Car Structure From Overview To System Details

car structure
Latest update date: February 06, 01

Car A motor vehicle is a self-propelled vehicle designed to carry people or goods. Understanding the structure of a car is not only useful knowledge for technology enthusiasts, but also an important foundation to help car owners save on repair costs, drive more safely and improve vehicle performance.

According to statistics from the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, more than 70% of technical problems on the road can be prevented if drivers clearly understand the basic structure of the vehicle.

The structure of a car includes many main systems such as the engine, chassis, body frame, and electrical and electronic systems of the car. Each system plays an important role in ensuring performance, safety and comfort for the user.

Let's explore the details car structure from overview to details through the following article.

car structure
Car structure: details A-Z

Why Should You Understand Car Structure?

Understanding your car's structure can help you save on repair costs, ensure safe driving, and improve performance. It allows you to perform maintenance yourself, detect problems early, and handle emergencies better.

Key benefits:

  • Cost savings: Self-maintenance, avoid serious damage, communicate effectively with repairmen.
  • Safety: Better handling in emergency situations, recognizing abnormal signs.
  • Performance: Optimal driving, fuel economy, proper maintenance.
  • Confidence: Proactively troubleshoot, select and evaluate vehicles.

According to research, people who understand vehicle structure are 40% more likely to detect technical problems early than those who do not have this knowledge.

Car Engine

The car engine plays a very important role, considered the "heart" of every journey. This is the part that is responsible for converting energy from fuel (gasoline, oil, electricity) into mechanical power, transmitting power to the wheels to help the car move. There are 5 types of car engines: gasoline, diesel, hybrid, electric and rotary.

Car engine
Car engine

Below is a detailed comparison table of the operating principles and advantages and disadvantages of each engine:

Engine type Fuel Principle of operation Advantages Disadvantages
Gasoline engine Gasoline Ignite the mixture of gasoline and air in the cylinder with an electric spark to create energy. Smooth operation, fast acceleration, lower maintenance costs than diesel engines Higher fuel consumption than diesel engines, lower torque at low rpm
Diesel engine Diesel oil Compressing the mixture of air and diesel to high pressure and temperature causes the mixture to spontaneously ignite Fuel efficient, high torque at low rpm, high durability Noisier than gasoline engines, higher maintenance costs, more polluting emissions (NOx, PM)
Hybrid engine Gasoline/Diesel + Electric Combines internal combustion engine and electric motor, switching between two power sources or using both simultaneously Fuel efficient, emission reduction, smooth operation in electric mode Complex structure, high production and maintenance costs
Electric motor electricity Use torque from electric motor to drive wheels Smooth operation, zero emissions, high efficiency Limited operating range, long battery charging time, charging infrastructure not yet widespread
Rotary engine (Wankel) Gasoline Uses the rotational motion of a triangular rotor instead of a piston to generate power Compact size, low vibration, high rpm High fuel and lubricant consumption, low apex seal life

Car Chassis

The chassis of a car plays a key role in ensuring the stability, safety and performance of a vehicle. The four main systems of the chassis of a car include the powertrain, the control system, the suspension system and the rims and tires of the car.

Car chassis
Car chassis

1. Power transmission system

The powertrain is the heart of a car's chassis, responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the wheels. It consists of many complex components that work together to convert energy from heat into motion. The main components of the powertrain include:

  • Clutch.
  • Transmission.
  • Driveshaft.
  • Differential.

Common types of gearboxes and their characteristics

Gearbox type Advantages Disadvantages
Number of floors Good control, fuel economy Operating skills required
Automatic number Easy to use, smooth More fuel efficient
CVT High performance, smooth operation High maintenance costs
DCT Fast gear shifting, fuel efficient Complex structure

The transmission system transfers power from the engine to the wheels. This process involves converting torque and rotational speed to suit different driving conditions. The transmission ratio determines the acceleration and fuel economy of the vehicle.

According to statistics, about 65% of new cars sold in the US use automatic transmission, while the figure in Europe is 20%. This shows the difference in driving preferences and habits between regions of the world.

2. Control system

The control system consists of main components such as engine control unit (ECU), sensors, actuators and connection network. The main functions are to control the engine, brakes, steering, suspension, lighting, air conditioning, safety system.

Car control system
Car control system

Control system structure

The car control system consists of several main parts:

  • Engine control unit (ECU): The “brain” of the system, responsible for controlling engine operation, ensuring the engine operates efficiently and saves fuel.
  • Sensors: Collect information from various parts of the vehicle such as engine speed, engine temperature, intake air pressure, etc., providing data to the ECU for processing and making control decisions.
  • Actuator: Receives control signals from the ECU and acts on other parts of the vehicle such as fuel injectors, throttle valves, ABS brakes, etc. to perform specific actions.
  • Network connection: Helps connect different parts in the control system, transmitting information and control signals quickly and accurately.

Main functions

The car control system performs many important functions, including:

  • Engine control: Adjusts the amount of fuel and air entering the engine, controls ignition timing, ensuring the engine operates powerfully, smoothly and saves fuel.
  • Brake system: Controls braking force on each wheel, ensuring safe, effective braking and anti-lock braking during sudden braking.
  • Steering system: Controls the direction of the vehicle according to the driver's wishes.
  • Suspension system: Minimizes vehicle vibration when traveling on uneven roads, ensuring smoothness and comfort for the driver and passengers.
  • Lighting system: Controls headlights, low beams, fog lights, etc. to ensure driver visibility in all weather conditions.
  • Air conditioning system: Regulates temperature and humidity in the vehicle, creating a comfortable environment for the driver and passengers.
  • Safety system: Activates airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), etc. when necessary to protect the driver and passengers in the event of a collision.

Benefits of control systems

Automotive control systems offer many benefits to users, including:

  • Improve operating performance: Helps the vehicle operate powerfully, smoothly and save fuel.
  • Enhanced safety: Helps drivers control the vehicle more easily, reducing the risk of accidents.
  • Provide a comfortable driving experience: Create a comfortable and convenient driving environment for the driver and passengers.
  • Reduce emissions: Helps engines burn fuel more efficiently, reducing emissions into the environment.

3. Suspension system

The car suspension system consists of main components such as shock absorbers, springs, stabilizer bars, knuckle assemblies and joints. There are two common types: dependent and independent suspension systems.

The car suspension system acts as a “shock absorber”, connecting the wheels to the chassis, helping to minimize vibration, providing smoothness and comfort for the driver and passengers.

Car suspension system
Car suspension system

Suspension system structure

The suspension system on a car includes the following main parts:

  • Shock absorber: The most important part of the suspension system, it has the effect of absorbing vibration energy due to rough road surfaces or other external forces, helping to minimize vibration transmitted to the chassis. There are many different types of shock absorbers such as hydraulic shock absorbers, pneumatic shock absorbers, torsion bar shock absorbers, etc.
  • Springs: Help absorb shock and return the wheel to its original position after being compressed or stretched. Springs can be made of steel, rubber or compressed air.
  • Stabilizer bar: Helps limit the vehicle's sideways sway when cornering or moving on uneven roads, ensuring vehicle stability.
  • Knuckle and knuckle assemblies: Help connect suspension components to each other and to the vehicle frame, and allow the wheels to move flexibly.

Common types of suspension systems

There are two common types of suspension systems on cars today:

  • Dependent Suspension: The wheels are connected to each other by a connecting rod, so when one wheel encounters an obstacle, the other wheels will also be affected. Dependent suspension is often used for trucks and SUVs.
  • Independent Suspension: Each wheel is connected to the chassis by a separate system, so when one wheel encounters an obstacle, the other wheels will not be affected. Independent suspension helps to provide a smoother and more comfortable ride for the driver and passengers, while improving the vehicle's handling.

Main function

A car's suspension system performs many important functions, including:

  • Vibration Reduction: Absorbs vibration energy caused by rough road surfaces or other external forces, providing smoothness and comfort for the driver and passengers.
  • Increased traction: Keeps the wheels in constant contact with the road surface, especially when driving on uneven roads, helping the vehicle operate stably and safely.
  • Improved handling: Helps the driver control the vehicle more easily, especially when cornering or traveling at high speeds.
    Protect other vehicle parts: Minimize the impact of vibration on other vehicle parts such as engine, gearbox, steering system, etc.

4. Car rims and tires

Rims and tires are two important parts of a car, playing an essential role in ensuring safe, smooth and efficient operation. Choosing and using the right type of rims and tires to suit your needs and conditions of use will help you optimize your car's performance and have the best driving experience.

Gold and car tires
Gold and car tires

Rim

The rim is a circular metal part that is mounted on the wheel axle, with the task of supporting the force and connecting the tire to the vehicle's suspension system. Rims are made from many different materials such as steel, aluminum, alloy, ... with many different designs and sizes.

Tire

Tires are rubber parts mounted on the rim of a vehicle, which are responsible for direct contact with the road surface, supporting force and transmitting power to the vehicle. Tires come in many different types, distinguished based on size, structure, pattern and application.

The importance of rims and tires

Rims and tires play an important role in ensuring the safety of the driver and passengers. Tires with good grip will help the car brake safely, corner easily and reduce the risk of accidents. Rims with good strength will help the car operate stably, especially when moving on rough roads or at high speeds.

This is the part that affects the vehicle's performance such as speed, acceleration, fuel consumption, etc. Choosing the right rims and tires will help the vehicle run smoothly, quietly and save fuel.

Not only that, rims and tires also contribute to the exterior beauty of the car. Choosing the right style and color will help your car become more unique and attractive.

Car Body Frame

The car body is the most basic and important structure of the car, acting as a "skeleton" to support the entire car and protect passengers. The frame system includes main parts such as the car frame, body, car doors, hood, trunk lid, roof and car floor. The main materials include steel, aluminum alloy, plastic and composite.

Car body
Car body

1. Function

The car body has four main functions: structural support, passenger protection, performance optimization, and soundproofing and heat insulation for the car. Specifically:

  • Structural Support: The chassis provides the basic foundation for all other vehicle components and systems, from the engine, to the suspension, to the electrical system.
  • Passenger protection: In the event of a collision, the body shell is designed to absorb and disperse energy, minimizing direct impact on passengers.
  • Optimizing performance: The chassis affects the overall weight of the vehicle, stiffness and dynamics, all of which affect performance and fuel consumption.
  • Soundproofing and insulation: The shell helps isolate noise from the outside and maintain a stable temperature inside the passenger compartment.

2. Structure and materials used

The structure and materials used in the car body play an important role in the safety, performance and aesthetics of the car. Choosing the right material for each part helps to optimize the weight, durability and cost of the car.

Car body structure

The car frame plays an important role, being the main load-bearing skeleton for the entire car, protecting the driver and passengers inside. The structure of the car frame includes the following main parts:

  • Chassis: The main load-bearing part, made of high-strength steel or aluminum alloy, with a mesh or box-shaped structure. The chassis is responsible for connecting other parts of the vehicle, bearing impact loads and ensuring safety when the vehicle is in motion.
  • Body: Made of steel, aluminum, plastic or composite materials, it covers the chassis, gives shape to the vehicle and protects internal components from environmental impacts.
  • Car door: Made of steel, aluminum or plastic, used to open and close to get in and out of the car, can integrate window glass, door locks, door handles, etc.
  • Hood and trunk lid: Made of steel, aluminum or plastic, to protect the engine and luggage compartment, can integrate hinges, locks, handles, etc.
  • Roof: Made of steel, aluminum or plastic, serves to protect the driver and passenger compartment, can integrate sunroof, antenna, etc.
  • Car floor: Made of steel or plastic, has the effect of bearing force and creating a flat surface for the driver's compartment and luggage compartment.

Materials used

Materials used for car frames are increasingly diverse and advanced, to meet the requirements of durability, safety, weight and aesthetics. The main materials used include: steel, aluminum alloy, plastic, composite, ...

In addition, some new materials such as high-strength steel, carbon fiber, bioplastic, etc. are also being researched and applied in the production of car frames to improve efficiency and environmental friendliness.

Refer to the comparison table of car body materials:

Material Advantages Disadvantages
Carbon steel
  • Good durability and load-bearing capacity
  • Low cost
  • Easy to process and repair
  • Heavy
  • Prone to corrosion if not properly protected
Alloy steel
  • Higher hardness and impact resistance than carbon steel
  • Good corrosion resistance
  • Higher cost than carbon steel
  • Heavy
Aluminum
  • Light
  • Good corrosion resistance
  • Good heat dissipation
  • Higher cost
  • Lower strength than steel in some applications
Carbon fiber and composite materials
  • Very light
  • High hardness
  • Optimal performance
  • High production and repair costs
  • Difficult to machine compared to steel and aluminum
Plastics and polymers
  • Light
  • Good corrosion resistance
  • Low cost
  • Lower strength and durability compared to metal materials
  • Vulnerable to impact

Electricity - Automotive Electronics

The electrical and electronic systems include the lighting system, comfort equipment and intelligent systems. This system acts as the nervous system of the car, controlling and monitoring all important functions.

From starting the engine to controlling the braking system, from air conditioning to infotainment systems, automotive electronics have become indispensable in the safe and efficient operation of vehicles.

Electrical and electronic systems on cars
Electrical and electronic systems in cars

1. Lighting system

Car lighting system includes:

  • Headlights: Provide light when traveling at night or in low light conditions. Headlights include the following types:
  • Halogen Lamps: Popular, cheap, but short lifespan and low efficiency.
  • Xenon Lamps (HID – High Intensity Discharge): Brighter, white or blue color, longer life, but higher cost.
  • LED lights: Energy saving, long life, quick start, and color adjustable.
  • Laser Lights: Provide longer, brighter vision, but are very expensive.
  • Daytime Running Lights (DRL): Increase vehicle visibility during daytime driving.
  • Fog lights: Support visibility when moving in foggy or heavy rain conditions.
  • Turn signals and brake lights: Signal other road users about the vehicle's direction of travel.
  • Tail lights: Provide light for vehicles behind when traveling at night.
  • Interior lighting: Illuminates the cockpit and passenger compartment.

2. Amenities

Modern car amenities aim to provide a more comfortable and safer experience for users, turning the car into a mobile living space. The main systems include: entertainment, air conditioning, heating, seating, lighting, safety and other amenities.

Entertainment system

The entertainment system is a set of devices that help users entertain themselves in the car, including listening to music, watching movies, and connecting mobile devices. The entertainment system includes components such as a touch screen, sound system, Bluetooth, and USB ports.

  • Touch screen: The touch screen is the control center of the car's entertainment system, allowing users to easily operate and use functions such as listening to music, watching movies, listening to the radio, connecting to smartphones, GPS navigation, etc.
  • Sound system: The speaker system is arranged throughout the car cabin to help bring a vivid and realistic sound experience.
  • Bluetooth connection: Allows connecting smartphones to the car to listen to music, talk hands-free, use maps, etc.
  • USB port: Allows connection of data storage devices such as USB, external hard drive to listen to music, watch movies, etc.
Car entertainment system
Car entertainment system

Air conditioning system

The air conditioning system is a system that controls the climate inside the car, creating a comfortable environment. Its main functions are to regulate the temperature, humidity, and filter the air in the car.

  • Helps regulate temperature and humidity in the car, creating a comfortable environment for the driver and passengers.
  • Some modern air conditioning systems also have the functions of air filtration, deodorization, ion generation, etc.
  • Air conditioning systems are often equipped with vents that direct the air to each position in the vehicle.
Car air conditioning system
Car air conditioning system

Heating system

The heating system is a system that provides warm temperature to the vehicle in cold weather conditions.

  • Helps increase the temperature inside the car in cold weather conditions.
  • Heating systems are often equipped for seats, steering wheels, windshields, etc.
  • The heater makes starting the car easier and provides warmth for the driver and passengers on cold winter days.

Seat

Car seats are designed to provide comfort and support for the driver and passengers. Some high-end seats are equipped with electric adjustment, ventilation, massage, etc.

Most seats today are often covered with high-quality leather or felt, giving a luxurious and soft feeling.

Lighting systems

The lighting system on a car includes headlights, low beams, fog lights, turn signals, brake lights, taillights, etc. This system helps the driver see better in low light conditions and ensures safety when traveling.

Some modern lighting systems use LED technology, which saves energy and has higher brightness.

Security system

Car safety systems include ABS brakes, airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), etc. to help protect drivers and passengers from danger in the event of an accident.

Auto manufacturers are increasingly focusing on equipping cars with advanced safety systems, helping to reduce traffic accidents.

Other amenities

In addition to the amenities listed above, there are many other amenities equipped on cars depending on the car model and manufacturer such as:

  • Electric windows: Makes opening/closing windows easier.
  • Electric rearview mirror: Helps adjust the mirror position easily without having to get out of the car.
  • Smart Key: Start the car and unlock the car doors without using a physical key.
  • Sunroof: Helps create ventilation and coolness for the car cabin.
  • Curtains: Help block the sun and protect privacy for people sitting in the car.

These amenities contribute to enhancing the driving experience, providing comfort, convenience and safety for the user.

3. Smart system

Today’s cars are equipped with many advanced sensor systems and technologies such as ABS sensors, oxygen sensors, blind spot sensors, tire pressure sensors, and collision sensors. In addition, autonomous vehicles and driver assistance technologies such as blind spot warning, automatic braking, lane keeping, parking assistance, and adaptive cruise control are becoming increasingly popular, promising a safer and more efficient future of transportation.

Smart car system
Smart car system

Sensor system

Cars are equipped with many sensor systems such as ABS, O2, blind spot, tire pressure and collision sensors. Specifically:

  • ABS sensor (Anti-lock Braking System): Prevents the wheels from locking during sudden braking, helping the driver maintain control of the vehicle and reduce the risk of collision.
  • O2 sensor (Oxygen sensor): Monitors the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gas, helping the engine control system adjust the optimal fuel and air ratio, increasing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions.
  • Blind spot sensor: Detects vehicles in the vehicle's "blind spot" area, warns the driver with a warning light or audible signal, reducing the risk of collision when changing lanes or turning.
  • Tire Pressure Sensor (TPMS): Monitors tire pressure, alerts the driver when pressure drops to dangerous levels, helping to ensure safe operation and save fuel.
  • Collision sensor (Airbag sensor): Detects a strong collision and activates the airbag, protecting the driver and passengers from injury.

Self-driving cars and driver assistance technology

Self-driving cars and driver assistance technology promise a safer, more efficient and smarter transportation future.

Self-driving cars:

  • Autonomous vehicles are vehicles designed to operate without human intervention.
  • Self-driving cars are classified into five levels of autonomy, from 5 to 0, with level 5 being fully autonomous.
  • Self-driving cars use advanced sensors, radar, lidar, cameras and software to perceive their surroundings and make driving decisions.
  • Advantages: Reduce traffic accidents, increase traffic efficiency, reduce emissions.
  • Challenges: Cybersecurity, legal, ethical and social acceptance issues.

Driving assistance technology:

Assists the driver in specific situations, improving safety and convenience while driving.

Some common driver assistance systems include:

  • Blind spot warning system.
  • Automatic braking system.
  • Lane keeping system.
  • Parking assist system.
  • Adaptive cruise control system.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Anatomy

1. How does a car's starting system work?

Starting system consists of a battery (12V lead-acid battery), a starter (DC motor), and a solenoid. When the key is turned on, current from the battery activates the solenoid, closing the circuit to the starter. The starter rotates the engine crankshaft, starting the fuel combustion process. After the engine starts, the starter automatically shuts off.

2. How are automatic transmissions and manual transmissions different?

Automatic transmissions automatically change gears based on engine speed and load, while manual transmissions require the driver to manually change gears.

To distinguish between types Car gearbox, see more articles Distinguishing 4 types of car gearboxes currently on the market.

3. What is the role of the engine cooling system and what parts does it include?

Cooling system keeps the engine running at the optimum temperature. It consists of the radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, and pipes. Coolant circulates through the engine, absorbing heat and cooling in the radiator. The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant to maintain a constant temperature.

4. What is the function of the engine lubrication system?

Lubrication systems reduces friction between moving parts in the engine, helping to reduce wear and dissipate heat. It includes the oil pump, oil filter, and oil lines. Oil is pumped to the friction surfaces for lubrication and cooling.

5. How does the ABS braking system work?

ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking. It uses wheel speed sensors to detect when a wheel is about to lock up. When this happens, the ABS control unit quickly applies brake pressure to that wheel, helping the driver maintain control of the vehicle.

To learn more about the brake system, see the article https://thanhphongauto.com/he-thong-branh/.

6. What should be noted to keep the car running well?

To keep your car running well, you should:

  • Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance of air conditioning systems is required to ensure efficient operation and prevent damage. See more Timeline for periodic car maintenance recommended by many major car manufacturers.
  • Regular cleaning: Clean parts such as the radiator, condenser, and evaporator to help the system operate more efficiently. To properly clean your car at home, see the article 4 Steps Car care at home garage standard.
  • Proper use: Do not overuse the air conditioning system, this may affect the health and durability of the system.

7. Which address provides reputable and quality car maintenance in HCM?

As a unit with more than 10 years of experience in the industry of repairing - maintaining - buying and selling new/used cars, Thanh Phong Auto Proud to be trusted and chosen by many customers in the HCM area.

Outstanding services at Thanh Phong Auto:

  • Regular maintenance: Perform all maintenance items as recommended by the manufacturer to help the vehicle operate stably and prolong its life.
  • In-depth repair: Fix all problems from simple to complex on all car lines, from popular to high-end such as Lexus, Acura, BMW, Mercedes,...
  • Car care: Providing interior and exterior car care services, helping to keep your car clean, beautiful and durable.
  • Buying and selling new/used cars: Consulting and providing quality car models at competitive prices.
  • Fast auto insurance processing: Support customers to process insurance procedures quickly and conveniently.

Thanh Phong Auto is fully equipped with standard and specialized equipment, meeting all repair and maintenance requirements for all types of cars. For any questions, contact us immediately for support!

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