Common Automobile Dictionary
The automobile industry is one of the most varied and expansive industries in terms of the parts and services it offers. As such, it also has a large lexicon of words, terms, and acronyms. These are the words and terms you’re likely to hear when you’re around car dealers, mechanics, and car owners.
Accelerator Pedal: The foot operated pedal that controls the speed of the engine and the vehicle.
Airbag: Housed inside the steering wheel or dashboard, this is an inflatable cushion designed to protect the occupant of a vehicle in the event of a collision.
Alternator: An electrical device that converts mechanical energy into AC power to charge the vehicle’s battery.
ABS: Abbreviation for Anti-lock Braking System, which prevents the wheels from locking while braking, helping to maintain driver control.
Axle: A shaft connecting the two rear wheels of a vehicle to the frame.
Battery: A device that stores electricity and provides the electrical current needed to start the vehicle.
Brake: A system that converts kinetic energy into thermal energy in order to slow and stop the vehicle.
Catalytic Converter: A device used to control exhaust emissions.
CV Joint: Used in front-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles, these joints connect the axle to the wheel hub, allowing the wheels to rotate in various directions.
Drive Shaft: The metal shaft that connects the engine to the rear wheels of a vehicle.
Exhaust System: A system of pipes that takes exhaust gases from the engine, often including a catalytic converter and muffler.
Fuel System: The components that store and deliver fuel to the engine.
Gasket: A device designed to prevent the leakage of fluids from the engine.
Headlights: Lights located near the front of a vehicle that provide illumination for driving in low light or dark conditions.
Ignition System: A system of components that provide electrical sparks to start the vehicle.
Intake Manifold: The component that supplies air to the engine of a vehicle.
Motors: The parts of the vehicle that use electricity or fuel to power their motion.
Oil Change: The process of replacing old engine oil with new oil.
Power Steering: A system used to make steering easier by reducing the effort needed to turn the wheels.
Radiator: Used to keep the engine cool, the radiator contains a liquid coolant which absorbs the heat generated by the engine.
Spark Plug: A device used to ignite the fuel/air mixture in the engine.
Tire: The most important part of a vehicle’s suspension, tires are designed to provide grip and cushioning between the vehicle and the road.
Transmission: A system of components used to transfer power from the engine to the wheels.
Windshield: A window used to keep dirt and wind from entering the vehicle’s cabin.
These are just some of the words and terms used in the automotive world. As technology and the industry evolves, more terms will be added to the ever-growing lexicon. Knowing the lingo can help with understanding how your car works and make conversations with mechanics and other car enthusiasts easier.
