight for the best seats!

5. Audio

As recently as the 1970s, new cars with standard FM radio were a big deal. Fortunately, manufacturers have kept pace with our music listening tastes and have changed their offerings accordingly. Unfaithful 8-track players gave way to tape-eating cassette players, then to reliable CDs and MP3 players. Today, audio input plugs and USB ports allow us to listen to our own playlists, with Pandora, Spotify and Tidal among the key streaming services. The number of speakers has increased, as has sound clarity. You can pay thousands of dollars to upgrade to an exquisite Bang & Olufsen audio system, which delivers concert-hall-quality music throughout the cabin.

6. Safety

It wasn’t until 1968 that manufacturers were required by federal statute to fit new cars with seat belts in all seating positions. Airbag technology was ready soon after, but automaker resistance slowed implementation by more than a decade. Today, manufacturers are outdoing each other by raising the safety bar year after year. We now have lane departure warning and alert, adaptive cruise control, automatic braking, and other driver-assist features. We’re willing to pay more for these proven features as the industry gradually shifts to autonomous driving.

Maintenance Is Key

Having nice features like adaptive headlights, durable windshield wipers, high-tech safety features and bumping audio systems all help us enjoy our cars more. With proper maintenance, your car will keep you safe and comfortable for years to come, allowing you to enjoy all of its nice features, and the most important car parts, to the fullest.

Check out all the vision and safety parts available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on the history behind your favorite car features, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Photos courtesy of Matthew C. Keegan and Wikimedia Commons.