The Main Parts of an Engine and Their Functions
Most car engines have around 200 parts that need to be maintained for your vehicle to function properly. While your mechanic may be your main source of knowledge, it’s important to know the main parts of your engine so you are able to better care for your vehicle and diagnose problems when they arise.
Key Engine Parts
Engine Block
Function
This piece of equipment is the component that brings together the crankshaft, coolant passages, and various internal parts. Within the engine block, the pistons move up and down and the crankshaft spins.
Design
Its strong metal construction of aluminum or iron gives it the ability to efficiently transmit heat, keeping your vehicle at a safe temperature.
Common Problems to Look Out For
- External engine coolant leak – results from a crack in the block
- Worn/cracked cylinder – develops after hundreds of thousands of miles
- Porous engine block – caused by contamination during manufacturing
Pistons
Function
As the powerhouse to your engine, pistons conduct an up-and-down movement that’s energy drives all of your car’s functions. For each cylinder in your engine there is also a piston.
Design
Typically made from aluminum or cast iron, pistons are connected to the crankshaft by a connecting rod. They are built to be extremely durable as they face high amounts of energy and force. Pistons’ material and size greatly depends on the cylinder they will be connected to.
Common Problems to Look Out For
- Snapped timing belt – pistons and valves not moving in tune
- Worn piston rings – signs include white smoke and low engine oil
- Piston slap – large gap between piston and cylinder wall
Crankshaft
Function
All of the movement that the pistons make creates energy that the crankshaft converts into the rotational movement that’s used to move your wheels. There are 3 main types of crankshafts for different types of engines: cast, forged, and billet.
Design
Made of steel or iron, the crankshaft is located at the bottom of the engine and has counterweights to balance the strong rotational force it faces.
Common Problems to Look Out For
- Cracked seal – leads to leaking oil and heat that can bend the crankshaft
- Faulty sensor – inability to start the vehicle
Camshaft
Function
The camshaft is made up of lobes, also known as cams, that open and close the intake and exhaust valves in tune with the piston. There are 4 main roles of the camshaft: intake, compression, power, and exhaust.
Design
This piece of the engine is a metal rail, composed of iron or steel, that’s located above the cylinders. In most engines, the camshaft is connected to the crankshaft using a timing belt or chain.
Common Problems to Look Out For
- Insufficient lubrication – leading to cylinder leaks
- Excessive movement – called “end play”, results in wear and damage
Cylinder Head
Function
To seal off the combustion chamber, a cylinder head is used. Its main function is using its intake and exhaust valves to let air escape as well as holes to allow coolant from the radiator and oil to flow through to the engine.
Design
Located on top of the cylinder block, this component is comprised of 3 pieces: valves, fuel injectors, and spark plugs. Cylinder heads also have the ability to dissipate heat from the combustion process.
Common Problems to Look Out For
- Overheating – caused by low coolant
- Poor engine performance – resulting from a cracked cylinder head
Come to City Auto for Engine Maintenance and Repair
When it comes to your car, the engine is the key to running all of its essential functions. Our expert technicians knowledgeably inspect, repair, and maintain your vehicle so that your engine can keep you on the road. No matter what your car needs, we’re here to help!
Contact City Auto Repair in Gainesville, FL today.