Shocks vs Struts: What Is the Difference and Which Does Your Car Have?
Learn how shock absorbers and struts differ in build and job, why they are not interchangeable terms, and how to tell which one sits at each axle of your car.
Systems Page 3
How engines, transmissions, brakes, suspension and electronics actually work.
Aftermarket Oil Pressure Gauges: Mechanical vs Electric and How to Install One
How mechanical, electric and digital oil pressure gauges work, which sender and thread fittings they need, and how to plan a clean install in a car or truck.
When Was Power Steering Invented? A Brief History
Learn when power steering was invented, who developed the first working hydraulic system, when it reached production cars, and how it evolved into electric assist.
What Is Power Steering and How Does It Work?
Plain-English explainer on power steering: what it does, how hydraulic, electric and electro-hydraulic systems deliver assist, and the main parts involved.
How Power Steering Works: Hydraulic Power-Assisted Steering Explained
A plain-language guide to how hydraulic power-assisted steering works: the pump, fluid, control valve, rack or gear, hoses and how steering assist is created.
Who Invented the Automatic Transmission and When Did It Come Out?
Trace the automatic transmission from early patents to the first production cars, who deserves credit for inventing it, and when drivers could actually buy one.
Types of Spark Plugs Explained: Copper, Platinum, Iridium and Ruthenium
Learn how copper, platinum, double platinum, iridium and ruthenium spark plugs differ in electrode design, lifespan and performance, and how to pick the right type.
Car Battery Types Explained: Lead Acid, AGM and Lithium
Learn how flooded lead acid, AGM and lithium-ion 12V car batteries differ, which vehicles suit each type, and what to know before charging an AGM battery.
What Is an Automatic Transmission and How Does It Work?
A beginner's guide to what an automatic transmission is, how it shifts gears on its own without a clutch pedal, and what each PRNDL selector position does.
Timing Chain vs Timing Belt: What It Does and How to Tell Which Your Car Has
Learn what a timing chain does, how it differs from a timing belt or cambelt, the parts that support it, and how to check which system your own car uses.
How a Car Heater Works: Heater Core, Heater Box, Controls and Coolant Explained
Learn how a car heater turns engine coolant into warm cabin air, what sits inside the heater box, how it shares parts with the AC, and where car heating began.
What Is a Car Suspension System and How Does It Work?
A plain-language look at what a car's suspension is, where it sits, how springs and dampers manage bumps, and why it shapes ride, handling, and steering.
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