Actuators receive signals from the powertrain control module and carry out adjustments needed based on the data the PCM received from the sensors.

The crankshaft converts the reciprocating motion of the piston into the rotational motion that's used to power the vehicle and its components.

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.

Spark plugs receive current from the distributor and use it to spark combustion in the combustion chamber of a cylinder.

A water jacket is a coolant-filled casing that allows heat transfer from the engine block and cylinder heads to the liquid coolant.