Let’s see how the component systems of the automobile fit together:

1. The starter/ignition system causes the car to start. It gets the engine to turn over; and the distributor to send electricity to the spark plugs.

2. The fuel system delivers the food to the lion (the engine). The fuel is pumped from the fuel tank via filters to the carburetor or fuel injection system and into the cylinders for combustion.

3. The engine takes the fuel and air in through the intake valves, explodes it, sends the power generated to the transmission so the car can move forward.

4. The lubrication system keeps the moving parts of the engine lubricated so they operate smoothly despite the heat and friction.

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5. The cooling system keeps the engine cool so it doesn't overheat.

6. The transmission or gear-box takes the power from the engine and transmits it to the wheels for forward or backward drive.

7. The exhaust system gets rid of the poisonous waste from the combustion process.

8. The steering system enables the driver to direct where the car will go.

9. The braking system enables the driver to stop the car or slow it down as needed.

10. The suspension system protects car and riders from the roughness of the road.

11. The electrical system keeps the electrical power flowing where it is needed in the car.

12. The chassis or frame holds the whole machine together and provides the framework on which to build the interior of the car.

13. The interior gives the driver, who is the primary mind and brain of the vehicle, a place to sit and direct; and provides the driver with the information and controls he/she needs to run the vehicle.

Remember that these individual systems are carefully coordinated into a functioning whole. The timing of this coordination and the interaction between the systems is every bit as important as the individual systems themselves. In this way the energy is generated, magnified, converted, and passed on smoothly from one point to another. The car will then operate as an efficient, safe, and comfortable mode of transportation.