GLOSSARY

A-pillar

Vertical roof support between the windshield and front edge of the front side window.

AARA

The American Auto Racing Association, located in Spokane, Washington.

ADRA

American Drag Racing Association, located in Spokane, Washington.

AHRA

American Hot Rod Association

AMS

Atlanta Motor Speedway

ARCA

Automobile Racing Club of America, the little brother to the Winston Cup racing (ARCA is two levels below). ARCA sports similar cars with shorter races and small pay-outs.

Absolute Title

A document that states a person or a legal entity has the right of ownership.

Accident

An unforeseen and unintended event or occurrence.

Accumulator

Removes moisture from the liquid refrigerant in an air-conditioning system.

Acquisition Fee

A fee charged by the leasing company to buy the vehicle for the lessee and set up the lease. Also called the initiation fee, this typically runs about $450.

Act of God

Any accident or event that is not by human hand and can not be prevented. Usually a natural cause.

Actual Cash Value (ACV)

Replacement cost of property lost. If your vehicle were stolen, totaled in an accident, or otherwise rendered a loss, the Actual Cash Value is equal to the cost for a similar vehicle at current market prices.

Actuator

A device that performs a mechanical action in response to an input signal, which may be electrical or fluidic.

Additional Insured

A person or company, other than the person named on the account who is protected against damage or loss.

Additional Insured/Loss Payee

Since the lessor owns the leased vehicle, the lessee is required to name the lessor “additional insured” in his insurance liability-coverage policy and as the “loss payee” in his collision and comprehensive policy.

Adjusted Capitalized Cost

The basis for the basic monthly payment.

Adjuster

The person working with the insurance agency who determines the amount of damage, loss, and liability.

Advertised Price, Average

The average listed price for a given year, make and model combination, among the cars currently listed on AutoTrader.com.

Advertised Price, Highest

The highest listed price for a given year, make and model combination, among the cars currently listed on AutoTrader.com.

Advertised Price, Lowest

The lowest listed price for a given year, make and model combination, among the cars currently listed on AutoTrader.com.

Aerodynamics

The wind resistance of a vehicle’s design elements. Aerodynamic vehicles claim to offer increased performance and reduced wind noise while moving. See Coefficient of Drag.

Agent

A representative of the insurance agency, licensed by the state, who solicits, negotiates, and countersigns the contract. Also provides service to the policyholder for the insurance agency.

Air Brake

Brakes, usually on heavy-duty trucks, that use compressed air to operate.

Airbag

Safety device using an inflatable cushion that inflates and deflates within a fraction of a second to protect a vehicle occupant.

Airbag Lockout Switch

A device allowing the driver to turn off the front passenger airbag.

Alignment

The proper adjustment of the car’s suspension. Generally refers to the wheel alignment.

All-Risks Policy

A policy covering all losses except those specifically excluded in the contract.

All-Season Tires

Tires designed to provide good traction in winter snow and slush without wearing too quickly on dry roads.

All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)

A small, lightweight vehicle designed for recreational off-highway use.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

A vehicle drivetrain with all wheels powered by the engine at all times. Sometimes called full-time four-wheel drive.

Alloy Wheels

Any non-steel road wheel. Mostly aluminum, but technically a mixture of two or more metals.

Alternative Fuels

May be alcohol-based, such as ethanol or methanol; compressed natural gas; or combinations of gasoline and alcohol.

Alternator

Produces alternating current and recharges the battery.

Amortization

The gradual reduction of a debt by periodic payments large enough to meet current interest payments and repay the principal.

Amount Financed

The portion of the purchase price that is actually financed. In addition to the cost of the car, it can include the costs of an extended warranty, credit life insurance, and other items rolled into the payments.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR)

The average compound interest rate over the life of the loan. A yearly rate of interest that includes fees and costs paid to acquire a loan. Lenders are required by law to disclose the annual percentage rate, which is used to compare various loans; it makes simple interest and compound interest loans comparable with each other.

Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)

A computer-controlled braking system that senses impending wheel lockup and pulses the brakes many times a second to prevent it. This results in the most important benefit of ABS: by preventing wheel lockup, it allows the driver to maintain steering control. Unfortunately, too few drivers are trained to use ABS properly. When the system engages, it may vibrate the brake pedal. A driver who doesn’t know how to use ABS may lift his foot from the pedal when he receives this feedback, effectively disengaging the system.

Anti-Roll Bar

A suspension component. A steel rod or tube that connects the left and right suspension members to resist roll or swaying of the vehicle. Improves handling.

Antifreeze

A liquid that mixes with the water in a cooling system of a vehicle’s engine. Antifreeze keeps the water from freezing in the winter or cold climates, or from overheating in the summer or hot climates.

Application

An initial statement of personal and financial information which is required to approve your loan.

Appraisal

A survey of the property to assess damage.

Aspect Ratio

The ratio between the width and sidewall (or height) of the tire. Tires with lower aspect ratios, usually found on sports models, provide superior handling but a harsher ride.

Assigned Risk Plan

A risk that must be insured by state law or otherwise.

Auto Mall

Several Dealership operations located on one site.

Automatic Locking Retractor

Standard on 1995 and later models, this device is built into the shoulder belt retractor and keeps the belt cinched tightly, which is essential for properly securing a child-safety seat.

Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)

Automatically controls a vehicle’s heating and cooling systems, maintaining a temperature preset by the occupant.

Automatic Transmission

A system that varies the power and torque to a drivetrain without the use of a foot-operated clutch.

Axle

B-pillar

Vertical metal roof support between front and rear side windows on the side of the vehicle.

 

Balance Due

The amount currently due, minus previous payments, plus cash advances and purchases.

Bank Rate

The amount the bank charges the consumer, expressed as a percentage.

Base Price

The price of a vehicle without options but including standard equipment, factory warranty, and freight or destination charge. This price is printed on the Monroney sticker.

Base-Coat

A coat of paint acting as the base for other layers to be applied.

Basic Rate

The rate from which discounts or additions are calculated.

Beater

(Slang) A car for everyday transportation. Usually not in perfect condition.

Beltline

A horizontal line, usually imaginary but sometimes indicated by a feature in the body design, just below the window openings on a car or truck body.

Bench Seats

Full-length seat that can usually seat two or three people.

Blanket Insurance

A property-liability insurance that covers more than one piece of property.

Bodily Injury Liability

Any liability that may result from the injury or death of another person.

Body Style

The type of exterior shell or shape to a vehicle (sedan, coupe, truck, etc.).

Booster Seat

This child-safety seat is designed for children who are too large for a baby seat, but not big enough to sit safely in the vehicle’s seats.

Bore

Diameter of an individual engine cylinder.

Borg Warner Trophy

Victory in the Indianapolis 500 secures this, the most coveted trophy in Indy Car racing.

Boxer Engine

The cylinders are opposite (180 degrees apart) from each other. Also called flat engines, these are relatively flat compared to In-line or V engines.

Brake Booster

Device or system that helps reduce the force the driver must exert against the brake pedal. May be hydraulic or electric.

Brake Caliper

A hydraulic (liquid-pressured) piston assembly that holds disc-brake pads.

Brake Drum

The large circular surface that the brake shoe presses against to stop the vehicle.

Brake Pad

Used in a disc system, it is a replaceable piece of backing plate and additional friction lining.

Brake Pull

Occurs when the vehicle pulls suddenly to the left or right as the brake pedal is depressed. It indicates the brakes may be out of adjustment.

Brake Rotor

Shiny metal disk that brake pads squeeze to stop the vehicle; hence the name disc brakes.

Brake Shoe

A curved, replaceable piece of friction material used on drum brakes. The wheel cylinder pushes the brake shoes against the brake drum.

Broker

A person who represents the insured to solicit or negotiate for contracts. A broker may deal with many agents or companies on behalf of his or her client.

Bucket Seats

Individual driver or passenger seats.

Bumper-to-bumper

A type of warranty that covers the entire vehicle for a limited amount of time.

Busch Series

Just one level below Winston Cup, some drivers race at both this and Winston Cup level. These races, often run the day before a Winston Cup race, have gained popularity and are now all televised live, nationally.

C-pillar

The vertical metal roof support between the side edge of the rear windshield (also called the backlight) and the rear edge of the rear window.

CAM

The Championship Association of Mechanics, established in 1989, is a non-profit organization that serves the needs of Indy Car crew members. It also acts to publicize their efforts.

CMS

Charlotte Motor Speedway, home of the World 600 Winston Cup Race, now known as the Coca-Cola 600. This is a NASCAR event, also held on Memorial Day.

Camber

Inward or outward tilt of the wheels and tires. This adjustment affects how the vehicle holds the road and handles cornering.

Camshaft

A machined shaft with lobes that open and close engine-cylinder intake and exhaust valves. As the shaft rotates, the lobes push against valve springs to open the valves and rotate away to close them. Driven by the crankshaft.

Capitalized Cost

In a lease transaction, the price at which a financial institution buys a vehicle from a dealer. Equivalent to the cash purchase price if the consumer were buying the vehicle outright, it includes taxes and any other additional charges. Also called Capital Cost.

Capitalized Cost Reduction

In a lease transaction, an up-front payment made at the start of the lease. The lessee can use cash, a rebate or a trade-in. Similar but not equal to a down payment. The lessee must pay sales tax on the cap-cost reduction amount. Also called Capital-Cost Reduction.

Captive Finance Company

A financial institution owned by a manufacturer. Examples include Chrysler Credit, Ford Motor Credit and GMAC.

Carburetor

Device that mixes air with fuel, delivering the mixture into the engine’s combustion chambers. Only found on older vehicles. By the mid-1980s, new emissions standards led to the use of fuel-injection systems, which do not require frequent adjustment.

Carrier

The insurance company that provides the insurance.

Casualty Insurance

Insurance covering the insured’s legal liability for damage to other person’s property or injuries to them. Other forms of insurance, such as burglary, robbery and worker’s compensation, belong in this category.

Catalytic Converter

An emissions-control device that removes unburned fuel from the exhaust by burning it.

Catastrophe Hazard

The risk of loss by a peril to which a large number of insured are subject. Typical examples are hurricanes and tornadoes.

Center High-Mounted Stop Light (CHMSL)

NHTSA-required brake light mounted higher than the taillights, at the top center or bottom center of the rear windshield.

Center of Gravity

The point of the car where, if it is suspended, it would balance front and rear.

Center-Locking Differential

On all-wheel drive vehicles, a third differential in addition to those for the front and rear axles. This third differential allows the front and rear wheels to turn at different speeds as needed for cornering on dry pavement. On slippery surfaces, it locks all four wheels together, either automatically or manually depending on the system, for greater traction.

Central Locking System

On a vehicle with power door locks, the system locks or unlocks all doors at one time.

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

Chemicals formerly used as refrigerants in cooling systems. No longer used because they are considered harmful to the Earth’s ozone layer.

Christmas Tree

The pole of lights that starts a drag race, named for its red and green lights. Most drag races use the pro or heads up start which has three lights in between the first (red) and last (green) stage.

Claim

Request for payment of a loss as covered under the terms of an insurance contract.

Clause

The term used to identify a certain section of the contract or policy.

Clearcoat

The transparent top coat of paint on many newer vehicles; designed to create a long-lasting, lustrous appearance.

Climate-Control System

The non-technical term for the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system (HVAC). Most current vehicles have all three — heating, defrost and AC.

Closed-End Lease

In a lease contract, specifies the vehicle’s residual value at the end of the lease term. The lessee is not responsible for the value of the vehicle at term end, but he may face charges for excess wear-and-tear and excessive mileage. Also called a walk-away lease.

Closing Costs

Any expenses added onto the lease that are incidental to the purchase. (For example, title fees and appraisal fees.)

Clutch

Device that connects or disconnects the engine from the transmission.

Clutch Disk

Presses against the the transmission flywheel to transfer power from the engine to the transmission.

Coefficient of Drag (Cd)

A measure of the aerodynamic resistance of the vehicle body. The smaller the number, the more wind-cheating the body design and the greater likelihood that passengers won’t have to endure wind noises.

Coil Spring

A suspension component made up of spiral-wound hardened steel, used to isolate a vehicle from the up-and-down movement of the wheels on the road.

Collateral

Assets owned by the borrower which document his or her ability to repay the loan. Listed assets may be seized by the lending institution if the loan is unpaid.

Collision Coverage

Optional insurance that pays for damage to your car caused by collision with another car or object.

Collusion

The cooperation between two or more people to secretly defraud another person or company.

Combustion Chamber

Top section of the engine cylinder, where the air-fuel mixture is ignited by a spark plug. The explosion of the combustion pushes the piston down into the cylinder, producing the force that the transmission delivers to the drive wheels.

Common Law Liability

The responsibility of injury or loss imposed upon a person because of his or her actions.

Compact

A small car that can seat two to four people.

Compound Interest

Interest computed on the sum of an original principal and accrued interest.

Comprehensive Coverage

Optional insurance that pays for damage to your car caused by things other than collision. For example, if your car is stolen or vandalized.

Compression Ratio

The ratio of the volume within an engine cylinder when the piston is at the bottom of its stroke, compared to the volume in the cylinder when the piston is at the top of its stroke. The higher the ratio, the more compression during combustion and the more powerful the engine.

Compulsory Insurance

Any type of insurance that is required by law.

Concealment

The withholding of facts by an applicant on an insurance application.

Console

This may refer to the unit found between the front driver and passenger seat that contains the automatic transmission shifter, cupholders and a storage compartment. But it can also refer to the section of the instrument panel that includes the controls for the sound system and climate-control system, particularly if the panel flows down the center of the vehicle and includes the automatic-transmission shifter.

Constant-Velocity Joint (CV Joint)

On front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles, a coupling that allows the front axle to turn at a constant speed at various angles when the vehicle turns. The CV joint is a shaft that transmits engine power from the transmission to the wheel.

Contribution by Equal Shares

Provision in insurance contracts which requires each company to share equally in the loss until the share of each equals the lowest limit of liability under any policy or the full amount of loss is paid.

Conversion

The wrongful use of a property by the person who owns it.

Convertible

Any car with a removable top, either a rag (cloth) top or hard top.

Coolant

Liquid used to carry heat away from the engine. Sometimes called antifreeze.

Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE)

The government tracks the average fuel economy of all the vehicles produced in a single model-year by each individual manufacturer. CAFE is that rating.

Coupe

Generally, a two-door car with close-coupled passenger compartment.

Coupe de Ville

A coupe with an enclosed, rear passenger section and an open driver’s section.

Craftsman Truck Series

These NASCAR Trucks are similar to a Winston Cup race car, under the skin. The body must be stock and its shape is monitored by NASCAR officials. This new series of races has been called one of the most exciting in motorsports.

Crankshaft

The shaft that converts the up-and-down motion of the pistons into rotation. It is connected to the transmission.

Credit Worthy

A consumer who will qualify for a vehicle loan. Same as a qualified buyer.

Cruise Control

A device that, when set by the driver, will hold the car at the chosen speed.

Crumple Zone

Portions of a vehicle’s structure designed to buckle and fold in an impact, absorbing crash force rather than transmitting it to vehicle occupants.

Curb Weight

The weight of the vehicle without passengers, driver or cargo, but with all standard features, a full tank of fuel, and all the fluids necessary for proper function.

Cylinder Block

The main part of the engine to which other parts are attached.

Cylinder Head

Damper

A device that reduces vibration.

Daytime Running Lights (DRL)

These lights come on whenever the vehicle is turned on; they make the vehicle more visible to other drivers. Mandatory in Canada and standard equipment on many vehicles sold in the United States.

Dealer Charges

Any extra charges for additional services or products sold by the dealer such as rust-proofing or extended warranties.

Dealer Holdback

Also known as “pack.” Manufacturer refund to a dealer after a vehicle is sold. Usually a percentage (2 to 3%) of the MSRP.

Dealer Incentive

A limited time discount offered by the manufacturer to a dealership.

Dealer Incentives

A cash refund or attractive lease or loan rate offered by an automotive manufacturer toward the sale/purchase of a new vehicle.

Dealer Invoice Price

Also called dealer cost. The amount the dealer pays for a car or truck. Deducted from this price may be a dealer incentive, which is a set discount offered for a limited period of time, or a dealer holdback, which is a percentage of the vehicle’s wholesale price.

Dealer Preparation Fee

Extra charges for getting the car ready.

Dealer Sticker Price

The base price, or the price on the Monroney sticker, plus the suggested retail price of dealer-installed options, dealer preparation, and add-ons such as undercoating.

Deductible

The amount of money or percentage of expenses that will be covered by the insured.

Default Charges

Fees charged the lessee as a result of missing payments or otherwise defaulting on the lease. Typical charges include all remaining payments and any additional costs incurred in reclaiming the vehicle. The security deposit may also be lost.

Deposit

A sum of money to hold a deal until the paperwork is complete. If the deal is closed, the deposit is applied to the down payment.

Depreciation

The decrease in a vehicle’s market value over time. The amount of yearly depreciation is affected by vehicle condition; resale-marketplace supply and demand; and make and model reputation. Convertibles, high-performance cars, trucks and vans tend to depreciate less than other vehicles.

Destination & Delivery Charges

The cost of transporting the vehicle from the assembly plant to the dealership. Usually a flat fee passed on to the buyer without any markup.

Diesel

An internal combustion engine in which the air-fuel mixture is ignited by compression in the cylinder rather than by a spark. Diesel engines use diesel fuel rather than gasoline and tend to be more fuel-efficient and require less maintenance than gasoline engines, but it is more complicated to get them to run cleanly. Also used as a slang term: after turning off the ignition, the engine continues to run for a short period.

Diesel fuel

The fuel used by a diesel engine. Usually found in tractor trailers and other trucks.

Differential

A mechanical gearbox or fluid coupling that allows wheels to rotate at different speeds. Usually located on an axle, it allows the outside wheels to turn faster than the inside wheels during cornering. Four-wheel-drive and all-wheel drive vehicles have two differentials, one for the rear axle and one for the front. all-wheel drive vehicles also may have a third or center differential on the drive shaft that runs between the front and rear axles.

Ding

A small dent or scrape in the body of the vehicle.

Direct Financing

Arranging the loan directly through a bank or credit union rather than through the dealer.

Direct Loss

Damage or loss directly due to a particular event or peril.

Disc Brakes

Shiny metal discs, called brake rotors, are attached to the wheel hub, rotating with the wheel. When the brake pedal is depressed, the brake calipers squeeze the discs to slow the vehicle. See Brake Caliper and Brake Rotor.

Displacement

The volume displaced by an engine’s cylinders. Formerly measured in cubic inches, it is now more commonly expressed in liters.

Disposal Fee

Also called Disposition Fees. Charge for costs associated with picking up and processing the returned car at the end of the lease. This runs from $200 to $400. Sometimes rolled into monthly payments. Often absorbed by dealers when another vehicle is leased.

Distributor

Part of the ignition (electrical) system. Delivers electricity from the ignition coil to the distributor cap and the spark plug wires in the correct firing order. (The firing order is that sequence in which each cylinder begins its power stroke.) The spark plugs ignite the fuel and air mixture in each cylinder thousands of times a minute, producing the explosion that pushes the piston down in the cylinder to power the vehicle.

Double Wishbone Suspension

A type of independent suspension in which the upper and lower support pieces, or members, look somewhat like a wishbone.

Down Payment

The up-front cash payment that the buyer makes to reduce the amount borrowed to purchase a car; the difference between the loan amount and the purchase price. A trade-in allowance and/or rebate also may be used as down payment. The down payment helps protect the bank, credit union or finance company in case the borrower defaults on the loan. A typical down payment is about 20 percent of the vehicle’s sale price.

Drafting

A phenomena where two cars running nose to tail together can move faster than an individual vehicle.

Drive Axle

Connects the transaxle to the front wheels on a front-wheel drive vehicle.

Drive Range (EV)

The distance an electric vehicle can drive without re-charging its batteries.

Drive Shaft

A rotating metal shaft that transfers power from the transmission differential gear assembly to the rear wheels on a rear-wheel drive vehicle.

Drive Wheels

The wheels, front, rear, or both, to which the engine transmits its power.

Drivetrain

Vehicle components which act together to move the vehicle forward or backward. On a rear-drive vehicle, it is the combination of the engine, transmission, differential and drive shaft. On a front-drive vehicle, it consists of the engine, transaxle and drive axles.

Drum Brakes

A braking system that uses a metal drum. Brake shoes press against the drum to slow or stop the car.

Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC)

Engine with two camshafts on top of the cylinder head, one to open and close intake valves, the other to open and close exhaust valves. See also Overhead Cam and Overhead Valve.

Early Termination

Ending the lease before the contracted time. May be involuntary, due to theft or accident.

Early Termination Charge

Additional fee charged when a lease is ended before the agreed-upon term. Often represents a substantial penalty.

Earned Premium

The portion of the premium which is already paid from an expired policy term.

Electric Vehicles (EV)

Vehicles powered by electricity, generally using a rechargeable battery.

Electronic Control Module (ECM)

The computer that controls the engine’s fuel and emissions systems. Among the devices it controls is the idle air control, or IAC, which regulates the idle speed in fuel-injected engines. Also called the Electronic Control Unit (ECU).

Electronic Fuel Injection System

Injects fuel into the engine’s cylinders with electronic control to time and meter the fuel flow.

Electronic Valve Timing (EVT)

System in which a computer controls the timing of the opening and closing of cylinder valves.

End of Lease Payment

In an open-end lease, the amount the lessee pays at the end of the lease; the difference between the vehicle’s residual value, which was used to calculate lease payments, and the actual market value.

Engine Displacement

The total of the volume used for combustion inside the cylinders of an engine. Measured in liters on newer models, or in cubic inches on older models.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The federal agency that regulates air quality and sets automotive fuel-economy and emissions standards.

Equity

The value left in a used vehicle after subtracting the outstanding loan balance from its market value. For example, if $4,000 is still owed on a car worth $8,000 on the open market, then it has an equity of $4,000.

Escrow

A process in which a neutral third party takes care of the transfer of ownership of the vehicle.

Evaporative Emissions

Evaporated fuel from the carburetor or fuel system which mixes with the surrounding outside air.

Evaporator Core

Part of the climate-control system that contains a liquid refrigerant which turns to gas to absorb heat from the air.

Excess Mileage

Any mileage over the amount agreed upon within the lease. Generally incurs a per-mileage charge at the end of the lease. Experts recommend a yearly mileage limit, or Mileage Cap, that exceeds normal driving needs.

Excess Mileage Charge

Additional charge at the end of the lease for every mile on the odometer over the limit stated in the lease. A typical charge is 15 cents per mile, but the fees can be from 10 cents to 25 cents a mile. It costs less to figure your expected mileage use (or mileage allowance) realistically and prepay than to pay for excess mileage at lease end.

Excess Wear and Tear

Visible damage to a vehicle that is above and beyond what is considered normal wear and tear. Usually specified in the lease contract. Will incur additional cost at lease-end. If possible, negotiate as specifically as you can in the lease what the lessor will consider excess wear and tear.

Exclusion

Any cause, condition, or property which are not covered by the policy.

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)

Part of the emissions system, it recirculates exhaust gases into the intake manifold, cooling the combustion chamber.

Exhaust Manifold

The passages that route the exhaust gases towards the muffler and exhaust system.

Extended Coverage

A policy that covers any extras that are not in the original policy.

FIA

Federation Internationale De L’Automobile

Factory Equipment

The standard and options that make up the equipment of a used vehicle.

Fan Belt

Transmits power from a crankshaft-driven pulley to an engine fan and other accessories.

Fifth Wheel

Provides a flexible connection between the tractor and the trailer.

Final Drive Ratio

The reduction ratio of the transmission gear set furthest from the engine. In other words, the ratio of the number of rotations of the drive shaft for one rotation of a wheel. In general, a low final drive ratio results in better fuel efficiency, and higher final drive ratio results in better performance.

Firewall

The metal panel that separates the engine compartment from the passenger compartment. It also often includes sound and heat insulation.

First Party Coverage

The compensation for loss or damage from your insurance company rather than the person involved in the accident.

Flat Cancellation

A cancellation of a policy free of any charge or fee.

Flat Rate

A rate that is not subject to any additions or adjustments.

Formula 1

The most popular of all the forms of auto racing, Formula 1 tends to be dominated by European drivers. The parallels to Indy Car racing have lead to the defections of drivers like Nigel Mansell, who seek the greater spoils of victory here in the US.

Fortuitous Event

An unforeseen accident.

Four on the Floor

(Slang) A four-speed manual transmission.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

A transfer case distributes power to both axles in order to drive all four wheels.

Four-Wheel Steering

Vehicle on which all four wheels turn when the driver turns the steering wheel. The rear wheels turn at a smaller angle than the front wheels. This system appeared on a few sports models in the 1980s but was never very popular in North America.

Front-Wheel Drive

Engine power is transmitted to the front wheels, which are the drive wheels. Also front-drive.

Fuel Economy

The number of miles a vehicle gets per gallon.

Fuel Injector

Taking the place of carburetors in the 1980s, the fuel injector is an electrically controlled valve that delivers a precise amount of pressurized fuel into each combustion chamber.

Fuel Pump

A mechanical or electrical pump that pressurizes the fuel system to move gas from the fuel tank to the engine.

Full-Size

A car that is usually four doors and seats anywhere from two to seven people.

Funny Car

This variation of a dragster hides the usual front engine chassis under a lightweight body that looks like a street car.

Fuse

An electrical device that breaks the current in a circuit that is overloaded or shorted; it prevents damage to other components. However, the fuse itself may fail, and the most common repair when a fuse blows is to simply replace it without working on any other electrical component.

GAP Insurance/Protection

Stands for Guaranteed Auto Protection insurance. Extra insurance for lease customers to cover the difference in the actual value of the vehicle and whatever is owed on the lease. Important if the car is stolen or totaled early in the lease term. It also covers the difference in value between what may be paid by an insurance carrier and what is still owed to the leasing company, including future lease payments.

Gas-Charged Shocks

Also called gas-filled shocks. They are shock absorbers filled with a low-pressure gas to smooth the vehicle’s ride during up-and-down movement.

Gasket

Any thin, soft material installed between two metal surfaces to create a good seal.

Gasoline Alley

This is the garage area at Indy, where major mechanical work is done on the cars.

General Property Taxes

Any tax on real estate or personal property.

Good Faith

A code of conduct between parties emphasizing honesty during the transaction.

Grand National Circuit

This was the previous name for Winston Cup Racing before R.J. Reynolds became the sponsor in 1972.

Grand Prix

A type of car race popular in Europe. Also, a French term meaning great prize.

Gray Market Vehicle

Any car that is imported, but not through authorized retailers. May have insufficent emissions standards.

Greenhouse

Used in automotive circles to describe all of the windows enclosing the passenger compartment.

Grille

An opening in the front of the vehicle that allows air to reach the radiator.

Gross Capitalized Cost

See Capitalized Cost.

Gross Income

The income of the borrower before taxes or expenses are deducted; used to qualify for a loan or a lease.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

The curb weight of the vehicle plus the maximum load it is designed to carry.

Handling

The ease of vehicle steering and maneuverability around turns, up hills, etc.

Hatchback

A passenger car with a full-height rear door that includes a rear window. Usually has a rear folding seat.

Hazard

A situation that may increase the probability of a loss or damage.

Head Room

The distance from the top of an occupant’s head to the headliner.

Headliner

The interior covering of the roof. Headliners often contain consoles with slots for garage-door openers and other devices, as well as dome lights and wiring for electrical and electronic components attached to the headliner. The covering usually includes a sound-absorbing material.

Highway Loss Data Institute

Sister organization to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Funded by insurance companies.

Hip Room

The allotted room between a passenger’s hips and any other part of the vehicle.

Hold Harmless Agreement

An agreement where one party assumes responsibility.

Holdback

Manufacturer refund to a dealer after a vehicle is sold. Usually a percentage of the MSRP.

Home Equity Loan

A loan secured by the equity in your home. Interest paid is usually tax-deductible. Increasingly, consumers are using home-equity loans instead of consumer loans to purchase items, such as cars, for which conventional-loan interest is not tax-deductible.

Horsepower (hp, bhp)

Abbreviated as hp, as in 200-hp engine, or bhp (brake horsepower or net horsepower) to designate power produced by an engine. In general, the higher the horsepower, the higher the vehicle’s top speed. One horsepower is the power needed to lift a 550-pound weight one foot in one second.

Hot Rod

A normal vehicle that has been altered to improve speed and overall appearance or look.

I-Beam Suspension

A suspension beam under the car that supports the body in the shape of a capital I.

IHRA

International Hot Rod Association

IMS

Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the site of the Indy 500. This is now an IRL event.

IMSA

International Motor Sports Association, founded by John Bishop in 1969. Sanctions, organizes, markets and officiates professional auto racing events. Season begins in February at Daytona International Speedway and ends in October on the streets of New Orleans.

IRL

Indy Racing League founded by Tony George in 1995 in response to re-occurring feuds and disputes with CART.

IROC

International Race Of Champions

Idle Speed

The speed of the engine at minimum throttle and the engine in neutral.

In-Line Engine

Cylinders are arranged side by side in a row and in a single bank. Most four-cylinder and some six-cylinder engines are in-line engines. In V-6, V-8 or V-12 engines, the cylinders are divided into two banks, each of which is angled away from the other in a ‘V.’

Incentive

A cash refund or attractive lease or loan rate offered by an automotive manufacturer toward the purchase of a new vehicle.

Indemnity

A legal principle specifying that the insured not collect more than the actual cash value of a loss but be restored to approximately the same financial position that existed before the loss.

Independent Suspension

A suspension design that lets each wheel move up and down independently of the others. A vehicle can have two-wheel or four-wheel independent suspension; sportier models have four-wheel independent suspension. See also Multi-Link Suspension, Live Axle.

Indy 500

The big race held in Indianapolis every year on Memorial Day weekend.

Indy Lights

One level below Indy car racing, known for its lighter version of actual Indy Cars. This is a stepping stone to the Indy 500.

Inflatable Tubular Restraint

This tube of woven material is stiffer and stays inflated longer than a traditional airbag cushion. The tube protects the occupant’s head and torso in a side impact, in part by keeping them away from the point of intrusion. The uninflated tube is tucked into the edge of the roof headliner. The tube is attached at the base of the A-pillar in front of the occupant, and at the roofline behind the occupant. When it inflates, the tube angles across the window to keep the occupants head from hitting the window glass or metal side pillar. Because of the longer time the tubular restraint stays inflated, it is expected to also offer protection in a rollover.

Installment Loan

A loan repaid in separate smaller amounts, typically monthly.

Instrument Panel

The instrument panel contains the gauges in front of the driver; the controls for the sound system and climate-control system; the glove box; vents for the windshield defroster; and the front passenger-side airbag. The instrument panel is often delivered to the factory as a complete module with electronic components already installed.

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

Sister organization to the Highway Loss Data Institute. Funded by insurance companies.

Insurance Verification

Proof that the borrower has auto insurance.

Integrated Child Seats

May also be called integrated child-safety seats or integrated child-restraint seats. Built-in child seats that fold out of the seatback of a rear seat. Sedans with this option usually have one in the center of the rear seat; minivans may have one or two in the middle seating positions. While NHTSA and every other safety organization stress that any child-restraint seat is better than none, built-in child-restraint seats are considered the safest alternative because they are more securely anchored than a seat attached to seat belts.

Intercooler

Device that cools air as it leaves a turbocharger or supercharger before the air is blown into the engine air intake. Cooling makes the air denser and richer in oxygen, which lets the engine produce more power.

Interest

The cost of the money borrowed, usually expressed as a percentage of the whole.

Interest Rate

The periodic charge, expressed as a percentage, for the use of credit.

Interior Payload

The amount of space or material that can be carried inside the vehicle.

Invoice Price

The initial charge to the dealer from the manufacturer, including freight and delivery charges.

J-rim

A groove around the outer edge of a wheel rim to provide a lock for the tire bead.

J/B

Junction block.

Jack The Bear

A top-performing driver.

Jacketed Gasket

A gasket having metal grommets around bolt and water holes.

Jacking

Modifying the suspension to raise or lower one corner of an oval-track race car in order to provide better handling characteristics.

Jackrabbit Start

A sudden acceleration from a standing start.

Jackshaft

A shaft found in most overhead cam engines that is used to drive the distributor, fuel pump, and oil pump.

Jacob’s Ladder

A triangular control linkage to center the rear axle assembly found on some rear-wheel-drive race cars.

Jacobs Brake

A device more commonly known as Jake brake.

Jalopy

1. A low-budget, dirt-track racing car rebuilt from an older vehicle.

2. An old automobile.

Jam Nut

A second nut tightened against a primary nut to prevent it from working loose; used on inner and outer tie-rod adjustment nuts and on may pinion-bearing adjustment nuts.

JAMA

An acronym for Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association.

Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA)

An international trade association of Japanese car, truck, motorcycle, and bus manufacturers.

Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS)

Japan’s equivalent of the DIN in Germany or the SAE in the United States.

Jeep Trail

A road or trail suitable only for a 4WD vehicle.

Jeeping

Driving a 4WD vehicle, generally off the road.

Jendham

An Automotive training company.

Jet

A calibrated passage in the carburetor used to meter fuel flow.

Jet Car

A race car powered by a jet aircraft engine for open course competition.

Jet Valve

An intake valve, located in a precombustion chamber, that admits a highly concentrated air/fuel mixture into a stratified charge engine.

Jump Out

A condition when a fully engaged gear and sliding clutch are forced out of engagement.

Jump Start

Using battery jumper cables to connect an able battery to a disabled battery to start the vehicle.

Jumper Cable

Two heavy-duty cables used to connect two batteries, as for starting a vehicle.

 

Source: http://www.theautoglossary.com

K-car

A compact front-wheel drive vehicle introduced by Chrysler in the early 1980′s.

K-Jetronic

A continuous fuel-injection system; a forerunner of the KE-Jetronic system.

KAM

An acronym for Keep-Alive Memory Random-access memory that is retained by keeping a voltage applied to the circuits when the engine is off.

Kandy Apple

A rich, red finish popular on custom cars.

Kart

A small, open, four-wheeled vehicle with a single cylinder, two- or four-cycle gasoline engine.

KD Set

An acronym for knocked down set.

KE-Jetronics

A continuous electronic fuel-injection system by Bosh that has been modified using a lambda oxygen sensor.

Keenserts

A trade name for a thread-repair system using spiral inserts to repair damaged threads.

Keeper Grooves

The grooved area on a valve stem to accommodate the keepers.

Keepers

Key-like, tapered-metal locking devices used to hold valve retainers in place on the valve stem.

Kemp

A custom car or lead sled.

Key-off Loads

A term used for parasitic loads.

Keyboard

An input device used to key programs and data into the computer’s storage.

Keyless Entry

A system using a coded keypad that allows the operator to unlock the doors or the trunk from outside the vehicle without the use of a key.

Keystone Ring

Compression piston ring, double tapered and shaped like a keystone.

Keyway

A groove milled or machined onto a shaft or into a bore to accept a square, half moon, or a round piece of metal.

Kg

An acronym for the metric kilogram.

Kick Out Of Gear

To shift to neutral.

Kickdown

A downshift to the next lower gear in an automatic transmission when the driver applies full throttle, as in overtaking and passing another vehicle.

 

Source: http://www.theautoglossary.com

Lap-and-Shoulder Belt

A safety belt that secures the driver and/or passenger in the seat with a continuous web of material which fits across the lap and crosses the upper body. It keeps the occupant from jerking forward in the event of a crash. Also called three-way belt, three-point belt, or three-point safety harness.

Lapse

The termination of a policy due to failure to pay the premium.

Leaf Spring

Suspension spring made up of several thin, curved, hardened-steel or composite-material plates attached at the ends to the vehicle underbody. The curved shape of the plates allows them to flex and absorb bumps.

Lean or Rich Fuel Mixture

The fuel mixture is lean when it has too much air, and rich when it has too much fuel. These terms can also be used to refer to adjustments the electronic control module makes to the fuel mixture in response to various driving conditions, particularly on engines with variable-valve technology.

Lease

A contract between lessor and lessee for a specified time period and at a specified payment. The title to the car remains in the name of the lessor as owner of the asset.

Lease Rate

The monthly finance cost of a lease, similar to the interest rate on a conventional loan. Determined by the money factor.

Lease Term

The number of months for which a vehicle is leased.

Lease-End Residual Value

Used to estimate the value of the vehicle at the end of the lease.

Leg Room

With the front seat adjusted all the way back, the distance from the accelerator pedal’s heel point to the back of the front seat cushion.

Lemon

(Slang) A vehicle, usually new, that has a large number of defects.

Lessee

The person who leases a vehicle. The party paying for the use of the vehicle (consumer).

Lessor

The person or institution who owns and leases the vehicle to the lessee. The party funding the lease of the vehicle placed in lease service. It can be the dealer, a leasing company, or a financial institution such as a bank or credit union.

Liability

Any legally enforceable obligation.

Liability Coverage

A type of insurance that pays or renders service on behalf of the insured for any loss or damage due to his or her negligence.

Liability Limits

The limit of insurance the company will pay for on a particular policy.

Lien

A legally documented claim against a vehicle by another party to which the vehicle has been offered as security for repayment of a loan or other debt. A lien against the title may make it impossible to sell the vehicle and transfer the title until the lien is cleared.

Lienholder

An individual or company with a financial interest in an insured’s vehicle.

Lift Gate

The rear opening on a hatchback.

Liftover

The distance a person must lift an object off the ground to put it in a trunk or cargo bay.

Light-Duty

Adjective that refers to passenger trucks, as opposed to medium-duty or heavy-duty commercial trucks.

Limited-Slip Differential

A device that helps prevent the drive wheels from skidding or losing traction by diverting power from the slipping wheel to the opposite wheel on the same axle.

Line of Credit

An approved loan amount that has not yet been used.

Liter

Engine-displacement measurement, as in 2.0-liter engine.

Live Axle

A solid axle allowing movement of the wheel on one end to affect the opposite wheel. Found on older rear-drive cars and tucks. Also called a rigid axle.

Loan to Value Ratio (LTV)

The ratio of the sales price or appraised value to the loan amount. Obtained by divided price or value into loan amount. A vehicle with a $10,000 price and an $8,000 loan would have a loan-to-value ratio of 80 percent.

Lock or Lock-in

A commitment you obtain from a lender assuring you a particular interest rate for a definite time period. Protects you in case interest rates rise during the approval process, or between the time you apply for the loan and actually receive the money you have borrowed.

Loss

The amount sought through an insurer’s claim.

M+S Rating

A tire rating which indicates a tire designed to perform well in mud and snow.

MIS

Michigan International Speedway. Site of the 1996 US 500, a CART event.

MSRP

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. The recommended selling price for a vehicle as set by the manufacturer.

MacPherson Strut

A MacPherson strut is a unit that includes a damper or shock absorber cartridge inside a large, long metal spring. MacPherson struts are used over the front wheels of most front-drive cars. Replacement of MacPherson strut cartridges requires a spring compressor.

Make

The manufacturer of the vehicle (BMW, Chrysler, Honda).

Malicious Mischief

The purposeful damaging of another’s property.

Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor (MAP sensor)

Detects engine load by measuring air pressure or vacuum in the intake manifold.

Manual Transmission

A transmission that varies the power and torque through a foot pedal controlled clutch and a floor-mounted or steering-shaft-mounted gear selection lever.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)

The suggested selling price of the vehicle. Does not include destination charges, optional equipment, or taxes.

Market Value

The price for which something would currently sell.

Mass Airflow Sensor

Device that measures the flow of air entering the throttle housing.

Master Cylinder

A piston-type pump that produces pressure in the brake hydraulic system.

Medical Payments Coverage

Optional insurance that pays for medical and/or funeral expenses for the driver and passenger of a vehicle.

Mid-Size

A medium size car designed to seat four to six passengers.

Mileage Allowance

The lessee’s estimate of how much mileage he will drive during the lease term. If the lessee underestimates how much he drives, he will face an excess mileage charge at lease end.

Mileage Cap

In a lease transaction, the maximum number of miles the vehicle can be driven by the end of the lease. There is a per-mile penalty for exceeding this limit.

Mileage Charges

Fees assessed if lessee drives more than the contracted mileage limit.

Miles Per Gallon

Fuel economy measurement. Abbreviated as mpg. Generally, a vehicle sticker may offer mpg ratings for city driving, highway driving, and combined driving.

Minimum Ground Clearance

The distance between the ground and the lowest point of the vehicle chassis (usually the axle). A vehicle can drive over any object shorter than its minimum ground clearance.

Minimum Premium

The smallest premium that an insurance company will accept for payment on a policy.

Model

The style of the vehicle produced by the manufacturer (Ford Mustang, Chrysler LeBaron, Honda Civic).

Money Factor

The money factor is used to determine the lease rate. For all intents and purposes it is the lease equivalent of the interest rate on a conventional loan. The money factor is the current annual percentage rate divided by 24. To figure out the equivalent interest rate, multiply the money factor by 2400. The money factor usually has two zeroes after the decimal point before the rest of the number, for example 0.004133, so any differences in the figure seem very small, but translated into an interest rate they can make a great difference in the actual finance cost of a lease.

Monroney Sticker Price

The price which appears on the label showing the base price, installed options, transportation charge, and fuel economy. Required by law, it may not be removed by anyone other than the purchaser.

Moonroof

A window-type opening in the roof of the car that can open or tilt up or down. See Sunroof.

Morale Hazard

“It’s insured; so why worry?” This attitude usually increases the probability of loss or damage.

Muffler

The exhaust system device in the tailpipe that reduces engine noise. Some vehicles have more than one muffler along the tailpipe.

Multi-Link Suspension

Independent suspension controlled with several link arms that restrict undesired motion of the suspension for a smoother ride and more precise handling.

Multi-Port Fuel Injection

An electronic fuel-injection method that uses individual injectors to spray fuel directly into each intake port, bypassing the intake manifold. Also called multi-point fuel injection.

Multiple Security Deposits

A lessee may choose to pay additional security deposits (or monthly payments up-front) in exchange for a lower monthly lease payment via a reduced money factor, which reduces the monthly charges.

NASCAR

National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing; the governing body which sets the rules and regulations for stock car racing.

NHRA

National Hot Rod Association

Named Insured

The person or company that is designated as the insured.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

The federal agency that creates safety regulations for cars and trucks, crash-tests them, and analyzes safety-related defects that may require recalls.

Negative Equity

The amount owed on a vehicle loan is greater than its market value.

Negligence

Failure to use a certain degree of care.

New Car Assessment Program (NCAP)

One of several crash-test programs run by NHTSA. Cars are crashed head-on into a rigid barrier at 35 mph, and instrumented dummies measure crash forces endured by properly restrained occupants. NHTSA assigns each tested vehicle a score indicating the likelihood of moderate, severe or fatal injury.

Nitromethane

A mixture of nitric acid and methane which is used to fuel TOP Fuel Dragsters and Funny Cars; is also called nitro or top fuel.

No-Fault Insurance

A type of insurance where both parties in an accident file claims regardless of fault.

Non-renewable

The termination of the insurance policy at the expiration date.

OCIR

Orange County International Raceway.

Occurrence

Any event that resulted in a loss or damage to the insured or the insured’s property.

Octane

The hydrocarbon substance in gasoline that reduces engine knock or pinging, which is a noise caused by premature ignition of fuel in the cylinder combustion chamber. The higher the octane number, the less chance of premature ignition. High octane, which has a rating above 91, is useful only when recommended by the manufacturer.

Odometer

Indicates the number of miles a vehicle has been driven. It is illegal to tamper with the odometer reading.

Odometer Rollback

The illegal practice of rolling a vehicle’s odometer back to indicate that it traveled fewer miles than it actually has.

Odometer Rollover

Occurs when the vehicle’s mileage exceeds the mechanical limits of the odometer ? usually 99,999 miles. This must be certified by the seller, under the Truth in Mileage Act.

Open-End Lease

Also called a Finance or Equity Lease. The lessee is responsible for the difference between the agreed-upon residual value and the fair market value of the vehicle at the end of the lease, if the vehicle is worth less than anticipated. For example, if the vehicle has a market value of $8,000 at the end of the lease, and the residual value was set at $10,000, then the lessee owes the leasing company the difference of $2,000. The lessee has the right to an independent appraisal of the vehicle, at his or her own expense. The payments for an open-end lease are generally lower than those for a closed-end lease.

Opportunity Cost

The cost of using money one way as opposed to using it in another, more economically advantageous way. For example, the loss of interest experienced as a result of removing money from a savings account to be used as a down payment on a vehicle.

Optional Equipment

Equipment or features that can be added to a particular model which are not part of the standard package. These usually involve additional cost and can be ordered individually or as part of a package.

Over-insurance

When the insurance is more than the risk of peril.

Overdrive

A transmission gear with a ratio below 1:1, which improves fuel economy by reducing engine revolutions per minute at highway speeds. On a five-speed manual transmission, the fourth and fifth gears are overdrive. On a four-speed automatic transmission, the fourth gear is overdrive. When an overdrive gear set is engaged, the output shaft turns at a higher rate than the input shaft, reducing engine revolutions at cruising or highway speeds.

Overhead Cam (OHC)

The camshaft is on top of the cylinder head on overhead-cam engines. Single overhead-cam (SOHC) engines have a single cam above the cylinder head. Dual overhead-cam (DOHC) engines have two cams above the cylinder head. All overhead-cam engines are also overhead-valve (OHV) engines, which means the intake and exhaust valves sit atop the cylinder head.

Oversteer

Occurs when the rear tires lose adhesion under cornering. In motorsports, this is also called loose. Oversteer can lead to a spin if the driver doesn’t reduce acceleration. See also Understeer.

Oxygen Sensor

Measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust.

PPG

Actually, PPG Industries, founded in 1883 as the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company. PPG has been the source of tough urethane finishes on cars racing in the Indianapolis 500 since 1975. In 1980, it became the title sponsor of the PPG Indy Car World Series.

PRO

Professional Racers Organization

PSI

Acronym for pounds per square inch. A pressure measurement used in tire inflation and turbocharger boost.

Pace Car

Seen at NASCAR and Indy races, the pace car leads race cars out of the pole position at beginning of races or after a yellow flag or restart has been called.

Package Shelf

The ledge between the rear seat and the backlight (or rear windshield). The name is misleading because it’s a bad idea to put anything on the package shelf. However, it often contains the sound system’s rear speakers and, on some vehicles, the CHMSL or center brake light. Sometimes also called the package tray. On European cars the package tray often contains a first-aid kit; on higher-end models it may contain storage compartments.

Papers of Origin

Manufacturer documents used to obtain vehicle titles.

Partial Loss

Any loss that does not completely destroy the property or exhaust the insurance.

Passive Restraint

A device or structure that automatically helps restrain vehicle occupants in an impact. This includes airbags, belt pretensioners, padded knee bolsters, and shoulder belts that are motorized, or attached to the door.

Peril

A cause of a possible loss.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

A broad type of medical payments insurance. Usually offers protection for expenses incurred up to a dollar amount.

Physical Damage

A generic term that describes injury or damage to property.

Physical Hazard

The material of the risk itself.

Pick-up

The type of truck with an open cargo bed behind the closed cab.

Pinion

A type of gear that has small teeth that mesh with other, larger gears.

Piston

The heavy, cylindrical metal shaft within each engine cylinder that travels up and down to turn the crankshaft, compress the air and fuel mixture for combustion and expel exhaust gases.

Policy Period

The amount of time that the policy covers (i.e., six months or two years).

Policyholder

The person who has possession of the policy.

Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve

An emission device that routes oil pan vapors to the intake manifold to be burned during combustion. Also known as the PCV valve.

Positive Equity

The vehicle’s market value is greater than the amount the borrower owes on it.

Power Plant

Another name for a vehicle’s engine.

Power Steering

A steering system that uses a separate motor or engine power to reduce the effort necessary to turn the front wheels.

Power-to-Weight Ratio

The maximum power output of the vehicle per unit mass. The higher the ratio, the more powerful the vehicle. In comparing several vehicles, this can be a better measurement than engine horsepower or torque because it considers the weight variable. In other words, a car that seems to have a powerful engine but is also heavy may have less get-up-and-go than a vehicle that has a similar or less powerful engine but also weighs less.

Powertrain

The combination of engine and transmission.

Premium

The periodic payment to keep the policy enforced.

Preparation Charges

Charges incurred by the dealer while preparing a vehicle for delivery to the buyer.

Pressure Plate

Holds the clutch disc against the flywheel.

Pretensioner

A device that rapidly yanks in shoulder-belt slack when a crash sensor detects an impact. Some pretensioners are activated by a small explosive charge in the belt retractor; some contain their own inertial sensors. So far, pretensioners are still found on more expensive models, particularly those by European manufacturers. By pulling in belt slack within milliseconds of an impact, pretensioners help reduce chest and head injury by restricting occupant motion and preventing the occupant from hitting the belt.

Pro Rallies

Road rallies which are very competitive and are run at high speeds on roads closed to the public. Often sponsored by the SCCA.

Pro Start

A method of starting a drag race that differs from most starts in that it only has one amber light between the initial staging and the final lights on the “Christmas Tree.”

Projector-Beam Headlights

A headlight that uses a spherical reflector to tightly control the light beam. The bulb or light source directs the light inward, toward the reflector at the back of the headlight assembly, which then projects it forward from the vehicle. These lights are more powerful, accurate and expensive than standard sealed-beam and halogen headlights, and are generally found on sport and luxury models.

Proof of Loss

A formal statement made by the insured to the insurance company regarding a loss.

Property Damage Liability

The protection of the property when not under control of the insured.

Purchase Option

The lessee’s right to purchase the vehicle, if he so chooses, at lease end. It’s a good idea to negotiate a purchase-option price at the same time you negotiate the capitalized cost and residual value, if possible. Some contracts lock-in a pre-determined value for the vehicle.

Pushrod

A metal rod that transmits the motion of the camshaft to the valve actuators to open and close the valves. Used on engines with overhead valves but without overhead camshafts.

QDR

Quad Driver.

QDM

Quad driver module

QSOL

(Porsche) Specified Air Mass.

Quad

1. A four-barrel carburetor.

2. Four headlamps, two on either side of the vehicle.

3. A four-wheel drive vehicle.

Quad Carburetor

A four-barrel carburetor.

Quad Driver

1. A dipole (DIP) device which contains circuit drivers to control outputs

2. An integrated circuit used to turn certain components on and off

3. A quad driver has four separate out puts (switches) and can turn on and off up to four circuits   and or components independently such as four fuel injectors.

Quad Ring

A rubber or plastic sealing ring with square sides.

Quad Valve Head

A cylinder head with four valves, two exhaust and two intake, per cylinder.

Quad-4

A high-performance, four-cylinder engine developed by General Motors.

Quadra-Trac

A full-time, four-wheel drive system.

Quadrant

1. A device used to indicate the position of the gear selector of an automatic transmission.

2. One quarter of a circle.

Qualify

To earn a starting position in a race.

Quantum Theory

The theory that considers light to have mass, as opposed to the wave theory, which considers light to be without mass, and the transfer of energy is in definite discrete amounts.

Quarter

A term used for a quarter-mile drag strip.

Quarter Elliptic Spring

One half of a semi-elliptic spring having one end attached tot he chassis frame and the other attached to the axle.

Quarter Mile

1. A distance of 1,320 feet (404) meters).

2. The standard distance for a drag strip.

Quarter Mile Drag Strip

The most popular standard distance for a competitive drag-racing strip.

Quarter Panel

A term used for the metal work for either the front or rear corner of a vehicle body.

Quarter Race Cam

A camshaft that has been regrown to provide better than standard performance.

Quarter-speed Cam

A camshaft that rotates once for each four revolutions of the crankshaft.

Quick Coupler

A coupler that allows hoses to be quickly connected and/or disconnected. Most shop air hoses, for example, are equipped with quick couplers.

Quick Release Valve

A device used to exhaust air as close as possible to the service chambers or spring brakes.

Quick Take-up Master Cylinder

A dual master cylinder that supplies a large volume of fluid to the front disc brakes on initial brake application, which takes up the clearance of low-drag calipers.

Quick Take-up Valve

The part of the quick take-up master cylinder that controls fluid flow between the reservoir and the primary low pressure chamber.

 

Source: http://www.theautoglossary.com

R-12

The chlorofluorocarbon refrigerant, commonly referred to as Freon (a DuPont trademark) or CFC-12, now considered environmentally hazardous but once the key ingredient in automotive air-conditioning systems. A refrigerant is a chemical compound that absorbs, carries and releases heat in an air-conditioning system.

R-134a

The environmentally safe refrigerant now used in air-conditioning systems. It requires a slightly bulkier condenser unit than R-12. Vehicles equipped with R-12 systems can be converted to use R-134a. Since Freon is now banned, expensive and hard to obtain, the conversion may be a good idea when an R-12-based system needs recharging, particularly if technicians detect a leak.

RACMSA

The RAC Motor Sports Association is recognized by the FIA as the governing body of motor sport in Great Britain.

Rack and Pinion Steering

The steering wheel is connected to a pinion gear that meshes with a toothed bar, also called a rack or linear gear. As the pinion turns, the rack moves side to side, moving the steering linkage and causing the front wheels to turn left or right. The ends of the rack are linked to the steering wheel with tie rods.

Radiator

The copper or aluminum device in front of the engine through which hot engine coolant is circulated and cooled. The liquid is then recirculated back through the engine block to cool it.

Rag Top

A convertible with a soft top.

Rally

Competing teams, consisting of a driver and a navigator, are given route instructions, which they must follow exactly. Each team follows the course independently, trying to rack up points based on how well they meet a pre-determined schedule.

Rate

The per unit cost of insurance.

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

The drivetrain in which power is applied through the rear wheels only.

Rebate

An illegal action wherein the agent gives the insured a portion of his or her commission to entice the purchase of insurance.

Rebate

A partial reimbursement from the manufacturer, to either the dealer or buyer, for purchasing a vehicle.

Recall

A manufacturer calls in vehicles to repair defects, usually safety-related. Recalls may be voluntary, requested by the government, or mandated by NHTSA.

Recirculating Ball

A steering mechanism in which the steering shaft turns a worm gear causing a toothed metal block to move back and forth, turning the front wheels. Ball bearings reduce friction between the worm gear and the metal block.

Reconditioning Reserve

Another name for the security deposit when leasing a vehicle.

Red-lining

Unfairly discriminating against a risk because of its location.

Redline

The point on the engine tachometer that indicates the maximum rpm the engine can safely withstand.

Refundable Security Deposit

Money to be held until lease-end as a security method for all lease obligations.

Reimbursement

Payment of the amount according to the loss or damage of property.

Release Fork

Disengages the clutch disc from the flywheel by pressing on the pressure plate release springs.

Renewal

The continuation of coverage that is about to expire.

Rent Charges

The amount charged in addition to the depreciation and any amortized costs.

Residual Value

The estimated value of the vehicle at the end of the lease. Often expressed as a percentage in decimal form. It is based on a vehicle’s MSRP. For example, the residual value of a vehicle may be 0.65, or 65% of its MSRP at the end of the lease term. In this example, a car with an MSRP of $20,000 is estimated to be worth $13,000 at the end of the lease term. Residual value may be a negotiable figure. This should be clearly stated in the lease. It is one of the elements used in determining the monthly lease payment and also in deciding whether to buy the vehicle at term end. Also called the walk-away value or guaranteed value.

Retention

The amount of liability that is assumed but not reinsured by the agency.

Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)

Describes at which speed the engine crankshaft is turning.

Rims

The outer edge of a bare wheel.

Risk

Any chance of loss or damage.

Rocker Panel

The body panel that runs beneath a vehicle’s doors.

Rollcage

A protective steel cage to prevent driver injury during a rollover.

Rollover

The type of vehicle impact in which the car or truck rolls over on its side, onto its roof, or turns over completely. The biggest cause of injury in a rollover is ejection of the occupant or any part of the occupant. Rollover is a greater risk in any sport-utility vehicle — because of its high center of gravity — than in a minivan, pickup truck or passenger car. Rollover can occur immediately upon impact or in the seconds after an impact, which makes it more difficult to protect occupants with traditional airbags. Inflatable tubular restraints and similar designs that stay inflated longer than traditional airbags will be more effective in rollover situations.

Rule of 78

Under a Rule of 78 loan, the interest over the entire life of the loan is divided into 78 equal pieces. The first monthly payment consists of 12 of these pieces, the next of 11 pieces and the rest principal, the third of 10 interest pieces and the rest principal, and so on to the 12th payment, which includes only 1/78 of the interest. Under this type of loan, all the interest due is paid during the first year, and all future payments go toward reducing the principal. A Rule of 78 loan insures that the financier will earn its profit immediately but leaves the borrower with less equity in the early years of the loan. Many dealers advertise that their loans are NOT of this type.

Running Yellow

This indicates that something may be wrong on the track, but the cars are allowed to stay, running at a reduced speed. A quick check by the officials usually resolves the issue and the green light comes back on.

SCCA

The Sports Car Club of America sponsors many racing events in the U.S. It also supplies many of the Race Officials and Workers for Road Racing by other groups. Most SCCA events are geared toward participation by SCCA members.

SCORE Off-Road Desert Championship

Short Course Off-Road Enterprises. SCORE now stages and promotes Off Road Truck races and events. Season starts in Arizona each January, ending in November with the Ford Tecate SCORE Baja 1000.

SRP

Spokane Raceway Park

Safe Driver Plan

Discounts for a good driving record.

Security Deposit

May be required in some lease contracts. It is similar to a security deposit on an apartment. This money is held to cover any payments that might be missed. This deposit may or may not be refundable. It is usually equivalent to one month’s lease payment.

Sedan

A two- or four-door car that can hold four to six people. Includes a trunk in the rear.

Sensor Algorithm

An algorithm is a mathematical formula or series of formulas used by an on-board computer or processor to make a decision. In an airbag system, a crash-sensor algorithm determines whether the change in velocity indicates an impact of great enough force to require airbag deployment, based on pre-programmed parameters. If the change in velocity is great enough, the processor sends a signal to the device that inflates the airbag.

Sequential Fuel Injection

A sequential fuel injection system times the opening of the injectors to match the opening of the intake valve into each cylinder.

Settlement

A claim payment.

Shift Interlock

On a vehicle with automatic transmission, a safety device that prevents the driver from shifting out of park unless the brake pedal is depressed.

Shock Absorbers

Suspension device near each wheel that dampens the up-and-down movement of the vehicle. Inside a shock absorber, a piston rides up and down in a cylinder filled with thick fluid or compressed gas. The shock absorber counteracts the up-and-down movement allowed by the springs.

Short-term Policy

A policy written for a period of time that is shorter than usual for that type of coverage.

Side Airbag

An inflatable cushion that fills the space between the door and the occupant to prevent head, torso and pelvis injuries when a vehicle is hit from the side. Side airbags may be stored in the door-trim panel or the outboard side of the seat; they may protect the hip and torso only or also protect the head. A new design, called an inflatable tubular restraint, is stored in the edge of the roof headliner and attached at the base of the A-pillar at the front end and above the doors along the roofline at the other. The device inflates into a somewhat stiff tube that prevents the occupant’s head from hitting the side pillar or the window.

Side-Impact

Federal safety regulations require that vehicles absorb a certain amount of force when hit from the side. To meet side-impact standards, automakers have stiffened side-impact beams, which resist intrusion into the passenger compartment, and added safety devices such as side airbags and extra padding, which are designed to push the occupant toward the interior of the vehicle and away from the point of intrusion.

Simple Interest

Interest paid or computed only on the original principal of a loan.

Single Overhead Cam (SOHC)

An engine with a single overhead cam generally has one intake and one exhaust valve per cylinder; the single cam opens and closes both valves. See also Overhead Cam and Dual Overhead Cam.

Single Pay Advantage

The lessee pays the entire lease amount in one payment in exchange for a lower money factor. Single-pay advantage was designed to overcome cash customers’ objections to monthly payments. Unlike an actual cash purchase, however, the lessee still pays the financing cost.

Slicks

A type racing tire characteristically very wide with no tread.

Smart Airbag

Smart airbags don’t exist yet, but NHTSA expects automakers and their suppliers to have them perfected sometime after the year 2000. There are many designs, but each contains similar elements including a system of sensors and mathematical algorithms to detect the presence or absence of an occupant in the seat; to determine the size, weight and nature of any occupant (including whether it is a rear-facing infant and determine whether the occupant is an adult, a dog, a bag of groceries or a rear-facing infant seat); and to determine whether the occupant is too close to the airbag door for safe deployment. A smart system will use that information to decide whether to inflate the airbag in an impact. Later generations of smart airbags will adjust the rate of inflation based on force of impact and size of the occupant.

Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)

An engineering organization that shares research information and sets industrywide standards.

Solo I

A racing event sponsored by the SCCA, focused on Time Trial and Hill Climbs.

Solo II

Autocross racing event sponsored by the SCCA.

Spark Plug

Converts voltage into an arc that passes between its electrodes; the arc ignites the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. The mixture explodes, creating power by pushing down the piston.

Spoiler

Usually on the rear of the vehicle, it changes the direction of airflow in order to reduce drag.

Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)

Refers to a style of truck which has a square passenger cabin and hatchback, and may be equipped with two- or four-wheel drive.

Sports Car

A body type designation. Generally a small, powerful car seating only two people.

Sprint Car

Two types of sprint cars exist, the first is the USAC open-wheel cars that feature a upright roll cage. The second is a similar car that has a large wing mounted to the top for stability; this is used by the World of Outlaws.

Starter

An electric motor powered by the battery that turns the crankshaft before the pistons begin operating.

Starting Grid

The first section or portion of a race track.

Station Wagon

A two- or four-door passenger car with a cargo area that extends all the way to the rear bumper.

Steering Ratio

The ratio of the different steering gears. Usually a lower gear means a faster response.

Sticker Price

The price of a vehicle found on the sticker attached to one of its windows. Generally, the MSRP.

Stock Car Racing

Started by NASCAR’s founder, Bill France, in the 1940s. Initially meant track cars equipped with showroom parts. Today, few cars use stock parts. Most are built from custom parts, made especially for these race cars, that look like those in showrooms.

Stroke

The up-and-down distance the piston travels within the cylinder. On a traditional internal combustion engine, the piston makes four strokes during the combustion cycle, only one of which is a power stroke. On the power stroke, the piston is near the top of the cylinder, and it has compressed the air and fuel mixture. The spark plug ignites the mixture, and the force of the explosion pushes the piston down into the cylinder, producing the force that turns the crankshaft. The piston returns to the top of the cylinder to expel the exhaust gases on the second, or exhaust, stroke. It slides down to the bottom of the cylinder during the intake stroke, when the valves open to let in air and fuel. The piston rises to the top of the cylinder on the compression stroke to begin the cycle anew. This process repeats hundreds or thousands of times a minute, resulting in the number of crankshaft revolutions per minute at which the crankshaft is rotating.

Subcompact

The car size class one step up from the minicar.

Subvented Lease

A special lease, subsidized by an auto manufacturer, that features a low money factor rate or high residual value, making the monthly payments extremely attractive. Automakers increasingly are using subvented-lease specials instead of rebates to boost sales of particular models.

Sunday Afternoon Rally

One day rallies, usually run by a local car club. These may be run on public access roads.

Sunroof

A window-type opening in the roof of the vehicle that can tilt or slide open.

Supercharged, Supercharger

Serves the same function as a turbocharger but avoids lag time because it runs off an engine-driven pump. Both turbochargers and superchargers are used to produce more power without increasing engine displacement, but neither are particularly fuel efficient and both can require costly maintenance as vehicles age.

Supercharger

A standard piece of equipment of Funny Cars and Top Fuel dragsters, this provides more power by blowing a combination of more air and vaporized fuel into the car’s engine.

Supplementary Payments

The agreement or policy that an agency will pay defense costs, premiums, and interests.

Suspension

Springs, shock absorbers, struts, and links used to suspend the frame, body and engine above the wheels.

Synthetic oil

Engine lubricant not derived from raw petroleum. It has superior engine-protection properties but costs as much as five times more than petroleum oil.

Tachometer

The instrument gauge that shows engine speed, or revolutions per minute. On a vehicle with manual transmission, the driver can use the tachometer to tell when to upshift or downshift. Also called tach.

Tappet

A pivoting actuator that opens and closes cylinder intake and exhaust valves.

Term Loan

A loan repaid in a lump sum, including interest, at the end of the loan period.

Termination Fee

An amount sometimes charged at the end of a lease.

Third Party Insurance

Protection for the damage of property or bodies of others.

Throttle-Body Fuel Injection

A form of electronic fuel injection in which the injectors are centrally located in a throttle-body housing that contains a valve to regulate air flow through the intake manifold. Less efficient and precise than multi-port or sequential fuel injection.

Timing Valve

A valve in a fuel injection pump which times the delivery of fuel.

Title

The government-issued document that proves ownership of a specific vehicle.

Toe-in

A wheel-alignment term that indicates the leading edges of a pair of wheels angle slightly toward each other. Front-drive cars are often aligned with slight toe-in to compensate for the effects of torque steer, or the tendency of the front wheels to pull to the side under hard acceleration.

Toe-out

A wheel-alignment term that indicates the leading edges of a pair of wheels angle slightly away from each other.

Top-Fuel Dragsters

The fastest of drag racing vehicles, these have a characteristicly long body and use top fuel which accounts for the tremendous speeds these vehicles can attain.

Torque

A measure of twisting force, given in foot-pounds (abbreviated as lb.-ft.) or Newton-meters (N-m). In the case of an automobile, it is the twisting or rotational force the engine exerts on the crankshaft. Vehicle specifications often include the maximum torque an engine produces at a specific number of revolutions. An engine that produces 200 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 revolutions per minute, or 200 lb.-ft.@ 3,000 rpm, accelerates better at low speeds than an engine that provides 200 lb.-ft.@5,000 rpm.

Torque Converter

In an automatic transmission, a fluid coupling or electronic control that transmits power from the engine to the wheels. It allows the transmission to remain in gear while the vehicle is stopped. The fluid absorbs power and prevents the engine from stalling.

Torque Steer

The tendency of the front wheels on a front-drive vehicle to pull to the side under hard acceleration.

Torsion Bar

A simple, rugged type of suspension spring that twists as it is compressed or stretched.

Torsional Stiffness

A vehicle body’s resistance to twisting motions.

Total Loss

Any loss of sufficient size where there is nothing left of value of the property.

Towing & Labor

Pays for towing and labor at the site of an automobile breakdown.

Towing Capacity

The amount of weight a vehicle can tow behind it.

Track

Vehicle width, measured from the center of one tire’s contact patch to the center of the opposite tire’s contact patch.

Traction

The amount of friction between the tire and the ground.

Traction Control

A system for limiting wheel slip under acceleration, thus maintaining each wheel’s contact with the road surface. Traction-control systems generally use the anti-lock braking system to stop wheel spin and reduce power from one or more engine cylinders when an electronic sensor detects wheel spin.

Trade-in Value

The amount a dealership credits you for the used vehicle you provide as partial payment for another vehicle. The amount credited is often about 5 percent below the vehicle’s wholesale market value.

Trading Down

Buying a less expensive vehicle than the one currently owned.

Trading Up

Buying a more expensive vehicle than the one currently owned.

Transaxle

A combined transmission and differential on front-drive vehicles.

Transfer Case

On four-wheel drive vehicles, a gearbox that allows power to be delivered to front and rear wheels.

Transmission

The gearbox that delivers power from the engine crankshaft to the drive axle or drive shaft. Most modern cars have a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.

Transportation Expense

Pays for car rental expenses if the vehicle is not driveable.

Tread-Wear Index

A tire rating consisting of a number followed by two letters, such as 300AB. The number indicates the useful life of the tire, the first letter (A, B, or C, A for best, C for worst) indicates its traction in wet conditions, and the second letter (A, B, or C, A for best, C for worst) its resistance to heat buildup.

Tri-Link Suspension

A fully independent rear suspension featuring a single fiberglass or composite leaf spring.

Trim Level

The level of options or features added to a model (Ford Mustand GT, Chrysler LeBaron XL).

Truth in Leasing

Also known as the Consumer Leasing Act of 1976, this act was designed to protect consumers against inadequate and misleading lease information.

Tune-up

A regularly scheduled maintenance to check normal operation of the vehicle.

Turbine

An integral piece of the turbocharger, this small fan drives the compressor.

Turbo Lag

The time it takes the turbocharger to kick in after the driver accelerates; the lag results because a turbocharger compressor is spun by exhaust gases in the exhaust manifold.

Turbocharged, Turbocharger

Device that compresses and forces extra air into the intake manifold to produce extra power. Both turbochargers and superchargers are used to produce more power without increasing engine displacement, but neither are particularly fuel efficient and both can require costly maintenance as vehicles age.

Turbocharger

By forcing fuel through the engine, this system allows the car to gather more speed.

Twist-Beam Axle

A semi-independent rear axle often used on front-drive vehicles. The horizontal beam, which connects the two rear wheels, can twist to reduce the effect of one wheel’s motion on the other. Less expensive and more compact than fully independent suspension.

Twisting

Trying to induce a policyholder under false pretense to terminate an existing policy to take a new one.

Two-Seater

A vehicle that can only accommodate the driver and one passenger.

Two-Wheel Drive (2WD)

A vehicle drivetrain which distributes power to two wheels.

USAC

United States Auto Club, governs most auto racing in North America. An all inclusive organization that includes Indy Car, Sprint Cars, Silver Crown Cars, and midgets.

Umbrella Liability Policy

A liability coverage that goes above and beyond the normal coverage.

Umpire

Brought in if the agency and policyholder don’t agree on the amount of loss or damage to a property.

Understeer

Occurs when the front wheels have lost adhesion or the driver is turning the steering wheel too sharply for the vehicle’s speed. In understeer, the front wheels do not follow the steering wheel angle, and the car refuses to turn and pushes ahead. In motorsports, this is called push. The driver can regain traction by reducing speed. Also may be called plow.

Underwriter

A person who is trained to evaluate risks and determines rates for policies based on those risks.

Underwriting

The process of verifying data and approving a loan.

Unearned Premium

The portion of an advanced premium that has not been used for coverage.

Unidirectional Tire

Tire whose tread pattern is designed to get optimum traction only when the tire is mounted to roll in one direction.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Insurance which pays for costs resulting from a hit-and-run or an accident with an uninsured motorist.

Upside-down

A situation which occurs when the value of your vehicle is lower than the outstanding balance on your vehicle loan. Also called negative equity.

V-Type Engine

In a V-6, V-8 or V-12 engine, the cylinders are divided into two banks, each of which is angled away from the other at the top, forming a ‘V.’ Typically, this angle is 60 degrees on V-6 engines and 90 degrees on V-8 engines.

V6

A vehicle with six cylinders. The cylinders are divided into two banks, each of which is angled away from the other at the top, forming a ‘V.’ Typically, this angle is 60 degrees on V-6 engines.

V8

A vehicle with eight cylinders. the cylinders are divided into two banks, each of which is angled away from the other at the top, forming a ‘V.’ Typically, this angle is 90 degrees on V-8 engines.

Valve Train

The valves and camshaft(s) within an engine, and any parts attached to the valves, such as rockers and pushrods, to move them up and down.

Valves

Many overhead-cam engines, particularly multi-valve models, are described by the total number of intake and exhaust valves in the cylinder head. A 24-valve V-6 engine would have four valves per cylinder: two intake and two exhaust valves. A 16-valve V-8 engine has only the standard single exhaust and single intake valve for each of its eight cylinders.

Van

A box-shaped truck with a forward cab and a cargo area to the back bumper.

Vandalism

The willful physical damage to a property.

Variable-Assist Steering

A power-steering system that varies the amount of assistance it provides according to driving conditions. It provides maximum assistance at low speeds for maneuvers such as turning into a parking space or turning a corner after leaving a stop light. It provides minimum assistance at cruising or highway speeds to provide greater vehicle stability.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

A seventeen-digit identification number, unique to each vehicle, which includes codes for the manufacturer, year, model, body, and engine specifications.

Vented Disc Brakes

A seventeen-digit identification number, unique to each vehicle, which includes codes for the manufacturer, year, model, body, and engine specifications.

Void

A term used to describe a policy contract that is free of all legal effect.

Waiver

The agreement to forego premium payment during a period of disability.

Walk-Away Lease

Another name for a closed-end lease. A leasing contract in which the residual value, or final value, of the vehicle at the end of the term, has been specified. The lessee is not required to buy the vehicle, or make up any shortfall in its residual value.

Water Pump

The pump that circulates coolant through the engine block, cylinder head and radiator. It is driven by the engine crankshaft.

Wagon

A station wagon.

Wail

To perform at peak efficiency.

Wander

The abnormal tracking or steering of a vehicle.

Wankel Engine

An engine concept developed in Germany in the 1950′s having a three-sided rotor in a slightly hourglass-shaped oval chamber.

Warm Up

To allow an engine to reach its normal operating temperature.

Warm-Up Cycle

The PCM uses warm-up cycles instead of key cycles to clear DTC’s. A warm-up cycle is achieved when the engine coolant rises at least 22o C (40o F) from start-up and achieves a minimum temperature of 71o C (160o F).

Warm-Up Regulator

A device in a fuel injection system to adjust the air/fuel mixture while the engine is warming up.

Warning Blinker

A term used for hazard system.

Warning Flasher

A device found in the turn signal and hazard flasher circuit that causes the warning lamps to flash on and off.

Warning Light

A light on the dash to warn of a problem.

Warpage

Bending or twisting in a part that was originally straight.

Washboard

The corrugated surface of an unpaved road.

Washer

A round, metal device with a hole in the middle to help secure a nut or a bolt.

Waste Oil Heating Manufacturers Association (WOHMA)

An association of waste oil heater manufacturers that promote recycling used motor oil as a heating fuel.

Waste Spark

A spark occurring during the exhaust stroke on a computerized ignition system.

Water-Cooled System

A term used to identify a liquid cooling system such as one that uses water and antifreeze.

Water-Heated Choke

A bimetallic spring in the choke assembly that opens the throttle valve during warm up when the engine coolant reaches a specific temperature.

Wear and Use

Normal depreciation of a vehicle under average daily use.

Wheel Size

Determined by the diameter and width of the wheel on which the tire is mounted. A 15-inch wheel has a diameter of 15 inches. A 15 X 7 wheel has a 15-inch diameter and a 7-inch width.

Wheelbase

A mainstay in drag races, this refers to when the front end of car lifts up during a race. It is also known as a wheelie.

Wholesale Value

The price that the retailer expects to pay for a vehicle.

 

Source: http://www.theautoglossary.com

X-Axis

1.The longitudinal axis around which a vehicle structure rolls from side to side.

2. Represents the total time across the face of the oscilloscope.

X-Chassis

A conventional chassis design, used until the late 1960′s which narrows in the center, giving the vehicle a rigid structure that is designed to withstand a high degree of twist having a heavy front cross member to support the upper and lower suspension control arms and coil springs.

X-Drilled Crank

A term used for X-drilled crankshafts.

X-Drilled Crankshaft

A crankshaft having two oil passages at approximately 90 degrees apart in the journals.

X-Frame

A term used for X-chassis.

X-Member

An X-shaped reinforcement member in a chassis or frame.

XCM

Acronym for Transfer Case Module (Chrysler).

Xylene

A chemical solvent (C8H11) used to remove grease and paint.

 

Source: http://www.theautoglossary.com

Y Axis

The Y axis represents the voltage displayed on the face of the oscilloscope.

Y-Block

The block of a V-type engine having a deep crankcase.

Y-Pipe

A Y-shaped pipe, such as an exhaust pipe, that merges two passages into one.

Yaw

1. The Z-axis

2. The rotation of a vehicle structure around a vertical axis.

Yield Strength

The amount of force that can be applied to a material before it bends or breaks.

 

Source: http://www.theautoglossary.com

Z

Cutting Z-like notches in a frame to lower the vehicle.

Z-2

Zenith 2-bbl. Carburetor.

Z-Axis

1. Represents the intensity or brightness of the display on an Oscilloscope

2. In a Cartesian coordinate system, the axis which is perpendicular to the x-y plain.

Zap

The vertical axis around which a vehicle structure’s front and rear ends swing back and forth.

ZDV

Zinc divert valve.

Zener Diode

A diode often used in electronic voltage regulators. Allows reverse bias current flow without damage to the avalanche region.

Zener Region

The region current enters into when it flows through a diode in the reverse direction.

Zerk

A term used for zerk fittings.

Zerk Fitting

A nipple-like lubrication fitting through which grease is applied to a chassis or suspension joint with a grease gun.

Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV)

An electric, Hydrogen,or other vehicles that perduce zero levels of HC, CO, and NOx.

Zero Lash

No clearance between valve lifter and camshaft lobe.

Zero Toe

Adjusting the wheels so they point straight ahead.

Zero-Gap Ring

A piston ring that does not have end clearance.

ZEV

Zero emissions vehicle.

Zinc Inner Liner

A thin zinc-metal leaf between the longer steel leaves of a leaf-spring suspension system to control sliding friction between the leaves, and prevent corrosion on certain models.

Zing

To unintentionally over rev an engine.

Zirc Fitting

A zerk fitting made of zirconium alloy.

 

Source: http://www.theautoglossary.com