How It Works

How cars work in plain English — with 3D models you can rotate. No formulas, no repair experience needed.

How an automatic shifts gears on its own: planetary gearset, brakes and clutches, torque converter, P, R, N, D modes.

How power reaches all four wheels: transfer case, driveshafts, differential, final drive gears, multi-plate clutch, three layouts, what fails.

How the engine stays at the right temperature: pump, thermostat and two loops, radiator with fan, pressure cap, heater, what fails.

How fuel becomes rotation: piston, connecting rod and crankshaft, the four strokes, cylinder firing order.

How rotation reaches the wheels: clutch, gear pairs, synchronizer, reverse gear and differential.

How a car stops: pedal and booster, hydraulics, caliper and pads, rotor heat and ABS.

How the wheel stays on the road: spring, shock absorber with a piston in oil, control arms and ball joints, anti-roll bar, where knocks come from.