What Is a Powertrain and Why Is It Important?

The list of vehicle components is certainly comprehensive! If you’re searching to discover more about the different parts that make up cars, you must know about the significance of the powertrain. Find out what the powertrain is and why it’s important for cars!

What Is the Powertrain?

The powertrain consists of the engine, transmission, driveshaft, axles, wheels, and differential. It’s everything that translates power from the engine into mechanical movement.

The powertrain converts diesel or gasoline into kinetic energy through the engine. From there, it continues through each of the necessary parts as mentioned above to generate power and result in propelling the vehicle forward.

The Purpose of the Powertrain

You may understand what the powertrain is, but you may not know why it is so important. The brief answer to this question is that without the components of the powertrain, the vehicle wouldn’t move.

The powertrain encompasses everything that permits the vehicle to generate power and push forward. If any component malfunctions, the vehicle becomes difficult to operate. You may notice reduced speeds, overheated engine, or trouble handling the steering wheel.

Are the Powertrain and Drivetrain the Same Thing?

When shopping for a new car or researching sources to enhance your automotive knowledge, you’ve surely come across the terms powertrain and drivetrain. Because they sound similar, folks might think they’re interchangeable terms.

The drivetrain works together with the powertrain, but the two aren’t synonymous. The drivetrain consists of the transmission, differential, axles, driveshaft, wheels, and CV joints. The singular difference is the drivetrain doesn’t include the engine.

Find Aftermarket Car Parts at Transparts Warehouse!

A key feature of four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles found in the rear of the engine that has an immense impact on the powertrain is the transfer case. It connects to the transmission and sends power to the front and rear axles through the driveshaft.

Whenever you experience complications with the powertrain, don’t forget to check the transfer case components. Perhaps they are the root of the problem! Replacing these parts will guarantee the powertrain can do its job and propel the vehicle forward.