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Quizzes > Science

Engine Parts Quiz: Identify Every Component

Quick, free car engine quiz with instant results and helpful feedback.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Matios SomoUpdated Aug 25, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Papercraft style engine parts illustration with gears pistons valves on golden yellow background

This quiz helps you identify engine system components fast and check what each part does. If you want more practice, try our parts of an engine quiz for a tougher mix, or focus on fluids with the engine oil system quiz. For road safety know-how beyond the hood, test yourself with the car warning lights quiz.

Which component converts linear motion of the piston into rotational motion in an engine?
Camshaft
Connecting Rod
Crankshaft
Flywheel
The crankshaft transforms the reciprocating motion of the pistons into rotational motion that drives the vehicle's drivetrain. It is connected to the pistons via connecting rods and rotates within the engine block's main bearings. This conversion is essential for delivering torque to the wheels. For more details, see .
What is the primary function of a spark plug?
Filter engine oil
Ignite the air-fuel mixture
Regulate fuel pressure
Measure coolant temperature
A spark plug produces a high-voltage spark that ignites the compressed air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. Proper ignition timing and spark quality are critical for efficient engine performance. Worn or fouled plugs can lead to misfires and reduced power. Learn more at .
Which component houses the cylinders and supports the crankshaft and camshaft?
Engine block
Cylinder head
Oil pan
Intake manifold
The engine block is the main structure of an engine, containing the cylinders, coolant passages, and crankshaft bearings. Cylinder heads mount on top of the block to seal the combustion chambers. This casting supports major rotating assemblies. Details can be found at .
Which part seals the combustion chamber between the cylinder head and engine block?
Head gasket
Valve cover gasket
Exhaust manifold gasket
Oil pan gasket
The head gasket provides a seal between the engine block and cylinder head, preventing leaks of combustion gases, coolant, and oil. A failed head gasket can cause loss of compression and mixing of fluids. Proper torque and material selection are critical. See for more information.
Which component circulates engine oil to lubricate bearings and moving parts?
Oil cooler
Oil pump
Oil filter
Oil pan
The oil pump draws oil from the sump and pressurizes it to lubricate engine bearings, camshafts, and other moving parts. Maintaining adequate oil pressure is essential for preventing wear. Most pumps are gear- or rotor-type. More at .
Which component filters contaminants from engine oil?
Air filter
Coolant filter
Fuel filter
Oil filter
The oil filter removes metal particles, soot, and other debris from circulating engine oil, ensuring cleaner oil contacts critical engine components. A clogged filter can restrict flow and cause oil starvation. Regular replacement is part of routine maintenance. Learn more at .
Which component controls the intake and exhaust valves by converting rotational motion into reciprocating motion?
Connecting rod
Flywheel
Camshaft
Crankshaft
The camshaft has lobes that push on valve lifters or rockers to open and close intake and exhaust valves at precise times. It is driven by the crankshaft via a belt, chain, or gears. Proper cam timing is vital for engine performance. More at .
Which component mixes air and fuel before entering the combustion chamber in carbureted engines?
Carburetor
Intake manifold
Throttle body
Fuel injector
A carburetor uses venturi effects to draw fuel into the airstream, creating an air-fuel mixture for combustion. It was common before electronic fuel injection systems became standard. Precise calibration is key to proper operation. Details at .
Which component removes heat from the engine coolant?
Water pump
Oil cooler
Thermostat
Radiator
The radiator dissipates heat from the hot coolant via airflow through its fins, lowering the coolant temperature before it recirculates. It works in concert with a fan and coolant pump. Efficient heat exchange prevents overheating. Read more at .
Which part regulates engine temperature by controlling coolant flow to the radiator?
Coolant reservoir
Water pump
Thermostat
Radiator cap
The thermostat remains closed when the engine is cold, allowing coolant to bypass the radiator until optimal operating temperature is reached. It then opens to permit coolant flow through the radiator. Correct opening temperature ensures efficient warm-up and cooling. See .
Which component directs exhaust gases away from the engine?
Intake manifold
Exhaust manifold
Catalytic converter
Muffler
The exhaust manifold collects combustion gases from each cylinder and routes them into the exhaust system. It must withstand high temperatures and pressure pulses. A cracked manifold can cause leaks and reduced performance. More at .
Which component distributes high voltage from the ignition coil to the spark plugs?
Distributor
Ignition coil pack
Spark plug wire
Control module
The distributor's rotor spins inside a cap, routing high-voltage current from the ignition coil to each spark plug in firing order. Modern engines often replace distributors with coil packs and electronic control. The distributor also advances timing mechanically. Details at .
Which part connects the engine to the transmission and helps smooth out torsional vibrations?
Torque converter
Clutch disc
Flywheel
Flexplate
The flywheel is bolted to the crankshaft flange, storing rotational energy to smooth engine pulses and providing a friction surface for the clutch. In automatic transmissions, a flexplate serves a similar role. A heavy-duty flywheel can improve idle stability. For more, see .
Which component stores fuel and supplies it to the engine?
Fuel filter
Fuel tank
Fuel pump
Fuel rail
The fuel tank holds gasoline or diesel until it is drawn by the fuel pump and delivered to the engine. It includes internal baffles to minimize sloshing and often houses the pump assembly. Proper venting prevents vacuum formation. Learn more at .
Which component injects fuel into the combustion chamber in modern engines?
Fuel injector
Fuel pressure regulator
Fuel distributor
Carburetor
Fuel injectors are electronically controlled valves that spray fuel directly into the intake port or combustion chamber. They offer precise metering, improving efficiency and emissions. Injectors operate at high pressure for atomization. Details at .
Which part provides the air intake path to the throttle body?
Intake manifold
Turbocharger
Exhaust manifold
Air filter housing
The intake manifold distributes the incoming air (or air-fuel mixture) evenly to each cylinder's intake port. It must be designed to optimize flow and mixture distribution. In forced-induction engines, it may follow the turbo or supercharger. Learn more at .
What component maintains timing between the crankshaft and camshaft?
Drive chain
Timing belt
Serpentine belt
Accessory belt
The timing belt synchronizes rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft(s) to ensure valves open and close at the correct times. Some engines use a timing chain instead, but the function is the same. Failure can lead to valve-piston collisions. More at .
Which sensor measures engine coolant temperature?
Coolant temperature sensor
Ambient temperature sensor
Intake air temperature sensor
Oil temperature sensor
The coolant temperature sensor monitors the engine's operating temperature and sends data to the ECU, affecting fuel injection and ignition timing. It can also control electric fans. A failed sensor may cause overheating or poor performance. Details at .
What is the function of a knock sensor?
Monitor coolant flow
Measure oil pressure
Detect engine knocking
Regulate boost pressure
A knock sensor detects vibrations caused by pre-ignition or detonation in the combustion chamber. The ECU uses this data to retard ignition timing and protect the engine. Properly functioning sensors optimize performance and prevent damage. Learn more at .
Which component recirculates exhaust gases back into the intake to reduce NOx emissions?
PCV valve
Vacuum regulator
EGR valve
Catalytic converter
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve meters a controlled amount of exhaust gases into the intake manifold to lower combustion temperatures and reduce NOx formation. It operates based on engine load and temperature. Malfunction can cause rough idle or increased emissions. More at .
Which part controls the amount of air entering the engine in electronic fuel injection systems?
Throttle body
Mass airflow sensor
Air filter
Intake manifold
The throttle body contains a throttle plate that modulates airflow into the intake manifold based on driver input. Electronic throttle control uses sensors and a motor for precision. Proper operation affects idle quality and responsiveness. Details at .
What is the primary purpose of a catalytic converter?
Reduce engine noise
Increase engine power
Reduce harmful emissions
Improve fuel economy
A catalytic converter uses precious metal catalysts to convert carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and NOx into less harmful CO2, water vapor, and nitrogen. It is a key emissions control device on modern vehicles. A clogged converter reduces performance. See .
Which component reduces intake air temperature after turbocharging?
Charge pipe
Wastegate
Intercooler
Blow-off valve
The intercooler cools compressed intake air, increasing density and reducing detonation risk. It can be air-to-air or air-to-water design. Cooler air improves power and efficiency. More information at .
Which component synchronizes exhaust camshaft timing in many variable valve timing systems?
Timing belt tensioner
Hydraulic lifter
Cam follower
Variable camshaft phaser
A camshaft phaser adjusts the phase angle of the camshaft relative to the crankshaft, optimizing valve timing for various engine speeds and loads. It improves torque, efficiency, and emissions. Phasers are hydraulically actuated by engine oil pressure. More at .
Which component regulates oil pressure within the engine lubrication system?
Oil pan baffle
Oil cooler
Oil pump drive gear
Oil pressure relief valve
The oil pressure relief valve opens when system pressure exceeds its spring setting, diverting excess oil back to the sump. This prevents over-pressurizing seals and bearings. Proper valve operation is critical for consistent lubrication. Details at .
Which sensor measures the mass of air entering the engine?
Manifold absolute pressure sensor (MAP)
Oxygen sensor
Air temperature sensor
Mass airflow sensor (MAF)
The MAF sensor directly measures the mass of intake air, allowing the ECU to calculate precise fuel delivery. It typically uses a heated wire or film sensor. Proper calibration is essential for engine performance. Learn more at .
Which sensor measures the oxygen content in exhaust gases to help control fuel trim?
CO sensor
NOx sensor
Oxygen sensor
Hydrocarbon sensor
The oxygen (O2) sensor in the exhaust stream informs the ECU about the air-fuel ratio, enabling closed-loop fuel and ignition control. Modern wideband sensors provide more precise readings across a broad range. A faulty sensor can cause poor emissions and fuel economy. More at .
Which component directs fresh air into the turbocharger?
Air filter
Throttle body
Intercooler
Wastegate
The air filter cleans incoming air by trapping dust and debris before it enters the turbocharger's compressor housing. Clean intake air protects the turbo's compressor wheel and engine internals. Regular filter maintenance is crucial. Details at .
What component engages with the starter motor to crank the engine?
Flexplate ring
Starter pulley
Flywheel hub
Ring gear
The ring gear is a toothed ring pressed onto the flywheel or flexplate. When the starter motor pinion engages it, the engine is cranked for starting. Damage to teeth can cause starting issues. More at .
Which component removes particulate matter from diesel exhaust?
SCR catalyst
Diesel particulate filter
EGR cooler
Catalytic converter
The diesel particulate filter traps soot and ash from diesel exhaust, periodically regenerating by burning off accumulated particles. It is essential for meeting emissions regulations. Clogged filters can cause backpressure and performance loss. Details at .
Which sensor measures the throttle plate position to aid in fuel management?
Mass airflow sensor
Throttle position sensor
Manifold absolute pressure sensor
Pedal position sensor
The throttle position sensor monitors the angle of the throttle plate, providing data to the ECU for proper fuel metering and idle control. It is critical for drive-by-wire systems. A faulty sensor can cause stalling and poor throttle response. Learn more at .
What is the purpose of a camshaft position sensor?
Monitor camshaft speed for ignition timing
Measure oil pressure
Control EGR flow
Regulate fuel rail pressure
The camshaft position sensor provides the ECU with camshaft angular position and speed, enabling precise timing of fuel injection and ignition. This data is essential for sequential fuel injection. A failing sensor can lead to misfires and reduced performance. More at .
What does the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system do?
Regulates turbo boost
Adjusts oil pressure relief
Vents blow-by gases back to the intake
Controls coolant flow
The PCV system routes combustion blow-by gases from the crankcase back into the intake manifold for burning, reducing emissions and preventing pressure buildup. It also helps maintain engine cleanliness. A clogged PCV valve can cause sludge and crankcase pressure issues. More at .
Which component adjusts fuel pressure in the fuel rail to maintain consistent injection?
Fuel injectors
Fuel filter assembly
Fuel pressure regulator
Fuel pump relay
The fuel pressure regulator maintains a constant pressure difference between the fuel rail and intake manifold by returning excess fuel to the tank. This ensures consistent injector spray patterns. Malfunction can lead to rich or lean conditions. Details at .
What is the function of the oil slinger on a crankshaft?
Measure oil flow
Seal the crankshaft journal
Distribute oil onto cylinder walls
Balance the crankshaft
An oil slinger is a disc or ring attached to the crankshaft that flings oil upward onto the cylinder walls for proper lubrication. It helps ensure even oil distribution. Without it, upper cylinder areas may starve for oil. See .
Which component helps dampen torsional vibrations on the crankshaft?
Harmonic balancer
Vibration isolator
Crankshaft pulley
Flywheel
The harmonic balancer (or damper) is a weighted device attached to the front of the crankshaft that reduces torsional vibration. It protects bearings and timing components from fatigue. A failed balancer can lead to noise and severe engine damage. More at .
What is the purpose of a swirl flap in an intake manifold?
Filter intake air
Improve low-end torque by swirling intake air
Reduce exhaust backpressure
Control EGR flow
Swirl flaps adjust the intake manifold's airflow path to create a swirling motion at low engine speeds, improving combustion efficiency and torque. They open fully at higher RPMs for maximum airflow. Flap failure can cause poor idling and error codes. Details at .
Which part splits the engine's firing order signals for multiple ignition coils?
Ignition coil pack
Spark plug loom
Distributor
Ignition control module
An ignition coil pack contains multiple coils and distributes high voltage to spark plugs without a mechanical distributor. Each coil or coil pack can be dedicated to one or two cylinders for efficient ignition. This design improves reliability and performance. Learn more at .
What is the function of the engine cooling system thermoswitch?
Control thermostat operation
Monitor oil temperature
Regulate coolant flow through radiator
Activate electric fans at a set temperature
The thermoswitch closes at a specified coolant temperature to activate electric cooling fans. It ensures the engine remains within optimal temperature range. Failure can cause overheating or unnecessary fan operation. More at .
Which sensor monitors the pressure inside the intake manifold?
Boost pressure sensor
MAP sensor
Barometric pressure sensor
MAF sensor
The Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor measures the vacuum or boost in the intake manifold, allowing the ECU to calculate engine load for fuel and ignition adjustments. It is essential for engines without MAF sensors. A faulty MAP sensor can cause rough running. Learn more at .
Which component measures engine oil level electronically?
Oil quality sensor
Oil pressure sensor
Oil level sensor
Oil temperature sensor
The oil level sensor provides a real-time reading of oil quantity in the sump, alerting the driver when levels are low. It often uses a float or capacitance-based design. Accurate readings help prevent engine damage. More at .
What is the role of the thermostat bypass in the cooling system?
Measure coolant level
Allow coolant flow when thermostat is closed
Regulate coolant temperature
Control radiator fan speed
The bypass circuit allows coolant to circulate through the engine block when the thermostat is closed, promoting even warm-up and preventing hot spots. Once the thermostat opens, bypass flow is redirected through the radiator. This ensures efficient temperature management. Details at .
What is the purpose of a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT)?
Cool the intake charge
Reduce engine noise
Filter intake air
Adjust turbine flow for better boost control
A variable geometry turbocharger changes the angle of its internal vanes to optimize exhaust gas flow onto the turbine wheel across different engine speeds, reducing lag and improving efficiency. This adaptability delivers better performance over a wider RPM range. More at .
Which sensor measures nitrogen oxide concentrations for selective catalytic reduction systems?
O2 sensor
Temperature sensor
NOx sensor
CO sensor
The NOx sensor detects levels of nitrogen oxides in the exhaust stream, providing feedback for SCR systems to inject the correct amount of urea solution for emissions reduction. Accurate sensing is crucial for regulatory compliance. See .
What advantage does a wideband air-fuel ratio sensor have over a narrowband oxygen sensor?
Requires no heater
Does not need calibration
Measures AFR across a broad range
Is less expensive
Wideband sensors can accurately measure air-fuel ratios throughout lean and rich conditions, enabling more precise engine tuning and emissions control. Narrowband sensors only indicate richer or leaner than stoichiometric. Wideband technology improves performance diagnostics. More at .
Which valve enriches the air-fuel mixture during cold starts in carbureted engines?
EGR valve
Choke valve
Idle air control valve
PCV valve
The choke valve restricts airflow at startup, increasing fuel concentration in the mixture to improve combustion when the engine is cold. It gradually opens as the engine warms. Modern systems use electronic controls instead. Details at .
Which component controls idle speed by regulating air bypassing the throttle plate?
Throttle position sensor
Throttle body
Idle air control valve
Air mass sensor
The idle air control (IAC) valve meters small amounts of air around the closed throttle plate to maintain stable idle RPM under varying loads. The ECU adjusts signal to the valve based on engine conditions. A malfunctioning IAC can cause rough idle or stalling. More at .
Which device limits maximum boost pressure in turbocharged engines?
Wastegate
Blow-off valve
Diverter valve
Intercooler
The wastegate diverts excess exhaust gases away from the turbocharger turbine once target boost is reached, preventing overboost conditions. There are internal and external wastegate designs. Proper operation is crucial for engine and turbo health. Learn more at .
Which sensor monitors the temperature of the air entering the engine?
Intake air temperature sensor
Exhaust gas temperature sensor
Coolant temperature sensor
Ambient air sensor
The intake air temperature (IAT) sensor measures the temperature of incoming air, allowing the ECU to adjust fuel delivery and ignition timing. Colder air is denser and requires more fuel. Accurate readings improve efficiency and emissions. Details at .
What system injects fresh air into the exhaust stream to reduce emissions during cold start?
SCR system
PCV system
EGR system
Secondary air injection
Secondary air injection pumps ambient air into the exhaust manifold or downstream to help oxidize unburned hydrocarbons during cold start, speeding up catalytic converter light-off. It reduces cold-start emissions. Valves and pumps control airflow. More at .
What benefit does a dual-mass flywheel provide in modern engines?
Increased rotational inertia
Higher torque capacity
Simplified clutch replacement
Enhanced vibration dampening
A dual-mass flywheel features two separate mass plates with damping springs between them, significantly reducing drivetrain vibrations and improving smoothness during gear shifts. It protects transmission components and enhances comfort. However, it is more complex than a single?mass design. Details at .
Which type of spark plug can monitor combustion quality by measuring ionization current?
Iridium spark plug
Resistor spark plug
Platinum spark plug
Ion-sensing spark plug
Ion-sensing spark plugs detect the ionization current flowing between electrodes after combustion, allowing the ECU to monitor knock and combustion quality in real time. This advanced feedback helps optimize ignition timing. They are used in some high-end engine management systems. More at .
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand Core Engine Functions -

    After completing the quiz, you will grasp how each engine system component contributes to overall performance and efficiency.

  2. Identify Key Engine Parts -

    You will accurately recognize and name critical engine parts during the engine system components quiz.

  3. Differentiate Automotive Engine Components -

    You will distinguish between mechanical engine systems parts, such as pistons, valves, and camshafts, based on their roles and locations.

  4. Apply Diagnostic Skills -

    You will leverage your knowledge from the engine component identification quiz to troubleshoot common engine issues.

  5. Analyze Component Interactions -

    You will explain how engine system parts work together to optimize vehicle performance and prevent mechanical failures.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Engine Block and Cylinder Configuration -

    The engine block houses the cylinders where combustion occurs, and its bore and stroke determine total displacement (Displacement = π×(bore/2)²×stroke×# of cylinders). Remember the mnemonic "Big Boys Smoke Cigars" (Bore, Block, Stroke, Cylinders) to recall these terms. Solid foundations: refer to SAE International and university engineering curricula for detailed designs.

  2. Cylinder Head and Valve Mechanism -

    The cylinder head contains intake and exhaust valves, guiding airflow during the four-stroke cycle: Intake, Compression, Power, Exhaust (mnemonic: "I Can Power Engines"). When tackling the engine system components quiz, remember valve clearances and cam overlap; these details often appear on automotive engine components tests.

  3. Crankshaft and Connecting Rod Dynamics -

    Connecting rods link pistons to the crankshaft, converting linear motion into rotation that drives the drivetrain. Understanding journal bearings and counterweights - highlighted in technical college courses - will boost your score on any mechanical engine systems quiz.

  4. Camshaft Timing and Drive Systems -

    The camshaft controls valve timing via lobes and is driven by belts, chains, or gears; mistiming can cause poor performance or engine damage. Note common timing belt replacement intervals (60k - 100k miles) recommended by OEMs for your engine component identification quiz.

  5. Lubrication and Oil Pump Function -

    Oil pumps maintain pressure (20 - 60 psi) to lubricate moving parts, reducing friction and heat. Examine oil gallery schematics from automotive research journals to spot the pump, filter, and relief valve during your engine system parts quiz.

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