Beyond the Engine: The Car Parts You Didn’t Know You Needed
Most motor vehicle owners know what type of fuel to put in their tanks, what basic car parts need to be replaced and what lubricants need to be checked or changed when their car undergoes a service. But when their motor mechanic advises that other bits and pieces surrounding the engine or mounted to the body or chassis need replacing, they may feel confused and do not know where to turn for further advice.
At A.S.A.P. Spares, we know that your vehicle is a complex machine made up of thousands of different car parts that all need to function perfectly for it to be maintained in a road-worthy condition. We also understand that your mechanic may advise that certain parts need to be replaced at intermittent intervals to prevent mechanical, structural, or handling failures.
For these reasons and more, this article goes beyond sparkplugs and engine oil and discusses a few of the car parts that rarely need replacing but are car ‘accessories’ that you may not have known you need. They do not have to be changed often but it is advised once they begin to show wear and tear.
Car Parts, Auto Spares and Accessories That You Didn’t Know You Needed
- Shocks and Suspension System
This system is responsible for keeping your car’s tyres in contact with the road, even when driving on uneven surfaces. It aids in absorbing bumps and vibrations, making for a softer, smoother drive. It is made up of several components which include shock absorbers, struts, coil springs, control arms and ball joints. If these show wear, the handling of your car could be compromised and could cause a collision if left unattended.
- Radiator and Cooling System
Engines get very hot quickly and this system is in place to prevent them from overheating. This is achieved by circulating water mixed with coolant fluid throughout the engine, which absorbs the heat and dissipates it into the surrounding air. The auto parts that keep this system working include the cylinder head and gasket, radiator parts, water pump, thermostat and a sequence of pipes and hoses. These components must be kept in working order to maintain the engine’s optimum operating temperature. Failing to do so may cause severe damage to the engine.
- Exhaust System
The exhaust system removes exhaust gases from the cylinders of the engine and silences the noise created by the internal combustion process. There are a series of pipes, and silencers (or mufflers) that assist it to accomplish this. It is important for both the performance of and emissions from your car. In later models, a catalytic converter is attached to this system to assist with this process.
- Electrical System
This system powers all of the electrical accessories in your car, such as the headlights, taillights, radio, navigation system, power windows and more. The battery, alternator and starter motor operate through a sequence of belts, pullies and tensioners and are connected with these accessories by a spiderweb of wiring called a loom.
A.S.A.P. Spares – Your First-stop Auto Parts Shop
Since 2001, we at A.S.A.P. Spares have had one goal – to build loyalty and trust by supplying our customers with only superior quality, brand-accredited new, aftermarket and used OEM car parts and auto spares. We have achieved this goal by being selective in our procurement process. We purchase only the best stock from reputable suppliers, recognised auction houses and selected private sellers.
We specialise in Chevrolet, Citroën, Opel, Peugeot, Renault and Suzuki to promote quality in quantity. Our expert advice, qualified opinions and excellent service have built a community of new and recurring satisfied customers through the years. So, if you need car parts or accessories, pop in at our neat, organised yard in Pretoria West and browse around, or simply ask for assistance online. A.S.A.P. Spares – where friendly faces, professional assistance and quality spares meet.