Automotive Terms Glossary Posted on September 23, 2024 by Nurul Afsar Last Updated on September 23, 2024 Navigating the world of car maintenance and repairs can be challenging, especially when you’re faced with car industry jargon in and out of the shop. Whether you’re a mechanic, a car enthusiast, or simply a vehicle owner looking to understand your car better, this comprehensive automotive glossary is designed to help. It covers everything from essential maintenance tools to specialized vehicle components, simplifying common car words and car terms. Whether you’re performing your own repairs or discussing issues with a professional, knowing these terms will enhance your understanding of the car industry jargon in and out of the garage. # 4 Post Car Lift A type of automotive lift with four vertical posts, offering stable and secure lifting for cars. It is commonly used for vehicle maintenance, repairs, and even storage. The 4-post design provides more support than a 2-post lift, making it ideal for tasks like wheel alignment or extended storage in both home garages and professional shops. #A ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) A safety system in vehicles that prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. Air Filter A component that cleans the air entering the engine, helping to protect it from dust and debris. Alternator A device that generates electrical power in a car, charging the battery and powering the electrical system when the engine is running. Alignment Lift A specialized type of lift used in automotive shops for performing precise wheel alignments. Alignment lifts are typically 4-post lifts equipped with features like turn plates and slip plates that allow the wheels to move freely during the alignment process. These lifts are essential for adjusting the angles of the wheels to meet manufacturer specifications, ensuring proper tire wear, handling, and safety. Axle A rod or shaft that rotates the wheels. In most vehicles, there is a front and rear axle. Airbag A safety device that inflates quickly during a collision to protect the occupants of a vehicle from impact injuries. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) A drivetrain system that delivers power to all four wheels at the same time, improving traction on various surfaces. Alloy Wheels Wheels made from a combination of metals, typically aluminum and other lightweight materials, offering improved performance and aesthetics compared to standard steel wheels. ATV Lift A specialized lifting device designed to raise All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) off the ground for maintenance and repairs. ATV lifts typically use hydraulic or air power to easily lift the vehicle, allowing mechanics or owners to work on the tires, suspension, and engine. They are essential for ensuring safe and efficient servicing of ATVs in garages or workshops. #B Brake Fluid A hydraulic fluid used in brake systems to transfer force into pressure when the brakes are applied, allowing the car to stop. Blind Spot The area around a vehicle that is not visible to the driver through the rearview or side mirrors, making it important to check manually before changing lanes. Battery A rechargeable power source that supplies electricity to start the engine and powers electrical components like lights, radio, and air conditioning. Bumper A protective shield mounted on the front and rear of a vehicle, designed to absorb impact during minor collisions. Brake Pads Components in a disc brake system that press against the brake rotor to slow down or stop the vehicle when the brakes are applied. Brake Caliper A part of the brake system that houses the brake pads and applies pressure to them, forcing them against the brake rotor to stop the vehicle. #C Chassis The main structure of a vehicle, which supports the body, engine, and other components. Clutch A mechanical device that connects and disconnects the engine from the transmission to allow the vehicle to shift gears. Catalytic Converter A device in the exhaust system that reduces harmful emissions by converting pollutants into less harmful gases before they exit the tailpipe. Cruise Control A system that automatically controls the speed of a vehicle, allowing the driver to maintain a constant speed without pressing the accelerator. CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) A type of transmission that provides seamless acceleration by constantly adjusting to the optimal gear ratio, rather than shifting between a set number of gears. Camshaft A rotating shaft in the engine that controls the timing of the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves. Convertible A type of car with a roof that can be lowered or removed for open-air driving. Coupe A two-door car with a fixed roof and a sporty appearance, often seating two to four passengers. Crossover A vehicle that blends features of an SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) and a car, typically offering higher seating and extra cargo space with car-like handling. Crankshaft A key engine component that converts the up-and-down motion of the pistons into a rotational motion that drives the wheels. Cylinder The chamber in an engine where the combustion of fuel takes place. Engines are often described by the number of cylinders they have, such as a 4-cylinder or 6-cylinder engine. Cabin Air Filter A filter that cleans the air entering the vehicle’s interior from the outside, removing dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. Creeper A low-profile platform on wheels used by mechanics to easily slide underneath vehicles. It provides comfort and mobility when working on the car’s undercarriage. Cruise Control Adaptive An advanced form of cruise control that automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead. CV Axle (Constant Velocity Axle) A type of axle that transfers power from the transmission to the wheels while allowing them to move up and down over bumps, maintaining smooth performance. Cylinder Head The top part of the engine that contains the combustion chambers, intake, and exhaust valves. It plays a critical role in the engine’s performance. #D Differential A gear system that allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds, especially when turning, improving traction and control. Drivetrain The group of components that deliver power from the engine to the wheels. This includes the transmission, differential, and drive shafts. Dashboard The control panel in a vehicle located in front of the driver, containing instruments such as the speedometer, fuel gauge, and warning lights. Disc Brake A type of brake system where a caliper squeezes brake pads against a rotating disc, or rotor, to slow down the vehicle. Drive Belt A rubber belt that transmits power from the engine to other components, such as the alternator, water pump, and air conditioning compressor. Diesel Engine An internal combustion engine that uses diesel fuel instead of gasoline. Diesel engines are known for their efficiency and durability. Dipstick A metal rod used to check the level of engine oil. It is inserted into the oil reservoir and then pulled out to read the oil level. Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) A type of automatic transmission that uses two clutches to provide faster and smoother gear changes compared to traditional automatic transmissions. Daytime Running Lights (DRL) Lights that automatically turn on during daylight hours to increase visibility and safety while driving. Dip Beam The lower, less intense setting of the headlights, used for regular nighttime driving without blinding oncoming traffic. Dually A type of pickup truck or heavy-duty vehicle with four rear wheels (two on each side) for increased towing capacity and stability. #E ECU (Engine Control Unit) A computer system that controls various aspects of the engine’s operation, such as fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions control. Exhaust System A system that channels exhaust gases away from the engine and reduces noise and harmful emissions. Extended Warranty A service contract that extends the coverage for vehicle repairs beyond the manufacturer’s warranty, often covering major mechanical components. #F Fuel Injector A device that sprays fuel into the engine’s combustion chamber for burning, replacing older carburetors. Fuel Economy A measure of how far a vehicle can travel on a certain amount of fuel, usually expressed in miles per gallon (MPG) or liters per 100 kilometers. Fender The part of the vehicle that frames the wheel well, protecting the vehicle from road debris kicked up by the tires. Flat Tire A tire that has lost air pressure, making it unsafe to drive until it is repaired or replaced. Fog Lights Specialized lights located near the front bumper of a vehicle, used in foggy or misty conditions to improve visibility by shining low to the ground. Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) A drivetrain system that powers all four wheels simultaneously, typically used for off-road driving or in slippery conditions. Frame Machine A large piece of equipment used in auto body shops to repair and straighten the chassis or frame of a vehicle after it has been damaged in a collision. The machine uses hydraulic arms and clamps to pull the frame back into its original shape, ensuring the vehicle’s structural integrity and proper alignment. Fuel Pump A component that delivers fuel from the gas tank to the engine, ensuring that the fuel is supplied at the correct pressure for optimal performance. Fuel Tank A storage compartment for fuel, usually located at the rear of the vehicle, that supplies gasoline or diesel to the engine. #G Glove Box A small storage compartment located on the passenger side of the dashboard, often used for storing vehicle documents and small items. Grille The front part of a vehicle, usually designed with openings that allow air to flow into the engine compartment for cooling purposes. Gasket A seal made of rubber or other material used to prevent leaks between two surfaces, such as between the engine block and cylinder head. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) The maximum weight a vehicle can safely carry, including the vehicle’s own weight plus passengers and cargo. #H Horsepower A unit of measurement for engine power. The higher the horsepower, the more powerful the engine is. Hybrid Vehicle A vehicle that uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Hatchback A car body style featuring a rear door that swings upward, providing access to a cargo area that is integrated with the passenger compartment. Head Gasket A component that seals the engine block and cylinder head, preventing coolant and engine oil from mixing with the fuel-air mixture inside the engine. Hydraulic Brake A brake system that uses fluid pressure to activate the brake pads or shoes and stop the vehicle. Heater Core A small radiator-like component located in the dashboard that provides heat to the vehicle’s cabin by circulating hot coolant from the engine. Hydraulic Fluid A liquid used in systems like brakes and power steering to transfer force and create pressure for smooth operation. #I Ignition The system that starts the engine by generating a spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. Idle The state of an engine running at low speed while the vehicle is stationary, such as when waiting at a traffic light. Infotainment System A modern in-car system that combines entertainment, navigation, and communication features, typically displayed on a central touchscreen. #J Jack A mechanical device used to lift a vehicle off the ground, usually to change a tire or perform maintenance underneath the vehicle. Jack Stand A sturdy, adjustable stand used to support a lifted vehicle after it has been raised by a car jack. It provides safety and stability when working underneath a car. #K Kart Stand A specialized stand used to hold and transport go-karts. It typically features a durable frame with wheels, allowing mechanics or racers to easily move and work on the kart. Kart stands are essential for maintaining, transporting, and storing go-karts between races or during repairs. #L Lug Nut A fastener used to secure a wheel to a vehicle’s axle. It must be tightened properly to ensure the wheel stays attached while driving. Lift Kit A modification that raises the height of a vehicle’s suspension, often used to increase ground clearance for off-road driving or to accommodate larger tires. Limited-Slip Differential A type of differential that limits the amount of slip between the wheels, helping to improve traction by ensuring power is distributed more evenly, especially on slippery surfaces. Low Profile Tire A tire with a shorter sidewall compared to traditional tires, often used for performance vehicles to improve handling and aesthetics. #M Manual Transmission A type of transmission where the driver must manually shift gears using a clutch and gear stick, offering more control over the vehicle’s performance. Motor Mount A component that holds the engine in place and absorbs vibrations from the engine to keep them from being felt inside the car. Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) A sensor that measures the amount of air entering the engine, helping the ECU regulate the fuel mixture for optimal performance and efficiency. Mudflaps Flexible shields located behind the wheels that prevent mud, dirt, and debris from being thrown up by the tires. #N Negative Camber A wheel alignment setting where the tops of the tires are tilted inward towards the vehicle’s center. Negative camber improves handling and cornering performance by maximizing tire contact with the road during turns but can cause uneven tire wear if not properly adjusted. #O Oil Filter A filter that removes contaminants from engine oil, helping to protect the engine from wear and tear. Odometer An instrument that measures the total distance a vehicle has traveled, usually displayed on the dashboard. Oversteer A condition in which a vehicle turns more sharply than intended due to the rear wheels losing traction, often leading to a spin if not corrected. Oxygen Sensor A sensor that measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases, helping the engine run efficiently and reducing harmful emissions. Oil Filter Wrench A specialized tool used to remove and install oil filters during an oil change. It provides extra grip for hard-to-reach or tightly screwed filters. #P Parking Brake Also known as the emergency brake, it is a hand-operated or foot pedal brake that keeps the vehicle stationary when parked. Parking Brake Light A warning light on the dashboard that indicates when the parking brake is engaged or if there is an issue with the brake system. Power Steering A system that uses hydraulic or electric power to make steering easier, requiring less effort from the driver when turning the wheel. Powertrain A term referring to the engine, transmission, and other components that generate power and deliver it to the wheels. Parking Sensors Devices that detect objects around the vehicle while parking, providing audible or visual warnings to help avoid collisions. Piston A cylindrical component that moves up and down inside the engine’s cylinder, compressing the fuel-air mixture for combustion. #Q Quick-Release Steering Wheel A steering wheel that can be quickly removed from the steering column using a specialized hub or mechanism. It is commonly used in racing vehicles to make entering and exiting the car easier and improve safety during emergencies. #R Radiator A cooling system component that dissipates heat from the engine to prevent it from overheating. Regenerative Braking A feature in hybrid and electric vehicles that captures and stores energy generated during braking, which can then be used to recharge the battery. RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) A measure of how many times the engine’s crankshaft makes a complete turn in one minute. Higher RPMs indicate the engine is working harder. Roadside Assistance A service offered by many automakers and insurance companies that provides help if your car breaks down, such as towing, battery jump-starts, or flat tire changes. Roll Cage A metal framework inside a vehicle that protects the occupants in the event of a rollover or serious collision, often found in race cars or off-road vehicles. Rotisserie (Automotive) A device used to securely hold and rotate a vehicle’s chassis or body, allowing mechanics or restorers to access all areas easily. It’s especially useful during restoration or bodywork, as it enables 360-degree access for tasks like welding, painting, or rust removal. The vehicle is mounted on a rotisserie to allow precise control over its position. #S Semi-Truck Lift A heavy-duty lifting system designed specifically to raise semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles. These lifts typically come as mobile column lifts or parallelogram lifts, capable of handling the immense weight of semi-trucks, making them essential in commercial truck repair facilities. Semi-truck lifts provide access to the undercarriage for tasks like engine work, suspension repairs, and brake servicing. Shock Absorber A suspension component that absorbs and dampens shocks from road surfaces, providing a smoother ride. Spark Plug A device that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber, creating the explosion that powers the engine. Suspension The system of springs, shocks, and linkages that connects a vehicle to its wheels and allows for smooth driving over uneven surfaces. Spoiler An aerodynamic feature typically found on the rear of a car, designed to reduce drag and improve stability by pushing the car downward at higher speeds. Sunroof A retractable or removable panel on the roof of a vehicle that allows light and air into the cabin. Skid Plate A protective plate attached to the underside of a vehicle to protect critical components, such as the oil pan or fuel tank, from damage when driving over rough terrain. Spoiler An aerodynamic device mounted on a car’s rear that helps to reduce drag and improve stability at higher speeds by pushing the vehicle downward. Strut A type of suspension component that supports the weight of the vehicle while absorbing shocks from the road, helping to provide a smooth ride. Side-Impact Airbags Airbags designed to deploy in the event of a side collision, providing extra protection to the driver and passengers from side impacts. Smart Key A keyless entry and start system that allows drivers to unlock and start their vehicle without using a traditional key, typically by having a key fob in proximity to the car. Steering Wheel Lock A security feature that prevents the steering wheel from being turned when the ignition is off, helping to deter theft. Storage Lift A type of vehicle lift designed for long-term storage of cars, trucks, or other vehicles. Often a 4-post lift, it allows one vehicle to be raised, creating space underneath for another vehicle, maximizing garage storage capacity. Storage lifts are commonly used in personal garages and professional settings where space is limited, and they help protect vehicles from damage by keeping them off the ground. Supercharger A device that increases engine power by forcing more air into the combustion chamber, similar to a turbocharger but mechanically driven by the engine. #T Tire Pressure The amount of air inside the tire, measured in PSI (pounds per square inch). Maintaining correct tire pressure is important for safety and efficiency. Tire Pressure Gauge A tool used to measure the air pressure inside a tire, helping maintain proper tire inflation for safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. Torque A measure of the engine’s ability to do work, often described as the force that causes the car’s wheels to turn. Torque Wrench A tool used to apply a specific amount of torque to a bolt or nut, ensuring that fasteners are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications. This is critical for tasks like changing tires. Transmission A system that transfers power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the car to change speeds. It can be automatic or manual. Transmission Jack A specialized hydraulic jack designed to raise, lower, and support a vehicle’s transmission during removal or installation. It features a wide base and adjustable saddle to securely hold the transmission, making it easier and safer for mechanics to perform transmission work, especially in high-clearance vehicles. Truck Lift A general term for a lift designed to raise trucks off the ground for maintenance, repairs, or modifications. Truck lifts can come in various designs, including 2-post, 4-post, and scissor lifts, and are built to handle the larger size and weight of trucks compared to standard cars. Turbocharger A device that increases engine power by forcing extra air into the combustion chamber, allowing the engine to burn more fuel. Tachometer A gauge on the dashboard that measures the RPM of the engine, helping the driver monitor engine performance. Towing Capacity The maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow behind it, such as a trailer or another vehicle. Traction Control A system that helps prevent the wheels from slipping during acceleration by reducing power or applying brakes to individual wheels. Tread The rubber part of the tire that makes contact with the road. Proper tread depth is essential for traction and safety. Timing Belt A rubber belt that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring the engine’s valves open and close at the right times. Torque Converter A device in automatic transmissions that transfers engine power to the transmission, allowing the vehicle to stop without stalling and to accelerate smoothly. Torsion Bar A type of suspension system that uses a metal bar to absorb shocks from the road and maintain ride stability. Towing Hitch A device attached to the rear of a vehicle that allows it to tow a trailer or another vehicle. Trunk The storage area located at the rear of most vehicles, typically used for transporting luggage, groceries, or other cargo. Tailgate The hinged rear door of a vehicle, often found on pickup trucks, that can be lowered to provide access to the cargo bed. Tire Rotation The process of moving tires from one position on the vehicle to another, such as front to rear, to ensure even wear and extend tire life. Tow Rating The maximum amount of weight a vehicle can safely tow, including the weight of the trailer and its contents. Transmission Fluid A special oil used in the transmission to lubricate gears and other moving parts, helping ensure smooth gear changes and preventing overheating. Turn Signal Lights located on the front and rear of a vehicle that indicate when the driver is turning or changing lanes. Two Post Lift A popular type of car lift featuring two vertical posts and arms that support the vehicle. It’s commonly used in automotive repair shops for easy access to the underside of a vehicle. #U Understeer A situation in which a vehicle turns less sharply than intended, often because the front wheels lose grip on the road. UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) A versatile off-road vehicle designed for work or recreational use. UTVs, also known as side-by-sides, typically have seating for two to six people and are used for a variety of tasks, including farm work, hunting, and off-road adventures. They feature a steering wheel and side-by-side seating, making them different from ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles). UTV Lift A mechanical lift specifically designed to raise UTVs off the ground for maintenance, repairs, or modifications. UTV lifts provide easier access to the underside of the vehicle, allowing for tasks like tire changes, suspension work, or engine maintenance. These lifts are commonly found in off-road and powersports workshops. #V VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) A unique code assigned to every vehicle, used for tracking and identification purposes. Valve A component in the engine that opens and closes to control the flow of fuel and air into the cylinders and exhaust gases out of the engine. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) A safety system that helps prevent skidding or loss of control by automatically adjusting the engine power and applying brakes to individual wheels when necessary. #W Wheel Alignment The process of adjusting the angles of the wheels to ensure they are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground, promoting even tire wear and better handling. Windshield Wiper A device that clears rain, snow, or debris from the windshield to improve visibility for the driver. Wheelbase The distance between the front and rear axles of a vehicle, which affects handling, stability, and interior space. Water Pump A component of the cooling system that circulates coolant through the engine and radiator to prevent the engine from overheating. Wheel Hub The central part of the wheel that connects it to the axle, allowing the wheel to spin freely. Windshield Washer Fluid A special liquid used to clean the windshield of a vehicle, typically stored in a reservoir and sprayed through nozzles on the hood. Winter Tires Special tires designed to perform better in cold weather and on snow or ice, providing improved traction in winter conditions. #X Xenon Headlights A type of high-intensity discharge (HID) lighting that provides brighter and longer-lasting illumination compared to traditional halogen bulbs. #Y Yaw Sensor A sensor in the vehicle’s stability control system that measures the car’s angular velocity, or yaw rate, to detect skidding or loss of control. It helps the stability system make adjustments to keep the vehicle on its intended path. #Z Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) A vehicle that produces no exhaust emissions from the onboard source of power, such as an electric vehicle (EV) or a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. ZEVs contribute to reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
