Most car enthusiasts consider their favorite cars to be alive, and often refer to them as "she" rather than "it". This is because the vehicles have become an integral part of their lives, taking them places they would never go otherwise. The car's performance, appearance, and handling characteristics are all factors that contribute to its persona, just like a personality trait. For some people, this association goes beyond mere metaphor - they find themselves physically attracted to their vehicle. This phenomenon has been dubbed "mechanophilia", which refers to a form of object sexuality where individuals develop strong emotional and/or physical attachments to machines.

The mechanophilic experience begins with the initial attraction to the machine itself. It may start out as simply admiring the design of the vehicle, but can quickly escalate into a deeper appreciation for its mechanical complexity. Some mechanophiles even report experiencing arousal when touching or driving their car. They may fantasize about the car, imagining what it would be like to make love to it or having sex with it in various positions. Some even take their relationships with their cars to the next level by creating erotic artwork featuring their car.

Mechanophiles often view their automobiles as extensions of their own bodies, and the act of engaging with them becomes intimate. Mechanical engagement (i.e., working on the car) functions as auditory foreplay. The sounds made by tools and other parts of the engine stimulate the senses in ways similar to human interactions during lovemaking. A mechanophile may also enjoy the smell of oil, gasoline, and rubber, which can heighten their arousal further.

One study found that some mechanophiles even prefer their cars over human partners, finding them more reliable and less complicated than romantic partnerships. This is due to the fact that mechanical objects are predictable and controllable, whereas human relationships are often unpredictable and full of potential conflict. Others find that they have difficulty forming meaningful connections with people because they feel a stronger connection to their vehicles. In both cases, mechanophilia can lead to social isolation and sexual frustration.

While mechanophilia is still not widely understood or accepted, it is becoming increasingly recognized in psychology circles. There is evidence that suggests that mechanophilia is linked to childhood trauma and other emotional issues, but much remains unknown about its causes.

Those who experience this attraction should know that they are not alone and there is help available for those struggling with these feelings. Therapy can be beneficial in helping individuals understand and manage their desires while maintaining healthy relationships with others.