Not everyone is a car buff

What is a car differential? We attempt to explain 10 car-related terms

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As long as you aren’t directly involved in it, not being savvy with a certain profession’s lingo is usually not a problem. But alas, exceptions exist, and these situations can create confusion and anxiety for the uninformed party in a conversation. Just like a patient who struggles to understand the complex terms a doctor uses to explain their condition, many people feel unsure when a mechanic explains a problem with their car. Listed below are 10 words and phrases that car buffs and mechanics use frequently. How many of these do you know?

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In the context of cars, the term "banger" refers to traditional combustion engines. While many people are familiar with engine cylinders, not everyone knows how the term "banger" relates to them.

For example, some refer to four-cylinder engines as "four-bangers" because of the distinct "banging" sound they produce.

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When talking about pillars in a car context, we are referring to the structural divisions between the windows. The A-pillar typically denotes the section on each side of the windshield, the B-pillars are located between the driver and passenger windows, and the C-pillar is positioned toward the rear of the vehicle.

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A limited-slip differential reduces wheel slip with the least traction, by shifting a portion of the torque to the wheel with the most traction, therefore, improving the performance of a car. This results in better overall traction.

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Brake bias refers to how braking power is distributed between the front and rear wheels. Brake bias can either reference the front of the car or the rear, depending on where it’s dispersed. Brake bias is often expressed as a percentage of braking power sent to the front brakes (e.g., 52%).

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The camber is an adjustable element of the car’s wheels that sets the tilt angle. Depending on the direction of the tilt, camber is classified as either negative or positive. Each car’s camber setting is adjustable and varies based on the driver’s preference.

How a driver sets their camber affects how quickly the tires wear over time. When in doubt, always check with a specialist.

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Another expression relating to the brakes is the action of "bedding the brake pads." All brake pads require a bedding process to enhance performance, which involves creating a thin transfer film between the pads and the rotor.

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A diagnostic check takes place when a mechanic connects a laptop or specialized equipment to a car to detect documented faults. Each fault is assigned a unique code, and by accessing the car's electronic control unit (ECU), the specific number will identify what the problem is.

Most modern mechanics use computers that can connect to a car’s electronic system and read the error log for problems.

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In the automotive world, suspension bushings are small rubber components attached to suspension parts that help absorb shocks and vibrations from the road. Since they are made of rubber, they can deteriorate and wear out over time, requiring periodic replacement.

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The third and final brake-related term on this list, "spongy brakes," is an expression used to describe an instance where the brake pedal offers little resistance when pressed down. This typically indicates a lack of brake fluid, which is fairly cheap to buy and add.

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A car differential is a set of gears that splits engine torque, allowing the wheels to rotate at different speeds. This is especially important when turning, as the outer wheels must rotate faster than the inner wheels to cover more ground in the same amount of time.

The front differential is located between the two front wheels and distributes the engine’s power to the front wheels. In the same manner, the rear differential is located between the two rear wheels and distributes the engine’s power to the rear wheels.

The Bard’s English

10 Shakespearean phrases we still use today

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William Shakespeare’s influence on the English language is unparalleled, and he is often regarded as one of the most significant figures in classical literature. Beyond his famous dramatic works, Shakespeare also created and popularized many words and phrases that are still in use today. From finding yourself "in a pickle" to having "too much of a good thing," the Bard’s influence on everyday language just can’t be ignored! Join us as we explore 10 words and phrases that owe their existence to Shakespeare.

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Shakespeare coined the phrase "to break the ice" in The Taming of the Shrew. The phrase refers to overcoming awkwardness when meeting someone new. This was metaphorical, likening human interaction to cracking through ice, a common symbol of tension and social distance.

Today, the phrase is almost universal in social and professional contexts. There are even "icebreaker" activities to help people introduce themselves or get acquainted quickly in gatherings.

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In Romeo and Juliet, Mercutio (a close friend to Romeo in the play) refers to a "wild-goose chase" during a playful exchange, describing a type of racing where riders follow the unpredictable path of the lead horse, much like geese in flight.

The modern sense of the phrase describes any frustrating or aimless pursuit, often with no clear resolution. In any case, the underlying idea of chasing something elusive or unattainable remains.

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Shakespeare used "in a pickle" in The Tempest when King Alonso questioned Trinculo’s confused state. At the time in England, being "in a pickle" actually referred to being inebriated, likening the state of drunkenness to food submerged in brine.

Over time, the metaphor got simplified and evolved to mean "in a tough spot," much like a cucumber trapped in a briny jar.

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In Henry V, Shakespeare described a character as having a "heart of gold," praising his noble character and good nature. The phrase stuck and became a timeless symbol of virtue and kindness.

This phrase remains a powerful compliment today. When we say someone has a heart of gold, we emphasize their goodness and selflessness, which is certainly a testament to Shakespeare’s ability to craft universally understood metaphors.

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This famous line from The Merchant of Venice warns against trusting appearances. "All that glitters is not gold" reminds us that what shines on the surface may hide less valuable qualities beneath.

It is now a common English proverb, used as a warning in various contexts. While Shakespeare did not invent it, he likely adapted the idea from earlier sources, popularizing it in its modern form.

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In Henry IV, Part 2, Shakespeare used "break the news" to refer to revealing important or often unpleasant information. The phrase quickly gained traction and became part of common speech.

Today, "breaking the news" usually involves delivering sensitive or significant information, whether in personal conversations or in the media. It’s a staple phrase in journalism.

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In Othello, Shakespeare’s character Iago says he will "wear his heart upon his sleeve," meaning he will show his emotions openly.

This phrase is widely used today to describe someone who is emotionally transparent. It captures the idea of being vulnerable or honest about one’s feelings, another example of Shakespeare’s universal and enduring insight into human emotions.

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Shakespeare introduced this phrase in The Merry Wives of Windsor. Originally, it conveyed the idea of cracking open opportunities, much like opening an oyster to reveal a pearl within.

Today, the expression is closely associated with optimism and ambition, carrying the notion that the world is filled with untapped potential waiting to be discovered and exploited.

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In As You Like It, Shakespeare’s characters learn that excess—even of something desirable—can lead to negative outcomes. This phrase was likely inspired by older proverbs, but it was popularized by the Bard of Avon.

The modern interpretation of this idiom remains nearly identical to its original use, cautioning against overindulgence.

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Shakespeare coined this phrase and used it in several of his plays, like The Tempest and King John. In his writings, the expression always describes honest and just behavior.

The term "fair play" is now associated with equitable treatment and ethical conduct, especially in sports, but it’s also used in various everyday scenarios where fairness is to be promoted.