Glossary of Auto Terms

DriverSide's Car Dictionary has the most comprehensive definitions of automotive terms. This auto glossary can help you decipher what your mechanic is fixing and what the purpose or function of the particular auto part or accessory is for. We have taken the mystery out of automotive service jargon, so that you don't have to.

Most common
Engine
Suspension
Brakes
Fuel System
Electronics
Cooling System
Terms/Tools
Air Flow Sensor

Alternator

Battery

Battery Terminals

Carbon Tracks

Charging System

Coil

Distributor

Distributor Cap

ECM

Electrolyte

Electronic Ignition

Electronic Sensor

Engine Computer

Generator

Ground

Hydrometer

Ignition Coil

Ignition System

Ignition Timing

Ignition Fire

Knock Sensor

MAP Sensor

Mass Airflow Sensor

Negative Terminal

Ohmmeter

Oil Light

Open Circuit

Oxygen Sensor

PCV Valve

Positive Terminal

Recharge

Relay

Resistance

Resistor

Rotor

Sensor

Solenoid

Spark Advance

Spark Knock

Spark Plug

Spark Plug Cable

Spark Plug Gap

Spark Plug Wire

Spark Retard

Starter

Starter Solenoid

Throttle Sensor

Diagnose Your Car's Problem

Engine won't start? Weird sound? Strange smoke? Got something going on with your car but not sure what it is? The easy to use DriverSide Diagnostic Tool is here to help you figure it out.



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