What does 'front' mean in a car?
2 Answers
'Front' refers to the switch for the front windshield defroster. The symbol for the front windshield defroster is a fan-shaped pattern with three upward lines, while the rear windshield defroster is represented by a rectangular pattern with three upward lines. The windshield defroster helps reduce moisture, fog, and frost on the front and rear windshields, improving the driver's visibility and reducing driving risks. The car's air conditioning refrigeration system consists of components such as the compressor, condenser, receiver-drier, expansion valve, evaporator, and blower. These parts are connected by copper (or aluminum) pipes and high-pressure rubber hoses to form a sealed system. When the refrigeration system operates, the refrigerant circulates in different states within this sealed system, with each cycle involving four basic processes: Compression process: The compressor draws in low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant gas from the evaporator outlet and compresses it into high-temperature, high-pressure gas, which is then discharged from the compressor. Heat dissipation process: The high-temperature, high-pressure superheated refrigerant gas enters the condenser, where it condenses into a liquid due to the reduction in pressure and temperature, releasing a significant amount of heat. Throttling process: The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant liquid passes through the expansion device, causing its volume to increase and its pressure and temperature to drop sharply, exiting the expansion device as a mist (fine droplets). Heat absorption process: The mist-like refrigerant liquid enters the evaporator. Since the boiling point of the refrigerant is much lower than the temperature inside the evaporator, the refrigerant liquid evaporates into a gas, absorbing a large amount of surrounding heat in the process. The low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant vapor then re-enters the compressor. This cycle repeats continuously to achieve the goal of lowering the temperature of the air around the evaporator. Windshield defogging tips: In winter, if the engine coolant temperature gauge has not reached the middle mark, avoid using the heater to defog the windshield, as it can damage the engine. Instead, set the temperature control knob to the cold air position until the coolant temperature rises to the normal operating range, then switch to warm air. This protects the engine while still defogging the windshield. If it's not very cold but there is fog inside the car, you can open the windows to allow air circulation, and the fog will disappear without needing to turn on the air conditioning or heater. After the engine has warmed up, turn on the ventilation fan and direct the air vents toward the front windshield, blowing hot air directly for about 10 minutes. This method is slower but has the advantage of not increasing energy consumption.
I've been driving for decades and know very well that the 'front' refers to the forward part of the vehicle, including components like headlights, radiator grille, and bumper. While driving, the front section most affects visibility and control—for instance, when turning, you need to have a clear view ahead to avoid hitting objects. In front-wheel-drive cars, the power also comes from the front wheels, so during maintenance, it's essential to regularly check the front wheel bearings and suspension system to prevent damage from bumps. I remember one time when I replaced a bulb and found the headlight alignment was off, making it hard to see the road during a long night drive—a reminder that critical components shouldn't be neglected. Also, don’t overlook accumulated dust on the front when washing the car, as it can corrode metal parts. In short, the front is both the face of the car and the first line of safety—address any issues promptly.
