The rear subframe, in any car, is a significant component. The subframe acts as a mounting point for all of the rear suspension components and the rear differential. Its made to withstand all of...
Modern technology makes life easier, in a sense. We advance as we look at the best of what we have and improve it in all areas we can—cars are no different. When the ZF 8HP transmission debuted in 2009, it became the go-to automatic transmission to use. Automakers from Alfa Romeo to BMW,...
The BMW E39 has an electronic wheel speed sensor located at each hub. In the simplest terms, the car uses these sensors to count the number of rotations made by each wheel. It monitors each one to recognize if one or multiple of the wheels are slipping or are locked up. This is how the car’s...
A functioning vacuum pump is critical to a correctly performing turbocharged engine. While driving, the turbocharger creates boost pressure in the intake, rather than vacuum pressure. A source of vacuum is needed during driving, making the vacuum pump a vital component. The vacuum pump provides a...
An engine's timing belt or timing chain keeps all of the components of the engine in the right place at the right time. A belt or chain skipping a tooth can cause the valves to hit the pistons, destroying the engine. Timing chain systems, while safer than belts, are far more difficult to service....
The clutch is directly responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission. While the clutch is often referred to as one unit, several parts make up the assembly. The clutch disc is a plate with friction material on either side designed to grab the flywheel and pressure plate,...
It's no secret that the world of German automobiles offers a plethora of entertaining options for any type of enthusiast. While newer variants and models may command a hefty price tag and have higher operating costs, these are five stout German cars that provide cheap thrills at $5,000 or...
The BMW E36 has become one of the most affordable entries into the European sports sedan or coupe market. Their relative affordability and solid chassis make them great for low-budget motorsports while still being competitive. However, their attractive handling characteristics can take a...
Eighteenth-Century English Poet William Blake once wrote that the road of excess leads to the palace of wisdom. If this is truly the case, enthusiasts like Brian Marks must surely be wise beyond their years. He has a history of taking things to the extreme in his quest for the ultimate BMW, and...
Is this the best BMW E30 M3 in America? It's not the fastest, it doesn't have the lowest mileage, it doesn't have extensive racing history, and it may not be the most original, but it is perfect in every sense of the word. Immaculate. Flawless. Whatever adjective that comes to mind when you're...