For the most part, while their functions are deceptively complex, we're all familiar with a typical car axle. Being the method by which most cars mount their wheels, axles represent one of the most ...

Differentials are what allow the wheels on a vehicle to actually move around effectively. Open differentials are common, but ...

A drive axle is essentially a half axle, so named because it does half of the job, extending from a transaxle or differential to one of the wheels. Its twin on the other side completes the set.

All-wheel-drive systems are proliferating through the car market like so many tribbles on Kirk’s Starship Enterprise. These systems promise all-weather assurance as well as dry-road dynamic benefits, ...

As the How It Works series progresses, we edge closer and closer to a car's ultimate goal—which is, of course, to put power to the pavement. Lost month you learned about how a transmis-sion directs ...

Placing two motors together in a shared drive is a simple enough task. By using something like a chain or a belt to couple them, or even placing them on the same shaft, the torque can be effectively ...

Front differential failures are extremely rare, but when they do start to fail, you may hear grinding, feel vibrations and have trouble steering. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to have ...

Four-wheel-drive used to be synonymous with mullets off-roading in the minds of most consumers. Like many buzz-worthy specs originally developed for enthusiasts and professionals, though, some variant ...

When it comes to fixing your differential, there’s bad news and good news. The bad news is that differential replacements are expensive, often ranging from $2,500 to $6,000. The good news is that both ...

When a car turns a corner, one wheel is on the "inside" of a turning arc, and the other wheel is on the "outside." Consequently, the outside wheel has to turn faster than the inside one in order to ...