Car Basics — How Cars Work, Maintenance, and Technical Terms Explained
Everything you need to know about how cars work. Torque, horsepower, tyres, maintenance schedules, engine oil — explained in simple terms for Indian car owners.
Why understanding car basics matters
You do not need to be a mechanic to own a car. But understanding how your car works helps you:
- Make smarter buying decisions (what features actually matter?)
- Avoid getting cheated at service centers
- Catch problems early (before they become expensive)
- Maintain your car properly (longer life, better resale)
This hub covers the technical terms, maintenance schedules, and mechanical concepts that every car owner should know. Written in plain language, India-specific.
What we cover
How cars work
- Torque vs horsepower — what actually matters for driving
- Turbochargers and superchargers — how forced induction works
- Engine types — petrol vs diesel mechanics
- Transmission types — how automatics and manuals differ
- Braking systems — ABS, EBD, and brake assist explained
Tyres and wheels
- How to read tyre size (195/65 R15 means what?)
- Tubeless vs tube tyres — which is better?
- When to replace tyres (tread depth, age, damage)
- Tyre pressure — why it matters and how to check
- Wheel alignment and balancing — what's the difference?
Maintenance
- Service schedule — what happens at 10K, 20K, 40K km
- Engine oil types — 5W-30 vs 10W-40, mineral vs synthetic
- When to change brake pads, brake fluid, coolant
- Battery life — how long do car batteries last in India?
- Air filter replacement — why it matters in dusty conditions
Technical terms decoded
- BHP vs PS vs kW — different ways to measure power
- Kerb weight vs gross vehicle weight
- Ground clearance — why SUVs claim high clearance
- Wheelbase — how it affects cabin space
- Boot space — litres vs real usability
Spoke pages coming soon
We are adding detailed guides on each topic. Check back soon for:
- Torque vs horsepower explained for Indian roads
- How to choose the right tyres for your car
- Car service schedule — what to do at every interval
- When to replace car tyres (complete guide)
- Engine oil types explained — which should you use?
- How turbochargers work and why they fail
- Tubeless vs tube tyres — pros and cons
Dive Deeper
Car Service Schedule — What to Do at 10K, 20K, 40K km in India
Complete car maintenance schedule for Indian driving conditions. What gets checked, what gets replaced, and why — at every service interval.
Torque vs Horsepower — What Actually Matters for Driving in India?
Torque accelerates your car. Horsepower gives top speed. Which matters more for Indian roads? The complete explanation with real examples.
When to Replace Car Tyres in India — Tread Depth, Age, Warning Signs
How to check if your tyres need replacement. Tread depth test, age limits, visual signs of wear — the complete guide for Indian roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between torque and horsepower?
Torque is pulling power (how quickly a car accelerates from standstill). Horsepower is top-end speed and power. For city driving, torque matters more. For highway driving, horsepower matters more.
How often should I service my car in India?
Most cars need service every 10,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check your owner's manual for the exact schedule. Indian driving conditions (dust, heat, traffic) require regular maintenance.
When should I replace my car tyres?
Replace tyres when tread depth falls below 1.6mm, or after 5 years regardless of usage. Check for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear. Worn tyres drastically reduce braking performance and safety.