TDC - Theoretical Driving Course Vehicle Parts and Functions 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the function of the vehicle's suspension system?
- To hold the engine in place
- To absorb road shocks and maintain tire contact with the road surface (Correct answer)
- To transmit power from the engine to the wheels
- To control the vehicle's electrical systems
Correct answer: To absorb road shocks and maintain tire contact with the road surface
The suspension absorbs bumps while keeping tires in contact with the road for handling and comfort.
The suspension consists of springs, shock absorbers, struts, and anti-roll bars. A worn suspension increases stopping distances, reduces handling, and causes uneven tire wear.
Question 2: What is the purpose of the vehicle's differential?
- To filter exhaust gases
- To allow drive wheels to rotate at different speeds during turns (Correct answer)
- To shift gears automatically
- To regulate engine temperature
Correct answer: To allow drive wheels to rotate at different speeds during turns
The differential allows the outer drive wheel to rotate faster than the inner wheel during turns.
Without a differential, both drive wheels rotate at the same speed, causing the inner tire to scrub during turns. The differential splits torque while allowing different wheel speeds.
Question 3: What does the power steering system do?
- Increases top speed
- Reduces the effort needed to turn the steering wheel (Correct answer)
- Automatically steers the vehicle
- Prevents the steering wheel from locking
Correct answer: Reduces the effort needed to turn the steering wheel
Power steering uses hydraulic or electric assistance to make turning the wheel easier.
Hydraulic power steering uses engine-driven pump pressure. Electric power steering uses an electric motor and is more fuel-efficient. Loss of power steering makes steering harder but not impossible.
Question 4: What is the function of spark plugs in a gasoline engine?
- To pump fuel into the combustion chamber
- To ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber (Correct answer)
- To filter the engine oil
- To regulate engine temperature
Correct answer: To ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber
Spark plugs create an electrical spark that ignites the compressed air-fuel mixture.
When the ignition system sends high voltage to the spark plug, an arc jumps across the electrode gap, igniting the mixture. Worn spark plugs cause misfires, rough idling, and poor fuel economy. Replace every 30,000-100,000 km.
Question 5: What is the purpose of the vehicle's exhaust system?
- To cool the engine
- To direct combustion gases away from the cabin, reduce noise, and minimize emissions (Correct answer)
- To supply air to the engine
- To lubricate moving parts
Correct answer: To direct combustion gases away from the cabin, reduce noise, and minimize emissions
The exhaust system routes gases safely away, reduces noise, and treats emissions.
Components include exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipe. A leaking exhaust is dangerous because carbon monoxide can enter the cabin causing poisoning.
Question 6: What is the function of the radiator?
- To generate heat for the cabin
- To dissipate heat from engine coolant by transferring it to outside air (Correct answer)
- To store extra coolant
- To cool transmission fluid
Correct answer: To dissipate heat from engine coolant by transferring it to outside air
The radiator cools engine coolant by passing it through tubes exposed to airflow.
Hot coolant flows through thin tubes with aluminum fins. Air passes through via vehicle motion and the cooling fan. The radiator cap maintains system pressure to raise the coolant's boiling point.
What is the function of the vehicle's suspension system?