Preignition results from the buildup of fuel deposits and/or oil in the combustion chamber. These deposits increase chamber pressure and reduce heat tranfer to the coolant. The trapped heat then raises the temperature of the air-fuel mix to the point that it combusts before ignition.

The stroke cycle order is intake stroke, compression stroke, power stroke, exhaust stroke.

Cylinders act as a guide for the pistons that translate the heat energy of combustion into the mechanical energy necessary to move a vehicle. Piston rings seal the piston to the cylinder to contain combustion gases and also regulate the oil distribution between the piston and cylinder wall. A cylinder head closes in the top of the cylinder forming the combustion chamber which is sealed by a head gasket (head). The head provides space for air and fuel intake valves, exhaust valves, and mounts for spark plugs and fuel injectors.

A reciprocating engine is an engine whose crankshaft is turned by pistons moving up and down in a cylinder.

Sensors provide the data necessary for the vehicle's computer to make decisions and monitor everything from simple vehicle information like tire pressure to complexities like the chemical content of an engine's exhaust.