What does the transmission do?

The transmission is composed of a set of gears that are located at the end of the crankcase.

Its function is to transfer the power generated by the engine to the drive train. The latter is what gets the power into the axles and moves the car. So really it is handy to consider the transmission and drive train as having the same purpose—to move the car. The drive train actually consists of the drive shaft which joins the universal joint and differential gears. The latter angles the power at a right angle to turn the axle shafts. This moves the car. The differential also allows one wheel to turn faster than the other when the car negotiates curves or when one wheel loses traction.

One thing the transmission accomplishes as well is to change combinations of gears to suit driving conditions. For instance, it provides high power to start up and climb hills. It also enables the car to go at high speeds while economising fuel as well as to go in reverse. Drivers with manual transmissions change gears using the clutch pedal and shift levers, while those who drive automatics do not need either one as the transmission shifts itself while going forward. By now I think you can appreciate why it’s a good idea to regularly maintain your car according to your car handbook’s recommendations. The transmission is a critical part and needs proper attention.

Emergency matters

What happens if the lights go out, you lose your steering, or the gas pedal sticks?

Let’s start with the headlights. If you suddenly lose your illumination at night, immediately turn on the hazard lights. This gives limited visibility. Simultaneously, slowly brake the car to nearly stopping and pull off the road and stop. Avoid jamming the brakes. Unless you are on a hairpin turn, you usually will have enough space and time to brake to a stop. If the steering suddenly goes, gently apply the brakes. If you jam on the brakes, it may cause the car to swerve. Turn on the hazard lights and keep blowing the horn to alert other motorists. Get off the road as quickly as possible. You may be able to kick the front tires to an angle that will move the car onto the shoulder.

If the gas pedal sticks, shift into neutral gear and brake to a stop on the shoulder. Then shut off the engine. Now you can attempt to pull up the pedal with your foot or hand. When the pedal sticks, it can be caused by a broken spring or a blockage of the throttle linkage. Sometimes even a floor mat can jam the petal. If the problem isn’t obvious, phone a tow truck. Don’t drive the car, because the problem can repeat itself endangering both you and others.

What are the seven components of a car?

To most of us, a car is just a body with an engine in it, but mechanics look at seven different components to make up a car. The engine is first. It powers the car through the transmission and drive train. It also produces electrical power and runs the cooling system, air conditioner, heater, etc. But the engine needs fuel and the fuel system supplies and pumps the petrol through tubes or lines to the carburetor which measures out the fuel to the engine. At the same time, the fuel needs igniting, so the electrical system transmits electricity through wiring to ignite the fuel and run the car lights, radio and other electrical components.

Meanwhile, the car needs brakes and tires to roll on. The tires are mounted on wheels. The wheels, in turn, are controlled by the brakes, the engine, and the transmission.Then everything needs cooling, so the radiator and its coolant contain the freakish heat generated by burning fuel. While the engine can run on its own, its power needs to be transmitted to the drive train which turns the wheels. This is the job of the transmission.

Finally, the gases produced in the car need to be conducted. This is the job of the exhaust system with its muffler to stifle the noise.

CV Joints

Most new cars are front wheel drive. These types of vehicles all have CV joints, otherwise known as Constant Velocity Joints. Their function is to transfer the engine torque to the front wheel. Torque, if you’re wondering, is that which produces or tends to produce torsion or rotation.

The CV joint is greased inside and sealed by a rubber boot. This boot can break open. If this occurs, the grease will come out and dirt and water will come in. You don’t want this to happen, because the whole axle unit will become inoperative in a short period of time. So if the boot becomes broken, it should be replaced as soon as possible. Otherwise, you will end up having to replace the whole axle shaft which can be considerably more expensive.

If you hear an irregular noise or feel a new vibration, shimmer, or note a leak or warning light on your dashboard while driving, have your car inspected as soon as you can. It could be unsafe to drive and with auto maintenance, having an inspection will not only save you money by preventing larger problems from occurring, but it can also save lives. Regular car inspections where your major components such as brakes, suspension, etc, are checked are the best way to guard against such problems occurring.

Pay attention to your oil light

The oil light on your instrument panel is there for a good reason. Oil is what lubricates your engine. If the oil and oil pressure drop, the engine could seize up. This is short for melting together! Because your instrument panel has an oil warning light, you should never allow this to occur. If the oil light comes on, pull off the road immediately and turn off the engine.

The next step is to look at the dipstick to see if you have oil. Avoid adding oil without first checking the dipstick. If the dipstick indicates a low oil level, add a little at a time and continually check the dipstick. Adding oil is easy, but getting it out if it is over-filled is difficult. If the oil light indicator goes out after you add oil, you can then drive safely. However, because the oil light only comes on when you’re two or more litres low, there’s a good chance you have an oil leak. So it’s wise to consult a motor mechanic to see why the engine was so low on oil.

If the oil light is still on after adding the oil, it means you need to call a tow truck. The problem could be a broken oil pump. There’s always a chance it could be a broken light or gauge, but the risk of a meltdown is too expensive not to be sure.