Car Engine Glossary
Air Filter
An air filter is a device that removes impurities from the air that enters the engine. This helps to protect the engine from damage and keeps it running smoothly.
Alternator
An alternator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. It is used to charge the battery and power the electrical system of the car.
Battery
A battery is a device that stores electrical energy. It provides the power needed to start the engine and power the electrical system of the car when the engine is not running.
Camshaft
A camshaft is a shaft that controls the opening and closing of the valves in the engine. It is driven by the crankshaft.
Carburetor
A carburetor is a device that mixes air and fuel together to create a combustible mixture. This mixture is then drawn into the engine and burned.
Crankshaft
A crankshaft is a shaft that converts the reciprocating motion of the pistons into rotary motion. It is connected to the flywheel and the transmission.
Cylinder
A cylinder is a chamber in the engine where the piston moves up and down. The combustion of the air-fuel mixture occurs in the cylinder.
Cylinder Head
A cylinder head is a part of the engine that seals the top of the cylinder and contains the valves.
Distributor
A distributor is a device that distributes the electrical current to the spark plugs in the engine. It is driven by the camshaft.
EGR Valve
An EGR valve is a device that recirculates some of the exhaust gas back into the engine. This helps to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy.
Exhaust Manifold
An exhaust manifold is a pipe that collects the exhaust gases from the cylinders and directs them to the catalytic converter.
Flywheel
A flywheel is a heavy wheel that is attached to the crankshaft. It helps to smooth out the engine’s operation and store energy.
Fuel Filter
A fuel filter is a device that removes impurities from the fuel. This helps to protect the engine from damage and keeps it running smoothly.
Fuel Injector
A fuel injector is a device that sprays fuel into the engine’s cylinders. It is controlled by the engine’s computer.
Intake Manifold
An intake manifold is a pipe that directs the air-fuel mixture from the carburetor or fuel injector to the cylinders.
Oil Filter
An oil filter is a device that removes impurities from the engine oil. This helps to protect the engine from damage and keeps it running smoothly.
Oil Pan
An oil pan is a reservoir that holds the engine oil. It is located at the bottom of the engine.
Pistons
Pistons are cylindrical parts that move up and down in the cylinders. They compress the air-fuel mixture and create power.
Radiator
A radiator is a device that cools the engine coolant. It is located at the front of the car.
Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are devices that create the spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders. They are screwed into the cylinder head.
Starter
A starter is a device that cranks the engine to start it. It is powered by the battery.
Throttle Body
A throttle body is a device that controls the amount of air that enters the engine. It is located between the air filter and the intake manifold.
Timing Belt
A timing belt is a belt that synchronizes the movement of the camshaft and the crankshaft. It is made of a durable material that can withstand the high temperatures and stresses of the engine.
Transmission
A transmission is a device that transfers power from the engine to the wheels. It consists of a series of gears that can be shifted to change the speed and torque of the car.
Water Pump
A water pump is a device that circulates the engine coolant through the engine. It is driven by the crankshaft.
