Spare Parts Guide
From brake pads to oil filters, timing kits to antifreeze — what each part does, when to replace it and how to choose. The Bicops parts guide.
Filters
Oil FilterAn oil filter traps metal particles, soot and dirt in the engine oil so clean oil circulates through the engine, and is renewed at every oil change.Air FilterAn air filter traps dust, sand and foreign particles in the air the engine draws in so that clean air reaches the cylinders, and it restricts airflow as it becomes dirty.Cabin FilterA cabin filter traps pollen, dust, soot and odours in the air that reaches the cabin through the air-conditioning and heating system, and usually sits behind the glovebox.Fuel FilterA fuel filter traps sediment, rust and water in the fuel travelling from the tank to the injectors, protecting the high-pressure fuel system from damage.
Braking System
Brake PadsA brake pad is a friction-lined brake part that presses against the disc or drum to slow the car down, and is designed to wear out over time.Brake DiscsA brake disc is a cast-iron rotating disc that turns with the wheel hub and slows the car when the pads are pressed against it.Brake ShoesA brake shoe is a crescent-shaped, friction-lined brake part that is pushed outwards against the inner surface of the drum to slow the car down.Brake FluidBrake fluid is a special high-boiling-point liquid that transfers pedal force to the calipers and wheel cylinders, and must be replaced periodically because it absorbs moisture.Brake Cleaner SprayBrake cleaner is a fast-evaporating, solvent-based maintenance product that dissolves and flashes off oil, grease, brake dust and dirt from discs, calipers, drums and pad surfaces without leaving residue.
Ignition
Spark PlugsA spark plug is an ignition component that ignites the air-fuel mixture inside the cylinder of a petrol engine with an electrical spark, and is replaced periodically as its electrodes wear.Glow PlugsA glow plug is an electric heating element that warms the combustion chamber during a cold start in a diesel engine so the engine fires more easily.
Belts & Timing
Timing Belt KitA timing belt kit consists of the timing belt and the tensioner and idler bearings that keep the crankshaft and camshaft turning in sync — a critical service item whose failure causes severe engine damage.V-BeltA V-belt is a drive belt with a V-shaped cross-section that turns auxiliary units such as the alternator, water pump and power steering pump from the crankshaft pulley.Serpentine BeltA serpentine belt is a flexible drive belt with multiple fine longitudinal ribs on its surface that drives several auxiliary units at once with a single belt.Clutch KitA clutch kit is a drivetrain set made up of the pressure plate, friction disc and release bearing that connects and disconnects engine power to the gearbox, and wears during gear changes.
Engine & Cooling
Water PumpA water pump continuously circulates coolant between the engine block and the radiator, and causes the engine to overheat when it fails.ThermostatA thermostat is a valve that opens and closes according to temperature to decide whether coolant flows to the radiator, helping the engine reach its ideal operating temperature quickly.Engine MountAn engine mount is a vibration-damping component of rubber or hydraulic construction that attaches the engine to the chassis and stops running vibration reaching the cabin.Engine OilEngine oil is a lubricating fluid, chosen by viscosity grade, that forms an oil film between moving engine parts to reduce friction, carry away heat and keep combustion deposits in suspension.AntifreezeAntifreeze is a glycol-based additive that stops coolant freezing in winter and boiling in summer while also protecting the cooling circuit from corrosion.
Wipers & Consumables
Wiper BladesA wiper blade is a consumable part that clears water and dirt from the glass with its rubber edge, and starts to smear once that rubber hardens.ScreenwashScreenwash is a cleaning fluid that dissolves insects, road film and salt residue from the windscreen, with winter grades containing additives that prevent freezing.Power Steering FluidPower steering fluid is a special oil that carries pressure from the pump to the steering rack in a hydraulic steering system and becomes contaminated over time.AdBlueAdBlue is an additive made of urea and pure water, used in SCR-equipped diesel vehicles to convert nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas into harmless nitrogen and water vapour.Contact Cleaner SprayContact cleaner is a maintenance spray that dissolves moisture, oxidation and dirt on electrical connections to lower contact resistance, leaving behind a thin protective film.