The Automotive Dictionary

Full text

(1)Re fere nce Ha ndb ook. The. Automotive Dictionary a comprehensive reference handbook explaining terms and technologies related to the. Automobile A must for ALL of us at. Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.. Education & Training Corporate Quality Office.

(2) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook. This page has been intentionally left blank. Corporate Quality Office. Page 2 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(3) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook. How to use this guideline At some places in the guide, the following icons may be appearing. Following is an explanation of what the icons signify. Icon. What it means ...... Ø. Address. Ø. Write to us / contact us here (e-mail address / telephone no.) for, Ø. feedback / suggestions. Ø. facilitation assistance / queries. Ø. additional subject matter inputs. Ø. Alert. Ø. Caution. Ø. Use with care. Ø. Detailed Information. Ø. Mechanism of functioning. Ø. Description. Ø. “Do”. Ø. Recommended. Ø. Refer to the indicated entry for more information on the component or concept. Ø. There is a contrasting term that needs to be looked up to see how it differs from the term that has been originally looked up. Ø. The term that has been looked up is an abbreviation, or is not in general use, as such see the indicated item for the main entry. *. Corporate Quality Office. Page 3 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..


(5) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook. Foreword This ‘Automotive Dictionary’ has been created to provide all employees, suppliers, dealers and customers of Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. with a deeper understanding of Automotive Systems. It contains definitions of a wide variety of automotive terms, written in simple, jargon-free English.. Its possible. applications include, use for Product upgradation, future vehicle development, as self study for all our customer relations department, as a brief introduction to our non-engineering co-workers, and also help us all to be have basic knowledge related to our product It is our sincere desire that this dictionary will prove beneficial in promoting a greater understanding of Automotive Systems, and will thereby result in a greater degree of customer satisfaction. Like most of the Automotive OEMs and Suppliers, we have attempted (this is the first edition) to create a ‘The Automotive Dictionary’. However, there may still remain some errors and omissions; if you find any of these, or if you have any other comments or suggestions or additions regarding ‘The Automotive Dictionary’, please do not hesitate to bring them to our attention. Thank you!!!. The Corporate Quality Office Corporate Quality Office 2nd floor, Admin. Bldg., Automotive Sector, Akurli Road, Kandivli (E), Mumbai – 400 101 India Tel. :– (+91) 22 28467 068 / 322 / 650 CQO-Officers. Corporate Quality Office. Page 5 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(6) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook. Notes. 1. Not all entries in this dictionary will be applicable to our existing products & market, but they may be effective in helping us to satisfy curiosity, our own or that of a customer. 2. We have tried as far as possible to include generally used terminology, so that all english speakers may benefit from this dictionary. 3. If you require further detailed technical or product knowledge, you would be required to refer to some other resources, such as books, periodicals, audio/visual aids or technical manuals. 4. This book is intended for use such that it directly or indirectly benefits Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. only.. Corporate Quality Office. Page 6 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(7) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook Engine Hood (Bonnet). Windshield. Wiper blade. Rear View Mirror (Outside). Front Door. Door Handle (front). Marker Lamp Cladding Fender Extension Grille. Headlamp. Bumper (Front). Tyre & Wheel. Rear Door Window Wiper blade Door (Rear) Registration Plate (Provision for) Door Handle (rear) Cladding. Fuel Filler Door/Cap. Rear View Mirror (inside) AC Ventilator(s). Tyre & Wheel. Footboard. Rear Lamp (Tail Lamp) Sunvisor(s) Windshield Instrument Panel Steering wheel. Grab Handle. Instruments AC Controls. Glove Box. Gear Shift Lever. Co-driver Seat. Driver Seat. Corporate Quality Office. Page 7 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..


(9) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook. General 2x4 A common abbreviation for "two-wheel-drive". It is pronounced "two by four". 2WD Abbreviation for "two-wheel-drive". 4x4 A common abbreviation for "four-wheel-drive". It is pronounced "four by four". 4WD Abbreviation for "four-wheel-drive". ‘A’ A/C * Air Conditioner A/T * Automatic Transmission ABS * Anti-lock Brake System ACCELERATION DRAG (INERTIAL RESISTANCE) The resistance against acceleration. This type of drag is an important source of feedback to the driver, informing him or her of the acceleration response. ACCELERATION PERFORMANCE The index of engine performance is the vehicle's ability to accelerate. The time it takes a vehicle to accelerate from a dead stop to a certain speed, or to reach a certain distance, is called "takeoff acceleration." Acceleration from a constant speed is called "passing acceleration." * SS 1/4-mile Acceleration, Zero-to-four Acceleration ACCELERATOR PEDAL The pedal installed near the driver's right foot, and which allows the driver to control engine rpm, and thus vehicle speed. Accelerator pedals can be of either the ‘pendant’ type, which hangs down from above, or the ‘organ’ type, which is installed into the floor. ACEA Acronym for Association des Costructeurs de Automobile, the European professional association of petroleum industry engineers. ACEA was formed in response to European engine designer concerns that API standards were not responsive to their requirements and were overly focused on American engine designs. ACEA currently specifies engine oil requirements in three categories Corporate Quality Office. Page 9 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(10) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook A - Gasoline (Petrol) B - Passenger Car Diesel C – Commercial (Truck) Diesel ACID NUMBER A measure of the amount of Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) needed to neutralise all or part of the acidity of a petroleum product, i.e. how much free acid is contained in the product. ACIS Acoustic Control Induction System * Variable Induction Systems ACKERMAN STEERING A type of steering that is set so that the turning angle of the inside front wheel is greater than the angle of the outside front wheel. Most cars use this type of steering. This difference between the turning angles of the inner and outer front wheels not only influences how the turn is made, but also affects steering "feel," steering stability, and steering wheel return. * Turning Radius ACTIVE SUSPENSION SYSTEM Active suspension systems utilise power to move each wheel up and down to control body motion in response to road abnormalities. The system responds to inputs from the road and the driver. With active suspension, a vehicle can simultaneously provide the smooth ride of a soft suspension along with the superior handling associated with a firm suspension. Most active suspension systems use a high-pressure pump with hydraulic cylinders at each wheel to position the wheels with respect to the vehicle. Up and down motion of the wheels is actuated by electronically controlled valves. Other alternatives to power active suspension systems include electric motors or electro-magnets. In any system, sensors at each wheel determine vertical wheel position and the force of the road acting on the wheel. Some systems use "road preview" sensors (radar or laser) to provide information about road abnormalities before the front wheels reach them. Accelerometers tell the computer when the vehicle is accelerating, braking, or cornering. The computer uses complex algorithms to continuously process information and decide the position each wheel. Coil springs can be used at each wheel to avoid 'bottoming out' of the suspension in case of system failure, and can also reduce the power required to support the sprung weight of the vehicle. Outstanding ride and handling, even on rough road surfaces. Corporate Quality Office. Page 10 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(11) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook ACTIVE TILT CONTROL Active tilt control applies force to 'wind up' the stabiliser bars in the front and rear suspension in order to resist body lean while cornering. Because active control is used only as needed, vehicle spring rates and stabiliser bar stiffness can be reduced, improving normal ride characteristics. In addition, this system has potential to increase low speed, off-road traction on 4WD vehicles. The control module receives a lateral acceleration signal from a body mounted accelerometer. The module directs pressure from a pump to hydraulic cylinders that replace stabiliser bar links. During cornering, the cylinders are actuated to wind-up the stabiliser bars, which increases resistance to body lean. The system is deactivated at slow speeds to increase driver comfort. Off-road traction is improved due to lower resistance from the stabiliser bars, allowing the front and rear wheels to better follow the surface of rough roads. Reduced vehicle lean and improved ride. ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (INTELLIGENT CRUISE CONTROL) Adaptive cruise control (ACC) improves on traditional cruise control by allowing a vehicle to automatically follow another vehicle at a set (safe) distance. With ACC, the driver sets the system when their vehicle is at the desired interval from the lead vehicle. ACC maintains that spacing up to a maximum vehicle speed, also set by the driver. The driver must remain alert to override the system if necessary. When the distance to the lead vehicle and/or relative speed indicates a need for braking, some ACC concepts merely disengage the throttle (and enable a downshift) and give a warning to apply the brakes. Other concepts actually tap the brakes to warn the driver. When the lead vehicle changes lanes or exits (and the road is clear), the ACC will accelerate to the set speed (same as conventional cruise control). When actuated by the driver, a microwave radar unit or laser transceiver on the front determines the distance to the vehicle ahead and relative speed. The computer continually adjusts the throttle (and brake-tap system if so equipped). Braking can override the system at any time. Increased convenience and improved traffic flow on busy highways ADAPTIVE TRANSMISSION CONTROL (ATC) The Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC) system recognises individual styles of driving (e.g., aggressive versus relaxed) and adapts transmission shift Corporate Quality Office. Page 11 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(12) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook parameters accordingly. Two types of ATC are Adaptive Shift-Scheduling and Adaptive Shift-Quality Control. Adaptive shift scheduling uses information to assess driving style and decide when to upshift or downshift. It can also identify up-or downhill gradients, and recognise hard cornering; to inhibit shifts that might be annoying to the driver or affect vehicle stability. Adaptive shift-quality control uses information about the vehicle or environment, such as changes in the transmission due to wear, to improve the quality of shifts. This system can also adjust shift smoothness to suit driving style; eg, crisper shifts for aggressive driving or smoother shifts for normal driving. Adaptive Shift Scheduling uses a microprocessor to read signals from various sensors; with a complex algorithm (and ongoing memory) to 'decide' when to shift. For example, high lateral acceleration during cornering may prevent shifting even if the accelerator is suddenly depressed or released. This helps avoid potential loss of tire grip due to load reversal. Shift points can be based on calibration curves in memory. Adaptive Shift-Quality Control adjusts parameters that affect the speed and smoothness of the shift by interpreting data, including driveline feedback, from various sensors. Transmission shifting that is better suited to specific driver styles or operating conditions ADD * Automatic Disconnecting Differential ADDITIVE A material added to the base stock to improve its properties, characteristics or performance. ADJUSTABLE SHOULDER BELT ANCHOR (SEAT BELT HEIGHT ADJUSTER) A type of seat belt anchor that makes it possible to adjust the shoulder belt angle of the three-point seat belt to suit the physique of the wearer. The centre pillar anchor (in which the belt is housed) of a conventional, threepoint seat belt is fixed in place, and cannot be moved to suit passengers who are larger or smaller than average. However, the adjustable anchor can be raised or lowered by pressing a button. Thus the seat belt can be worn with greater comfort and safety. ADVANCED (SMART) RESTRAINT SYSTEMS Smart restraints provide more consistent protection for people of different sizes and positions in various vehicle crash situations. Traditional seat belts and air bags are set up to provide protection for a range of occupants and conditions by deploying or restraining in a 'fixed' manner. Advanced restraints systems consider variables such as occupant weight, seating position, seat belt usage, Corporate Quality Office. Page 12 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(13) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook and vehicle deceleration to control seat belt forces and deploy the air bag optimally. Also, air bags would be designed to not deploy at seating positions; which are unoccupied, where a rear-facing child seat is installed, or when an occupant is out of the normal seating position (too close to the air bag). Smart restraints could provide more consistent protection in a variety of real-world conditions, and reduce the potential for injuries due to deployment of air bags. A combination of sensors (ultrasonic, infrared or capacitive) provide the computer with information about occupant position, occupant weight, and seat track position. Accelerometers provide information about the collision. The computer uses this information to decide which restraints should be deployed and in what manner. Special hardware would be required to tailor deployment of restraints; e.g.: • Variable deployment air bag actuators -- allow air bag to fill at different speeds and to different volumes • Seat belt pre-tensioners -- tighten the seat belt at the beginning of the •. collision Seat belt load limiters -- allow the seat belt to extend with high loads during a collision Potential for increased safety and comfort, reduced repair costs. ADVANCED (SMART) POWER WINDOWS Smart power windows automatically stop closing and reverse direction when obstructions (such as a hand) are detected in the path of the closing window. A number of different technologies may be used to sense an obstruction. One concept monitors electric current and/or torque of the window regulator motor. Certain changes detected in the electrical current signify an obstruction, stopping or reversing the direction of the window. Another concept detects obstructions with a light curtain or infrared detector. The light curtain stops the motor before contact is made, further reducing potential for injury. Safety and convenience, particularly with features like one-touch closing, global window-closing, or automatic closing of a moonroof when rain is detected AERO SLIT BUMPER A bumper with openings-on both sides to allow air to flow in and out. When the wind created by the movement of the vehicle enters these openings, it can escape out the bottom, increasing straight-line stability at high speeds.. Corporate Quality Office. Page 13 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(14) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook AERO TOP A top that is constructed so that the entire section of the roof over the front seats can be removed. "Aero top" has roughly the same meaning as "targa top". AERODYNAMIC DRAG (CD, CW, CX) When a vehicle is in motion, air hits the body, generating a force (aerodynamic drag) which resists the forward movement of the vehicle. At low to medium speeds, aerodynamic drag has little effect on the vehicle, but I the speed increases, the drag increase dramatically. (CD is also symbolised as and C W and C X in some countries.) * Aerodynamic Performance, Drag Coefficient, Lift Coefficient AERODYNAMIC MIRROR A door mirror designed to reduce aerodynamic drag. This type of mirror also gives the vehicle a sporty look. AERODYNAMIC COMPONENTS Components that redirect air flow to improve vehicle aerodynamics by creating a downward force that causes the vehicle to hug the road. Aerodynamic components increase fuel efficiency at high speeds and reduce wind noise. They include such components as front and rear spoilers. AERODYNAMIC PERFORMANCE Aerodynamic performance includes a vehicle's reaction to various kinds of wind forces, such as the aerodynamic "drag", pushing against the vehicle from the front, and the forces pushing the vehicle upward, the so-called "lift". These are as abbreviated as CD and CL respectively. Body style influences these forces, which increase dramatically at higher speeds. A vehicle with a low drag coefficient experiences less power loss as it moves forward, giving greater fuel economy. A vehicle with a low lift coefficient has better stability at high speeds. Use of air spoilers is one way of improving a vehicle's aerodynamic performance. AFTER-BURN (AFTER-FIRE) An explosive noise in the exhaust system. After-burn occurs when partially unburned exhaust gas ignites in the exhaust pipe. The most common cause of after-burn is an ever-rich air-fuel mixture. This, in turn, is often caused by sudden deceleration, or by engine braking while descending a steep hill. Another common cause of after-burn is improper valve timing. * Backfire AIRBAG Air bags are fabric bags that quickly fill with gas to provide supplemental protection for vehicle passengers during some types of collisions. Front air bags for driver and front seat passengers are becoming standard on most cars and Corporate Quality Office. Page 14 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(15) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook light trucks sold in North America. Side impact air bags are becoming increasingly available. Air bags are most effective in protecting vehicle occupants who are properly belted. One or more sensors detect intensity and direction of vehicle deceleration that occurs during a collision. If there is sufficient acceleration and change in velocity (above a set limit) in the direction of protection (eg, frontal or lateral), appropriate airbags are deployed; e.g., front and/or side. Air bags begin to inflate within 25-20 milliseconds after the impact, and are fully deployed in 40 to 55 milliseconds. Improved occupant protection in some types of collisions. * Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Airbag AIR CLEANER A device used to remove dirt, sand, and other foreign matter from the air that is sent to the engine. If dirt gets into the engine, it will get mixed with the engine oil, damaging the cylinders and piston rings. Also, if the filter element of the air cleaner becomes clogged, an insufficient amount of air will reach the engine, resulting in a lack of power. The air filter element must therefore be inspected and cleaned or replaced periodically. AIR CONDITIONER (A/C, "AIR CON") A device or system that adjusts the temperature inside the passenger compartment, cooling and dehumidifying it. It is also used for defogging the windows. If an unpleasant odour is detected when the air conditioner is first switched on, it may be due to dirt or dust that has become lodged inside the system and is being blown into the interior of the vehicle. Turning on the air conditioner should dissipate the odour by collecting the moisture from the air and expelling it into the atmosphere. AIR FLOW METER A device which measures the quantity of air flowing into the engine. Based on the data provided by the air flow meter, a computer controls the quantity of fuel injected into the intake manifold or intake ports, and the ignition timing. AIR-FUEL RATIO The proportion with which air and gasoline are mixed in the cylinders. To make it easier to start the engine, a richer" mixture (one with a higher concentration of gasoline) is used, while under most driving conditions, a leaner. Corporate Quality Office. Page 15 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(16) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook "theoretical" mixture (one with a theoretical concentration of gasoline) is used to improve fuel economy and reduce exhaust emissions. AIR HORN A horn that is operated by compressed air. Compressed air activates a vibration plate to produce the sound. Air horns are usually used on large vehicles, such as trucks and buses. * Electric Horn AIR INTAKE AND EXHAUST SYSTEMS The components used to supply air to the engine, and channel exhaust gases from the engine to the outside. The intake system includes such components as the air cleaner, and the intake manifold that conducts the air-fuel mixture to the cylinders. The exhaust system includes the exhaust manifold, the muffler that controls exhaust noise, and the tail pipe. AIR INTAKES Openings around the vehicle body that permit air to enter to improve cooling, such as for the engine. To cool the engine of an MR (Midship-engine, Rearwheel-drive) vehicle, the air intakes are located on the sides of the body. For turbocharger cooling, air intake openings are installed on the engine hood. AIR PURIFIER A device for removing dust, smoke, unpleasant odors, and other impurities from the interior of a vehicle. When a vehicle is driven with the air conditioner on and the windows closed, odour and impurities in the air inside the vehicle, may create unpleasant odours. The air purifier removes these odours and other impurities. AIR SUSPENSION Suspension using air instead of metal springs to support the vehicle body. Air absorbs finer vibrations than metal springs, and can more easily adjust the vehicle to a uniform height. * Electronically Controlled Air Suspension, Electronically Modulated Suspension (EMS). Corporate Quality Office. Page 16 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(17) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook AIR VALVE A valve for regulating air intake. On vehicles with EFI, the air valve opens when the engine is cold, permitting an increased flow of air to the engine, and thereby raising the engine rpm. ALIGNMENT * Wheel Alignment ALIGNMENT CHANGE A general term for small changes in the installation angles of the suspension and wheels. These changes may be due to such factors as rolling, pitching, bouncing, etc., and include changes in camber, caster and toe-in. The greater the changes in alignment, the greater the vehicle instability and the more uneven the tyre wear. ALKALINITY (BASICITY) A measure of the ability of a lubricant to neutralise acids which are formed during the combustion process, most commonly from sulphur present in diesel fuels. Left uncontrolled, acids would cause corrosion within the engine. ALL-WEATHER TIRE A radial tyre that can be used in both summer and winter. All-weather tyres do not handle as well on snow-covered roads as snow tyres, but can be used as snow tyres on roads that are only lightly covered with snow. * Spiked Tyre, Studless Tyre ALTERNATOR A device, powered by the engine, which generates electricity. It provides power to the various electrical components and systems while the engine is running, and also keeps the battery charged. ALTERNATOR REGULATOR * Regulator ALTIMETER A gauge that shows vehicle altitude; it operates on the principle that air decreases as altitude increases. Off-road vehicles are often provided with an altimeter. ALUMINUM WHEELS ("MAG" WHEELS) Wheels made of aluminium alloy. The advantages of aluminium wheels include reduced weight and a large number of production designs. (Note: The "mag" wheels found on some ”sporty" cars look like the ultra-light magnesium wheels used on race cars, but are often made of aluminium alloy.) * Disc Wheel, Light-alloy Wheels. Corporate Quality Office. Page 17 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(18) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook AMP Amplifier AMPLIFIER ("AMP") An electronic device that amplifies electrical signals. The most common type of amplifier found in an automobile takes weak electrical signals from the radio tuner, cassette deck, CD player, etc., and amplifies them so that the speakers can convert them to sound. An amplifier consists of a pre-amp (also called the "control amp"), which modulates the signal received from the tuner or player, and a power amp (also called the ”main amp"), which increases the gain (strength) of the signal before sending it to the loudspeakers. * A Complete AV System ANALOG METER A "traditional" round meter with a needle to indicate such data as vehicle speed, engine rpm, etc. ANGLE OF APPROACH Angle between ground and front bumper Front Bumper Front Ground. Approach Angle. ANGLE OF DEPARTURE Angle between ground and rear bumper Rear Bumper Rear Ground. Departure angle. API Acronym for the American Petroleum Institute – a professional association of petroleum industry engineers. API establishes standards for a wide range of products and services including those for automotive lubricants. ANTI-DIVE A suspension design and/or computer-controlled function that compensates for the tendency of the nose of a vehicle to "dive” (drop down momentarily) during braking. * Anti-lift, Anti-roll, Anti-squat Corporate Quality Office. Page 18 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(19) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook ANTIFOAM AGENT An additive used to suppress the foaming tendency of a lubricant in service. Foam can interfere with the efficient operation of lubricants, systems e.g. allowing air to enter hydraulic lines. Additionally, the mixing of air into the lubricant will accelerate oxidation and shorten oil life. Antifoaming agents are usually silicone-oil-based and act by disrupting the surface film around bubbles to prevent their formation. ANTIFREEZE A liquid chemical added to engine coolant to prevent the coolant from freezing in winter. Recent advances in antifreeze performance include protection at lower temperatures, rust protection, and the ability to be used year round. (This last type of coolant is called "long-life coolant," or LLC.) The main component of antifreeze is ethylene glycol, to which an anti-rust compound is added. When the coolant level drops too low, adding only water weakens the antifreeze and antirust properties, so when coolant is added, antifreeze should also be added in a concentration suitable to the temperature and the use to which the vehicle will be put. ANTI-GLARE MIRROR A rear-view mirror that protects the eyes from glare at night. The anti-glare mirror can suppress the level of light reflected from the headlamps of following vehicles. Conventional anti-glare mirrors use prisms for light refraction, but fewer mirrors use liquid crystals to reduce the amount of light transmitted. * Liquid Crystal Glare-proof Mirror ANTI- LIFT A suspension design and/or computer-controlled function that controls the tendency of the rear of the vehicle to rise during braking, by offsetting the tendency of the nose to dive. * Anti-dive, Anti-roll, Anti-squat ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) ABS keeps the wheels from fully locking up while braking -- to allow the driver to maintain steering control of the vehicle. Without ABS, too much force applied to the brake pedal can cause one or more wheels to stop turning (lock up) and begin skidding, reducing capability of the to steer along the intended path. With ABS, maximum force on the brake pedal slows each wheel only to the point of maximum braking -- without skidding. Since all wheels are still rolling, the vehicle maintains steering control within the limits of traction. Many light trucks use rear-wheel ABS which prevents rear wheel lock up.. Corporate Quality Office. Page 19 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(20) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook A computer-controlled braking system that automatically prevents the wheels from locking up during sudden braking. This improves directional stability. In a brake system without ABS, if the brakes are suddenly applied on a slippery road, the vehicle may skid and spin out of control. This loss of control occurs if the wheels lock up, causing a lack of steering control. To avoid losing control, the driver must pump the brakes, dividing the braking into several short bursts. This is called "cadence braking". However, in an emergency there may not be time to pump the brakes. With ABS, the computer determines how each of the four wheels is rotating when the brakes are applied, and automatically performs repeated "brake and release" operations. This prevents the wheels from locking up and allows the steering wheel to remain responsive, thereby keeping the vehicle from weaving and enabling a safe stop. This system also prevents the wheels from locking up and causing the vehicle to spin out if the brakes are applied too vigorously on a curve. ABS consists of an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with microprocessor, hydraulic control unit (HCU) with pump and motor (to modulate brake line pressure), and wheel speed sensors for each wheel. If a wheel begins to lock up during braking, the computer senses a speed difference compared to the other wheels. The HCU reduces pressure to that brake until it begins to roll again. This occurs repeatedly (many times per second) during braking, making pumping of the brakes unnecessary. When the brake is applied firmly, each wheel is kept at maximum braking without locking up; to help the driver make best use of available traction. Stopping distances on snow and ice will generally be longer than on dry pavement. ABS provides the average driver with greater vehicle stability and control during severe braking, allowing the driver to steer away from a potential accident. * Traction Control System (TRC, TRAC) ANTI-ROLL A suspension design and/or computer-controlled function that compensates for the tendency of the vehicle to lean to the outside of the turn during cornering. * Anti-dive, Anti-lift, Anti-squat. Corporate Quality Office. Page 20 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(21) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook ANTI-SQUAT A suspension design and/or computer-controlled function that compensates for the tendency of the rear of a vehicle to "squat" (drop down momentarily) when starting off or accelerating. * Anti-dive, Anti-lift, Anti-roll ANTI-STATIC SEAT A seat that prevents the occupant from being shocked by static electricity. This is accomplished by an electrically conductive material that is woven into the seat material. This material keeps the seat grounded and prevents the build-up of static electricity. ANTI-SUBMARINING SEATS Anti-submarining seats help reduce the risk of vehicle occupants sliding under the lap belt in a frontal collision; and may help position the occupant's torso for more effective restraint by the shoulder harness portion of the belt system, and by the airbag. The seat cushion frame is designed with a ramp structure that slopes upward toward the front of the seat. In a collision, the ramp portion presses against the occupant's pelvis and thighs to help keep the lower body from sliding downward and under the lap belt. Increased protection in a frontal collision ANTI-WEAR AGENT Additives, or their reaction products, which form thin, tenacious films on highly loaded parts, such as gear teeth, prevent metal-to-metal contact and the resulting corrosion. ASH Metallic deposits formed in the combustion chamber of an engine or other high temperature operating areas. Many ashes are abrasive and may lead to wear if not controlled. ASH (SULPHATED) The ash content of a lubricant, determined by burning the oil and then treating the residue with sulphuric acid and drying. Expressed as percentage by mass.. Corporate Quality Office. Page 21 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(22) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook ASPECT RATIO The "height" of a tyre divided by its width, and multiplied by 100. The smaller the aspect ratio, the lower and wider the tyre. Standard tyres have aspect ratios of between 70 and 80%, while low-aspect tyres generally have ratios in the neighbourhood of 65, 60, or even 50%. The aspect ratio must be considered in selecting a tyre, along with tyre width and wheel diameter. Aspect information is given on the sidewall of the tyre. * Low-aspect Tyre. ASSEMBLY A component consisting of two or more components or sub-assemblies. ATF Automatic Transmission Fluid. Fluids used in automatic, hydraulic transmissions in motor vehicles. ATF fluids must have carefully controlled characteristics if they are to perform correctly. Most major motor manufacturers specify fluids suitable for their transmission systems AUTOMATIC AIR CONDITIONER A type of air conditioner that automatically maintains a specified interior temperature, regardless of changes in the outside temperature. Sensors constantly monitor the temperature inside and outside the passenger compartment. When the driver sets a desired temperature, a computer automatically adjusts the temperatures based on this data, and sets the blower strength accordingly. AUTOMATIC DISCONNECTING DIFFERENTIAL (ADD) Simply flipping a switch permits the driver of a part-time four-wheel-drive vehicle to engage or disengage the propeller shaft from the drive shafts, changing between two-wheel and four-wheel drive. With ADD, it is therefore not necessary to get out of the vehicle to engage disengage the free-wheel hubs manually. * One-touch 2-4 Selector Corporate Quality Office. Page 22 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(23) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook AUTOMATIC HEADLIGHT SHUT-OFF SYSTEM A fail-safe device that prevents the headlights from being left on by mistake. If the headlights are left on when the ignition is turned off, the headlights and the taillights will turn off automatically once the driver's door is opened. AUTOMATIC RIDE CONTROL Automatic ride control adjusts vehicle shock absorber resistance (damping) in response to driver inputs such as steering and braking, and for changes in road surface. During manoeuvres such as hard braking or quick lane changes, the system increases suspension damping to improve dynamic stability. Damping is automatically decreased during steady driving, so that bumps and potholes are absorbed rather than being transmitted to the occupants. Some systems also allow the driver to select suspension settings; soft, normal or firm (sport) Most systems use switchable-rate shock absorbers (dampers). Different sensors may be used, depending on the complexity of the system. (1) A basic system, such as on the Thunderbird Super Coupe, measures steering wheel position and braking. The computer adjusts the damping of all shock absorbers equally. (2) A road-calibrated suspension system, also known as semi-active suspension, measures the position of individual road wheels as well as driver inputs. This type system (used on Continental and Taurus SHO) adjusts shock absorber damping independently for each wheel for the best combination of performance and ride. In vehicles equipped with a suspension-firmness switch, selecting a firm setting would cause the computer to choose heavy damping for most driving conditions, while the soft setting would result in light damping more often. Improved ride and handling AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION A transmission that automatically shifts gears in response to vehicle speed and acceleration. With an automatic transmission, the driver does not need to constantly shift gears, which makes driving in stop-and-go traffic and on hilly roads much easier. An automatic transmission is composed of a torque converter (which replaces the clutch of a manual transmission), and the transmission itself. A car with an automatic transmission is often simply called an "automatic". There are different kinds of automatic transmissions. Some have three speeds, some have four, and some have extra functions such as a lockup mechanism or overdrive. Some also have settings for improving fuel economy and reducing noise. * Manual Transmission (M/T), Transaxle Corporate Quality Office. Page 23 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(24) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID (ATF) A special type of oil used in an automatic transmission. Ordinary (manual) transmission oil must not be used if the use of ATF is specified. AUTOMATIC WIPERS Wipers with an interval switch that can be set by the driver in response to the amount of rain that is falling. To operate, set the wiper switch to INT (intermittent). AUTO-SHIFT MANUAL TRANSMISSION AND SELECT-SHIFT MANUAL TRANSMISSION • Select-Shift Manual (SSM): Select-Shift Manual controls allow the driver to change gears in a manual transmission without having to operate a clutch •. pedal. Auto-Shift Manual (ASM): Auto-Shift Manual automatically clutches and shifts a manual transmission. ASM operates similar to an automatic transmission (ie, has a drive position), but with performance and fuel efficiency associated with a manual. ASM can achieve better fuel economy than a conventional manual because it follows a shift schedule that is better than typical driver-selected shift points. Both SSM and ASM are essentially manual transmissions with additional hardware and software. The hydraulic clutch is controlled by computer rather than driver input. Electro-hydraulic actuators replace mechanical shift linkage. The shift control/ gear selector is. actually an electrical switch, with many possible forms; eg, the traditional Hpattern, or a control on a steering-column stalk to upshift or downshift. When operated by the driver, the shift control disengages the clutch, engages the new gear, and re-engages the clutch, all under control of the computer. The computer can also control engine speed -- through throttle, ignition or fuel intervention -- for smoother shifts. Potentially damaging shift commands can be countermanded by computer intervention. Fuel economy improvement with fun-to-drive manual shifting, and shift mode flexibility AUTO TILTAWAY STEERING WHEEL A steering wheel that automatically tilts up and out of the way when the ignition key is removed, making it easier for the driver to get in and out of the car. When the key is reinserted in the ignition and the steering wheel is pulled down by hand, the steering wheel returns to its original position. * Computer-controlled Tilt and Telescopic Steering (Preset Steering), Telescopic Steering Wheel, Tilt Steering Wheel. Corporate Quality Office. Page 24 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(25) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook AXLE A shaft connecting the right and left wheels. The axle supports the weight of the vehicle and transmits power from the engine to the wheels. Steering knuckles are also installed on the front axles. The rear axle consists of an axle shaft and an axle housing. The load on the rear axle differs from vehicle to vehicle, so different methods are used to support the load. * Full-floating Axle, Semi-floating Rear Axle AXLE HOUSING A tube that houses the axle shafts. The axle housing runs from the right wheel to the left wheel. The housing and the axle shafts installed inside of it make up the axle. Both ends of the axle housing are mounted to the suspension and support the body. On an FR vehicle, the differential is installed at the center of the axle housing. AXLE SHAFTS Shafts that are installed inside the axle housing of a rigid suspension; the axle housing and the axle shafts together make up the axle. The shafts transmit the engine power from the differential to the wheels. One end of each shaft is connected to a differential side gear, and the other end to a wheel. ‘B’ BACKFIRE An explosive noise created by combustion in the intake manifold. Backfire has several causes, among them being: 1. The air-fuel mixture is too lean. This causes combustion to occur too slowly, which in turn allows burning gases to escape from the cylinders) into the intake manifold through the intake valve(s) after they have opened for next intake cycle. 2. The valve timing is incorrect. This allows burning gases to escape through the take valves as explained above. * After-burn BACKLASH The gap between the teeth of gears that mesh with each other. Large backlash, causes the teeth to hit each other, creating a lot of noise. In general, as gear teeth wear down, backlash noise increases.. Corporate Quality Office. Page 25 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(26) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook. BACK-UP LIGHTS (REVERSING LAMPS) Lights that light up when the vehicle backs up, giving a warning to the rear. These lights are usually white, to prevent them from being confused with the brake lamps. BALD SPOT An area on a tyre where the tread has worn too thin. When this occurs, the tyre reached the limit of its usefulness. On a tyre of a passenger vehicle, when tread wears down to less than 1.6 mm (0.06 in.) in thickness, some areas will appear to have less tread left than on the rest of the tyre. On truck tyres, bald spots appear when the tread wears down to less than 3.2 mm. So-called “Tread-wear indicators” are built into the tread to indicate when the tread has worn down too far. When the tyre tread has worn thin, the vehicle will be difficult to control on wet roads and may skid or hydroplane. This is a driving hazard, and bald tyres should always be replaced for this reason. BALL-NUT STEERING • Recirculating-ball Steering BASE NUMBER The amount of acid (usually hydrochloric) needed to fully neutralise a lubricant’s alkalinity, expressed as Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) equivalents i.e. KOH grams per litre. BASE STOCK The base fluid, usually a refined petroleum fraction or a synthetic fluid, into which additives are dissolved to produce the final lubricant. BATTERY A rechargeable electrical storage device used to power the starter, the ignition system, the lights, and other electrical equipment on a vehicle. The battery can carry out most of these functions even when the alternator (a type of generator used in automobiles) is shut off, because it stores the electricity that is generated by the alternator when the engine is running. The battery contains a liquid solution called “electrolyte", in which negative and positive lead plates, joined together by connectors, are immersed. The electrolyte and lead in the plates react chemically to generate electricity; when this occurs, we say that the battery is "discharging". The opposite process, called "charging", uses electricity to be stored in the battery again. The conventional automotive battery uses Lead (Pb) and lead peroxide (PbO 2) or zinc for the plates, and dilute sulphuric acid (H2 SO4 ) for the electrolyte. Standard battery output is about 12 volts and standard capacity is between 40 and 70 AH (ampere-hours). Since recent vehicles contain more and more advanced. Corporate Quality Office. Page 26 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(27) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook electronic equipment, battery and alternator performance have become vital factors in automobile design. BATTERY SAVER The battery saver feature automatically turns off interior lights in a parked vehicle after a few minutes; to prevent the battery from being drained; eg, when a reading light is left burning, or a door is left ajar. If interior lights are left on while the ignition key is in the off position, a relay will be deactivated within 10-40 minutes to turn off power to the interior lights. Helps avoid being stranded due to a dead battery BEAD The portion of the tyre that contacts the rim of the wheel. The bead prevents tyre distortion and keeps the tyre from coming off the wheel. Steel wire similar to a bundle of piano wire is used as the core of the bead.. BED The deck at the rear of a truck, in which cargo is carried. BENCH SEAT A wide seat that can accommodate two or more persons. Most modern passenger cars have separate seats in the front, but vehicles such as taxis that need to seat three in the front use bench seats. BIAS COEFFICIENT An indicator of the performance of an LSD (Limited Slip Differential). The bias coefficient shows the proportion of torque that the LSD attempts to send to the opposite wheel when a drive wheel on one side begins spinning. A higher coefficient indicates a greater ability to get out when stuck in a hole, better cornering performance and better control on slippery roads.. Corporate Quality Office. Page 27 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(28) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook BIAS TIRE (BIAS-PLY TIRE) A tyre whose plies (layers) are built up with their cords running in alternate directions. This type of tyre is inferior to the radial tyre in both performance and endurance.. BLANKWASH COMPOUND A press-applied water/oil dilutable compound formulated to clean the blank and enhance formability. It is normally applied via roll coaster prior to introduction of the blank into the press. BLISTER A bubble in the paint. If water, oil and other impurities are not cleaned off the body surfaces before painting, they will prevent the paint from bonding to the surface of the metal, and the paint will swell to form blisters. Rust can also cause blisters; they are then called “corrosion blisters". BLOW-BY The process whereby unburned fuel and combustion products are blown past the piston rings into the crankcase rather than being fully expelled as exhaust. Blowby products contaminate and dilute lubricants, reducing the effectiveness. The problem is worse in older or poorly maintained diesel engines. BLOW-BY GAS Unburned gas and exhaust gas that escape from the combustion chambers into the crankcase, via the minute clearances between the pistons and the cylinder walls. Most blow-by gas is raw, unburned gas, that is released during compression, and consists of highly concentrated hydrocarbon (HC) gas. * Positive Crankshaft Ventilation System. (PCV) BLOWER A device composed of a motor, and a fan used to circulate air from the air conditioner and heater, in order to regulate the temperature of the interior of the passenger compartment. The blower speed can be set by a switch located on the control panel.. Corporate Quality Office. Page 28 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(29) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook BLOW-OUT It is when a tyre explodes like a balloon. Blow-outs are usually the result of damage to defects in the tyre itself, overheating of the tyre (which in turn is due to driving at high speeds on an under-inflated tyre), etc. * Flat Tyre BODY The outermost "shell" of a vehicle, made usually of pressed sheet steel, though some bodies are made of fibreglass other materials. Some steel bodies also have plastic or aluminium sections. Most passenger automobiles consist either of a body supported on a frame (that they have a "body-and-frame" construction), or they have a "monocoque" bodies, i.e., one without a separate frame on which the body is welded to the floor and mounted directly to the suspension via partial frames called "subframes", “stub frames", or "cradles". (A monocoque body is also called a “unitised" body; a vehicle with this type of construction can be said to have a "unibody" construction.) BODY RIGIDITY The resistance of the body of a vehicle to elastic deformation (bending and twisting). Body rigidity is closely related to such factors as noise, vibration, riding comfort, stability and controllability, and vehicle life. BOOST PRESSURE The pressure inside the intake manifold. Boost pressure is the difference from the atmospheric pressure, and is generally given in mmHg, kPa, kgf/cm2 , or psi. An engine without a turbocharger or supercharger usually has a boost pressure, which is lower than atmospheric pressure, and so is expressed as a negative number. The greater the boost, the greater the amount of air that can be sent to the engine, and thus the greater the engine power. A vehicle with a turbocharger or supercharger is usually provided with a boost pressure lamp or meter. BOOSTER CABLES (JUMPER CABLES) When a vehicle has a dead battery, booster cables can be used to connect the battery to the battery of another vehicle to start the engine. This is called "jumpstarting" the vehicle. Care must be taken in connecting booster cables. If the cables are connected in the wrong sequence or to the wrong terminals, electrical equipment may be damaged. Vehicles Owner’s Manual generally gives for the details on how to connect booster cables correctly. BORE The inside diameter of a cylinder, usually an engine cylinder. The ratio of bore to stroke (i.e., the diameter of the cylinder divided by the distance the piston Corporate Quality Office. Page 29 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(30) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook travels in the cylinder) determines whether an engine is a square, over-square (short-stroke), or long-stroke engine. High-speed engines, such as gasoline engines used in passenger cars, are usually square or over-square; engines that produce a lot of torque (rather than speed), such as diesel engines, are often of the long-stroke variety. BOUNDARY LUBRICATION Lubrication between two touching surfaces where the film of oil that normally is maintained to prevent metal-to-metal contact is broken. This usually occurs at very high load/low speed operation and extreme pressure (EP) additives are required to prevent equipment damage. BRAKE, BRAKING * Brakes, Engine Braking, Exhaust Brake, Parking Brake BRAKE BOOSTER A mechanism which uses the differences in pressure between intake manifold vacuum and atmospheric pressure to greatly increase braking pressure when the brake pedal is pressed. Use of a brake booster permits more effective braking with much less pedal effort. Since the engine produces vacuum ONLY when the engine is running, braking efficiency will decrease and may even be lost if the engine is shut off while the vehicle is moving. BRAKE CALIPER A component of a disc brake which clamps down on the disc rotor (which rotates with the wheel). Brake pads are mounted on the inside of the calliper, and are forced by hydraulic pressure to press against the disc rotor. This slows down the rotation of the disc, and therefore the wheel, causing the vehicle to slow down or stop also. BRAKE DRUM A cylindrical component in a drum brake that constantly rotates with the wheel. When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic pressure forces the brake shoes against the inside of the brake drum, causing the wheel to slow down or stop turning, thereby slowing or stopping the vehicle. BRAKE FLUID A special non-petroleum based fluid used in hydraulic brakes to transmit hydraulic pressure. Most brake fluid contains glycol, which has superior anti-rust properties, and which has a high boiling point to reduce the occurrence of vapour lock. BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER A mechanism that changes the mechanical force of the brake pedal into the hydraulic force needed to operate the brakes. Corporate Quality Office. Page 30 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(31) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook BRAKE NOISE A high screeching sound that comes from the brakes when the pedal is pressed. The sound is caused by the frictional material on the brake pads or brake shoes rubbing against the rotor or drum. The amount of brake noise produced differs depending on the quality of the pad or lining material, but the amount of noise normally has little relationship with braking performance, and some brake noise is to be expected. * Pad Wear Indicator BRAKE PADS A friction-creating component in a disc brake. Brake pads are installed on the inside surfaces of each brake calliper. When the brake pedal is pressed, the callipers clamp the pads against the disc rotors (which rotate with the wheels), thereby slowing or stopping the vehicle. BRAKE PULL (PULL TO ONE SIDE) A situation in which the vehicle veers to one side instead of stopping in a straight line when the brakes are applied. Brake pull occurs when the brakes are stronger on one side than on the other, and may be caused by improper brake adjustment. BRAKES A mechanism or system that is used to slow or stop a moving vehicle. The two main types of brakes used are drum brakes and disc brakes. Both use hydraulic pressure and are operated by a foot pedal. While the word "brakes" usually refers to the foot or service brakes (those used to slow or stop the vehicle), there is also the parking brake, which is used to lock the rear brakes to keep a parked vehicle from moving. * Engine Braking, Exhaust Brake BRAKE SHOE A crescent-shaped component which is installed inside a brake drum and which has a frictional material (called the "brake lining") applied to its outside surface. The brake drum of each wheel is provided with two brake shoes. When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic pressure forces the brake shoes against the inside of the brake drum, which rotates with the wheel. Frictional pressure between the brake shoes and the brake drum slows the rotation of the wheel, thereby slowing or stopping the vehicle. * Drum Brakes BRAKE VIBRATION When the brake pedal is pressed lightly at medium to high speeds, a pulsation of the brake pedal may be felt. This pulsation will be synchronised with the rotation of the wheels. Sometimes the instrument panel and steering wheel, and even the entire vehicle body may begin to vibrate. Corporate Quality Office. Page 31 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(32) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook In the case of disc brakes, this vibration may be caused by lateral run-out of the rotor, or uneven rotor wear. With drum brakes, the cause may be an out-ofround brake drum (that is, one having radial run-out) or a warped drum. (see "Run-out" for illustration.) BRAKE WARNING LAMP A lamp that lights up when the parking brake is set with the ignition switch on. If the lamp stays on after the parking brake has been released, the brake fluid may be low. BRAKING DISTANCE The distance that a vehicle travels from the time the brake pedal is depressed until the vehicle stops moving. Braking distance can be divided into two parts: 1) "free-running distance (the distance that the vehicle travels from the time the brake pedal is depressed until the brakes start to operate); and 2) "stopping distance” (the distance that the vehicle travels from the time the brakes start to operate until the vehicle comes to a complete halt). Major factors influencing braking distance are the original vehicle speed, the design of the tyres, and the nature and condition of the road surface * Hydroplaning BREAKER A layer of fabric in a tyre between the outer rubber tread and the inner carcass. The breaker absorbs shock from the road, and prevents damage to the tread from reaching the carcass. BREAKER POINTS ("POINTS"') * Ignition System BREAK-IN PERIOD In the past, a new car had to be driven carefully for a certain distance to "break in" the engine because running the engine at high rpm or under full load when new could damage it. New cars now do not require a specific break-in period (but see the vehicle's Owner's Manual for precautions to follow when driving a new car). BRIGHT STOCK A heavy (high viscosity) base stock with a low pour point. BROOKFIELD VISCOSITY Measurement of apparent viscosity as determined by a Brookfield Viscometer under controlled temperature and shear rates. BSA Acronym for British Standards Agency, the British standards organisation, which sets important standards for many industrial lubricants.. Corporate Quality Office. Page 32 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(33) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook BUCKET SEAT A seat for only one person, with deeper cushions and seat back, which seem to wrap around the body. A bucket seat fits the human body better than an ordinary seat, and also provides support to the sides of the body, especially during high-speed concerning. For this reason, bucket seats are often used in “sporty" cars and race cars. BUILT-IN PARKING BRAKE A parking brake mechanism built into the calipers of the disc brakes. Built-in parking brakes are used on relatively small cars. BUMPER A thick cushion or bar made of polypropylene or steel for absorbing the impact of a collision. This protects both the passengers and the vehicle body from harm. Recent advances in bumper design include the use of aerodynamic bumpers, which also improves the vehicle's appearance by helping the bumper to blend in with the body. * Super Olefin Bumper BUMPER GUARD A plate used on 4WD off-road vehicles to protect the bottom of the front bumper. ‘C’ CAB, CABIN * Passenger Compartment CAB-OVER TRUCK A truck with the driver and passenger space located over the engine. This is the most common truck design, and is used to make the cargo space as long as possible. A truck with one row of seats is called a "single cab truck", while one with two rows of seats is called a "double cab truck". CABRIOLET A convertible coupe CADENCE BRAKING * Antilock Brake System CAMBER One aspect of wheel alignment; the amount that the tops of the wheels are tilted outward or inward. When they are tilted inward, it is called "negative camber"; when they are tilted outward, "positive camber".. Corporate Quality Office. Page 33 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(34) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook Most older passenger cars used positive camber, while most modern cars use zero camber or negative camber to improve cornering performance. * Caster, Toe-in CAMSHAFT A long shaft on which are mounted ovoid (egg-shaped) cams that change the rotational movement of the camshaft to a reciprocating (up-and-down) movement, in order to open and close the engine's intake and exhaust valves. Each cam's longer end pushes a valve to open, while its shorter end permits a spring to close the valve. CAPACITOR * Condenser CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2) A compound of carbon (C) and oxygen (O), formed and released into the atmosphere whenever an animal breathes or a fuel is burnt. Carbon dioxide is of course created by the combustion of gasoline or diesel fuel in the engine of an auto or truck. While normal amounts of CO 2 are not harmful to animal life, and in fact are necessary in the photosynthesis of plants and trees, the release of too much C02 into the atmosphere is thought to contribute to the greenhouse effect. Note that carbon dioxide is different from carbon monoxide (CO), which is a poisonous gas. CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) A poisonous gas, carbon monoxide is a compound of carbon (C) and oxygen (O), and is found in the exhaust emissions of motor vehicles; its release into the atmosphere is regulated by law in many countries. CARBON RESIDUE Coked (generally blackened) material left after an oil has been subjected to very high temperatures under controlled conditions. CARBURETOR (CARBURETTOR) A device that mixes gasoline with air to produce the highly combustible air-fuel mixture that is needed to fuel the engine. As the venturi (the passage in the carburettor through which the air passes) gets narrower, the air flows faster and the pressure drops. At the narrowest part of the venturi, the fuel is drawn out from one or several nozzles, forming a mist as it mixes with the air. This atomised air-fuel mixture is then drawn into the cylinders for combustion. Besides creating the air-fuel mixture, the carburettor also acts as an automatic regulating device, increasing and decreasing air flow volume in accordance with increases and decreases in fuel volume as the accelerator pedal is depressed and released. * Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Central Injection (Ci). Corporate Quality Office. Page 34 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(35) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook CARBURETOR ICING When moisture freezes inside or around the carburettor, the engine can run roughly or have trouble starting. Icing occurs when moisture in the air cools and freezes around the throttle valve, due to the low temperatures caused by the vaporisation of gasoline. It can also be caused by snow getting into the engine compartment, then melting and re-freezing around the throttle body or carburettor. Icing tends to occur most often in cold, wet weather. CARCASS An important part of the tyre, the carcass is made of strong woven polyester, nylon, or steel. It is able to both withstand weight and shock, and prevent highpressure air from leaking from the tyre. The strength of the tyre is determined by the strength of the weave and the number of strands, or "cords", used in the carcass. A tyre with a diagonal weave is called a "bias tyre", while one with the weave going across the tyre is called a "radial tyre". CARGO SPACE The space for carrying luggage, cargo, or other miscellaneous items. On a passenger vehicle, this is often a separate compartment called the "trunk" or "boot". The cargo area of a van or wagon is inside the passenger compartment at the rear, and can often be enlarged by folding down the rear seats. CASTER One aspect of wheel alignment. When the wheel is seen from the side, the degree to which the inclination of the steering axis ("king-pin angle") varies from the true vertical is called the "caster". (In other words, it's the forward or backward tilt of the steering axis.) As a rule, increasing the caster increases straight-line stability, but it also makes it more difficult to turn the steering wheel. * Camber, Steering Axis Inclination (SAI),. Corporate Quality Office. Page 35 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(36) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook CATALYTIC CONVERTER Exhaust gas contains various pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and oxides of nitrogen (NOx). A catalytic converter, installed in the exhaust pipe in front of the muffler, uses a catalyzing agent to clean such pollutants from the exhaust. There are two types of catalytic converter: 1) Catalytic Converter for Oxidation (CCO ) Breaks down carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HC) into carbon dioxide (CO2 ) and water (H20); 2) Three-way Catalytic Converter, also called Catalytic Converter for Reduction and Oxidation (CCRO ) Breaks down oxides of nitrogen (NOx) by the process of reduction, and also breaks down carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons as explained in 1) above. CAUTION PLATE A plate or label with warnings or directions related to vehicle care. A caution plate or label uses drawings and/or text to alert the driver and maintenance personnel to important items, and is affixed in highly visible locations. CCO (Catalytic Converter for Oxidation) * Catalytic Converter CCRO Three-way Catalytic Converter; Catalytic Converter for Reduction and Oxidation * Catalytic Converter CCS * Cruise Control System CD (CW , CX) Aerodynamic drag. * Aerodynamic Performance CENTER CONSOLE A rectangular construction located between the driver's seat and the front passenger seat. A console that includes both a built-in storage compartment (called the "console box") and the gearshift lever is called a "full console". A console that does not include the gearshift lever is called a "semiconsole". A console that is built into the rear seat is called a "rear console". CENTER DIFFERENTIAL A differential in a full-time 4WD vehicle that distributes driving power to the front and rear wheels, and also compensates for the difference between frontand rear-wheel rotational speed on curves.. Corporate Quality Office. Page 36 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(37) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook Using a centre differential on a full-time 4WD vehicle eliminates the tight-corner braking effect on sharp turns, helping the vehicle turn more smoothly even on dry, paved roads. The centre differential has helped to popularise full-time 4WD vehicles.. CENTER DIFFERENTIAL LOCK A mechanism on a full-time 4WD vehicle that temporarily locks the centre differential (that is, stops this differential from operating, so that it does not absorb the differences in rotational speed between the front and rear wheels), and forces it to transmit power to the front and rear wheels. On a full-time 4WD, the centre differential normally distributes power to the front and rear wheels, but if one wheel should get stuck in mud (for example) and begin to spin, the centre differential would send all the power to that wheel and none to the others. The centre differential lock prevents this problem: If a front wheel spins, for example, the locking mechanism causes power to go to the rear wheels to keep the vehicle from getting stuck. The centre lock differential may be either a manually locked mechanical lock or an automatically locking hydraulic lock with viscous coupling and wet multipledisc clutch. CENTER HIGH-MOUNT STOP LIGHT (CHMSL) * High-mount Stop Lamp CENTRAL INJECTION (Ci) An electronically controlled fuel injection system; it injects fuel into the throttle body from one injector (rather than injecting it into each intake port with several injectors, as with ordinary EFI). Because it injects only the necessary amount of fuels in response to engine rpm, central injection is more accurate and fuels efficient than a carburettor, which supplies fuel continuously. Corporate Quality Office. Page 37 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(38) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook CERAMICS The strength, light weight, and heat resistance of ceramics makes these materials a logical choice for turbocharger turbine blades and for the combustion chambers of diesel engines. Ceramics may someday replace metals as the material used in building engines. CERAMIC TURBINE A turbine (bladed wheel) made of some type of ceramic, and used in a turbocharger. A ceramic turbine is lighter than a metal turbine, and also more heat-resistant and durable at high temperatures. Because it is lighter, it begins rotating sooner than a metal turbine in response to exhaust thrust, reducing turbo lag and improving acceleration CHARCOAL CANISTER A container filled with activated charcoal to absorb gasoline vapours. Gasoline evaporates from the gasoline tank. and the carburettor; to prevent this vapour from being released into the atmosphere, the charcoal canister temporarily absorbs it, then returns it to the intake manifold for burning when the engine is running. Charcoal canisters are found only on vehicles having gasoline engines. CHARGE WARNING LAMP A lamp on the instrument panel that lights up to warn the driver if problems occur in the charging system while the engine is running. To prevent complications, the driver should stop and check the battery, or have the charging system inspected as soon as possible. CHASSIS The minimum components required to actually operate a vehicle. The chassis (pronounced "shassy" or" chassy") includes the frame, engine, drive train, suspension, brakes, wheels, and steering system. CHASSIS DYNAMOMETER An instrument used to simulate driving conditions in the laboratory. The vehicle is "driven" on the rollers of the chassis dynamometer. Conditions similar to actual driving conditions can be simulated for testing purposes by varying the rolling resistance of the rollers. CHATTER * Clutch Chatter (Judder, Shudder) CHECK ENGINE WARNING LAMP A lamp on the instrument panel that lights up to warn the driver of problems when the engine is running. It is very important to be aware of engine conditions at all times while the engine is running. CHILDPROOF LOCK, CHILD PROTECTOR * Child Security Lock. Corporate Quality Office. Page 38 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(39) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook CHILD SEAT (INFANT SEAT) A removable auxiliary seat to hold an infant or small child. The child seat holds the child safely in place and keeps him or her from being thrown about while the vehicle is in motion or if the vehicle is involved in a collision. There are two types of child seat: one type is shaped to fit an infant's body, and the other to fit a child's body; both types are equipped with special restraining belts, and can be fastened to a front or rear seat with a seat belt. CHILD SECURITY LOCK (CHILDPROOF LOCK, CHILD PROTECTOR) A small nub or knob on the frame of a rear door that can be operated to prevent the door from being opened from the inside. It is usually found on four-door sedans. It disables the door-opening lever on inside of the door so that the door cannot be opened from the inside. CHIPPING Damage to the paint from small items, such as pebbles, which are thrown up from the road and hit the body of the vehicle. * Chip-resistant Paint CHIP-RESISTANT PAINT Paint that resists chipping caused by objects such as stones thrown up from the road. Both the thickness and the strength of the paint absorb the impact of flying objects, keeping the damage from getting through the paint to the body. Furthermore, even if chipping should occur, this type of paint is designed to prevent rust from spreading. CHMSL * Centre High-Mount Stop Light Ci * Central Injection CIRCUIT BREAKER A device that protects the wiring and electrical equipment in a circuit if excessive current flows through it, such as when there is a "short" (short circuit). Like a fuse, the circuit breaker prevents too much electrical current from flowing through the circuit; however, instead of using an easily fusible element which melts under heat, as in the case of a fuse, a circuit breaker breaks the circuit by opening like a relay. Circuit breakers are used especially in circuitry that draw too much current to be handled by a fuse, such as the circuitry of power windows and defoggers. * Fuse, Fusible Link CL - AERODYNAMIC LIFT. * Aerodynamic Performance Corporate Quality Office. Page 39 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(40) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook CLEARANCE DETECTION AND RANGING SYSTEM An obstacle-detection system equipped with ultrasonic wave sensors installed on the corner of each bumper. The time gap between the transmission of the ultrasonic waves from the sensors, and their reception after bouncing off an obstacle gives the vehicle's distance from the object. An electronic beeper or lamp warns the driver of the obstacle, making it easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces. The rear detection and ranging system is the same as the clearance detection and ranging system, but is installed only on the rear bumper of a vehicle. * Corner Sensor, Rear Detection and Ranging System CLEARANCE LAMPS (SIDE LIGHTS) Lights at the front and rear of a vehicle, showing the presence and width of the vehicle at night. The front clearance lamps are white or amber, while the rear ones are red. CLIMBING RESISTANCE The force, due to a vehicle's own weight, that tends to pull the vehicle downhill as it attempts to climb a grade or hill. CLIPPING POINT When a vehicle takes a curve at high speed, as in a car race, the "clipping point" is the nearest point to the inside of the curve that the driver aims at. The name comes from a race driver's practice of taking the curve as if shaving off the inside corner. CLOSE-RATIO GEARS A transmission design in which the gear ratios are set quite close to each other, to help keep engine rpm high in order to maintain power. Close-ratio gears are often used in sports cars with high-powered engines and manual transmissions. Note: Following table gives some of the close-ratio gear design vis-à-vis ordinary transmission CLOSE –RATIO GEARS. ORDINARY TRANSMISSION. 3.074. 3.566. st. 1 gear 2. nd. gear. 1.838. 2.056. 3. rd. gear. 1.256. 1.384. 4. th. gear. 1.000. 1.000. 5t gear. 0.856. 0.850. Corporate Quality Office. Page 40 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

(41) The Automotive Dictionary – Reference Handbook CLOUD POINT The temperature at which clouds of wax crystals starts to form within a lubricant while it is being slowly cooled. In operation these crystals would block oil-ways and reduce lubrication efficiency. CLUTCH On a vehicle with a manual transmission, the clutch isolates the engine from the transmission during starting, stopping, and gear shifting. Pressing the clutch pedal separates the flywheel of the engine (i.e., the rotating crankshaft) from the input shaft of the transmission; releasing the pedal reconnects the engine and transmission. The clutch is said to be "engaged" while the clutch pedal is not depressed and the engine is connected to the transmission. It is "disengaged" when the clutch pedal is depressed and the engine is isolated from the transmission. CLUTCH CHATTER (JUDDER, SHUDDER) When the vehicle starts off, the entire body of the vehicle will vibrate if the clutch disc is not clamped firmly between the flywheel and the pressure plate. This "chatter" can be caused by such problems as clutch wear and spring damage. CLUTCH COVER One component of the clutch. The clutch cover is installed on the flywheel (at the output end of the crankshaft), with the clutch disc and pressure plate inserted between them. A spring fixed to the clutch cover presses against the pressure plate, forcing the clutch disc to press against the flywheel. This prevents the clutch from slipping while it is engaged (i.e., while the clutch pedal is released). CLUTCH DISC A round flat plate located between the flywheel and pressure plate of the clutch. The clutch disc is splined to the transmission-input shaft and rotates together with it, as one unit. Its purpose is to transmit power from the engine to the transmission; to help it do this, both sides of the disc are covered with a frictional material.. Corporate Quality Office. Page 41 Uncontrolled - For reference and internal circulation only..

No results found