How Do Car Engines Work? A Close Look at The Intricate Details of an Engine

A Master Automobile Technician and Engine Specialist explains how car engines work behind the scenes.
We essentially take an engine apart to explain everything from the basic operation to how things are done inside the engine. This video is full with diagnosis tips and general knowledge that I hope would benefit gasoline engine owners in their day to day operation of a gasoline engine.
TCCN Automotive Inc.
Toyota and Lexus Specialist Repair
Visit www.tccnautomotive.com to schedule your appointment today.
Check out the second channel :
/ @thecarcarenutreviews
Recommended Tools:
Basic Scan Tool amzn.to/3Jm6aom
Very good DIY Scan Tool amzn.to/3zF7dvH
Advanced Scan tool amzn.to/3q3L3QQ
Spill Free Coolant Replacement Funnel amzn.to/3uJfKxm
Sun roof drain cleaning tool amzn.to/3GMDlQ9
Good DIY Torque Wrench 1/2" amzn.to/3gE9bnw
Wireless Apple CarPlay for Toyota\Lexus amzn.to/3uKElSo
Very Good Triple Camera Borescope amzn.to/3MrgFs0
*as an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Follow the channel on Social Media :
/ thecarcarenut
/ thecarcarenut
Check out the channel Merch store
/ @thecarcarenut
Make a one time donation to the channel:
www.paypal.me/CCNdonate
Check out the amazon store:
www.amazon.com/shop/thecarcarenut
*as an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
#thecarcarenut #tccnautomotive #engine #carengine #technology
0:00 Intro
0:31 Basic Engine Theory
2:55 External Parts Of An Engine
4:35 Valve train
11:56 Valves
17:35 Direct Injection Carbon Build Up
19:30 Cylinder Head
21:57 Head Gasket
25:51 Cylinder Block
41:19 Crankshaft
46:04 Pistons
54:21 Things You Should Know About Engines

[@LesWiles]

I have no problem with in dept videos like this. You uploading long videos like this just shows how much you care to give subscribers content and quality content at that.

[@davidglad]

He certainly does a better job explaining engineering than Engineering Explained, lol

[@andriib9390]

dude you haven't even had time to watch the video before commenting

[@sharkeatinpizza]

​@andriib9390 doesn't matter, you post the kind of content that AMD does and you quickly build a reputation for high quality content and possessing a truly deep knowledge base

[@shortydancer]

This is like the first good video he’s uploaded in a while.

[@elgransr]

@@davidgladj

[@survivordan2187]

I’ve worked in a Toyota engine factory for over 25 years and I currently work with folks who have No idea how an engine works. It frustrates me (inwardly mostly) when we detect an issue during assembly and these folks have no idea why the issue makes the engine no good. This should be required viewing for everyone in our factory. The cylinder head is the most meticulous part of the engine in my view. The valves have 3 angles that must be a perfect width. The valve seat has a spec. of 1.2mm to 1.4 mm in the middle angle sealing surface. If they are not in that spec. the exhaust valve will “burn.” That used to be very difficult to keep in spec. during machining. The pressed in valve stem tube must have a certain roughness spec. to”hold” some oil between the stem and the tube or the engine will burn oil. The valve stem seal has to allow some oil to pass to the stem to lubricate the stem in the tube. That is a very delicate balancing act. The cross-hatch on the engines I build are allowed to be “hatched” from a 28 to 30 degree angle so oil will stay on the cylinder wall. Most folks have no idea how much testing and checking of the geometry of an engine. The journal on the crankshaft has a roundness spec of 3 microns! A micron equals 1/1000 of a millimeter. This is why Toyota engines last so long. Good video AMD!!!

[@chrisclemons7564]

I love this comment. It’s nice to see the many many little things (micron tolerances) that go into one big thing (an engine that will last forever).

[@itree4]

Uh, can we break this down into laymen’s terms? 😂😂😂

[@sweetwatersrundeep]

As a young woman who lost her father 10 years ago, I’ve learned more about cars from AMD in 6 months than the mechanic I’ve been going to for 10 years. May God Bless you and give you the time in your busy schedule to teach us (especially, us ladies) how to avoid scams and how to ACTUALLY maintain our vehicles.

[@Cocora22]

100%, I watch him all the time and learned how to do a lot of the basic service on my GX. It's silly that I know more about my vehicle than some mechanics where I live. That's another reason why I have really pushed myself to learn. Save money AND save my car.

[@jsun3117]

He's also corresponds with Car Wizard in the Wichita, Kansas area from time to time. Scotty Kilmer is sorta the loner YT mechanic that doesn't nor ever really associates with the others. Another master tech on this level is Eric the Car Guy who specializes in Honda/Acura.

[@sweetwatersrundeep]

I own a 90’s Honda so anything this man and Eric the Car Guy say is gold! AMD is a natural-born teacher and his dedication, obsession and perfectionism shows in the quality of his videos.

[@kevin-jm3qb]

Please marry me😂

[@socrates2706]

People fail to appreciate what a brilliant invention this was.

[@jpete3027666]

It’s a marvel how it maintains timing of every aspect and run as long as they do, perfectly most of the time if you maintain them. I’m always amazed by the engineering.

[@geoffreymak000]

People take it for granted because it is such a huge success that these things are everywhere.

[@Zeck88522]

Most important invention on 20th century according to Jeremy Clarkson. One of his movies I forgot the name

[@jayhendricks7487]

Engines still amaze me,

[@labourlawact7826]

Only drawback of this wonderful invention is the damage it's doing to our species planet.

[@dandilion62]

This should be in every high school curriculum

[@ofcbob6391]

Way too much for them to take in, they need to start with how to balance a checkbook and how not to have a baby.

[@CharlieParker-dz6fv]

It use to be as an elective course as early as jr.high school when I was growing up in the 80’s. But the powers that be decided these types of elective courses that provide practical knowledge wasn’t worth it and they got thrown out with budget cuts.

[@perniciouspete4986]

After viewing this posting, anyone who doesn't have an appreciation for how important regular and frequent oil changes are to the operation and longevity of an internal combustion engine must be even dumber than I am. TCCN did a great job of explaining it.

[@return.of.the.nac18]

My 17 year old son has been asking for a couple of years how an engine works.... well, you made his day. Videos like this are one of the many reasons why I watch and support you!!! Please never stop!!!

[@fidelt4143]

I highly recommend making a series of these videos, they're very educational

[@joshuablanchette878]

i will never attempt to fix anything on a car but i love these videos

[@davidhertzberg]

This video makes crystal clear why regular oil changes are critical to the life of an engine. And the crankshaft -- machined from a single piece of steel -- miraculous.

[@karenchang7666]

Never felt the urge to comment on KZbin ever until I saw this video. Amazing content. Thank you!!

[@CedroCron]

My dad was a mechanic for 50 years before he passed 2 years ago. His advice: "Look after your car with maintenance, and it will look after you with trouble free miles". I've never had a breakdown ever (Other than a couple of flat tires) and I've driven over 1.5M miles for my job on the road. Timely fluid changes before the manufacturer tells you change them, regular inspections looking for worn out parts before the winter including the electrical system and battery health. That's all it takes! No magic. Just a little bit of TLC and a few dollars. I keep all my vehicles at least 20 years and retire them around 300-400K miles. Original transmissions and engines. I've saved a boatload not being on the perpetual car payment machine. You can too!

[@riceburner4747]

You bring back SO MANY MEMORIES of my high school auto shop in the late 60's. I STILL am interested. 👍

[@robertmandell526]

Superb

[@MalcolmCir]

I wish more high schools today would offer auto shop...

[@SergeantTopBins]

Just watched the whole video without taking my eyes off the screen (or maybe not even blinking too). Fascinating stuff

[@Mr_Spock512]

Same here ...

[@rightlanehog3151]

AMD, Congratulations, this is the first video from the new 'TCCN Studio'. 🥳🥳🥳🥳 When will you install seating for the live studio audience? 🤔 Please keep the concession and parking prices reasonable for the fans. 😉😂🤣

[@jeremyshideler4187]

lol 😂

[@bernardbuhrs8639]

an hour long video on an engine and its function.....YES please and thank you!!!

[@harrychoke]

I'm afraid I disagree with those that say this is a masterpiece. This goes beyond masterful - it is perfect. It is the best I have seen. Thank you for this, very much appreciated for your time and knowledge.

[@Christopher._M]

You had me in the first half. The first 20 minutes of this can probably replace half a semester of school.

[@Rieneger]

I’ve been researching tons on cars lately and this answered my longest standing one yet. I knew the fundamentals but seeing an engine literally broken down part by part helped immensely. Now I just need to learn how to perform specific tasks to work on an engine

[@rayRay-pw6gz]

In my day , purchasing a high quality tech manual was key. My first engine breakdown was a 900 Kawasaki 4 cylinder double overhead cam engine done by the book . No prior training. Young with no fear.

[@roypeterson8537]

Excellent video. My 14 year old grandson is getting car fever and been asking me many questions about cars and engines. My education after high school was aircraft maintenance at the Institute of Aviation which was at the university of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana. My training was on aircraft radial engines where we learned overhaul, troubleshooting, etc. The last 30 plus years of my career was on commercial jets and turbine engines. I’m 75 and still working on cars and now passing on my knowledge to my grandson. He wants to do a project car which may be a bit more than I can handle. Got the tee shirt of that experience with my son on a Mazda RX-7. So texted my grandson this video link as you explained the theory so well. I really enjoy your videos and knowledge. I just bought a 2024 Toyota Prius Prime. Watched your video and it reinforced my decision to pursue the purchase. Cheers

[@NicolasIdrobo]

What a clear way to explain difficult things. That's the sign of true knowledge (and top teaching skills). Great video, I learned and enjoyed a lot!

[@Yota4Life]

What a treat for a Saturday afternoon to enjoy a cold one while watching CCN! Thank you!

[@WoofwoofBigGuy]

Not only you are a wonderful master mechanic but also an awesome gifted instructor, you made the knowledge of the engine operations easy and interesting to absorb and retain. Excellent video. I benefit a lot from your detail section by section explanation. Thanks very much taking time to make this hour long video.

[@kieranlangley3092]

I thought I knew a decent amount about engines... Self taught... But your video just clears everything up. What a masterpiece! This should be taught at school. Just brilliant. Thankyou.

[@Lanefasts]

I recently discovered and subscribed to your channel, and simultaneously wanted to find videos explaining how car engines work... The timing of this video, and the teacher giving the lesson couldn't be more perfect

[@VN-fc1jg]

AMDs knowledge level is in another stratosphere for any mechanic. Please do a video series explaining different components of how a car works: transmission, HVAC, cooling system, etc.

[@JaimieSigamoney]

Really appreciate such educational content in the simplest form. Appreciate your time and effort in this video

[@adamdavis7520]

New studio looks great, sir! Thanks for the awesome video! Learn a lot from your channel.

[@jamesjacobs592]

This dude is da truth man!! He knows his stuff!! And he always takes his time to explain the things that I need explained, like with hands on!! We love you man!!❤

[@holtrussell]

AMD, your knowledge base is so deep and so advanced, it reminds me of a surgeon in a hospital. It is absolutely fascinating watching and listening to you. Thank you so much for your gifts and sharing said gifts.

[@Mitaka1976]

I am dealing with engines for more than 20 years and still find your video very educational and informative I was watching with pleasure. Good job sir, thank you.

[@---do2qd]

Man this is incredible to tear down a real engine like this. Bravo

[@roobear5357]

In one hour you did a great job of explaining the basic operation and key parts of the engine…thanks

[@Buasop]

Your explanation of how an engine works is perfect. You explain without talking down or going over anyone's head. Your calm voice and intelligence is a refreshing change from all the yellers on KZbin

[@nikolayhristanov5201]

I have no words to describe how much I liked the video! Really well explained! We learned how the engine works, next might be the transmission?

[@angelovirato7696]

Speaking as a mechanic: Loved this video. I'd love to have 1/2 The patience to explain this to apprentices. Keep up The good work. 💪

[@AliAkbarAfghan123]

Wats you are thought on the field is their lots of money n growth opportunities ? I am planning to go to this field as i am almost finishing my foundation program n trying to land a job with dealership. Idk wat to expect

[@ishooal7433]

If this man uploaded a 10h video of him just explaining things id watch it.

[@Londonbridge978]

I watched the whole clip. Very informing. Thank you

[@WorkingNomad368]

A very educational video, everything explained in a simple way for anyone to understand the mechanics of the engine, very informative.

[@jamesdonaldson7396]

Very informative. This is a great example of why I love KZbin so much: I can come here to learn things for free.

[@barbharwood3834]

Thanks so much! My grandfather was an auto mechanic with his own business at home. I felt like I was in his garage with him explaining it all to me. Now you showed me what all those terms meant, the terms I heard all through my childhood. I appreciate you taking the time to do this - now I understand a great deal more.

[@brucewayne2773]

That is a nice Mister 2 in the back ground 👍

[@traceymillard6979]

The best explanation of how an automobile internal combustion engine works that I have ever seen! Thanks so much!😊

[@fios4me]

Ahmed! That is the best demonstration of how an engine works that I have ever seen. Your explanations are informative and easy to understand. Thank you for creating this outstanding video. Keep them coming. You’re the best! 👍

[@RI75737]

Great video explaining how an engine works. My wife asks me and I can describe it but not demonstrate it. You did me a solid!😂! Will share with her so she can see for herself now. Thank you!!

[@mark-wn5ek]

An engine is essentially an air pump. Add fuel and it produces power by virtue of combustion. The efficiency of the pump…sucking in the air and exhausting the burned fuel determines how it converts the fuel into useful energy. Pretty simple concept…but a lot goes into making it happen. Good video.

[@MrPaulNimeno]

I love this kind of explainer videos for each important part of a vehicle. Congrats, keep it up! Looking forward to more

[@ericzytowski6698]

I just learnt in an hour what I could have in a week in high school auto shop. Which I never had. Thank you!

[@douglaskaye1395]

Fantastic review, seems basic many people don’t understand the basics. My wife now does😊 thank you

[@Starman-yt8lj]

You are a gifted teacher AMD. Thanks for taking the time to explain this so well that even I could understand.

[@kerrylewis2581]

I immediately noticed the new surroundings. Congratulations on the addition to the shop.

[@barrylavin7156]

This is your finest video sir and provided platform for your deep knowledge and enthusiasm . You are truly in your element with a piston in your hand !

[@ravot_23]

Amazing explanation! Love this style of learning and would love to see one of a transmission walkthrough!

[@jtg2737]

Nicely done!

[@psilva2565]

Thanks for the video, I had a basic understanding of how engines work but this really gave me a deep understanding of this wonderful piece of engineering.

[@markcook5962]

This is the best engine video I have ever seen. Thanks so much 👍

[@busso125]

Its nice to hear a person who appreciates what goes into an engine design. Every part has a calculation to it. People who criticise engines that fail prematurely, often due to small design error, have typically never designed or built anything. You should do a comparison between say a toyota engine and a cheaper not so good engine that has fewer bearing journals to save cost etc. Then people will begin to appreciate what their money is actually buying.

[@todayandtomorrow360]

I screwed up my Scout changing the spark plugs, which is embarrasing. This video may have reignited my confidence to keep trying to fix the Scout myself. Thank you very much. I needed to see this.

[@theanythingchannel2239]

Brings me back to my tech days

[@Subie-Driver]

Another great video by the CCN. I found this really interesting even though I know a lot about engines. The visuals help put what I know into context.

[@matthewbrowder2625]

Dude. I’ve know how engines work for a long time. I’ve worked on cars since Daddy put a wrench in my hand. I do not do this as a profession just a hobby. I’ve watched hundreds of hours of videos. This has damn near my favorite designation period. I’m only 7 minutes in and I had to comment. Which for the amount of KZbin I watch is almost never. But my guy. This is WHAT KZbin was meant for and why it’s the best platform on the internet. Because of creators like you. Right, wrong, indifferent to you as in your particular opinions. But you Sir have proven to me that KZbin is still a viable and extrinsic part of the human encyclopedia. Thank you for your contribution Sir.

[@StuartGuyan]

Isn't it fascinating how someone invented this machine that has transformed the way we live in the world from transporting goods and people it's amazing to see how it actually works I don't think that it will be so exciting in the future speaking about a battery and an electric motor. The gasoline engine was a living thing with fire at its heart well done sir for taking the time to explain the beauty of an engine that we take for granted it's days are now numbered but what an invention god best

[@shiloh5199]

I love your show and I appreciate the re-education, I did 2 years auto tech school buy it's good to get a refresh.

[@VILSONDUSEVIC]

Nothing to add! Pure excellence.

[@ozzieo5899]

This was AN ABSOLUTELY AMAZING VIDEO!!.. I've learned soo much and you are really great at explaining it.. thanks sok much and the Lord bless you... This was really good..

[@richard1835]

A massive explosion of flame forced out in all directions pushing down the piston , rotating the crankshaft and creating power. I hope I got that right. You are a good Toyota mechanic. I appreciate your videos.

[@SN.LurkinG]

Wow this is my favourite video of yours yet! Watched the whole thing in one sitting. There was so much information packaged beautifully and explained with such insight. Thank you sir!

[@idris_pm]

Just wanted to say massive thanks for a highest quality content.

[@littlea464]

Beautifully explained. Thankyou

[@MEU2k]

This can be a nice series, starting from engine and explaining all the steps till the rotation of the wheel. Then the support syatems, like engine cooling, txn cooling, HVAC, TURBOS. There are more educational content coming up.

[@In_a_state]

Very useful video, makes me appreciate the importance of timely oil changes. Would be interesting to see the full circuits of the oil and coolant throughout the engine areas.

[@briankalagher6687]

Awesome vid. I've been wondering how oil gets to the cylinder walls and piston rings since I know it does not come in from the top. Cool to learn about those oil jets! This made me want to go do an oil change on my 2grfe. Thanks!

[@wannabe-mechanic]

REALLY a fantasttic vid AMD. would you please upload a vid about the turbo and intercooler how it works and the things that could go wrong? thank you, this is really great, very educative.

[@ednovak2224]

The start of the Care Care Band !

[@velocity211]

content like this is why i'm subscribed to this channel

[@Dbchee50]

Excellent explanation of how a four cycle engine works. Not only are you an excellent mechanic, your an amazing teacher. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us in such a patient manner. Loved the video, but more the willingness to educate us in such an effective manner.

[@billneu9520]

Thank You for your time great video fixing my cars for 60 years

[@nnamdin3372]

This is a masterpiece.

[@Seraphim401]

Watched the entire vid in one session. Thank you sir.

[@bryantace4463]

One of the best videos on YT! Thank you!

[@dproulx222]

I bought a Toyota Corolla SE because of your educational videos 🙂 Thank you so much from Calgary, AB

[@KendrasEdge757]

Man that black Supra is absolutely gorgeous!! One lucky owner there!! Appreciate all the time and content going over this engine and engines in general! God bless~

[@lozano813able]

I really enjoyed this, and I truly appreciate the effort and dedication you put into explaining how these machines function. I can tell you have a passion for this and a wealth of knowledge to go along with it. Honestly these are the best ways for anyone to learn, by watching people like you who intricately explain in detail what it is that makes our engines work. Great job bud!

[@honkyspice]

Thank you Mr. Car Care Nut for another amazing video. This is an awesome educational resource for anyone! I knew a lot of this, but seeing it explained together was extremely helpful to me! I know you have decades of knowledge, which is what it takes to explain things simply but completely in this way. You are a true expert and a wonderful human for sharing your knowledge. This channel is pure gold.

[@Adio.Romania]

Thank you for this video!

[@hughsavage2136]

Excellent presentation as usual! Thank you!

[@joeotto775]

Another fantastic video beautifully explained. After watching this video, this should make you want to change your oil early after seeing how vital it is for all of those bearings. Cam, crank and rod bearings all ride on a film of oil to prevent metal on metal contact. Change your oil at 5000 miles/8000km or 6 months on your late model Toyotas folks

[@maciekproko9313]

Extremely informative and so easy to follow. Have forwarded it to all my 3 sons. Love your work and the attention to cleanliness in the workshop.. Please do more of these for the younger generation, the knowledge is slowly disappearing. Suggest maybe do a whole a series? Would love to see the Air Conditioning system in a similar fashion. You would make a great teacher. Keep up the great work. Cheers from Australia..

[@jdub976]

Yes I always watch until the end. Very nice playing. Thank you for the video.

[@dathuynh1767]

The red mr2 in the corner is beautiful

[@reysee]

Love your videos! Very informative and inspiring!

[@anthonyharvey5250]

Thanks AMD for the mechanical teachings, best on KZbin 💯

[@davida871]

Enjoyed the time you took to explain engine processes. Thank you Amd & José.

[@StephenSmith-it5zy]

Fantastic video! Thank you Sir!

[@nathanthanguyen]

i absolutely love cars and am completely fascinated by how they work mechanically but no matter how much i THINK i know, i always learn something new from your videos. thank you for always sharing such amazing videos. AMD if it’s not too troublesome, i’d love to see one of these in-depth breakdown videos on a boxer engine!

[@Dac54]

This was the best tutorial of how a gasoline engine works that I've ever seen, heard, or even read. I really liked how easily he explained why premium fuel is so important on certain engines and totally unnecessary on those that don't require it. Since I live in the arid and hot Southwest, I use middle grade gasoline for my wife's Buick Encore since it's a small turbo 4 cylinder engine. Premium fuel is unnecessary and a waste of money, but middle grade strikes the ideal balance between premium and regular.

[@anwarbuckus9661]

Excellent simple explanation. I love your videos.

[@carlmoll3345]

Congratulations. Fantastic Video and very informative.

[@armaansandhu9002]

Amazing just perfect. Love this channel

[@user-vn5uk5ll6v]

One of your best and most informative videos! Thank you.

[@csan255]

This is the best explanation I've seem in KZbin so far. I have watched it three times already and plan to watch it again even if it is a 3 hour long video. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put in making this video.

[@Cmrdata]

Outstanding video, Amd! I grew up around people who worked on automobiles and so I picked up a fair amount of knowledge from them. I learned even more your video! Thank you!