Cars are some of the most amazing machines every created by human hands. They’re powerful, versatile, and often incredibly stylish. Cars are what give us the ability to go where we want, when we want. While the basics of cars remain the same, there are numerous terms used to describe and discuss them. Here’s a glossary of the most common car terms.
ABS: Antilock Brake System. A safety system installed in most modern automobiles to prevent the wheels from locking up and causing the vehicle to skid and lose control.
Accelerator: The pedal used to increase engine speed. It’s responsible for moving the car forward.
Airbag: A safety device located in the steering wheel, passenger compartments, and side doors. In the event of a collision, the airbag inflates rapidly to protect passengers from injury.
Alternator: A component of the engine that generates electricity and supplies power to run headlights, wipers, and other electrical components.
Auto-manual Transmission: A transmission system that combines both manual and automatic. It allows the driver to shift between either mode.
Axle: A component of the car that connects the wheels and helps transfer power from the engine to the wheels.
Belts: Rubber belts that are part of the engine and transfer power from the crankshaft to other parts of the car.
Carburetor: An engine component that is responsible for the mixing of air and fuel to create the optimum combustion in the engine.
Catalytic Converter: An emissions control device that is installed in the exhaust system. Its purpose is to reduce hazardous pollutants in emissions.
CV Joint: A type of ball joint found in front wheel drive cars. It connects the transmission to the wheel, allowing for the power transfer from the engine to the wheel.
Differentials: A component of the car’s drivetrain. It helps transfer power from the engine to the wheels, allowing for better traction.
ECU: Electronic Control Unit. The main computer in the car. It is responsible for controlling engine functions and fuel delivery.
Fuel Injector: A component of the engine that is responsible for delivering fuel to the combustion chamber.
Grille: Located behind the front of the car, it allows air to enter the engine to keep it cool.
Ignition System: A device that delivers electrical current to the spark plugs. It is responsible for starting the car.
Intercooler: An engine component that cools the air being fed into the engine.
Manifold: An engine component that directs air and fuel inputs into the cylinders.
Oil Filter: A filter installed in the engine to remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants from the oil.
Parking Brake: A mechanism in the car used to keep it in place when parked.
Radiator: A component of the car that helps keep the engine cool. It circulates coolant throughout the car.
Starter Motor: A mechanical device used to start the engine.
Timing Belts: Rubber belts in the engine that help control the timing of the valves and pistons.
Transmission: The mechanism in the car that transfers power from the engine to the drive wheels.
Water Pump: A component of the engine that circulates coolant throughout the engine.
Wheel alignment: The process of adjusting the steering and suspension of the car to ensure that the wheels are correctly lined up.
Wheel hub: A component of the car that allows the wheel to be secured to the axle.
Windshield Wiper: A device used to clean the windshield of rain, dirt, and debris.
