When we talk about cars, the focus is often on cool looks, powerful power or smart cockpits. However, a car can run safely, efficiently and comfortably, which is inseparable from the coordinated work of countless precision parts in its body - these parts are what we call "auto parts". They are the "organs" and "blood" of the car, unknown but vital.

1. More than just replacements: the core value of auto parts

Auto parts are not just replacements that are needed when parts are damaged. Their core value is reflected in many aspects:

Maintaining performance and efficiency: The engine needs an oil filter to purify the oil, an air filter to deliver clean air; a spark plug to ignite the mixture; and a transmission oil to ensure smooth shifting... The new and old status of these accessories directly affects power output, fuel economy and driving smoothness.

Ensure driving safety: Brake pads, brake discs, and brake fluid are the core of the braking system, and their status is related to life and death; tires are the only parts of the vehicle that touch the ground, and their wear and tear and air pressure directly affect grip and handling stability; wipers ensure good sight in rainy and snowy weather; the lighting system ensures visibility at night and in bad weather.

Improve comfort experience: The air conditioning filter purifies the air in the car; the shock absorber absorbs road bumps; high-quality audio and seat accessories can significantly improve the driving experience.

Extend vehicle life: Regularly replacing timing belts/chains, various filter elements, oils, etc. that meet standards can effectively reduce the wear of core components such as the engine, avoid major repairs caused by small parts failure, and thus greatly extend the service life of the vehicle.

2. A dazzling array of "families": common auto parts categories

There are extremely many types of auto parts, which can be roughly divided into the following categories according to function and location:

Engine system accessories:

Key components: Pistons, crankshafts, camshafts, cylinder blocks, cylinder heads, valves, etc. (mostly repair parts).

Vulnerable/maintenance parts: spark plugs, ignition coils, various filters (air, oil, fuel, air conditioning), timing belts/chains and sets, water pumps, thermostats, engine oil, antifreeze, etc.

Chassis system accessories:

Transmission system: clutch plate/pressure plate, transmission oil, drive shaft, half shaft, etc.

Travel system: tires, wheels, shock absorbers, springs, various swing arms, tie rods, ball heads, bearings.

Steering system: steering gear, steering power pump/motor, steering tie rod, ball head.

Braking system: brake pads, brake discs/drums, brake oil pipes, brake master cylinder/slave cylinder, ABS sensor.

Electrical system accessories:

Power supply and starting: battery, generator, starter.

Lighting and signal: headlight assembly/bulb, taillight, turn signal, fog light, relay, fuse.

Comfort and entertainment: air conditioning compressor, condenser, evaporator, audio host, speakers, various sensors (water temperature, oxygen sensor, etc.), ECU (on-board computer).

Body and interior accessories:

External: bumper, door, hood, fender, rearview mirror, glass, wiper blade/arm, car logo.

Internal: seat (assembly or kit), steering wheel, instrument panel, various switches, interior panels, carpet, seat belt.

Maintenance consumables: engine oil, transmission oil, brake oil, power steering oil, antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, various greases.

3. Knowing the pearls: How to choose and maintain auto parts

Faced with many brands and varying quality accessories on the market, how to choose and maintain them is crucial:

Channel formality is king: Don't be greedy for cheapness! Be sure to buy through brand authorized dealers, reputable large auto parts chain stores or regular 4S stores. Poor quality, counterfeit accessories (commonly known as "aftermarket parts" or counterfeit "original parts") are a major hidden danger to driving safety (such as extended braking distance for inferior brake pads, and 50% or even lower filtration efficiency for inferior filter elements).

Compatibility is the key:

Original parts (OEM): Produced by the automobile manufacturer or its designated supplier, with the most guaranteed quality, matching and performance, but the price is usually higher.

Original parts (OES): Produced by the original vehicle supporting supplier, the quality is equivalent to the original parts, usually with the supplier's own brand (such as Bosch, Denso, Valeo, etc.), and the cost performance may be higher.

Branded parts/high-quality replacement parts: Accessories produced by well-known brands (such as MANN filters, Brembo brakes, Michelin tires, etc.) that meet or exceed the original factory standards are a good choice. Make sure the model matches your model exactly! You can query by vehicle VIN code or accurately tell the year, model, displacement, configuration.

Regular maintenance is essential:

Follow the manual: Strictly follow the maintenance cycle and items specified in the "Owner's Manual" to replace accessories (such as oil filter usually 5000-10000 kilometers, air/air conditioning filter 10,000-20,000 kilometers, brake fluid 2 years or 40,000-60,000 kilometers, etc.).

Professional installation: Accessories involving safety (such as brakes, tires, suspension) or precision (such as timing system) must be installed by professional technicians using the correct tools. Incorrect installation may cause serious failures.

Daily inspection: Develop the habit of regularly checking tire pressure and wear, whether the lights are normal, and fluid levels (engine oil, brake fluid, antifreeze, windshield washer fluid). Pay attention to abnormal sounds, odors or dashboard warning lights.

Record maintenance history: Detailed records of the brand, model, mileage and time of each replacement of accessories will help track the status of the vehicle and increase its value when it is sold.

Conclusion

Although automotive accessories are small, they carry the heavy responsibility of driving safety, performance and driving comfort. They are not cold metal or plastic, but the "guardians" who ensure that every journey is safe and smooth. Understanding their importance and mastering the way to purchase and maintain them is a responsibility for your car, and a commitment to the safety of yourself and others. Remember: "spending carefully" on auto parts may sometimes be unbearable. Choose genuine parts for your car, take care of it regularly, so that it will always be full of vitality and accompany you to every destination safely.