If your car has a gas engine and you experience rough starts or it emits black smoke, the problem might be the carburetor. However, not all cars have one, and you may not know if yours does or how it works. Here’s what to know about this component before visiting an auto repair shop.

What Is a Carburetor?

A carburetor is a piece of mechanical equipment that mixes the proper amounts of air and fuel to enable the engine to run smoothly. As air flows through the device’s tube, an inlet in the tube pulls in the right amount of liquid fuel, which is held in a bowl.

A choke and throttle regulate the flow of air and fuel and adjust the mixture. The throttle is connected to the gas pedal, and you open it by stepping on the gas.

When you push the pedal down, more air flows through the carburetor, which pulls in more fuel to the engine. As the engine releases more energy and power, the car accelerates. 

How Do You Know Your Car Has One?

You can identify the carburetor by its position on the car. It will be under the hood with the car’s other main parts. It will look like a round box that sits on top of the engine with fuel lines feeding into it.

What Makes Modern Cars Different?

In the 1980s, automakers started switching to using fuel injection systems, which deliver fuel more precisely by shooting it in bursts directly to the car’s intake valves. These systems offer more power and efficiency than vehicles with carburetors and also reduce toxic emissions.

As such, not all technicians have carburetor experience. If your vehicle has one, make sure you take it to an auto repair shop with mechanics who are skilled and experienced in working with them. 

When you need a carburetor repaired, head to the automotive professionals at Cottman Transmission & Total Auto Care in Woodbury Heights, NJ. For over 50 years, they’ve served drivers throughout Gloucester, Camden, and Salem counties. Their auto repair shop team is skilled in diagnosing, repairing, and rebuilding carburetors. Visit them online for a full list of their services, or call (856) 845-0070 to schedule a free auto evaluation.