What’s in This Chapter

The modern automobile is a technological marvel. Thousands of parts are assembled to form the means that many of us use for our daily transportation. Space-age materials and advanced computer control systems are used extensively in its construction, but in spite of all this, the basic systems within the automobile still function the same as they always have.

Despite its size, any automobile is still only made up of many smaller parts. Parts are the smallest pieces that are used in the construction of the automobile. Parts include such items as bolts, screws, spark plugs, and belts. The parts of the vehicle cannot be disassembled any further, so they form the foundation for the construction of the vehicle. Systems are combinations of parts that work together to perform a particular function.

This chapter will be organized around four major types of systems:

• Engine systems generate power to drive the vehicle’s wheels and various accessories. The foundation of engine systems is engine theory, which defines the mechanics and components involved in making the engine run. Engine systems also include the cooling system, which acts to remove excess heat from the engine. Finally, engine systems include the lubrication system, which circulates motor oil through the engine to reduce friction and make the engine run smoothly.
• Combustion systems comprise the fuel system, which ensures that correct amounts of air and fuel are available for efficient combustion in the engine; the ignition system, which generates and times the spark that initiates combustion; and the exhaust system, which forms a “pipeline” for waste gases to be removed from the engine and then dissipated to the open atmosphere.
• Electrical and control systems are becoming more and more significant in modern vehicles. These include the electrical system—which includes starting, charging, lighting, and accessory systems—as well as the computer system, which controls all aspects of vehicle operation, including engine, drivetrain, brakes, and suspension.
• Chassis systems are made up of the drivetrain system, which transmits power from the engine to the vehicle’s drive wheels, the suspension and steering systems, which control the vehicle’s ride quality and handling, and the brake system, which stops the vehicle safely and predictably.

This chapter will conclude with a set of practice questions.