It’s easy to adopt a "set it and forget it" mindset after installing a new performance part. The job is done, and you can move on to the next upgrade. However, this is one of the biggest mistakes you can make with an Air Oil Separator system. The AOS unit itself is just one part of the equation; the network of hoses and clamps connecting it to your engine is where the system can fail. A loose clamp or a cracked hose can create a vacuum leak, allowing oil right back into your intake. This guide focuses on the most overlooked aspect of your 2015 Subaru WRX Air Oil Separator: its links, and how to ensure they are always working perfectly.
Key Takeaways
- Connect your content strategically: Use internal links to guide visitors through your website and help search engines understand your site's structure. When linking to other websites, choose high-quality sources to build credibility and show your content is well-researched.
- Make your link text clear and descriptive: The clickable text of a link should tell users exactly what to expect. Replace generic phrases like "click here" with specific descriptions, such as "performance parts for Subaru STIs," to improve usability and SEO.
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Use the right attributes for a better experience: For links to external sites, use
target="_blank"to open them in a new tab so visitors don't leave your page. Differentiating between relative URLs (for internal pages) and absolute URLs (for external sites) also keeps your site organized and easy to maintain.
What Is an Href Link?
If you’ve ever clicked on a piece of text that took you to another webpage, you’ve used an href link. It’s the fundamental building block of the internet, creating the “web” of interconnected pages we browse every day. The term “href” is short for “hypertext reference,” and it’s an attribute within an HTML anchor tag (<a>). Think of the anchor tag as the container for your link, and the href attribute as the instruction that tells the browser exactly where to go when someone clicks it.
Without href links, navigating the internet would be impossible. You’d have to manually type every single URL into your address bar. Imagine reading a forum post about the best Subaru WRX upgrades and not being able to simply click a link to see the parts being discussed. Href links create a seamless experience, connecting related pieces of information across a single website or the entire internet. The destination can be another webpage, an image, a PDF file, or even a specific spot on the same page. The HTML <a> tag's href attribute is what makes this powerful and intuitive navigation possible, forming the basis for how we discover and consume content online.
An Example of an Href Link
In practice, an href link is a simple line of code. Let’s say you were writing a blog post and wanted to link to our page on overlanding solutions. The HTML would look like this:
<a href="https://crawfordperformance.com/collections/overlanding-solutions">Check out our overlanding solutions</a>
This is an example of an absolute URL, as it contains the full web address. You use absolute URLs when you’re linking to an external page on a different website.
If you were already on our website and wanted to create a link from one page to another, you could use a relative URL. For instance, linking from our homepage to our engine tuning services might look like this:
<a href="/pages/tuning-services">Learn about our tuning services</a>
This works because the browser already knows it’s on crawfordperformance.com, so you only need to provide the path to the specific page.
Why Do Href Links Matter?
You might see "href link" and think it’s just technical jargon, but these links are the fundamental building blocks of the internet. They are what make the web a "web," connecting pages and resources. For a website owner, understanding why they matter is key to creating a site that’s easy for both people and search engines to use.
When you build a website for your brand or business, you want visitors to find what they need easily, whether it's a specific part for their Subaru WRX or information about your engine tuning services. Href links create the pathways that guide users through your site.
Beyond user experience, these links are a primary way that search engines like Google discover and understand your content. A well-organized link structure helps search engines see which pages are most important and how they relate to one another. This process is crucial for getting your pages indexed and ranked in search results. Essentially, a smart linking strategy makes your site more visible and user-friendly.
Internal Links
Internal links are hyperlinks that connect one page on your website to another page on the same site. Think of them as the signs and hallways inside your own building. They guide visitors from a blog post about overlanding to your product page for overlanding solutions. This creates a seamless experience, helping users find relevant information without having to leave your site.
For search engines, internal links are just as important. They help search engine crawlers discover all the pages on your site and understand the relationship between them. A logical internal linking structure shows which pages are the most important, passing authority from established pages to newer ones. This helps ensure none of your valuable content becomes an "orphan page" that’s difficult for both users and search engines to find.
External Links
External links are hyperlinks that point from your website to a page on a different website. While it might seem counterintuitive to send visitors away from your site, linking to high-quality, relevant sources can actually build a lot of trust. When you back up your claims by linking to authoritative sites—like an industry study or a reputable manufacturer—it shows that your content is well-researched and credible.
This practice signals to search engines that you are a trustworthy source of information. Linking to reputable domains can enhance your own site's credibility and strengthen its topical relevance. It tells Google what your page is about and that you're part of a larger conversation within your niche. Just be sure you're linking to high-quality sites, as linking to spammy or low-quality domains can have the opposite effect.
5 Best Practices for Href Links
Whether you’re running a build blog, managing a car club website, or sharing information on forums, how you link to other pages matters. Creating clean, effective links makes your content more professional, easier for people to use, and more visible to search engines. Think of it like building a car—every component has a purpose, and getting the details right leads to better performance. Following a few best practices for your href links ensures your website or post functions smoothly and provides a great experience for your readers. These simple habits will help you share your passion and knowledge more effectively, connecting your audience with the resources they need, from installation guides to the best performance parts on the market.
1. Choose the Right Href Attribute Value
The first step is deciding whether to use an absolute or a relative URL in your href attribute. An absolute URL is the full web address (e.g., https://crawfordperformance.com) and is used when linking to an external website. A relative URL is a shortened path (e.g., /collections/wrx-upgrades) and is used for internal links between pages on your own site. Using the correct format helps search engines and users navigate your site logically. For example, if you’re writing a blog post about your build, you’d use a relative URL to link to your photo gallery page but an absolute URL to link to a manufacturer’s product page.
2. Use Other Helpful Anchor Tag Attributes
Beyond the href itself, other attributes can improve the user experience. The most common one is , which tells the browser to open the linked page in a new tab. This is incredibly useful when you’re linking to an external resource, like a technical document or a video. By having the link open in a new tab, your visitors can view the content without leaving your website. This simple addition keeps your audience engaged with your page while still allowing them to explore linked content you’ve recommended.
3. Get the Syntax Right
Clean, correct HTML syntax is fundamental for a well-functioning website. When creating links, ensure your anchor tags are properly opened (<a href="...">) and closed (</a>). It’s also important to avoid using a hashtag (#) as a placeholder for a link that doesn't go anywhere. This can create a confusing experience for users and can cause issues with page accessibility. A website with clean code is not only more reliable for visitors but is also easier for search engines to crawl and understand, which can positively impact your visibility in search results.
4. Optimize Your Anchor Content
The clickable text of a link, known as anchor content or anchor text, should be descriptive and relevant. Avoid generic phrases like “click here” or “read more.” Instead, use text that clearly indicates what the user will find when they click. This practice benefits both users and search engines by providing valuable context. For example, instead of writing “For parts, click here,” you would write, “We installed several Subaru STI upgrades to get more power.” This approach makes your content more readable and helps search engines understand the topic of the linked page.
5. Check Your Links Regularly
Over time, pages get moved or deleted, which can result in broken links on your site. Clicking a link only to land on a "404 Not Found" page is frustrating for users and can signal to search engines that your site is outdated or poorly maintained. It’s a good practice to audit your links periodically to ensure they all lead to the correct destination. You can use various online tools to scan your site for broken links and fix them. Regularly maintaining your links is a simple but crucial step in keeping your website healthy, functional, and user-friendly.
What Are the Different Types of Href Values?
The href attribute is versatile and can hold different types of values depending on where you want the link to go. Think of it like programming a GPS: you can enter a full street address, a nearby landmark, or even just "the coffee shop down the street." Each type of value gives the browser a specific kind of instruction. Understanding these different values helps you create links that are efficient, user-friendly, and easy to manage, whether you're linking to another page on your site or an external resource. Let's break down the most common types you'll encounter.
Relative URLs
A relative URL points to another page or file within the same website without writing out the full domain name. For example, if you're on crawfordperformance.com/blog and want to link to the WRX upgrades page, you could simply use href="/collections/wrx-upgrades". This type of link is "relative" to the current domain. This approach is incredibly practical for internal linking. It makes your links shorter and much easier to manage. If you ever change your domain name, all your relative links will continue to work perfectly because they don't contain the old domain. It’s the most efficient way to build your site's internal navigation and ensure everything stays connected.
Absolute URLs
An absolute URL is the full web address of a page, including the protocol (https://) and the domain name. For instance, href="https://crawfordperformance.com/collections/sti-upgrades" is an absolute URL. You must use absolute URLs whenever you link to an external website, like a partner's page or a source you're citing in a blog post. While you can use them for internal links, it's generally not the best practice. If your domain name ever changes, you would have to go back and update every single absolute URL pointing to your own site. Using them for their intended purpose—linking out to other websites—ensures your HTML links are clear and direct the browser exactly where to go.
Anchor Links
Anchor links are a special type of internal link that directs a user to a specific section of the same page they are already on. They use a hash symbol (#) followed by the ID of the element you want to jump to, like href="#contact-form". This is perfect for long-form content, such as guides or FAQs, where you want to help readers find the information they need without endless scrolling. By creating a clickable table of contents, you can significantly improve the user experience. Readers can simply click a link and be taken directly to the relevant section. This small feature makes your content more accessible and keeps visitors engaged by helping them get around your page effortlessly.
Mailto Links
A mailto link is a simple and effective way to let users send you an email directly from your website. When a user clicks on it, their default email client (like Outlook or Gmail) will open with a new message pre-addressed to you. The syntax is straightforward: href="mailto:info@crawfordperformance.com". This is a fantastic tool for contact pages or footers because it removes the friction of having to copy and paste an email address. You can even pre-fill the subject line and body text to help streamline inquiries. For any business, making it easy for customers to get in touch is key, and the mailto href attribute is a classic, reliable way to do just that.
Tel Links
Similar to mailto links, tel links create a clickable phone number. The format is href="tel:+1-123-456-7890". On a smartphone, clicking this link will prompt the user to call the number directly. This is an essential feature for any business website, as a huge portion of web traffic comes from mobile devices. By turning your phone number into a tel link, you make it incredibly easy for potential customers to contact you with a single tap. It eliminates the need for them to memorize or copy the number, reducing the chance of errors and making the process of reaching out completely seamless. It’s a simple piece of code that can make a big difference in customer communication.
What Are Common Anchor Tag Attributes?
Beyond telling a link where to go, several other attributes can fine-tune its behavior and provide extra context for users and search engines. Think of them as modifiers that give you more control over how your links function. Using them correctly can improve your site’s user experience, security, and SEO. Here are four of the most common anchor tag attributes you should know.
The Download Attribute
When you want users to download a file directly, the download attribute is your go-to tool. This HTML5 feature tells the browser to save the resource in the href instead of navigating to it. It’s perfect for offering content like PDFs, spec sheets, or image files. You can even suggest a new filename. For example, <a href="file.pdf" download="new-file.pdf"> prompts a user to save the file with a more descriptive name. This simple addition creates a much smoother experience for any downloadable content.
The Rel Attribute
The rel attribute defines the relationship between your page and the page you're linking to, giving context to search engines and browsers. You’ve likely seen rel="nofollow", which tells crawlers not to pass link equity to the destination. Another crucial value is rel="noopener", a security best practice used with . It prevents the new tab from gaining malicious access to the original page's window object. Properly using the rel attribute is a key part of responsible web development and SEO.
The Target Attribute
By default, a link opens in the same browser tab. The target attribute lets you change this. The most common value is , which opens the linked document in a new tab. This is ideal for external links, as it sends users to a resource without navigating them away from your website. Keeping your site open encourages them to return after they're done. The default behavior, , simply loads the page in the current frame, which is standard for internal navigation.
The Title Attribute
The title attribute adds extra information to a link, appearing as a tooltip when a user hovers over it. This can provide more context about where the link leads. For example, you could clarify an acronym or briefly describe a linked article. While it can enhance the user experience, it’s best to use it sparingly. The information should be supplementary, not critical, as it isn't accessible on most touch devices and isn't always read by screen readers. Keep it concise and helpful for those who can see it.
How to Check and Optimize Your Links
When we talk about the "links" in your Air Oil Separator (AOS) system, we're not talking about hyperlinks—we're referring to the network of hoses, clamps, and fittings that are the lifelines of the entire setup. A high-quality AOS is one of the most important modifications you can make to protect your WRX's engine, but it's only as effective as its connections. A single loose clamp, kinked hose, or cracked fitting can create a leak, compromising the vacuum the system needs to function. This can allow oil vapor to get right back into your intake, defeating the purpose of having an AOS in the first place.
Think of it as a chain; it's only as strong as its weakest link. That’s why regularly checking these components is a simple but critical part of your maintenance routine. It’s the best way to ensure your investment continues to safeguard your engine's performance and longevity. By staying on top of these connections, you guarantee your AOS can do its job: keeping your intake clean and your engine running strong.
Start with a Flawless Installation
The first step to an optimized system is a perfect installation. Whether you’re tackling the job yourself or having a trusted shop handle it, the details are everything. All hose clamps must be properly tightened—snug enough to seal without damaging the hose. It’s also crucial to route the hoses carefully to avoid sharp bends or kinks that could restrict airflow. Pay close attention to keeping them away from high-heat sources like the turbocharger or exhaust manifold to prevent them from becoming brittle and failing prematurely. Following a detailed installation guide specific to the 2015-2021 WRX is the best way to get every connection right from the start.
Perform Routine Inspections
Once your AOS is installed, a quick inspection during your regular oil changes is all it takes to keep it in top shape. With the engine cool, take a few minutes to visually inspect all the hoses for any signs of cracking, swelling, or brittleness. Give the clamps a quick check to ensure they’re still tight. Look for any oil residue around the fittings, as this can be an early sign of a small leak. If your AOS model includes a drain, remember to empty it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This simple, proactive check ensures your system remains sealed and fully effective.
Understand the Performance Impact
A properly functioning AOS with secure links is one of the best WRX upgrades for long-term engine health. By effectively separating oil from the PCV gases, it prevents a layer of oil from coating your intake tract, intercooler, and intake valves. This directly reduces carbon buildup, a common issue that can rob your engine of power over time. More importantly, it prevents oil from lowering the effective octane of your fuel, which is critical for preventing knock or detonation in a high-performance, direct-injection turbocharged engine. This makes a well-maintained AOS a foundational mod for anyone looking to add power safely and reliably.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the real difference between using a relative URL and an absolute URL for my own site's pages? Think of it this way: a relative URL is like giving directions to a room inside your own house—you'd just say "it's down the hall to the left." An absolute URL is like giving the full street address, city, and zip code. While you can use the full address to find a room in your own house, it's inefficient. Using relative URLs for your internal links is the best practice because it keeps your site's structure clean and portable. If you ever change your domain name, all your internal links will still work perfectly.
When is it actually a good idea to make a link open in a new tab? You should have a link open in a new tab whenever you're sending a visitor to an external website. By using the target="_blank" attribute, you allow your reader to check out the resource you've recommended without closing your website. This keeps them engaged with your content and makes it easy for them to return to your page once they're done, creating a much better experience for them.
Why does the text I make clickable for a link actually matter? The clickable text, or anchor text, acts as a signpost for both your visitors and search engines. Using descriptive text like "our Subaru Crosstrek upgrades" instead of a generic phrase like "click here" tells people exactly what they'll find on the other side of the link. It also gives search engines valuable context about the linked page's topic, which helps them understand your site's structure and content more effectively.
What are the consequences of having broken links on my website? Broken links create a frustrating experience for your visitors, leading them to dead-end "404 Not Found" pages. This can make your site seem outdated or poorly maintained, which can cause people to lose trust in your brand. For search engines, broken links are a signal that a site isn't being kept up to date, which can negatively affect how your pages are indexed and ranked over time.
Besides linking to other pages, what else can an href link do? The href attribute is surprisingly versatile. Beyond just linking to other web pages, you can create links that prompt a user's email client to open with a pre-filled address using mailto:. You can also create a clickable phone number with tel: that allows mobile users to call you with a single tap. These simple variations make it much easier for customers to get in touch with you directly from your website.