The machinery inside the bonnet of your car and their working can be quite bewildering if you are a new learner or if you have very less or zero knowledge about such things. However, if you are stranded in the middle of nowhere at an unfavorable time with a broken down car, knowing a few important things about the working of your car can be quite helpful. According to an instructor at a leading driving school in Essex County, NJ , a basic understanding of what’s under the bonnet can prove to be invaluable when a person faces any inconvenient situation while driving.





Basics of the Working of an Engine





We all know what the engine of the car does- it converts fuel into power/energy through small, regulated explosions generated by the spark plugs (the process is known as internal combustion). Car manufacturers now include lights on the dashboard that indicate any engine issue. With more driving experience, the sound of the engine will also help you identify engine issues.













During motion, the car engine requires cooling- the brightly colored engine coolant in the transparent container should thus be checked from time to time so that the engine’s temperature does not rise and cause melting and seizing of the metal mechanics of the heart of your car.





The brake fluid and power steering fluids too need to be checked from time to time, though not as frequently as the engine coolant. It is advisable to know where the canisters are positioned within the car. The brake fluid canister is on the driver’s side of the car.





You need to be careful when opening the brake fluid canister as incorrect opening can cause dirt to enter the cylinder, and eventually causing a brake failure. Moreover, if the cylinder is left open for more than 15 minutes, the fluid gets ruined due to exposure to moisture.





When turning the steering wheel becomes harder than normal, you might want to check the level of the power steering fluid as it might need a top up.





To check the engine oil levels, pull out the dipstick, clean it with a piece of cloth, put it back into the oil pipe and remove again.



