Glossary

A safety system preventing the wheels from locking up during braking, thereby maintaining tractive contact with the road surface.

Manages the anti-lock braking system to prevent the wheels from locking up during braking, maintaining tractive contact with the road surface.

The heart of the air conditioning system, it compresses and transports refrigerant gas.

A geometric arrangement of linkages designed to solve the problem of wheels inside and outside of a turn needing to trace circles of different radii.

An advanced version of cruise control that automatically adjusts the vehicle speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead.

Adjusts shifting patterns based on driving behavior, road conditions, and load for optimized performance and fuel efficiency.

Allows the driver to adjust the ride height, stiffness, or damping characteristics of the vehicle's suspension.

The study of how air resistance and drag affect a vehicle's efficiency and performance.

Parts and accessories made by companies other than the OEM, used for replacement, enhancement, or customization.

Uses sensors to trigger the deployment of airbags in the event of a significant collision, protecting the occupants from severe injuries.

A device that converts power into potential energy stored in pressurized air.

(Cabin Air Filter) Filters the air that enters the vehicle’s interior through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, removing dust, pollen, and other pollutants.

Replacing the engine and cabin air filters to ensure clean air flows into the engine and the vehicle's interior.

A rubber and fabric bladder that holds air pressure to support a load and isolate passengers and cargo from the shock of motion caused by road irregularities.

A drivetrain system that automatically distributes power to all four wheels of a vehicle for improved traction.

Generates electrical power to recharge the battery and supply the vehicle's electrical system while the engine runs.

Automated Manual Transmission. Automates clutch engagement and gear shifts through electronic control, offering manual efficiency with automatic convenience.

Helps reduce the body roll of a vehicle during fast cornering or over road irregularities by connecting opposite (left/right) wheels together through short lever arms linked by a torsion spring.

Automates gear shifting using hydraulic fluid, a torque converter, and pressure changes.

Systems that enable the vehicle to drive itself with little or no human intervention, using a combination of sensors, cameras, radars, and artificial intelligence.

The pressure within the exhaust system that can affect engine efficiency, with lower back pressure potentially improving engine efficiency and power.

Reduces engine vibration and enhances smoothness, particularly in inline-four and V6 engines.

A ball-and-socket joint that allows for multi-directional movement and rotation, critical for the steering and suspension of automobiles.

A steel strap in automatic transmissions that wraps around parts of the gear train to hold gears in place.

A device used to put energy into a secondary cell or rechargeable battery by forcing an electric current through it.

A vehicle powered exclusively by electric batteries and an electric motor, without a traditional internal combustion engine.

Checking the battery for signs of wear or corrosion and replacing it if necessary to ensure the vehicle starts properly.

A test to evaluate the condition and charging capacity of a vehicle's battery under load conditions.

Checking the belts and hoses for signs of wear or damage and replacing them to prevent breakdowns.

Powers the fan that circulates air through the HVAC system, including the heater core and the evaporator of the air conditioning system.

A vehicle construction technique where the body is mounted on a separate frame or chassis.

A tool used to remove air from the brake lines, ensuring that hydraulic brake systems function properly.

A device multiplying the force from the brake pedal using vacuum or hydraulic pressure, reducing the effort needed to depress the pedal.

A component of disc brake systems, fitting over the brake rotor and containing the brake pads. It squeezes the pads against the rotor to slow or stop the vehicle.

A component of a drum brake system that rotates with the wheel and axle. When the brake is applied, brake shoes press against the inside to slow or stop the vehicle.

A reduction in braking power occurring after repeated or sustained application of the brakes, often caused by overheating of brake components.

A type of hydraulic fluid used in brake systems, transferring force into pressure when the brake pedal is pressed.

Checking the brake pads, rotors, and fluid to ensure the braking system is functioning correctly.

The material attached to the surface of the brake pad or brake shoe, creating the necessary friction for slowing or stopping the vehicle.

A component of disc brakes used in automotive and other applications, composed of a high-friction material pressed against the brake disc or rotor.

A disc-shaped component against which the brake pads press to slow or stop the vehicle. It is a key part of the disc braking system.

Used in drum brakes, it holds the brake lining and presses it against the inside of the brake drum to slow or stop the vehicle.

The assembly of components that slows or stops a vehicle's motion through friction or hydraulic pressure.

Components that slow down or stop a vehicle, including brake pads, rotors, and the hydraulic system.

A type of vibration isolator that provides cushioning and reduces friction between two parts.

Lightweight, lightly powered motorcycles optimized for speed and handling rather than comfort, originating from a British motorcycling subculture.

The angle between the vertical axis of the wheels and the vertical axis of the vehicle viewed from the front or rear.

Ride on the camshaft to actuate valves in overhead cam engines, reducing friction and wear.

Controls the opening and closing of the engine's intake and exhaust valves, timed with the movement of the pistons.

A robust vehicle bus standard designed to allow microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other's applications without a host computer.

An unsanctioned speed record from one coast of the USA to the other, inspired by Erwin G. "Cannonball" Baker and popularized by the 1981 film of the same name.

The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an activity or product.

A device on older vehicles that mixes air and fuel for internal combustion. Modern vehicles have mostly replaced carburetors with fuel injection systems.

The angular displacement from the vertical axis of the steered wheels in the direction of travel, used to improve steering feel and stability.

A device that uses a catalyst to convert three harmful compounds in car exhaust into harmless compounds.

Certification that a vehicle's catalytic converter meets emissions reduction standards, crucial for passing emissions testing.

The vehicle's frame, supporting the body and all mechanical components.

A warning light on a vehicle's dashboard that indicates an issue with the engine or exhaust system, often related to emissions.

An advanced system that automatically adjusts heating, cooling, and ventilation settings to maintain a set temperature within the vehicle.

Engages and disengages the engine from the transmission in manual systems, allowing for gear changes.

Multiple alternating discs in automatic and dual-clutch transmissions that engage and disengage gear sets.

The process of using a scan tool to clear diagnostic trouble codes from a vehicle's OBD system after repairs have been made.

Similar to an OBD scanner, it reads and clears codes from the vehicle’s computer but typically with fewer functions.

A shock absorber with a coil spring encircling it, allowing for adjustments to the suspension height and stiffness.

A mechanical device used to store energy, absorb shock, or maintain a force between contacting surfaces.

A test performed to assess the condition of an engine's cylinders by measuring the pressure that can be achieved within each cylinder.

A tool used to measure the cylinder pressure of an internal combustion engine to assess its condition.

Releases heat absorbed by the refrigerant to the outside air, cooling the refrigerant down and converting it back to a liquid form.

Connect the pistons to the crankshaft, transferring motion and forces from piston movements.

A hinged suspension link between the chassis and the suspension upright or hub that carries the wheel.

A fluid used in the vehicle's cooling system that absorbs heat from the engine and dissipates it through the radiator.

The process of draining the old coolant from the radiator, cleaning the cooling system, and refilling it with new coolant.

A maintenance process that clears out the cooling system of scale, rust, and old coolant to prevent overheating and corrosion.

A test to check for leaks in the cooling system by pressurizing it and observing for pressure loss.

Converts the up-and-down motion of the pistons into rotational motion.

A platform on wheels that allows a person to slide under a vehicle for inspection or maintenance.

Automatically controls the speed of a vehicle, taking over the throttle to maintain a steady speed as set by the driver.

Continuously Variable Transmission. Provides an infinite range of gear ratios, allowing the engine to operate at optimal RPM.

Contains the combustion chambers, the intake and exhaust valves, and the spark plugs.

Cylindrical parts fitted into the engine block to form the cylinder surfaces.

Provides the fastest charging speeds by delivering direct current (DC) electricity to the vehicle, significantly reducing charging times.

Specific codes that indicate the nature of a problem detected by the vehicle's OBD system.

A fuel system designed for vehicles that use diesel fuel, including components such as the diesel fuel pump, injectors, and glow plugs.

A device that splits the engine torque two ways, allowing each output to spin at a different speed, essential for turning and handling.

A type of fuel injection system where fuel is directly injected into the combustion chamber of each cylinder, rather than mixed with air before entering the chamber.

Uses calipers to squeeze pads against a disc or rotor to create friction that slows the rotation of a shaft, such as a vehicle axle.

Distributes the spark to the spark plugs in the correct order in traditional ignition systems.

A certification indicating that a vehicle component, such as tires or headlights, meets all applicable safety standards established by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The aerodynamic force that pushes a vehicle's tires onto the track or road surface, improving traction and handling.

The section of the exhaust system that connects the exhaust manifold to the catalytic converter, often a focal point for performance modifications.

Captures and stores exhaust soot to reduce emissions from diesel engines, periodically burning off the soot in a process called regeneration.

A driving technique and motorsport where the driver intentionally oversteers, causing loss of traction in the rear wheels while maintaining control, often associated with tuner culture.

The group of components that deliver power from the vehicle's engine to the wheels, including the transmission, driveshafts, axles, and differential.

Uses friction caused by a set of shoes or pads pressing outward against a rotating brake drum.

Direct-Shift Gearbox/Dual-Clutch Transmission. Uses two separate clutches for odd and even gears to achieve fast shift times.

Reduces vibration and noise, common in manual transmissions for smoother operation.

Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission. Used in hybrids, employs an electronic system to control CVT, optimizing power split.

The computer that manages key functions of the engine and sometimes other parts of the vehicle, optimizing performance and emissions.

Recirculates a portion of an engine's exhaust gas back to the engine cylinders, reducing nitrogen oxide emissions.

The process of using specialized tools to test the vehicle's electrical system and components for faults.

Uses electric motors to provide steering assistance, without the need for hydraulic systems.

The growing adoption and culture surrounding electric vehicles as a sustainable alternative to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.

Manages the process of electrically charging the vehicle's battery from an external power source.

The distance an electric vehicle can travel on a single charge, significantly influenced by driving conditions and battery capacity.

The infrastructure that supplies electric energy for recharging electric vehicles, including charging stations and charging cables.

A braking system independent of the main hydraulic system, used to keep the vehicle stationary when parked and as a backup in emergencies.

A test conducted to verify that the emissions produced by a vehicle are within the limits established by law, typically measuring pollutants like CO2, NOx, and particulate matter.

The main structure of an engine, housing the cylinders, pistons, and often the crankshaft and camshaft.

A computerized technology that improves a vehicle's stability by detecting and reducing loss of traction (skidding).

The European New Car Assessment Programme, providing consumers with an assessment of the safety performance of vehicles sold in Europe.

Captures fuel vapor from the fuel system and the tank, preventing it from escaping into the atmosphere.

Part of the air conditioning system where the refrigerant absorbs heat from the cabin air, cooling it down.

A connector that joins various components of the exhaust system together, ensuring a tight seal.

Collects exhaust gases from multiple cylinders into one pipe. It's the first component in the exhaust system.

Channels exhaust gases from the exhaust manifold to the rear of the vehicle and through the various components of the exhaust system.

Checking the exhaust system for leaks, damage, or corrosion.

The visible part of the exhaust system that extends from the rear of the vehicle, affecting the sound and style of the exhaust system.

Controls the timing and duration of the gas flow out of the engine's combustion chamber.

Assists in cooling the engine by drawing air through the radiator, especially when the vehicle is stationary or moving slowly.

The process of diagnosing the cause of a malfunction or fault in a vehicle.

Connects the engine to the torque converter in automatic transmission vehicles.

Checking the levels of various fluids, including brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid, and topping them up if necessary.

Stores rotational energy, helping to smooth out the engine's power pulses.

A drivetrain system typically engaged by the driver to power all four wheels, beneficial in off-road conditions.

A drivetrain layout where the engine's power is directed to the front wheels.

The efficiency of a vehicle in using fuel, typically expressed in miles per gallon (mpg) or liters per 100 kilometers (l/100km).

A measure of how effectively a vehicle uses fuel, often expressed in miles per gallon (mpg) or liters per 100 kilometers (l/100km).

Removes impurities and contaminants from the fuel before it reaches the engine to prevent damage and maintain performance.

An instrument in the vehicle's dashboard that indicates the amount of fuel in the tank.

Sprays fuel into the engine's intake manifold or combustion chamber, precisely controlling the amount and timing of fuel delivered.

A series of hoses or pipes that transport fuel from the tank to the engine's fuel injection system.

Maintains the correct fuel pressure within the fuel injection system for optimal engine performance.

A test to measure the pressure in the fuel lines, which can indicate issues with the fuel pump, filters, or injectors.

Delivers fuel from the tank to the engine, ensuring a constant supply under varying conditions.

A pipe that delivers fuel to the injectors in an engine's fuel injection system.

Cleaning the fuel injectors, throttle body, and fuel lines to ensure optimal engine performance.

Stores the vehicle's fuel supply and is typically made of metal or plastic.

Tools used to channel liquids or fine-grained substances into containers with a small opening.

A form of fuel injection used in modern petrol/gasoline engines, where fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber of each cylinder.

The ratio of the rotational speeds of interconnected gears, determining torque transmission to the wheels.

Changing gears in a vehicle, manually by the driver or automatically by the system.

Uses the Global Positioning System to determine the vehicle's location and provide directions to a specified destination.

A tool used for lubrication, allowing grease to be applied to a specific point with precision.

Reduces torsional vibration and serves as a pulley for drive belts.

Hydraulic Control Unit. Uses hydraulic pressure to control gear shifts in automatic transmissions.

An aftermarket upgrade to the exhaust manifold, designed to improve engine performance by making it easier for the engine to push exhaust gases out of the cylinders.

Seals the cylinder head to the engine block, preventing leakage.

A small radiator located in the dashboard that uses hot coolant from the engine to warm up the interior of the vehicle.

The process of certifying or approving a vehicle or component to meet regulatory standards and specifications for use in a particular country or region.

A unit of measurement for engine power, indicating the capacity of a vehicle's engine to perform work over time.

The practice of modifying cars to improve performance, often with a focus on older, classic vehicles, to make them faster and more unique.

Refers to the various systems used for moving air between indoor and outdoor areas, along with heating and cooling both residential and commercial buildings, including vehicles.

A car that uses a traditional internal combustion engine in conjunction with one or more electric motors to provide propulsion.

A brake system that uses fluid pressure to transfer force from the brake pedal to the brake pads or shoes.

A form of power steering that uses a hydraulic system to assist in moving the vehicle's steered road wheels.

A top-tier supercar that delivers extreme performance and groundbreaking technology, often with very limited production.

Regulates the engine's idling RPM.

Used in the steering system of vehicles with conventional suspension systems and parallelogram steering, this pivoting support allows the steering linkage to maintain the same arc as the steering gear moves.

Converts the battery's low voltage to the high voltage needed to ignite the fuel.

A power tool that delivers high torque output with minimal exertion by the user, used mainly for loosening lug nuts on wheels.

Intelligent Manual Transmission. Automates the clutch mechanism to combine manual transmission fuel efficiency with automatic ease.

A design where the wheels on opposite sides of the vehicle are independently suspended, improving handling and ride quality.

A type of fuel injection system where fuel is injected into the intake tract or cylinder port rather than directly into the combustion chamber.

A type of wireless charging that uses an electromagnetic field to transfer energy between two objects.

An integrated media system that combines entertainment and information delivery to drivers and passengers.

Takes power from the engine into the transmission to be distributed to the gears.

A decal placed on the vehicle's windshield indicating that it has passed the required safety and/or emissions inspection.

Control the flow of air/fuel mixture into and exhaust gases out of the engine.

Distributes air and sometimes fuel to the cylinders.

A device used to lift the vehicle off the ground, typically to perform tire changes or to gain access to the undercarriage.

Stands designed to support a vehicle that has been lifted by a jack at an elevated position safely.

Refers to Japan's home market for vehicles and vehicle parts, often associated with a preference for Japanese makes and models among enthusiasts.

Vibration or shuddering during clutch engagement or torque converter operation, indicating potential issues.

Allows the driver to lock and unlock the vehicle's doors without using a physical key, typically using a remote control.

A feature where the transmission shifts down for more power when the accelerator is pressed down fully.

A unit of energy commonly used to measure the capacity of electric vehicle batteries.

Detects engine knocking, allowing the ECU to prevent damage.

Another term for the oxygen sensor, measuring the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases.

Manages engine RPM and transmission settings for maximum acceleration from a standstill.

A simple form of spring commonly used for the suspension in wheeled vehicles, one of the oldest forms of springing.

Laws designed to protect consumers from being stuck with vehicles that have significant manufacturing defects affecting their safety, value, or utility.

The slowest form of EV charging, typically using a standard household outlet. Primarily suitable for overnight charging or top-ups.

Offers faster charging speeds than Level 1 and requires installation of a special charging station. Suitable for home and public charging.

Checking the vehicle's lights, including headlights, tail lights, and turn signals, and replacing any that are not functioning.

The most common type of battery used in electric vehicles, known for its high energy density and longevity.

A suspension system where the axle passes through the wheel hub, with both the wheel and axle moving as a single unit.

The use of a scan tool to read real-time data from a vehicle's sensors and systems, aiding in diagnosis.

Involves customizing a car to lower its suspension, often significantly, and adding customized paint jobs, wheels, and interiors, closely associated with Chicano culture.

A type of suspension system that uses the top of a telescopic damper as the upper steering pivot.

Requires the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch pedal and gear selector.

Directly controlled by the gear selector, directs fluid within the valve body of an automatic transmission.

Measures the amount of air entering the engine for fuel delivery optimization.

Converts the force from the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure, operating the brake calipers or brake drums.

Reduces the noise produced by the exhaust process by disrupting or diffusing sound waves.

A complex system of links that allows for a range of movements and adjustments, providing precise control of wheel and suspension geometry.

Automatic transmissions with a higher number of gears (8-speed, 9-speed, 10-speed) for improved efficiency and performance.

An electronic measuring instrument that combines several measurement functions in one unit, such as voltage, current, and resistance.

A genre of high-performance vehicles, typically American-made, that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, known for their powerful V8 engines and aggressive styling.

A transmission setting where no power is transmitted from the engine to the wheels.

Monitors oxygen level in exhaust gases for air-fuel mixture optimization.

A vehicle's self-diagnostic and reporting capability, providing access to the status of various vehicle subsystems.

Refers to vehicles equipped with the second generation of On-Board Diagnostics, standardized for all cars sold in the United States since 1996.

A device that interfaces with a car's OBD system to retrieve diagnostic information and trouble codes.

A measure of a fuel's ability to resist 'knocking' or 'pinging' during combustion, caused by the air/fuel mixture detonating prematurely in the engine.

Refers to the original producer of a vehicle's components, or the parts themselves.

The process of replacing the old engine oil with new oil to lubricate the engine components effectively.

Cleans oil that lubricates the engine components.

Circulates oil under pressure to lubricate the engine parts.

Delivers power from the transmission to the driveline and then to the wheels.

The activity of traveling to remote destinations where the journey is the primary goal, often involving modified vehicles capable of off-road driving and camping.

Allow drivers to manually select gears in vehicles with automatic transmissions, especially in manual mode or DCT.

Reduces emissions by controlling the flow of combustible gases from the crankcase.

Regular inspections carried out at specified intervals to ensure a vehicle remains roadworthy throughout its life.

Seal the interface between the piston and cylinder wall, preventing oil and combustion gases from leaking.

Move up and down in the cylinders, driving the crankshaft.

Key component of automatic transmissions, consisting of a sun gear, planet gears, and a ring gear.

Tools used for gripping, bending, and cutting a variety of objects.

Combines a battery-powered electric motor with a conventional gasoline engine, allowing for both electric propulsion and extended range using gasoline.

A system that assists in steering the wheels using some source of power, making it easier for the driver to steer the vehicle.

A hydraulic fluid used in the power steering system, transmitting power in the steering and making it easier to turn the steering wheel.

A gearset that converts rotational motion into linear motion, steering the wheels. The pinion, a small gear, engages with a linear gear—the rack—to transmit rotary motion laterally.

A heat exchanger designed to transfer heat from the hot coolant that flows through it to the air blown through it by the fan.

Seals the cooling system, maintaining pressure within the system to increase the boiling point of the coolant and improve efficiency.

A form of motorsport that takes place on public or private roads with modified production or specially built road-legal cars.

The fear that an electric vehicle does not have sufficient battery range to reach its destination.

A hand tool that incorporates a mechanism allowing for the socket to be turned without removing and reapplying the tool.

A style of hot rod or custom car that imitates the early hot rods of the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, characterized by a rough and unfinished appearance.

A drivetrain layout where power is sent to the rear wheels, offering advantages in handling and acceleration.

An action taken by a manufacturer to repair or replace a vehicle or component that has been identified as defective or non-compliant with safety standards.

A substance used in the air conditioning system that absorbs and releases heat as it changes from a gas to a liquid and back again.

A technology that recovers energy typically lost during braking and uses it to recharge the vehicle's battery.

Works in conjunction with the muffler to reduce noise, designed to cause destructive interference of sound waves, effectively canceling some noise frequencies.

The process of restoring and modifying a classic car with modern parts and technology to improve its performance and reliability.

Synchronizes engine speed to the gear speeds during downshifting for smoother transitions.

Transfer motion from the cam lobes to the valves.

A certification process that a vehicle must undergo to prove it meets specific safety standards set by regulatory bodies.

A device used to interface with a vehicle's OBD system to retrieve diagnostic information and trouble codes.

A tool used to insert and tighten, or to loosen and remove screws.

Shifts gears in sequence, without allowing gear skipping, often found in high-performance cars.

The process of resetting a vehicle's service indicator light after maintenance has been performed.

An aftermarket kit designed to modify an automatic transmission's shifting behavior for enhanced performance.

Controls fluid flow in automatic transmissions, enabling gear shifts.

A mechanical or hydraulic device designed to absorb and damp shock impulses by converting kinetic energy from the shock into another form of energy, which is then dissipated.

Predominantly found in electric vehicles, utilizes a single gear ratio to transfer power from the motor to the wheels.

The difference in rotational speed between the engine and transmission output; should be minimal except in specific components.

A part of the emissions testing process specifically aimed at reducing air pollution from vehicles by ensuring they do not emit harmful levels of smog-producing compounds.

Updating the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU) software to improve performance, fix bugs, or resolve security issues.

Replacing the spark plugs to ensure efficient combustion within the engine.

Ignite the air/fuel mixture in the combustion chamber.

A component that absorbs and dampens shock. Types include coil springs, leaf springs, torsion bars, and air springs.

Automatically shuts down and restarts the internal combustion engine to reduce the amount of time the engine spends idling, thereby reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Rotates the engine to initiate operation.

The current level of charge in an electric vehicle's battery, usually expressed as a percentage.

Connects the steering wheel to the steering mechanism, transmitting the driver's input from the steering wheel onto the steering gear.

A damping mechanism for the steering system, used to damp unwanted steering oscillations, also known as wobble, particularly in motorcycles and bicycles.

A swivel hinge that allows the front wheels to be steered, containing the wheel hub or spindle and attaching to the suspension components.

A rubber or plastic boot that covers and protects the steering rack and pinion from dirt, debris, and moisture.

The ratio of the turn of the steering wheel to the turn of the wheels, affecting the amount of steering effort and the precision of control.

The collection of components, linkages, etc., which allows a vehicle to follow the desired course. Its primary purpose is to allow the driver to guide the vehicle.

A structural component designed to resist longitudinal compression, providing outwards-facing support in their lengthwise direction.

High-performance sports cars, often exotic or rare, that stand out for their superior speed, handling, and sleek design.

Increases pressure in the intake to force more air into the combustion chamber.

The system that connects a vehicle to its wheels, absorbing and dampening shock, and contributing to handling and comfort.

Inspecting the suspension components for wear or damage to ensure a smooth ride.

Synchronizes gear speeds before engagement in manual transmissions, making gear shifts smoother.

The final section of the exhaust system, through which the exhaust gases exit into the atmosphere.

Transmission Control Unit. Governs the timing and operation of gear shifts in automatic transmissions.

Regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator in the air conditioning system, adjusting to the cooling needs of the vehicle.

A device that regulates the flow of coolant based on temperature, ensuring the engine heats up quickly and then maintains a constant temperature.

Controls the amount of air flowing into the engine's combustion chamber, affecting the vehicle's speed.

A crucial part of the steering mechanism that transmits force from the steering center link or the rack gear to the steering knuckle, causing the wheels to turn.

Synchronizes the crankshaft and camshaft(s), keeping valve operation in time with piston movement.

Drive the camshaft(s) from the crankshaft, ensuring precise valve timing.

A stroboscopic device used to set the timing of the ignition system of an internal combustion engine.

An automatic transmission that also allows manual gear selection.

Checking the air pressure in the tires to ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels.

Moving the tires to different positions on the vehicle to ensure even tire wear.

Refers to the angle and direction at which the tires of a vehicle are set relative to a straight-ahead position.

A measure of the rotational force that an engine can generate, crucial for understanding a vehicle's acceleration and hauling capabilities.

Replaces the clutch in automatic transmissions, using hydraulic fluid to transfer power.

A momentary increase in engine RPM during a gear shift in automatic transmissions, indicating slip.

A tool used to apply a specific torque to a fastener, such as a nut or bolt, ensuring it is tightened to the correct specification.

Monitors the air pressure inside the pneumatic tires on various types of vehicles and reports real-time tire-pressure information to the driver.

Prevents loss of traction of the driven road wheels, consisting of aspects of the ABS, throttle control, and transmission control systems.

Distributes power from the transmission to the front and rear axles.

A system that transmits power from the engine to the drivetrain, available in manual, automatic, and continuously variable (CVT) types.

An auxiliary system that keeps transmission fluid at optimal temperatures.

The lubricant in the transmission system for cooling, lubricating, and acting as a hydraulic fluid in automatics.

Replacing old transmission fluid with new fluid to maintain the transmission's performance.

A subculture focused on the modification of import cars, particularly Japanese models, for improved performance and customized appearance.

Increases an engine's efficiency and power output by forcing extra compressed air into the combustion chamber.

A certification process that ensures a vehicle model meets specified performance standards and regulations before it is sold.

A vehicle design where the body and frame are a single, integrated unit, offering improved safety and rigidity.

A joint that allows a rigid rod to bend in any direction, commonly used in shafts that transmit rotary motion. It consists of a pair of hinges located close together, oriented at 90° to each other, connected by a cross shaft.

A test to check for leaks in the vacuum system of a vehicle, which can affect engine performance.

Transmit cam action to the valves, accommodating for thermal expansion.

Control the flow of air and fuel into and exhaust out of the combustion chamber.

Return the valves to their closed position after being opened.

A lifestyle movement characterized by living in a van or similar vehicle either full-time or part-time, often associated with freedom, adventure, and minimalism.

Technology that allows for bidirectional energy flow, enabling electric vehicles to return electricity to the power grid.

A wireless communication technology that allows vehicles to communicate with each other, sharing information about speed, location, and direction.

A procedure mandated by national or subnational governments in many countries, where a vehicle is inspected to ensure it conforms to regulations governing safety, emissions, or both.

A unique code used to identify individual motor vehicles.

A check to verify that the vehicle's VIN matches the number on its documents and has not been tampered with, often required for registration or sale.

The first step in troubleshooting, involving a thorough examination of a vehicle for any signs of wear, damage, or anomalies.

Circulates coolant throughout the cooling system, from the radiator to the engine and back.

Adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are set to the car manufacturer's specifications.

Replacing the windshield wiper blades to ensure clear visibility during rain or snow.

A tool used to provide grip and mechanical advantage in applying torque to turn bolts, nuts, or other hard-to-move items.

A vehicle that emits no exhaust gas from the onboard source of power, such as battery electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.