Automotive Mechanical Myths- Debunked
Myths and misconceptions are prevalent in each and every field. And automotive world is no different! Especially, the particular aspect of how a car actually works has always been accompanied by a lot of myths. Here are a few common automotive mechanical myths, that have been debunked:
Myth: “All-wheel drive will help you dodge objects on the road and go faster around corners.”
Fact: Well, all-wheel drive obviously helps a vehicle accelerate. However, if we see, any advanced system does help a driver avoid road hazards or grip the pavement in corners to a certain extend. But, the truth is that tires, suspension, vehicle weight, as well as weight location are the factors, which actually determine how a vehicle responds to emergency situations on the road. All-wheel drive would definitely help a vehicle climb a snowy hill or accelerate out of a turn, but will not help it make a turn faster.
Myth: “A longer wheelbase (the distance between the centers of the front and rear axles) always makes a vehicle more stable.”
Fact: Wheelbase is of course one of the factors that is responsible for the stability of a vehicle, however, it is not the sole factor to determine the same! In fact, suspension design and where the vehicle’s weight is located are the two factors more responsible for stability than the length of wheelbase.
Myth: “Large-diameter wheels fitted with low-profile tires improve handling”
Fact: Seriously, large-diameter wheels coupled with short sidewall tires add fashion to a vehicle. Earlier, the purpose of large-diameter wheels was to make room for bigger brakes, but eventually motorists fall for the look. And, low-profile tires do provide increased steering response, which people often confuse with good handling! But, in reality, traction is solely determined by the composition of the tread rubber and more or less by the tire width.
Myth: “The purpose of antilock braking systems (ABS) is to shorten stopping distance.”
Fact: The main purpose of antilock braking system is to provide the driver with the ability to steer around danger and not to swirl when braking hard! A shorter stopping distance is necessarily a by-product of ABS, since drivers can shorten braking distance with the system because nothing in terms of skill is required to get the most from the system. One just needs to stomp on the pedal and steer around the obstacle.
