An automotive battery produces direct current for use by automotive systems.

Constant velocity (CV) joints are located at both ends of a half shaft and their purpose is to transfer the torque from the transmission to the drive wheels at a constant speed while accomodating the up and down movement of the suspension. The inner CV joint connects the shaft to the transmission and the outer CV joint connects the shaft to the wheel.

The stroke cycle of an engine is governed by the crankshaft which serves to regulate the firing order of the cylinders. All cylinders are not on the same stroke at the same time and correct firing order is important to balance engine operation and minimize vibrations. A common firing order for four-cylinder engines is 1-3-4-2 which indicates that cylinders 1 and 3 fire (power stroke)together and cylinders 4 and 2 fire together.

In engine lubrication, oil remains in the oil pan until the engine is turned on. It then gets sucked up the pickup tube by the oil pump and pressurized. This pressure is moderated by the pressure relief valve and the oil is fed through the oil filter into the engine to lubricate it.

An overcooled engine is less efficient. During the power stroke, combustion heat pushes down the piston. If too much of this heat is lost to the cooling system, the fuel might not combust completely and contaminate the engine's lubricating oil diminishing its lubricating ability. Incomplete combustion of fuel also negatively affects the engine's fuel efficiency and power output.