Cars are among the most complex machines ever made, and people can often be intimidated by their complex mechanical inner workings. While you don't have to be a professional mechanic or even an extreme enthusiast to enjoy your driving experience, having a basic working knowledge of some of the star parts of your car can be useful, especially when it comes to maintenance.
Tires
These four rubber superheroes do all the heavy lifting when it comes to keeping your car on the road – literally. They may seem simple, after all, the wheel was one of the first human inventions, but in reality there's a lot of science at work keeping you safe.
According to the University of Southern California Illumin engineering review, your tires are all about tread. This is the part that grips the road and keeps you from sliding around. You should make a habit of checking your treads to make sure they're still in working order – if they're too worn, it could be time to change your tires.
Transmission
If there were to be a heart and soul of your car, it would be the transmission. This is one of the most complex components a vehicle contains, both in terms of its construction and the science behind it. In layman's terms, your transmission is what makes your car go. As the Science Channel indicated, it takes the energy generated by the engine and sends – or transmits – it to the part of the car that turns the wheels known as the driveshaft. It's a very basic concept that is practically witchcraft when it comes to the actual execution, which is why "transmission" is the last word you ever want to hear your mechanic say in the shop.
Fluids
Humans are made up of about 70 percent water. While cars may not be quite so aqueous in their construction, they still contain a good amount of various fluids, some of which you're probably already familiar with. Motor oil is probably the most well-known and, arguably, the most important to the auto's operation. According to Autos.com, oil lubricates the engine as it turns and burns and keeps the parts from wearing out.
Of course, there's more in your car's veins than just motor oil. Everything from brake fluid to washer fluid help your car function. Keeping on top of your fluid maintenance is important. Not only should they be checked regularly and refilled as needed, certain changes in coloration or viscosity could indicate potential problems.
If your car needs maintenance, head to the NJ State Auto Auction Total Car Care Center. The on-site mechanics will help you identify and problems and get your car back on the road.