FCP Blog What's Under The Hood? A Beginner's Look Into A Car's Engine Bay

Well over a century since the Benz Patent-Motorwagen sparked the automotive revolution, the automobile has become the largest source of transport in the United States. The affordable car is mostly unique to the US, but a low price doesn't guarantee reliability. Tight budgets or a lack of caring means maintenance is a second thought for most owners, and that can leave hidden issues waiting to jump out right after a second-hand purchase. Checking the engine bay is a great way to understand how the car's been maintained, but that'll be tough if you don't know what to look for. We don't blame you if you don't; many systems can look the same yet wildly different without a basic understanding of what's going on. In reality, though, the basics are just that, and a little reading can go a long way to saving you money and heartache. Here are the basics of what's under your hood.