Braking
Knowing your car’s brakes are functioning properly is crucial. Learn the differences between disc and drum brakes, how anti-lock brakes work and more. See more »
what's inside: under the hood
The Under the Hood Channel explores the systems that make your car function correctly. Learn about car parts and systems and how to do routine maintenance.
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Engines
The Car Engine Information Channel explores engine performance, maintenance and new fuel technologies. Learn how car engines work. See more »
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Exhaust & Emissions
This section can help you keep your exhaust system working properly. Learn how mufflers, catalytic converters and oxygen sensors work. See more »
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Options
Your car may come with many standard features, but upgrade and accessory options are endless, starting with the windshield wiper blades. See more »
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Steering & Suspension
The Car Steering and Suspension Channel explains the systems that help keep your car driving smoothly and precisely. Learn about auto suspension and steering. See more »
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Other Systems
Learn about the various electrical and other systems that lurk under your hood, including cooling systems, ignitions, wires, fuses and connectors. See more »
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Transmissions & Drivetrain
Upkeep of your transmission may save you money in the long run. Learn manual and automatic transmission basics, then move on to clutches, differentials and torque converters. See more »
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Trends
How do self-parking cars and car computers work? What is drifting? Read the answers to these and other questions in the Trends & Innovations Channel. See more »
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Wheels
How do 30 pounds of air in your tires hold up two tons of car? What’s the technology behind the tire and how do wheels work? Learn it all in the Car Wheels and Tires Channel. See more »
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featured articles
Will we drive on underground automated highways?
If life is a highway, get ready to take a long subterranean trip. Underground automated highways will allow drivers to relax while self-driving vehicles steer, and tunnels could help conserve land.
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How Haptic Technology Works
Ever wonder how flat cell phone keys vibrate to let you know you've pressed a button? It's called haptics, and you can use it for lots more than just phones.
How Automobile Ignition Systems Work
Other HowStuffWorks articles explain the mechanics of the engine and many of its subsystems, including the fuel system, cooling system, camshafts, turbochargers and gears. But the ignition system is where it all comes together, with a perfectly timed spark.
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