The dual clutch transmission (DCT) is referred to by several names including double-clutch transmission and twin-clutch transmission. A regular manual transmission vehicle would use one clutch and a clutch pedal. The dual clutch transmission uses two separate clutches with no clutch pedal. Since there is no clutch pedal, the clutches are controlled through hydraulics and … Read more
While checking your oil have you ever wondered what actually is under that engine cover? What do those parts do? How does an engine really work? Underneath that beautiful (in some cases) engine cover lies a wonderful piece of engineering. The modern-day automotive engine is capable of some wonderful feats. Let’s pull back the curtain … Read more
Differentials are what let the wheels of a vehicle rotate at varying speeds, especially when turning a corner. There are differentials in every vehicle on the road. Some car manufacturers place the differentials in the front and others place them in the back. The differentials may even be built into the front and rear ends. … Read more
The steering rack and pinion are the components found in virtually all power steering systems of vehicles. They are a dual gear set which is ultimately responsible for letting the driver turn the wheels of their vehicle. In other words, the steering wheel’s rotational motion gets converted into the linear motion that is needed for … Read more
A gasoline engine is also called a petrol engine in many parts of the world. The word “petrol” is what the British use to describe a gasoline engine. They mean the exact same thing, which some people may not realize if they are from America. A gasoline engine is the most common type of engine … Read more
Spark plugs are very important components of a vehicle because they are responsible for generating the spark which ignites the fuel and air mixture in the internal combustion chamber. Oil is also important for lubricating the components of the engine while it is running. If you do not have a good supply of oil, then … Read more
The engine control module (ECM), also referred to as the engine control unit (ECU), is a critical component which links your engine to the central computer of your vehicle. The ECM manages most of the functions of the engine, based on the information it receives from other systems and electronic components within the vehicle. If … Read more
“A spark plug is just a spark plug” is a common, yet incorrect phrase. Certain spark plugs are more efficient and perform better than others, and each type has a specific use case. That alone makes it important to check the recommendations of the vehicle manufacturer to ensure the correct spark plugs are installed in … Read more
There are many moving parts in your vehicle. As the car drives along, it’s constantly being jolted by the impact of the road. Why then don’t we notice all the knocks and noise? That’s thanks to your suspension. The suspension helps to insulate you from vibrations and sound. The strut mount, or strut plate, is … Read more
Without tie rods, you can forget about steering your vehicle. These rods connect the steering and suspension system to the front wheels of the car. Thanks to the tie rods, you’re able to steer the car with minimal effort. Over time, the rods wear out. They’ll wear out faster if you regularly travel on uneven … Read more