A
A/C compressor
An engine-driven pump in the air conditioning system that
increases the pressure of the refrigerant.
A/C drain hose
A hose used to drain condensation from the air conditioner
evaporator.
A-pillar
See "Pillar."
ABS
Antilock braking system. A computer-controlled system that
prevents brakes from locking up and tires from skidding during hard braking.
Accelerator pedal linkage
The linkage between the accelerator pedal and a vehicles
throttle body or carburetor.
ACE filter
Active cornering enhancement filter. A device used in an
electro-hydraulic suspension system to reduce body roll by adjusting the system
to driving conditions.
Acquisition fee
Also known as a "bank fee," an
"administrative fee" or an "assignment fee." For a vehicle
lease, a fee charged by the leasing company at the inception of the lease that
is intended to cover a variety of administrative costs, such as obtaining a
credit report, verifying insurance coverage, checking the accuracy and
completeness of the lease documentation, and entering the lease into its data
and accounting systems.
Active
pedestrian protection system
An electronic system designed to warn drivers of impending
pedestrian traffic.
Actual cash value
Also referred to as "ACV." A method of valuing
insured property that is computed by subtracting depreciation (based on the property’s
age and condition) from its replacement cost. Compare "Replacement
cost."
ACV
See "Actual cash value."
Adaptive cruise control
A laser- or radar-sensing cruise control system that causes
a vehicle to automatically slow or stop in order to avoid front-end collisions.
Adaptive headlights
Headlights that turn as the driver turns the steering wheel,
for the purpose of improving illumination in the direction of the turn.
Adjustable pedals
Accelerator and break pedals that can be moved closer to or
further away from the driver's seat.
Adjustable suspension
A suspension that offers driver-selectable damper (and
sometimes spring) firmness settings to suit varying conditions and personal
preferences.
Administration fee
See "Acquisition fee."
Aerodynamic drag
For a moving vehicle, the force exerted by the flow field of
air moving in the opposite direction.
Aftermarket accessory
An accessory or piece of equipment that is not included in
the vehicle as manufactured, but is purchased and installed at the dealership
or other automotive establishments.
Air conditioner refrigerant
The liquid used in air conditioning systems, which has the
property of boiling at ambient air temperatures.
Air conditioning
The cooling and dehumidification of a vehicles cabin air.
Air conditioning filter
A device that removes contaminants from external air
entering the ventilation system.
Air filter
A device that filters incoming air fed to the engine.
Air filter
restriction indicator
A device that identifies an impedance to the air filter
system.
Air filtration
The removal of solid particulates (such as dust, pollen,
mold and bacteria) from a vehicles cabin air by a filter placed in the
ventilation system.
Air pollution score
A score from zero to ten given by the EPA to each new
vehicle that represents the amount of air pollutants produced during a
laboratory driving simulation of the vehicle.
Air pump filter
A device that eliminates contaminants from the air supply
fed to the air injection system.
Airbag deactivation
A system that uses sensors in a vehicle’s front passenger
seat to determine whether to activate that seat’s front airbag, based on
whether it detects the presence of an individual of sufficient weight.
Airbags
A cushion that deploys and fills with air when a major
impact occurs to reduce a vehicle occupant’s chances of coming in contact with
the vehicles interior surfaces.
Angle of approach
The steepest angle of inclined roadway onto which a vehicle
can be driven from a level roadway without the vehicles forward overhang making
contact with the inclined surface.
Angle of departure
The steepest angle of inclined roadway from which a vehicle
can be driven onto a level roadway without the vehicles rear overhang making
contact with the inclined surface.
Antenna type
The type of antennas used in vehicle audio systems and
navigation systems: mast, power telescoping, element and diversity.
Antilock
brake system high pressure hose
The reinforced hose or hoses (with metal fittings at either
end) that carry high pressure hydraulic fluid used in an antilock brake system.
Anti-theft
A device or system of devices that aid in preventing a
vehicle from being stolen.
Anti-theft alarm
A device that uses an auditory signal and/or telemetric to
alert a vehicles owner of an attempted theft.
Anti-theft codes
A four- to six-digit numerical key necessary to return
functionality to a vehicles audio head unit after it has been removed or
disconnected from the battery.
Anti-theft immobilizer
An electronic device that works together with a key (that
includes a small transmitter) and that prevents the engine from starting when
the key is not present.
Anti-theft remote
control
An electronic device that unlocks a vehicles doors and, in
some cases, opens its trunk, rolls down its windows and opens and closes its
sunroof.
Antifreeze
See "Coolant."
APR
Annual Percentage Rate. The cost of credit (i.e., the
interest rate) expressed as a yearly rate.
Asking price
The price for a vehicle asked (before any negotiations) by
the dealer or other seller.
Assignment fee
See "Acquisition fee."
AT-PZEV
Advanced technology-partial zero emission vehicle. An
emissions standard that meets PZEV requirements and has additional
zero-emissions characteristics, such as operation by natural gas or hybrid
vehicle batteries.
ATTS
Hondas Automatic Torque Transfer System, which is a system
that distributes an engines torque output proportionately between the driven
axles (so that the output is most effectively used).
ATTS unit fluid
Hydraulic fluid used in Hondas Automatic Torque Transfer
System.
Audio format
The format of digital compression readable by a vehicles
audio system, such as WMA, MP3, WAV, SACD or AAC.
Audio remote control
A wireless device that uses infrared or radio waves to
control a vehicles sound system.
Auto-delay headlights
A feature that keeps the headlights on for a period after a
vehicle is shut off to provide the occupants with light as they walk away from
the vehicle.
Auto dimming
rearview mirror
See "Electrochromatic rearview mirror."
Auto-leveling
suspension
A suspension that adjusts the height of the vehicle so that
its rear stays even with the front when cargo is carried; some systems offer
multiple height settings for off-road, normal and high-speed operation.
Auto shift
lock/starter safety switch
A device that prevents the starter from functioning unless
the shifter is in the park or neutral position, and prevents the shifter from
being moved unless the brake pedal is depressed.
Automated manual
transmission
Also referred to as "DSG," "direct shift
gearbox," "SMG" and "sequential manual gearbox." A
conventional clutch-type manual transmission that employs electronic, pneumatic
and/or hydraulic actuators in place of a conventional clutch pedal, and a
purely mechanical shift lever. The driver may select either fully automatic
shift mode or driver-controlled shift mode.
Automatic door unlock
A device that automatically unlocks a vehicles doors after a
collision.
Automatic transaxle
A combination transmission and differential/drive axle
assembly.
Automatic
transaxle pressure filter
The external filter on an automatic transmission.
Automatic transmission
A transmission that uses a torque converter, planetary
gearset and clutches or bands to automatically change a vehicles gears.
Automatic
transmission bands
In an automatic transmission, adjustable circular straps
lined with a friction material that are actuated to tighten around and stop the
rotation of a drum as part of the shifting process.
Automatic
transmission cooler hoses
Flexible tubes that carry transmission fluid to and from a
heat exchanger or oil cooler.
Automatic
transmission filter
A component in most automatic transmissions that is fitted
over the fluid intake, usually in the pan, that prevents debris and other
contaminants from circulating throughout the transmissions inner workings and
potentially causing unnecessary wear or damage. Some transmissions use a
reusable metal or nylon mesh-type screen in place of a disposable filter.
Automatic
transmission fluid
The fluid used for lubricating and cooling an automatic
transmission.
Auxiliary features
Factory-installed, optional parts that supplement similar
existing systems, such as a transmission cooler, engine cooler or a secondary
gas tank, that are typically available on trucks and SUVs.
Auxiliary input (Audio)
A method of connecting a peripheral media player to a
vehicles entertainment system, either wired (for example, through an RCA jack,
a USB port or a 1/8" TRS plug), or wirelessly (for example, through
Bluetooth, A2DP or infrared).
Auxiliary lighting
A halogen lamp or light-emitting diode (LED) that is used to
illuminate a specific region or part of a vehicle (such as the glove box or
footwell) and is not located in the vehicles headliner.
Awareness aids
Electronic devices designed to keep a driver awake and alert
while driving a vehicle.
AWD
All-wheel drive. A drivetrain that employs a front, rear and
center differential to provide power to all four wheels of a vehicle.
Axle drive fluid
The liquid used for lubricating gears inside the axle.
Axle ratio
The number of revolutions a vehicles driveshaft makes for
each revolution of the vehicles drive axle(s).
B
B-pillar
See "Pillar."
Backup assistance
A device or system of devices (usually a park distance
sensor or a back-up camera) designed to aid a drivers control of a vehicle in
reverse.
Balance shaft belt
A cogged belt that drives a shaft (usually in
synchronization with the engines crankshaft) for the purpose of smoothing out
vibrations.
Ball joints
Movable joints in the steering linkage and suspension system
of a vehicle that permit rotating movement in any direction between the parts
that are joined.
Bank fee
See "Acquisition fee."
Base price
The MSRP of a vehicle before options, destination fee, any
dealer advertising fee and other costs.
Basic/Bumper to
bumper warranty
A vehicle warranty that covers everything except items that
are subject to wear and tear or replacement in the ordinary course of vehicle
ownership, such as oil and air filters, wiper blades and brake pads. Tires and
batteries are often excluded, but usually have their own warranty provided by
the manufacturers of those items. Emissions equipment is required by Federal
law to be covered for two years or 24,000 miles.
Battery disconnect
A device that automatically disconnects a vehicles battery
after a collision.
Bed dimensions
The physical dimensions of a trucks bed, consisting of
width, height and depth.
Bed extender
A device that may be added to a pickup truck's bed when the
tailgate is open, that sits on top of the tailgate, and that forms an enclosure
that permits items that extend past the bed and onto the tailgate to be carried
without risk of falling out.
Bed features
Factory-installed, optional accessories that add functionality
or longevity to a trucks bed, such as a bed extender, tonneau cover or bed
liner, that are typically available on trucks and SUVs.
Bed length measurement
The inside length of a pickup truck's cargo box or
"bed," measured from the front wall to the face of the closed
tailgate.
Bed liner
A heavy-duty plastic liner or spray-on coating that protects
the inner painted surface of a pickup truck's cargo box.
Bed type
Type of truck bed: long, short, flare-side, step-side,
dually and flat beds for trucks, and dump beds and tanks for SUVs.
Beltline
The horizontal line defined by the lower edges of a vehicles
windscreen, rear and side windows and pillars.
Beverage cooler
A refrigerated storage area intended to cool beverages using
a vehicles air conditioning system or a separate phase-cooling system.
Bi-level purge valve
In an evaporative emissions system, a valve that limits the
flow of vapor from the charcoal canister to the intake during idling.
Biodiesel blend
Also referred to as "biodiesel." A fuel that is a
mixture of petroleum-based diesel and plant-based diesel.
Block heater
An electric heater installed into a freeze plug hole in an
engine block that preheats engine coolant in order to help start a vehicle under
extremely cold weather conditions.
Body
The outer panels that shroud the mechanical and electrical
workings of a vehicle.
Body water drains
Drain holes in strategic locations that provide an escape
route for water that would otherwise remain trapped within a vehicles body.
Bolstering
Upholstered foam supports integrated into a seat that help
keep the driver or passenger in an optimal position.
Bore
The diameter, in inches, of the cylinders in the vehicles
engine.
Brake booster
A vacuum-based device that amplifies the foot pressure
applied to power brakes.
Brake booster
bellcrank pivot
The linkage pivot points behind some brake boosters.
Brake drying
A system that dries the brake pads through light friction
just before a full stop is initiated, by using the ABS pump to bring the brake
pads close to the rotors without significantly engaging them.
Brake fluid
The fluid used in the hydraulic brake system.
Brake lines,
hoses & connections
Tubes and their connections that carry brake fluid between
the various components in a vehicles brake system.
Brake linings
High-friction, heat-resistant material that is attached to
the brake shoes in a rear drum brake system.
Brake master cylinder
A device that stores brake fluid and hydraulically forces it
through the brake lines to the brakes when the brake pedal is depressed.
Brake pads
High-friction material attached to a metal backing plate.
Brake pedal
A device used to control a vehicles brakes.
Brake pedal spring
A spring attached to the pedal assembly that provides some
resistance during pedal depression and also assists in returning the pedal to
an upright position.
Braking assist
A system that monitors the swiftness of a driver's brake
pedal application and applies additional braking force if it determines a that
panic stop is occurring.
Branded title
A permanent designation on a vehicles title, registration or
permit documents that indicates that a vehicle has incurred damage the repair
of which is not possible or would cost more than the vehicle is worth, or that
the vehicle has been sold for scrap. While branding designations vary by state,
typical branding titles include rebuilt, salvage, irreparable and theft
recovery.
Breakover angle
The maximum angle at which a vehicle can traverse a sharp
ridge without making contact or hanging up between axles.
Brush guard
A metallic, tubular attachment to the front bumper of a
vehicle that shields and protects the vehicle from plant life when driven
off-road.
Bumpers
A supplemental device designed to protect a vehicles frame
and/or body from collision damage.
Buyout amount
See "Payoff Amount."
C
C-pillar
See "Pillar."
Cabin lighting
Halogen lamps and/or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) located in
a vehicles headliner that illuminate a vehicles interior space in its entirety.
Caliper configuration
A description of the number of hydraulic pistons used in a
vehicles brake caliper and their arrangement in relation to each other.
Caliper type
The type of brake caliper: monoblock, sliding or dual
sliding.
Cap reduction
Capital reduction. In a vehicle lease, any trade-in amount,
cash down payment or rebate amount that reduces the cost of the vehicle being
leased (its "capitalized cost").
Capitalized cost
Often called the "cap cost." The negotiated price
of a vehicle to be leased, and one of the components used to determine the
monthly lease payment.
Captive finance company
An automobile lender that is a subsidiary of an automobile
manufacturer and whose principal business includes financing the sales and/or
leases of that manufacturers vehicles.
Carbon dioxide
A naturally occurring "greenhouse gas" that is
also a byproduct of the combustion of fossil fuels and that consists of two
oxygen atoms bonded to a single carbon atom.
Carbon footprint
A measure of a vehicles total consumption of natural
resources weighed against the Earths ability to regenerate those resources.
Carbon monoxide
A "greenhouse gas" that is a byproduct of the
combustion of fossil fuels and that consists of a single carbon atom bonded to
a single oxygen atom.
Carburetor
A device used on older internal combustion gasoline engines
that is mounted on the engines intake manifold and supplies fuel to the engine.
Cargo area features
Built-in amenities that serve a specific purpose in the
cargo areas of a vehicle.
Cargo door type
The type of cargo door: liftgate, vertical split-hinge or
horizontal split-hinge.
Cargo hauler
A vehicle that is well-adapted for hauling cargo.
Cargo tie downs
Hooks, straps or eyelets that function as anchors for cargo
nets and ropes used to secure objects.
Cash rebates
Rebates provided by the manufacturer directly to the
customer at the time the vehicle is purchased to lower the final price of the
vehicle. Consumers usually may elect to either receive this amount in cash or
to credit the rebate as part of the vehicles down payment.
Catalytic converter
A canister in the exhaust system, usually situated before
the muffler, containing a substance that reacts chemically with the exhaust in
order to reduce harmful emissions.
Catalytic
converter heat shield
A metal panel, which may be insulated, that is used to
prevent the catalytic converter heat from harming surrounding areas.
CCV
See "Crankcase ventilation filter."
Center console trim
Wood, composite, leather or metal adornments intended to
supplement the aesthetic elements of a vehicles center console.
Center of gravity
A hypothetical point at which all of the mass of an object
acts as if it were concentrated. For a vehicle, the lower the center of gravity
the less likely the vehicle will be to roll over when it is destabilized.
Certification sales
region
A geographic area (usually identified by the states of which
it consists) in which a specific vehicle is certified by the EPA to be sold to
the public.
Certified pre-owned
vehicle
A used vehicle offered for sale by a franchised dealer for
that vehicle make and who follows the manufacturers requirements for
"certifying" the vehicle (including inspection and service) and
which, upon sale, is accompanied by a manufacturer-backed warranty.
Charcoal canister
A device that captures raw fuel vapors (hydrocarbons) from
the vehicles fuel tank and carburetor bowl before they can escape into the air.
Child seat
An additional seat and harness specifically designed for the
safety of small children and designed to work with a vehicles built-in
restraint system.
Child seat anchors
Built-in attachment points that accept child safety seats
built to ISOFIX international standards, commonly referred to in the USA as the
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Childproof safety
feature(s)
The option(s) to disable a vehicles windows, door locks
and/or passenger air bag in order to prevent injury to children.
Choke linkage
On a carbureted engine, the assembly of parts that controls
a valve that limits incoming cold air until the engine reaches operating
temperature and is able to more efficiently vaporize fuel.
City fuel economy
The average number of miles a vehicle is able to travel
using one gallon of fuel according to EPA simulated laboratory tests of city
driving conditions.
Climate control
The computer-controlled regulation of heating and air
conditioning systems to accommodate a user-specified temperature setting.
Climate-controlled
seat filter
Air filter for air-conditioned seats.
Climate-controlled
seats
Seats that have internal heating and cooling mechanisms.
Closer
An experienced dealership salesman or sales manager who
attempts, towards the end of the negotiation process, to either improve the
deal for the dealership or to persuade a hesitant buyer to commit to the
purchase.
Clutch bushing &
linkage
The parts of the mechanical connection between the clutch
and clutch pedal in a non-hydraulic clutch system.
Clutch fluid
The liquid used in a hydraulic clutch system that helps
disengage the clutch from the flywheel.
Clutch fork ball stud
The pivot point for the clutch fork in the clutch housing of
a manual transmission.
Clutch lines & hoses
In a hydraulically actuated clutch, the tubes that carry
fluid between the clutch master cylinder and the slave cylinder.
Clutch master cylinder
In a manual-transmission vehicle with a hydraulically
actuated clutch, a small-bore hydraulic cylinder mechanically connected to the
clutch pedal that actuates a slave cylinder, which in turn actuates the clutch
fork that disengages the clutch when the clutch pedal is depressed.
Clutch pedal
A pedal located on the floor of the vehicle to the left of
the brake pedal that, when depressed, disengages the clutch from the flywheel.
Collapsible steering
column
A steering column that collapses in the event of a hard
frontal impact to reduce the risk of injury to the driver.
Collision insurance
Vehicle insurance that cover damage caused by a collision
with another vehicle or object.
Combined fuel economy
The average number of miles a vehicle is able to travel
using one gallon of fuel according to EPA simulated laboratory tests that
consist of 55% highway and 45% city driving conditions.
Compass
A digital or analog display that indicates the direction a
vehicle is facing.
Comprehensive
insurance
Vehicle insurance that cover damage other than that caused
by a collision with another vehicle or object.
Compression ratio
The ratio of (i) the volume of a vehicles engine cylinder
with its piston at bottom dead center to (ii) the volume of the same cylinder
with its piston at top dead center.
Console
A storage area located in a vehicles dash or headliner,
between seats or underneath the seats.
Convertible roof type
The type of convertible roof tops, including soft tops, hard
tops, T-tops, Targa-style tops, and tops that are manual or power operated.
Convertible wind
blocker
Also known as an "aeroboard." An on a convertible
vehicle, the glass or plastic shield that prevents reversion of high-velocity
air as it passes over the low-pressure, low-velocity air in the passenger
compartment.
Coolant
Also known as "antifreeze." A mixture of water and
ethylene glycol that has both a higher boiling point and a lower freezing point
than plain water.
Cooled seats
Seats that can direct air from the air conditioning system
through tiny holes in the center section of the seat bottom.
Cooling fan & shroud
A mechanically, hydraulically or electrically driven fan
that pulls cooling air through a vehicles radiator; the shroud forms a direct
passage between the radiator and fan, improving the fans effectiveness.
Cornering brake control
A feature of some antilock brake systems that proportions
and applies brake force in order to prevent oversteer.
Cornering lights
A pair of white driving lights located at the two front
corners of a vehicle designed to aid during cornering.
CPO
See "Certified pre-owned vehicle."
Crankcase breather
A ventilation system or device that allows excessive
crankcase pressure to escape.
Crankcase
depression regulator valve
A valve that prevents excess pressure from building in the
crankcase (which could lead to oil leakage past the seals).
Crankcase
ventilation filter
Also known as the "CCV." A filter that prevents foreign
particles from entering the crankcase.
Crash test ratings
Ratings that represent a vehicles performance in various
crash tests, published by the organization(s) that conduct such tests.
Credit score
A number (referred to as a "score"), prepared by a
company in the business of scoring individuals creditworthiness or in
accordance with algorithms it has established, that represents a judgment as to
the individual’s creditworthiness and which is based on an analysis of data
reflected in his or her credit report and other personal information.
Credit tier
The credit "category" in which a consumer is
placed by credit-rating companies, based on the consumer’s personal credit
history. A consumer’s credit tier helps predict how financial institutions will
view that consumer as a financial risk (i.e., the likelihood that he or she
will make payments on time and ultimately repay the loan). Edmunds.com uses
five tiers: platinum, gold, silver, bronze and unclassified. For more
information, visit http://www.edmunds.com/tmv/about_finance.html.
Credit union
A financial institution that is owned by its account
holders, membership of which is based on specified criteria (for example
affiliation with an employer or union).
Cruise control
A device that, when engaged by the driver, automatically
controls a vehicles speed.
Crumple zone
A section of a vehicles structure that collapses during
impact to absorb energy.
Curb weight
The total weight of a vehicle, including a full tank of
fuel, all fluids and standard equipment, but without any cargo or passengers.
Curtain airbags
Also known as "head airbags." Wide-spanning
airbags that when deployed cover the side glass in a side impact or, in some
applications, a rollover, to keep occupants' heads and limbs fully inside the
vehicle.
Customer cash incentive
A cash payment made by the manufacturer of a vehicle to a
customer to incentivize its purchase.
CV joints
Constant velocity joints, which are located on either end of
the drive axles and transmit engine power while enabling full steering and
suspension movement. Black accordion boots cover and protect these joints and
hold lubricant.
CVT
A transmission with a continuously variable drive ratio (as
opposed to conventionally stepped gear ratios) that maintains a steady
acceleration curve with no pauses for gear changes.
Cylinder configuration
The arrangement of an engines cylinders.
Cylinder deactivation
A feature of some engines that allows the engine to turn off
two or more cylinders in order to maximize fuel efficiency.
Cylinder head bolts
Bolts that clamp an engines cylinder heads to the engine
block.
D
Dealer cash incentives
Amounts that are paid to dealers by manufacturers to
stimulate vehicle sales by incentivizing the dealers to lower their prices to
consumers, typically paid or earned upon the dealers purchase of the vehicle
from the manufacturer, upon the dealer’s sale of the vehicle, or when the
dealer achieve specified sales volume targets.
Dealer holdback
A percentage of either the MSRP or invoice price of a new
vehicle (depending on the manufacturer) that is repaid to the dealer by the
manufacturer after the vehicle is sold. For more information, read this article
on dealer holdback.
Death brake
A system of devices, including a heart rate sensor, that
applies braking when the drivers heart stops beating.
Deceleration fuel
cut-off
A system that automatically cuts the fuel supply when
coasting or braking in order to achieve better fuel efficiency and more
effective engine braking, and resumes fuel supply when acceleration is once again
needed.
Deceleration system
An emissions device on a manually shifted vehicle that
bleeds vacuum from the intake when the vehicle is in gear with the throttle
closed. This causes the fuel injectors to close during conditions of
deceleration and results in reduced emissions.
Declaration page
Also referred to as the "Declaration of
insurance." The portion of a property or liability insurance policy that
states the name and address of policyholder, the property insured, its location
and description, the policy period, the premiums and supplemental information.
Declutching/freewheeling
The act of disengaging a vehicles transmission from its
driveshaft, either manually or automatically, when its driveshaft’s rpm exceeds
the transmissions rpm.
Demo
(i) a test drive; (ii) a vehicle that has been used as a
demonstration model by a dealership.
Depreciation
The amount by which a vehicle (or any physical item) loses
its value over time. In vehicle lease transactions, the projected depreciation
of the vehicle is used to determine the vehicles projected residual value and
the monthly lease payments.
Descent control
An off-road version of cruise control that uses the ABS and
traction control systems to independently manipulate a vehicle's four brakes,
which allows the driver to descend steep and uneven terrain at a walking speed
more effectively than the driver can by using a break pedal that controls all
four brakes at once.
Destination charge
The fee that the manufacturer charges to deliver a vehicle
from the factory to the dealership, and that is passed on by the dealer to the
consumer; it is not included in the MSRP of the vehicle. The destination fee is
the same for a particular vehicle no matter where the dealership is located
(with the exception of Alaska and Hawaii in some instances).
Diesel engine
A vehicle with an engine that uses diesel fuel and
compression ignition.
Diesel engine hour
meter
A digital or analog display that shows the amount of time
(in total hours) that a diesel vehicles engine has run over its lifetime.
Differential fluid
The liquid used for lubricating gears inside the
differential.
Direct injection system
A fuel injection system in which the injection nozzles are
located inside the combustion chamber of each piston.
Direct shift gearbox
Also referred to as "DSG," "SMG,"
"sequential manual gearbox" and "automated manual
transmission." See "Automated Manual Transmission."
Disc brake type
The type of brake rotors: solid, vented, slotted,
cross-drilled, ceramic or carbon.
Disc changer
An in-dash or remote-mounted CD or DVD/CD player that can
store and read multiple discs and play them through the vehicles audio system.
Displacement (CCs)
The volume, in cubic centimeters, of a vehicles engine
cylinder with its piston at bottom dead center, multiplied by the total number
of cylinders in the vehicles engine.
Disposition fee
An amount charged by the leasing company at the end of a
lease that is intended to cover the cost of retrieving and selling the vehicle
if the lessee chooses not to buy it. The lessee is billed for this charge after
the vehicle is returned.
Distributor cap
The nonconductive cap of the distributor that contains the
contacts leading to each individual spark plug.
Distributor rotor
The rotating, nonconductive component of a distributor that
contains contacts and that, when aligned, complete an electrical circuit
between the ignition coil and a spark plug.
Diverter valve
On an engine equipped with an air pump, a valve activated
during deceleration that allows air from the air pump into the intake to dilute
the air/fuel mixture (in an attempt to reduce emissions).
DMV fees
Department of Motor Vehicle fees. Sometimes referred to as
"title and license fees." The fees payable to the state in which a
vehicle is purchased and/or registered, primarily for vehicle titling,
registration and license plates.
Down payment
A cash payment credited against the purchase price of a
vehicle, which reduces the amount to be financed. In a lease transaction, this
amount is often referred to as the "capital reduction."
Downshift cable
A transmission cable connected to the throttle that shifts
the transmission into a lower gear when the accelerator is depressed suddenly
beyond a certain point.
Drain plug washer
A composition or plastic sealing washer used on a bolt-type
drain plug.
Drive axle boots
The flexible, conical, accordion-like covers that contain
lubricant and protect the constant-velocity joints on a drive axle shaft.
Drive belt tensioner
A self-adjusting device used for maintaining proper tension
on the drive belt.
Drive belt(s)
A belt that transfers the rotation of the engine through the
crankshaft pulley to drive various devices, such as the alternator, water pump,
air conditioning compressor or power steering pump.
Drive shaft
A sturdy metal tube with universal joints on either end that
connects the engine to a differential on a rear-wheel or four-wheel drive
vehicle.
Drive system
The type of drive system: two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive
or all-wheel drive
Drive train mounts
Flexible, energy-absorbing components that attach parts of a
vehicles drive train (for example, the transmission, transfer case or
differential housing) to the chassis.
Drive-off fees
Also referred to as "Total Due at Signing." The
total cost that must be paid by the lessee at the inception of a vehicle lease,
which typically includes the first month’s lease payment, any security deposit
required by the leasing company, any acquisition fee charged by the leasing
company, any documentation fees charged by the dealer, and various state
registration fees.
Driver state sensor
A device that monitors a driver’s eye movement and/or vital
signs while a vehicle is in motion.
Drivetrain
The system of components that generates power and transmits
it to a vehicles wheels.
Drivetrain warranty
See "Powertrain warranty."
Driving lights
Auxiliary high-beam driving lamps.
DSG
Direct shift gearbox. Also referred to as "SMG,"
"sequential manual gearbox" and "automated manual transmission."
See "Automated Manual Transmission."
Dual-mode hybrid
A hybrid vehicle with two different drive systems, referred
to as Modes. In the first mode the vehicles runs solely on an electric motor
powered by the vehicles battery system. When the electric-only mode is low on
power, or during harder acceleration and faster speeds, a gasoline engine mode
will initiate. The second Mode uses a gasoline engine to help power the vehicle
and recharge the electrical system batteries.
Dusk-sensing headlights
A feature that, when activated, automatically turns on the
headlights and taillights when the ambient light dims at sunset.
Dynamic brake control
See "Emergency brake assist."
E
E85
A fuel consisting of gasoline or another hydrocarbon mixed
with up to 85% denatured ethanol.
Early termination
Ending a vehicle lease before its original term has expired.
Easy entry
A device that automatically retracts a vehicles power seats
and/or steering column when the engine is switched off.
EGR system
Exhaust Gas Recirculation system. A device that redirects a
small amount of exhaust to the engine intake in an effort to lower combustion
temperature and reduce the emission of nitrogen oxide.
Electric battery type
The type of battery used to power the electric motor in a
hybrid or electric vehicle: lead-acid, flooded, gel, lithium ion,
absorbed glass mat, Zebra Na/NiCL2 or NiZn traction.
Electric motor
performance
An electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles electric motors
ability to do work, expressed in terms of horsepower, torque or kilowatts.
Electric motor type
The type of electric motor in a hybrid or electric vehicle
used to power the drive wheels: permanent magnet motor or other traction motor.
Electric vehicle
A vehicle that is run entirely on electricity, using
batteries, capacitors and one or more traction drive systems.
Electrochromatic
rearview mirror
A rearview mirror that automatically dims at night when it
detects a bright glare.
Electronic
brake force distribution
A feature of some antilock braking systems that proportions
and applies brake force to each wheel independently.
Electronic
stability control
See "Stability control."
Emergency brake assist
An electronically controlled system that maximizes brake
efficiency during panic stops.
Emergency braking
preparation
A system that uses the adaptive cruise control sensors to
monitor the following distance to the car ahead; if the gap is closing
sufficiently quickly, in anticipation of a panic stop the system will cause the
ABS pump to pre-fill the brakes and will bring the brake pads close to the
rotors.
Emergency Trunk Release
A glow-in-the dark pull handle inside a car's trunk that
permits escape for someone trapped inside.
Emissions
certification standards
Numerical limits on the pollutants produced by a vehicle
established by the EPA and the California Air Resource Board.
Emissions hoses &
tubes
Hoses and tubes utilized by any of a vehicles emission
control devices.
Emissions score
A score from zero to 10 given by the EPA to each new vehicle
that represents the amount of total emissions produced during a laboratory
driving simulation of the vehicle.
Emissions standards
The maximum allowable levels of NOx, carbon monoxide,
nonmethane organic compounds and particulate matter permitted by EPA
regulations to be emitted by each new vehicle.
Engine Auto Stop/Start
A system that automatically shuts the engine off when a
vehicle comes to rest for a period, and then restarts it automatically when the
brake is released and the throttle is depressed.
Engine descriptor
A special notation attached to a vehicles engine code in
order to describe its emissions rating or its fuel economy, or that indicates
that it can be run on multiple fuel sources.
Engine hour meter
A device that records the number of hours an engine has run
over its lifetime.
Engine oil
A substance that lubricates and cools the moving parts of
the engine and reduces corrosion and the formation of rust.
Engine oil level
warning system
A device that automatically brings a low engine oil level to
the attention of a driver.
Engine performance
An engines ability to do work in terms of horsepower, torque
or efficiency.
Engine size
A vehicle engine’s displacement, in liters (according to its
manufacturer).
Engine thermostat
A device that senses the temperature of the engine coolant
for the purpose of regulating the engine cooling system.
Entry lighting
A system of lights that aids a driver or passenger in
entering a vehicle in the dark.
Environmental impact
An assessment of the biophysical effects a vehicle has on
the environment, commencing with its production and ending with its disposal.
EPA fuel
economy/MPG estimates
The city and highway fuel economy ratings issued by the EPA.
EPA interior volume
The amount of total space within the cabin of a vehicle as
measured by the EPA.
EPA testing
Laboratory tests of new vehicles conducted by the EPA in
controlled driving simulations, for the purpose of generating data on average
fuel economy, air pollution and greenhouse gas production.
Equity
For a vehicle that has been financed through a loan, the
difference at any time between what a vehicle is worth at that time and the
amount that is then owed on the loan.
ESC
See "Stability control."
Estimated annual
fuel costs
The estimated cost of fueling a vehicle over the course of a
year, assuming 15,000 miles per year are driven and a price per gallon designated
by the EPA.
Ethanol
Ethyl alcohol. A commonly used vehicle fuel.
EV
Electric vehicle.
EV effective range
per charge
The average distance an electric vehicle is able to travel
on a full charge, as measured by the EPA and listed on the vehicle's window
sticker.
Evaporative control
canister
A device that captures raw fuel vapors (hydrocarbons) from a
vehicles fuel tank and carburetor bowl before they can escape into the air.
Evaporative
control canister filter
A filter on the evaporative control canister that filters
incoming air as fuel vapors contained in the canister are being drawn back into
the engine.
Evaporative control
system
An emission control system that prevents raw fuel vapors
from entering the atmosphere.
Excess mileage penalty
A fee the lessee must pay when the allotted miles specified
in the lease are exceeded. The fee is customarily $0.12-$0.25/mile in excess of
the allotted miles.
Excess wear and tear
Wear or damage to a vehicle that is in excess of what is
normally expected in the ordinary course of operating a leased vehicle.
Exhaust
pressure regulator valve
A device that directs warm exhaust to a vehicles intake in
an effort to aid fuel vaporization and reduce warm-up time.
Extended warranty
A vehicle warranty sold by the manufacturer of the vehicle
or a third party that extends the vehicles basic warranty beyond its original
period.
Exterior camera
A video camera mounted outside a vehicle that relays its
signal to a monitor within the cabin.
Exterior
mirrors adjustment type
The type of position adjustment control for the exterior
mirrors: power, memory or manual.
External
temperature display
The digital display of the ambient air temperature around a
vehicle.
F
Factory-installed
Vehicle equipment that is installed by the manufacturer (in
contrast to equipment that may be installed by the dealer or the owner).
Factory tuner
A "Factory Tuner" is a vehicle model that has significant
engine and/or chassis upgrades as compared its parent model. It is built at the
factory and typically has a name that includes a "factory tuner"
designation (e.g. Mercedes-Benz "AMG" or BMW "M"). Examples
include the BMW M3 and
the Cadillac
XLR-V.
Fan hub
The mechanical connection between the radiator fan and its
point of attachment.
FF
Front-engine front-wheel drive. A vehicle that is propelled
solely by its front wheels and whose engine is located forward of its front
axle.
FICO
Fair Isaac Corporation, which is a company that calculates
and distributes consumer credit scores.
Finance
To borrow money (either as a loan or in the form of a lease)
to obtain some or all of the funds to acquire a vehicle.
Finance and
insurance office
Sometimes referred as the "F&I office." The
office within a dealership in which vehicle purchase contracts are prepared and
signed and additional services (including insurance and extended warranties)
may be offered to the purchaser.
Finance incentive
Manufacturer loan programs offered to consumers, usually for
a limited period, on selected vehicles and/or in certain areas, as an incentive
to purchase a vehicle.
Finance rate
See "APR."
Flex-fuel engine
An engine that can be run on more than one type of fuel (for
example, E85 and gasoline).
Flex fuel vehicle
A vehicle than can run on at least two different fuel sources
either simultaneously through a single fuel system or separately through
multiple fuel systems.
Fog lights
A pair of driving lights that provides a wide, low beam in
an attempt to undercut fog.
Forced induction
The forced compression of air into an engines cylinders by
means of a supercharger or turbocharger.
Four-square
worksheet
A standard form used at many dealerships that helps
salespeople keep track of four elements of a deal during negotiations with a
customer: the price of the vehicle, the amount to be credited for the trade-in,
the down payment and the monthly payment.
4WD
A drivetrain that employs two differentials and a transfer
case to provide power to all four wheels of a vehicle.
Four-wheel steering
A feature of some vehicles that allows the rear wheels to be
steered (by a computer and actuators), for the purpose of increasing high-speed
cornering stability.
FR
Front-engine rear-wheel drive. A vehicle that is propelled
solely by its rear wheels and whose engine is located forward of its front
axle.
Front brakes
specifications
The dimensions of the major components of a vehicles front
brake rotors, and the type of brake ventilation employed.
Front mid-engine
A vehicle with an engine that is forward of its passenger
compartment but aft of its front axle.
Front seat type
The type of front seating: bucket seats, sport seats,
split-bench seats or captain’s chairs.
Fuel capacity
The amount of fuel that a vehicles fuel tank can hold.
Fuel cell vehicle
A vehicle that utilizes fuel cells to create electricity
through a chemical process using oxygen from the air and hydrogen.
Fuel consumption
The rate at which an engine depletes its fuel supply.
Fuel economy
A measure of the amount of fuel used by a vehicle over a
certain distance, or the distance traveled per volume of fuel used.
Fuel filler cap
A cap used to seal a vehicles fuel filler neck.
Fuel filter
A replaceable metal or plastic canister that prevents
particulate matter and most contaminants in the fuel from reaching the engine.
Fuel injection system
A device that atomizes fuel by forcibly pumping it through a
small nozzle under high pressure and delivers it to the vehicles engine.
Fuel lines &
connections
The tubing and connections that carry fuel through a
vehicle.
Fuel pre-filter
For diesel-fuel engines, the device that filters the fuel
immediately before it enters the fuel pump.
Fuel pump shutoff
A device that automatically shuts off a vehicles fuel pump
after a collision.
Fuel system
The assemblage of parts that stores and delivers fuel for
the engine, including the fuel cap, fuel tank, fuel lines and hoses, fuel pump,
fuel filter and fuel injectors or carburetor.
Fuel type
The type of fuel used to power a vehicle: gasoline, ethanol,
E85, diesel, bio-diesel, natural gas or electricity.
Fuel/water separator
A device that separates the water from the fuel in addition
to, or as part of, the fuel filtering system.
G
Gap insurance
In a vehicle lease, insurance that covers any
"gap" between (i) the amount the lessee’s insurance company will pay
to the lessee if the leased vehicle is stolen or destroyed, and (ii) the
aggregate remaining amount the lessee owes at that time to the leasing company.
Gas guzzler Tax
A graduated federal tax levied at the time of initial
new-vehicle purchase on vehicles with especially poor fuel economy.
Gas/electric hybrid
engine
A powertrain that combines an electric motor and a gasoline
or diesel internal combustion engine.
Gasoline engine
An internal combustion engine that burns conventional
gasoline.
Gauges
See "instrumentation."
Greenhouse
The portion of a vehicle above its beltline.
Greenhouse gas score
A score from zero to 10 given by the EPA to each new vehicle
by that represents the amount of greenhouse gases emitted during a laboratory
driving simulation of the vehicle.
Greenhouse gases
Gases produced by vehicles that use hydrocarbons as fuel
(such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, methane, nitrous oxide and
hydroflourocarbons) that contribute to reducing the loss of atmospheric heat
into space.
Gross vehicle weight
rating
Also referred to as "GVWR." The sum of a vehicles
curb weight, cargo weight capacity and passenger weight capacity.
Ground clearance
The distance between the lowest point of a vehicle and level
ground.
GVWR
See "Gross vehicle weight rating."
Gyro sensor
A device that enables a vehicles navigation system to
determine the direction the vehicle is facing.
H
Haldex clutch
Limited slip coupling used in vehicles with automatic
all-wheel drive systems to engage and disengage a secondary axle when needed.
HCCI
Homogeneous charge compression ignition. An internal
combustion engine in which gasoline and air are compressed to the point of
auto-ignition.
Head airbags
See "Curtain airbags."
Head room
The distance from the hip of a vehicles occupant to the
vehicles interior rooftop.
Head unit
The central control unit for a vehicles entertainment
system.
Headlight washers
A set of washer nozzles and/or wipers that clean a vehicles
headlights.
Headlights
A pair of bright lamps that provide visibility during
darkness.
Headsets
A pair of small speakers that, when placed close to a passenger’s
ears, enables the passenger to listen to a vehicles sound system without
disturbing other passengers.
Heads-up display
A digital display projected from a vehicles dashboard onto
its windshield to provide information within the driver’s direct line of sight.
Heated air
temperature sensor
A device that provides information needed by a vehicles
computer to determine the temperature of the air coming into the engine.
Heated mirrors
Sideview mirrors with internal electronic heating coils
designed to prevent fog and ice from obstructing visibility.
Heated windshield
A windshield with tiny embedded heating elements that act to
resist fogging.
Heated windshield
wiper rests
Heating elements below the wipers that melt ice and snow
when they freeze to the glass.
Heater
A heat exchanger placed in the ventilation system that
diffuses heat from the engines cooling system into an airstream generated by an
inline fan.
Heater hoses
Tubing that carries engine coolant between a vehicles
cooling system and heater core.
Height
The distance between the tallest part of a vehicle and level
ground.
Highway fuel economy
The average number of miles a vehicle is able to travel
using one gallon of fuel according to EPA simulated laboratory tests of highway
driving conditions.
Hill holder
A device that applies brake pressure when a vehicles clutch
is disengaged.
Hinge type
The type of door hinge: standard, scissor, gullwing or
suicide-style.
Hip room
The distance from the driver’s side lower door panel to the
front passengers lower side door panel.
Horse Power
A unit of measurement for engine power that was originally
developed as a way to express the output of steam locomotives in terms of the
strength of draft horses.
HVAC
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
Hybrid degree
The level of hybrid technology used for a vehicle: full,
mild, power-assist or plug-in.
Hybrid drivetrain
layout
The drivetrain layout in a hybrid vehicle: parallel, series
or combined.
Hybrid engine
A powertrain that combines an electric motor and an
alternative means of propulsion and/or power generation (for example,
hydrogen). A gas/electric hybrid engine is the most common example of a hybrid
engine.
Hybrid gas engine
performance
A hybrid vehicles gasoline engines ability to do work,
expressed in terms of horsepower or torque.
Hybrid performance
A hybrid engine and electric motors combined ability to do
work in terms of horsepower, torque or efficiency.
Hybrid power source
The source of power in a hybrid vehicle: gas/electric,
plug-in, fuel cell or pneumatic.
Hybrid vehicle
A vehicle that combines the use of internal combustion and
electricity as power sources.
Hydrocarbons
Organic compounds commonly used as a fuel source consisting
of only hydrogen and carbon atoms.
Hydrogen fuel cell
An energy conversion device that produces electricity by
means of electrochemical reactions between hydrogen and an oxidant.
I
Idle speed
The RPM of the engine free from load (all accessories off),
at normal operating temperature and in neutral (or, in the case of an automatic
transmission, park or neutral).
Idler pulley
A guide or tightening pulley for a belt or chain.
Ignition timing
The process of setting the time that a spark will occur in
the combustion chamber (during the power stroke) relative to piston position
and crankshaft angular velocity.
ILEV
Inherently low-emission vehicle. An emissions standard for
alternative-fuel vehicles with closed and pressurized fuel systems.
Inboard brakes
A braking system that is located within the chassis of a
vehicle instead of at its hubs.
In-car cellular phone
A cellular phone that either (i) has a handset built into
the vehicle, or (ii) is a portable unit with an accompanying dock built into
the vehicle that enables operation through the vehicles entertainment and
stereo system.
Incentive
Any kind of financial assistance from a vehicle manufacturer
that, by reducing either the net price or the cost of financing/leasing,
motivates customers to buy/lease a new vehicle. The most common incentives are
customer cash rebates, low-interest financing and leases that are subsidized by
the manufacturer.
Incentives and rebates
An auto industry term that encompasses all methods by which
manufacturers attempt to stimulate vehicle sales and leases by reducing the net
cost to consumers without reducing the vehicles MSRPs, which includes customer
rebates, dealer cash incentives and special leases.
Individual monitors
More than one video monitor in the rear passenger area of a
vehicle with a rear seat entertainment system.
Instrumentation
Digital and/or analog displays used to convey to the driver
information such as dynamic engine parameters, operating conditions, RPM, speed
and water temperature.
Instrumented testing
The analysis of a vehicles performance characteristics using
precise scientific equipment.
Insurance
Institute for Highway Safety
Sometimes referred to as the "IIHS." An
organization created by the insurance industry for the purpose of reducing the
losses (deaths, injuries and property damage) from vehicle crashes.
Integrated turn signal
A turn signal light that is mounted on or in a vehicles
sideview mirror.
Intelligent alternator
An alternator that operates primarily when the engine has no
need for power, i.e., when coasting or during braking. The alternator remains
passive while the vehicle is under power, with needed electrical power provided
by the battery, for the purpose of improving the vehicles fuel efficiency.
Intelligent car
A vehicle that employs the latest in telemetrics, driver
awareness and/or pedestrian safety technology.
Interior lighting
Halogen lamps or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) used to
illuminate a vehicles interior space.
Interior trim
Wood, composite, leather or metal adornments intended to
supplement the aesthetic elements of a vehicles interior.
Intermittent wipers
A wiper setting that causes the wipers to pause for a
driver-selected period between wipes.
Invoice
Also referred to as "Invoice Price." The price
that appears on the invoice that the manufacturer sends to the dealer when the
dealer receives a vehicle from the factory. More
information on invoice price.
K
Keyless ignition
A system that allows the activation by the driver of a
push-button to start a vehicle if proximity sensors detect the electronic key
inside the vehicle.
Kingpin bushings
Lubricated solid bearings or bushings usually present
between the kingpin and steering knuckle.
Knee airbags
Small airbags that deploy under the dashboard by the knees,
typically on the driver's side where the steering column and other hard vehicle
parts are located.
L
Lane departure
warning system
A system of electronic components designed to warn a driver
when a vehicle strays out of its lane.
Lease incentive
An incentive offered by the manufacturer to reduce the cost
of a vehicle lease, either by reducing the interest rate or increasing the
residual value of the vehicle.
Lease factor
See "Money factor."
Lease fee
See "Money factor."
Lease term
The number of months that constitute the term of a vehicle
lease.
Leg room
The distance from the floor of a vehicle (a person’s ankle
point) to the centerline of the seat (a person’s hip joint).
Length
The distance from the most forward-facing point of a vehicle
to the most rearward point.
Lemon
A vehicle that is found to have numerous or severe defects
not readily apparent before its purchase. Used both informally to mean a
vehicle that proves to be defective, imperfect or unsatisfactory, and with more
precise meaning in various states "lemon laws" that provide vehicle
purchasers certain rights.
Lessee
The person or entity that leases a vehicle.
Lessor
The entity that owns the vehicle being leased. Although most
leases are arranged by a dealership, in almost all cases the lessor is either a
financial institution or a division of the vehicle manufacturer.
LEV
Low emission vehicle. A vehicle that meets the average
emissions standard within the LEV program.
LEV Program
See "Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) Program."
Li-ion
Li-ion (Lithium-ion) battery is a type of rechargeable
battery that offers better performance versus conventional rechargeable
batteries such as NiCad (Nickel-Cadmium) and NiMH (nickel-metal hydride).
Lithium-ion offers more power and less weight, which offers an extended driving
range. However, Li-ion batteries are more fragile and can be damaged by extreme
temperatures.
Liftgate window
The window integrated into the hinged lid of a hatchback,
wagon, SUV or crossover that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area.
Light bar
Additional lighting mounted on a metal or plastic frame that
is attached to a vehicles roof, and that is typically available on trucks and
SUVs.
Limited production
vehicle
A vehicle for which the manufacturer has established a limit
on the number units to be produced, without regard to the maximum number the
manufacturer may be able to sell. These vehicles typically have special
interior and/or exterior trim and/or costly performance enhancements that
distinguish them from their mainstream counterparts.
Limited warranty
A vehicle warranty that is in effect for a specified number
of years and/or miles driven.
Lip spoiler
A spoiler that is flush-mounted to a vehicles trunk lid or
liftgate that allows air to flow over it but not under it (and that is usually
installed for aesthetic purposes).
LNG
LNG (Liquefied natural gas) is natural gas (CH4) that has
been refined and liquefied. The Process of liquefying natural gas requires the
removal of contaminants like helium, water, and heavy hydrocarbons then
condensed into a liquid state close to atmospheric pressure 3.6 psi (25 kPa) by
cooling it to approximately ?260 °F (?163 °C).
Load height
The minimum height to which an item must be lifted in order
to be loaded into a vehicles cargo area.
Load rating
See "Tire load index."
Lock cylinders
The part of a hatch or doors latching mechanism into which
the key is inserted.
Locks
A device or system of devices that prevents a vehicle from
being entered without a key or an electronic keyless entry remote control.
Low Emissions
Vehicle (LEV) Program
The National Low Emissions Vehicle Program. An EPA-sponsored
initiative to reduce the amount of emissions per vehicle.
Low fuel warning
indicator
An alert, usually in the form of a halogen lamp or LED,
warning the driver of a low fuel supply.
Low-interest financing
A loan offered by the manufacturers captive finance company
at a below-market interest rate.
LPG
Liquefied petroleum gas. Also referred to as
"GPL," "LP Gas" or "autogas." A blend primarily
of two hydrocarbon gases, propane and butane. Propylene and butylenes can also
be present in small concentration. Ethanethiol, a powerful odorant, is also
added so that leaks can be detected.
Luggage capacity
A measurement of a vehicles trunk/cargo volume with all
standard seats in place.
Lumbar support
A mechanical or pneumatic device that matches a vehicles
seat back to the contours of the driver or passenger.
M
M85
M85 is a blend of 85% methanol and 15% gasoline. It is not
commonly used because Methanol and Methanol fumes are poisonous.
Make
For a vehicle, either the name of its manufacturer or, if
the manufacturer has more than one operating unit, the name of that unit.
Manifold heat
control valve
A thermostatic device that routes exhaust heat to the intake
manifold in order to promote fuel vaporization and reduce warm-up time.
Manual extending
mirrors
A sideview mirror that can be manually moved further away
from a vehicle when it is towing an object.
Manual transmission
A transmission that uses a clutch and a shift (gear)
selector to change gears.
Manual transmission
fluid
The fluid used for lubricating and cooling a manual
transmission.
Manufacturers engine
code
An alphanumeric code given to an engine by its manufacturer
in order to distinguish it from other engines.
Map storage
The media on which the maps for a vehicles navigation system
are stored (generally CD, DVD or hard drive).
Marketing support
An auto industry term that describes programs that
manufacturers provide to stimulate sales or assist dealers in the advertising
and marketing of their vehicles.
Massaging seats
Seats that contain moving mechanical elements in the
seatback, usually with several selectable settings.
Max HP RPM
The speed of an engine at which it generates its maximum
horsepower.
Max Torque RPM
The speed of an engine at which it generates its maximum
torque.
Maximum cargo capacity
A measurement of a vehicles cargo volume when the rear seats
(including a third row if applicable) are folded or removed.
Memory settings
Preset positions and settings (for power seats, mirrors or
steering column positions for a vehicles driver) or for the HVAC system, audio
system, exterior mirrors or navigation system, that can be recalled using a
button.
Mid-engine
A vehicle that is propelled solely by its rear wheels and
whose engine that is aft of the passenger compartment but forward of the rear
axle.
Mileage allowance
In a vehicle lease, the number of miles the lessee is
permitted to drive over the term of the lease without incurring an excess
mileage penalty.
Model
A specific vehicle brand identified by a name or number (and
which is usually further classified by trim or style level).
Model year
For a vehicle model, the calendar year designation assigned
by the manufacturer to the annual version of that model.
Money factor
Also referred to as a "lease factor" or
"lease fee." An auto leasing industry term for expressing the
interest rate used to calculate the monthly lease payment, and equal to the
leases APR divided by 2,400. (For example, an APR of 7.2% equals a money factor
of 0.0033.)
Monroney sticker
Also referred to as a "Window sticker." A sticker,
required by law for all new vehicles sold in the United States, that is affixed
to the side window or windshield and that must include the following
information: MSRP, engine and transmission specs, standard equipment and
warranty details, optional equipment and pricing, city and highway mileage
ratings as determined by the Environment Protection Agency, and crash test
ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Monthly payment
The amount of principal and interest that must be paid each
month under the terms of a finance or lease contract.
MPG
Miles per gallon.
MSRP
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price. Also referred to as
"sticker price."
N
National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Sometimes referred to as the "NHTSA." An agency of
the United States government authorized to order manufacturers to recall and
repair vehicles, or vehicle equipment, when investigations indicate that they
contain serious safety defects in their design, construction or performance.
Natural gas engine
An internal combustion engine that burns natural gas.
Navigation interface
The means by which a vehicles navigation system is
controlled, including touch screen, jog dial, push button and/or voice
activation.
Navigation system
A device that communicates with global positioning
satellites to determine a vehicles physical location and plot a course using
stored map information.
NHTSA campaign ID
number
The identification number assigned to a recall by the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
NHTSA item number
The identification number assigned to a technical service
bulletin by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Nightvision
An exterior camera that uses infrared technology to provide
added visibility when driving in the dark.
NLEV program
National low emission vehicle program. A voluntary national
low emission vehicle program for light-duty vehicles and light-duty trucks that
is enforced by the EPA (outside of California) once automakers and states opt
in and the program is in effect.
NOx
An abbreviation for six chemical compounds produced during
high temperature combustion, containing only nitrogen and oxygen atoms, that
react with volatile organic compounds in the presence of sunlight to create
photochemical smog.
Number of speeds
The number of different drive ratios a vehicles transmission
is capable of selecting.
NVH dampening
A system of devices that lessens the noise, vibration and
harshness in the passenger compartment of a vehicle.
O
OEM
Original equipment manufacturer, i.e., the manufacturer of a
vehicle.
Office of
Defects Investigation
An office within the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration that conducts defect investigations and administers safety
recalls, and that monitors the adequacy of manufacturers recall campaigns.
Off-road ready
A vehicle with high-ground-clearance outfitted for the
rigors of traveling on non-paved roads.
Oil filter
A cartridge-filled canister placed in an engines lubricating
system to strain dirt and abrasive materials out of the oil.
On-board diagnosis
system
A computer-controlled system that identifies malfunctioning
or out-of-adjustment components under its control through the display of
trouble codes. The presence of trouble codes is usually indicated by an
intermittently or constantly lit "check engine " or "service
engine soon" light.
115V AC Outlet
An electrical socket receiving 115v AC current produced by a
vehicles charging system.
One-touch windows
Vehicle windows with a changeover switch that is capable of
automatically rolling the window glass completely up or down (as well as
functioning as a conventional momentary power window switch).
Optional equipment
Equipment that is not included in the manufacturers base
configuration of a vehicle.
Overpressure safety
switch
A switch used on a turbocharged engine that warns the
operator of excessive and potentially harmful intake pressure that may be
caused by component malfunction.
Oversteer
A handling characteristic of a vehicle that causes it to
turn more sharply than the driver intends because the rear wheels are sliding
to the outside of the turn.
Oxygen sensor
In a computer-controlled, fuel-injected vehicle, a sensor
mounted in the exhaust stream that relays air/fuel ratio information to the
fuel control computer that allows the computer to make adjustments.
P
Parallel hybrid
A vehicle that is powered by an electric motor and an
internal combustion engine that are inline. This type of hybrid can be driven
on either full electric mode, gasoline engine mode, or combined. This is the
most common type of hybrid vehicle currently used today.
Parking assist
An electronic system that employs laser, radar or sonar
technology to enable a vehicle to park itself, in some cases without driver
input.
Parking lights
Sometimes referred to as "daytime running lights."
White lights intended to increase a vehicles visibility to other drivers.
Parking sensors
Button-size sensors in the front and/or rear bumpers that
measure the distance to nearby cars and other objects and alert the driver
using sounds or lights.
Passenger memory
settings
Preset power seat positions for the passenger that can be
recalled using a button.
Passenger volume
The total volume of space available for passengers in the
front and rear seat(s) of a vehicle.
Payload
A vehicle's carrying capacity (in pounds) of occupants and cargo,
and equal to the vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) minus its curb
weight.
Payoff amount
Also called the "buyout amount." The amount that,
at any specified time during the term of a vehicle lease or loan, is required
to be paid in order to discharge the remaining obligation.
PCV filter/PCV valve
Positive crankcase ventilation filter/positive crankcase
ventilation valve. Devices that allow the venting of combustion gases from the
crankcase to the intake system instead of into the atmosphere.
Pedal adjustment
The mechanism that controls the position of a vehicles gas,
brake and/or clutch pedal to suit the needs of the driver.
Pillar
A shaft or other structure that supports the roof of a
vehicle, with the A-pillars being the structures that frame the windscreen, and
each successive set of structures (moving toward the rear of the vehicle) being
named after successive letters of the alphabet.
Pilot bearing
A bearing that is press-fit into the rear of the crankshaft
and that supports the tip of the transmission input shaft.
Plenum chamber
water drain valve
A valve used on some vehicles to drain collected
condensation from the intake plenum.
Plug-in vehicle
A vehicle powered solely by electricity available from a
standard domestic AC power socket.
Plus size wheels
Also known as "up-sized wheels." Wheel and tire
packages that are larger in diameter than those included in a vehicles standard
equipment.
Polarization coating
A coating that reduces the glare from sideview mirrors by
modifying the reflected light.
Post collision
communication
A component of a vehicles telemetrics system that, when
triggered, automatically informs authorities after a collision.
Postcrash safety
Safety measures and devices that lessen the chance of a
driver or passenger being hurt in the aftermath of a collision.
Power activated release
The electronically controlled release of a vehicles hatch or
trunk (in contrast to a conventional cable-activated release mechanism).
Power extending mirrors
An electronically controlled sideview mirror that can be
moved further away from a vehicle when it is towing an object.
Power steering
An electric and/or hydraulic system that multiplies, for
ease and comfort, the force a driver exerts on the steering wheel.
Power steering fluid
Hydraulic fluid used in a power steering system.
Power steering hoses
The flexible hoses carrying hydraulic fluid between the
various components of a power steering system.
Powertrain warranty
Also referred to as the "drivetrain warranty." A
vehicle warranty that covers most of the parts that make the vehicle move,
including the engine, transmission, drive axles and driveshaft. As with a basic
warranty, "consumable" parts such as hoses and belts are not covered.
However, most of the internal parts of the engine, such as the pistons and
bearings, which are also subject to wear and tear, are covered by a powertrain
warranty.
Precrash safety
Safety measures and devices that prevent a collision from
occurring or lessen the chances of a driver or passenger injury in the event of
a collision.
Precrash safety seats
Seats that spring into a safe position when a precrash
systems senses an impending collision.
Precrash system
A system of devices that employs radar or laser technology
to sense an impending collision and reacts by implementing precautionary
measures, including tightening seatbelts and applying braking.
Premium audio
A sound system that has been provided to the vehicle
manufacturer by a name brand audio manufacturer.
Privacy glass
A vehicle window with a factory-installed tint, utilizing
either a Mylar covering or smoked glass, that has enough opacity to obscure the
vehicles interior from view.
Private party price
The price consumers are paying private sellers for similar
vehicles.
Program car
A "program car" is one that was owned by the
manufacturer and given to employees for a short time to use for company
business and later purchased at auction by the dealership. Sometimes former
rental cars turn up on used car lots advertised as "program cars";
this will be revealed if you run a vehicle identification number (VIN) check
using a service such as CARFAX or AutoCheck.
Purchase option
The right given to a vehicle lessee to purchase the vehicle
at the end of the lease term for an amount equal to the vehicles residual
value.
Purge valve
In an evaporative emissions control system, the valve that
allows the venting of fuel vapors from the charcoal canister to a vehicles intake
and prevents the canister from becoming saturated and nonfunctional.
PZEV
Partial zero emission vehicle. A vehicle that has zero
evaporative emissions and meets the EPA?s SULEV standard.
R
Radiator core &
AC condenser
The part of a vehicles radiator and air conditioning systems
made up of small-diameter tubes with a series of thin, heat-conducting fins in
between.
Radiator hoses
The tubes between the radiator and the engine.
Radio data system
A small portion of the FM frequency that is allocated for
broadcasting alphanumeric news, traffic and song information.
Rain-sensing wipers
A feature that uses rainfall sensors to engage the wipers
and adjust wiper speed accordingly.
Real time traffic
updates
Traffic congestion information gathered by road sensors and
other means read by a vehicles navigation system through communications satellites.
Rear area cargo cover
A feature that uses rainfall sensors to engage the wipers
and adjust wiper speed accordingly.
Rear brake type
The type of rear brake: drum or disc.
Rear defroster
A device that melts ice or frost or removes condensation
from a vehicles rear window.
Rear door type
The type of rear door: hinged or sliding.
Rear electric
motor performance
An electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles rear electric motors
ability to do work, expressed in terms of horsepower, torque and/or kilowatts.
Rear electric motor
type
The type of rear electric motor in a hybrid vehicle or EV
used to power the rear wheels: permanent magnet motor or other traction motor.
Rear HVAC
The climate-control system used to regulate heating and air
conditioning for the area of a vehicle behind the front row seating.
Rear seat
entertainment system
The elements of a vehicles entertainment system accessible
to rear seat passengers.
Rear seat type
The type of rear seating: bench seats, bucket seats,
removable seats, split-bench seats, captain’s chairs or seats that convert into
a bed.
Rear spoiler
An aerodynamic device attached to a vehicles trunk lid or
liftgate consisting of one or more airfoils supported by uprights that allows
air to flow over it as well as under it, resulting in decreased lift and
increased stability at high speeds.
Rebate
A cash payment offered as an incentive by the manufacturer
to consumers, which is usually applied by the consumer to reduce the net price
of a vehicle.
Recall
A recall is a notice sent by a vehicle manufacturer to
owners of a vehicle advising them that the vehicle has or may have a serious
defect that may compromise the safety of the vehicle and that the service
departments of that manufacturer's dealers will make any necessary replacements
or repairs free of charge.
Ordinarily, recalls affect only a portion of the production run of a given
year, make and model.
For more about recalls, please see A Quick Guide
to Recalls. To find out about any recalls that may apply to
your vehicle, please use our Maintenance
Guide.
Recall notice
A notice by a manufacturer to the owners of a
defective/unsafe vehicle or vehicle component (as well as dealers) that a
recall has occurred.
Recommended fuel type
The optimal type of fuel (based on its octane rating)
recommended by a vehicles manufacturer.
Regenerative braking
A method of assisting the deceleration of a hybrid or
electric vehicle in which the vehicles electric motor switches from
drive/output mode to generator mode. This recharges the battery by converting a
portion of the vehicles kinetic energy into electrical energy.
Rear area cargo cover
A feature that uses rainfall sensors to engage the wipers
and adjust wiper speed accordingly.
Remote start
A feature of a vehicles electronic key fob that controls the
vehicles ignition.
Remote trunk release
The control of a vehicles power-activated release using a button
on an electronic key fob or smart key.
Remote window operation
The control of a vehicles power window system by one or more
buttons on an electronic key fob or smart key.
Renewable energy
Natural energy sources that are naturally replenished, such
as solar power, wind power, hydrogen and biofuels.
Repair kit
Tire repair equipment that typically consists of an
emergency tire sealant and a means of refilling a flat tire.
Replacement cost
A method of valuing insured property that uses the cost of
replacing the property at current prices and does not take into consideration
the property’s condition or whether it has depreciated since first acquired.
Compare "Actual cash value."
Required fuel type
The minimum acceptable type of fuel (based on its octane rating)
recommended by a vehicle’s manufacturer.
Residual value
A vehicle leasing company’s assumption of what a vehicle
will be worth at the end of the lease, which is a factor used to determine the
monthly lease payment. (The higher the residual value, the lower the monthly
payment.)
Retained accessory
power
A feature that permits the operation of a vehicles power
accessories after the key is removed from the ignition for a set period of time
or until a door is opened.
Retractable mirrors
Sideview mirrors that can be moved closer to a vehicle when
parking in a tight space or using an automatic car wash.
Reverse tilt mirrors
Power sideview mirrors that tilt down when a vehicle is in
reverse in order to aid the driver in parallel parking.
Roadside assistance
A service available from various manufacturers that assists
a driver when a vehicle is inoperable.
Roll-over protection
A system of devices that works to prevent or lessen the
damage from rollover accidents.
Roof rack
A metal or plastic device attached to a vehicle that is used
to anchor cargo to the vehicles roof.
Roof spoiler
A spoiler that is mounted from the rearward-facing edge of a
vehicles roof to the liftgate just above the rear windshield, or to the upper
edge of the rear windshield itself (and that is usually installed for aesthetic
purposes).
Roofline
The outline or contour of the roof a vehicle.
Row count
The number of available rows of seating in a vehicle.
RPM
Revolutions per minute.
RR
Rear-engine rear-wheel drive. A vehicle that is propelled
solely by its rear wheels and whose engine is located aft of its front axle.
Run flat
A tire that is capable of being driven on temporarily after
losing its pneumatic pressure.
Running boards
Rocker panel extensions that function as steps to aid the
driver and passengers in the entering and exiting of tall vehicles.
Rust & corrosion
warranty
A warranty that covers the repair or replacement of the
vehicles sheet metal in the event of damage from rust or corrosion that is
severe enough to cause a hole. Surface rust is not covered.
S
Salvage title
An automobile title with a notation that the vehicle has
been damaged in excess of approximately 70% of its pre-accident market value.
The exact percentage depends on the insurance provider and any applicable laws
and regulations. This notation gets applied to a title when an insurance
company pays a total-loss claim on a vehicle, but then sells the vehicle at an
auction center.
Satellite communication
A proprietary system used to send and receive vehicle data,
crash information, concierge services and navigation to and from a vehicle
through communications satellites.
Satellite radio
A radio receiver that receives radio signals broadcast from
communications satellites rather than a conventional terrestrial tower.
Scheduled
maintenance warranty
A warranty that covers service procedures recommended by the
manufacturer at predetermined intervals to preserve and/or prolong the life of
a vehicle.
Seat adjustment type
The type of adjustment control for the seats: manual, power
or power-with-memory.
Seat belts
Harnesses designed to secure vehicle occupants during a
collision.
Seat extension
An attached support, consisting of a metal frame with
upholstered foam, that lengthens a vehicles seat bottom.
Seat features
Devices integrated into some vehicles seats that control
seat temperature, seat adjustability, driver comfort and other settings.
Seatback storage
A storage pocket that is either attached to the backside of
the seat or integrated into the seat itself.
Seatbelt force limiters
A part of the seatbelt pre-tensioner that helps prevent the
seatbelt from being tightened to the point of injury to the occupant.
Seatbelt pretensioners
A seatbelt with a mechanism that reels in the belt when the
airbag is deployed for the purpose of keeping the occupant in the proper
position.
Seating capacity
The number of people that can be safely seated and
restrained in a vehicle, including the driver.
Secondary air supply
system
A type of emissions-reducing system that promotes the
combustion of unburnt hydrocarbons in the exhaust stream by introducing oxygen
(fresh air) pulled in by a vacuum created by exhaust pulsations (and which
essentially performs the same function as an air injection system without
relying on an air pump or diverter valve).
Security deposit
A payment required at the inception of a vehicle lease to
provide collateral to the leasing company for the lessees promise to comply
with the terms of the lease.
Self-leveling
headlights
A system that uses suspension height sensors to determine
the orientation of a vehicle's body for the purpose of making up-down adjustments
to the direction of the headlights, for the protection of oncoming drivers.
Self-leveling
suspension (SLS) filter
Sometimes referred to as an "SLS filter." A device
used to remove contaminants from hydraulic fluid in a self-leveling suspension
system.
Separate rear audio
The capability of a vehicles sound system to deliver a
different audio source to the rear seat passengers than the audio source being
delivered to the front seat passengers.
Sequential manual
gearbox
Also referred to as "SMG," "direct shift
gearbox," "DSG" and "automated manual transmission."
See "Automated Manual Transmission."
Series hybrid
An electric vehicle with a gasoline combustion engine that
is only used to recharge the vehicle?s batteries. The gasoline engine does not
drive the wheels directly. An example is the Chevrolet Volt.
Serpentine belt
A ribbed drive belt that drives more than one engine
accessory.
Service reminder light
A light that indicates that general vehicle maintenance is
needed or that a specific service is required.
Shields and
under-hood insulation
Heat-proof panels and padding that protect under-hood
components from excessive heat.
Shift control mechanism
The location of the shift control mechanism, which includes
levers, paddles or buttons.
Shift linkage
Any collection of mechanical connections between a vehicles
operating control(s) and its transmission.
Shift protocol
The means by which a driver changes gears, including
buttons, paddles or a lever.
Shiftable
automatic transmission
An automatic torque converter transmission equipped with a
feature that permits the driver to actively select either fully automatic or
driver-controlled shift modes by using a dual-gate shifter and/or remote
shifter controls.
Shoulder room
The distance from the driver’s upper door panel to the front
passenger’s upper door panel.
Side airbags
Small airbags that deploy from the outside edge of a seat to
protect the occupant's ribcage in a side impact collision.
Side curtain
rollover sensor
A sensor that determines in the event of a collision whether
or not it is necessary to deploy a vehicles side curtain airbags.
Side impact beam
A structural support designed to protect a vehicles occupant
from side impacts.
Side pockets
A storage pocket that is either attached to the door panel
of a vehicle or integrated into the vehicle door.
Single-limit insurance
An automotive insurance policy with a single combined dollar
limit of coverage for property damage, liability coverage and bodily injury
coverage. Compare "split-limit insurance."
Skid plate
A shield typically attached to the bottom of a vehicles
front bumper that is designed to guard the undercarriage in the case of
insufficient ground clearance.
Sliding rear window
A small window inside a trucks rear windshield that opens
and closes by sliding on a system of metal or plastic rails attached to the
windshield.
SmartWay
A designation issued by the EPA for new vehicles with a
score of six or higher in both air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and a
combined total of more than 13.
SmartWay elite
A designation issued by the EPA given to new vehicles with a
score of nine or higher in both air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
SMG
Sequential manual gearbox. Also referred to as
"DSG," "direct shift gearbox" and "automated manual
transmission." See "Automated Manual Transmission."
Smog-forming pollution
Pollutants in the hydrocarbon or NOx families that produce
photochemical smog when combined in the presence of sunlight.
Smoked glass
A vehicle window that has been infused with pigment during
manufacturing in order to provide enough opacity to obscure the vehicles
interior from view.
Snowplow prep
The hardware needed to attach a factory-optional, removable
snowplow to a vehicles front bumper and/or frame.
Soft-close doors
Doors that will pull themselves shut if they are not fully
latched by the occupants.
Solar power
Energy derived directly from the sun through photovoltaic
cells or other devices that convert light energy into electricity or heat.
Solar sunroof
A sunroof with a photovoltaic panel infused into its glass
that is used to power interior ventilation fans in order to lower cabin
temperature when a vehicle is parked in the sun.
Spare
A fifth wheel and tire that is stored on or in a vehicle for
use when one of the four tires in use becomes disabled.
Spark plug wires
Cables that carry a high-voltage electrical charge from the
distributor cap or ignition coils to the spark plugs.
Speaker configuration
The number and arrangement of speakers as well as the number
of independent speaker channels (including center and subwoofer channels) that
are supported by a vehicles sound system.
Special lease
Also referred to as a "subsidized lease" or
"subvented lease." A form of "incentive and rebate" that consists
of a vehicle lease offered by a vehicle manufacturer in which the amount of the
monthly payment is reduced below that then offered by independent leasing
companies (the cost of which is absorbed by the manufacturer). Typically this
is accomplished by using a higher residual value or a lower interest rate, or
both.
Speed-sensitive
volume control
A feature in some vehicle sound systems that lowers the
speaker volume in proportion to vehicle speed.
Speed-sensitive wipers
A feature that increases the speed of the wipers with
vehicle speed.
Spiff
A cash incentive, contest entry or prize given by a
dealership to salespersons as motivation to sell vehicles.
Split-limit insurance
A policy with separately stated dollar limits for different
types of coverage. Bodily injury liability coverage is also usually split into
a maximum payment per person and a maximum payment per accident. (For example,
an automobile liability policy of 50/100/25 provides a maximum of $50,000
bodily injury coverage per person, $100,000 bodily injury coverage per
accident, and a property damage limit of $25,000 per accident.) Compare
"single-limit insurance."
Spoiler
An attachment to a vehicle (or component of its body)
originally introduced for the purpose of directing airflow over such device (or
the entire vehicle) to decrease lift and increase stability at high speeds, but
that is sometimes used on consumer vehicles solely for aesthetic reasons.
Stability control
Also known as "electronic stability control," or
"ESC." A safety feature that improves the safety of a vehicles
handling by detecting skids and compensating by adjusting braking pressure to
help maintain the intended direction of the vehicle. Some stability control
systems also reduce engine power until control is regained.
Stabilizer bar
Sometimes called an anti-roll or anti-sway bar. A device
that connects the left and right sides of a suspension to limit body roll in
turns.
Start-stop system
A system typically found in hybrid vehicles that
automatically stops and restarts the internal combustion engine to reduce the
amount of time the engine spends idling and improve fuel economy.
Starter safety switch
An electrical switch that prevents the starter from being
engaged unless certain conditions are met, such as shifter placement or brake
pedal depression.
Steering column lock
A mechanism that prevents steering wheel movement unless the
ignition switch is moved from the locked position.
Steering damper
A shock absorber attached to the steering linkage intended
to prevent abrupt "kickback" at the steering wheel, usually found on
trucks or vehicles that can be used off-road.
Steering gearbox
A steering mechanism that converts the rotational motion of
a steering wheel to the side-to-side motion of a lever that is connected to the
steering linkage.
Steering
intermediate shaft
A component in the steering system that connects the
steering shaft to the steering mechanism.
Steering knuckle
The pivoting component to which the front wheel hubs are
attached.
Steering linkage
The arrangement of rods and lubricated joints connecting the
steering gearbox to the wheel spindles.
Steering rack
The steering component that converts the rotational motion
of the steering wheel to the horizontal motion necessary to operate the
steering linkage.
Steering wheel
adjustment
The mechanism that controls the position of a vehicles
steering column to suit the needs of the driver.
Steering wheel controls
Electronic controls for a vehicles entertainment, cruise
control, telematics and/or climate control systems that are mounted on the
steering wheel for the driver’s convenience.
Sticker price
See "MSRP."
Storage media
The physical media that a vehicle sound system is capable of
playing and/or recording to, such as CD, DVD, hard drive, USB or flash drive.
Stroke
The distance, in inches, between the centerline of an
engines crankshaft and the centerline of its connecting rod journal.
Subprime
A loan made to a borrower with a low credit rating and that
typically bears interest at a higher rate to compensate the lender for the
greater risk.
Subsidized or
subvented lease
See "special lease."
SULEV
Super-ultra low emission vehicle. A vehicle that meets an
emissions standard that is stricter than the ULEV standard.
Sunroof
A fixed or operable opening in the roof of a vehicle that is
covered with a metal or glass plug.
Sunshade
A removable or retractable device that limits or prevents
light from passing through a vehicles window.
Sun Sensor
A dash top sensor, usually dome-shaped, that measures the
"sun load" on the vehicle to help improve the accuracy of the
automatic climate control system.
Supercharger
A device powered by a belt, gear, shaft or chain connected
to the engines crankshaft that forces air into an internal-combustion engine in
order to increase engine power.
Supercharger drive belt
A "toothed" belt used to drive a pulley that turns
the impeller of a centrifugal-style supercharger.
Supercharger fluid
A liquid used to lubricate the internal components (for
example, the impeller and the bearings) of a supercharger.
Suspension fluid
A fluid used in suspension systems that are hydraulically
adjustable.
Suspension geometry
The relationship between the placement of the mounting
points for each of a vehicles suspension components.
T
Tachometer
An instrument that tells the driver how fast the engine is
rotating, commonly including a redline to indicate the maximum engine speed.
Tail lights
A set of housings that include a vehicles brake lamps,
reverse lights and rear turn signal lights.
Targa
A semi-convertible body style with a removable roof section
and a full-width roll bar behind the seats.
TCS
See "Traction control."
Technical Service
Bulletin
Technical service bulletins (TSBs) are issued by the
manufacturer for problems that affect the normal operation of the vehicle.
Sometimes called "secret warranties," TSBs cover known problems and
provide repair instructions for service technicians and accordingly are
distributed to all of the manufacturer's dealerships.
Unlike recall-related repairs, which are performed on a no-questions-asked
basis, TSB repairs are made only to resolve problems that can be verified by
dealer service technicians. And generally these repairs will be free of charge
only if the vehicle is still under warranty.
For more about TSBs, check out How Can a
Technical Service Bulletin Help Me? and The Secret
Warranty.
To find out about any TSBs that may apply to your vehicle, please use our Maintenance
Guide.
Telematics
The integrated use of telecommunications in a vehicle.
Telemetrics
The integrated use of telecommunications and electronic data
communications in a vehicle.
Thermostatically
controlled air cleaner
A device on carbureted engines to control emissions, which
contains a thermostat-controlled diverter that ducts air warmed by the exhaust
manifold to the carburetor during cold conditions, and then ambient air to it
once a certain temperature has been attained. This enables the engine to reach
a normal operating temperature and end its fuel-rich/inefficient
cold-temperature mode as quickly as possible.
Throttle
& kick down lever ball studs
Lubricated pivot points for the throttle or kickdown
linkages.
Throttle linkage
A collection of mechanical connections between a vehicles
accelerator pedal and its throttle body or carburetor.
Throttle system
The components used to control the volume of air to the
engine.
Tie rod ends
Ball and socket parts of the steering linkage that connect
the wheel spindles to the rack and pinion or center link.
Tier 1 EPA Program
The EPAs first vehicle emission program promulgated under
the Clean Air Act of 1994, which set more stringent national vehicle emissions
standards than had previously existed.
Tier 2 EPA Program
The EPAs second vehicle emission program promulgated under
the Clean Air Act of 1994, which set more stringent national vehicle emissions
standards than the Tier 1 EPA Program.
Timing belt
A "toothed" belt that drives an overhead camshaft
or camshafts (and in some vehicles a water pump).
Timing belt tensioner
A spring-loaded idler wheel that automatically keeps the
timing belt under enough tension to prevent the timing belt from allowing the
camshaft(s) it controls to go out of sync.
Tint
A transparent plastic film applied to a vehicles windows
that reduces visible light transmission and, in some cases, rejects heat by
reducing UV and infrared transmissions.
Tire diameter
The diameter, in inches, of a tire.
Tire inflator
A device used to inflate, or inflate and seal, a collapsible
spare or flat tire.
Tire inflator
sealant cartridge
A disposable container of pressurized sealing compound.
Tire load index
Also referred to as "load rating." A numerical
value assigned to a tire by its manufacturer to indicate the tires capability
to carry a load The higher the index number, the greater its load capability.
Tire prefix
An alphabetic value assigned to a tire by its manufacturer
to indicate intended uses, such as "P" for passenger cars and
"LT" for light trucks.
Tire pressure
monitoring system
An electronic system that measures and displays to the
driver the amount of pressure in a vehicles tires.
Tire profile
A numeric value assigned to a tire by its manufacturer to
indicate the relationship between the tires sidewall height and its tread
width.
Tire size
Information displayed on the sidewall of a tire that
includes its prefix and information about its dimensions, load capacity and speed
rating.
Tire speed rating
An alphanumeric value assigned to a tire by its manufacturer
that indicates the maximum speed the tire can safely sustain for a ten-minute
period.
Title
Sometimes referred to as the "pink slip." The
legal document issued by the state in which the vehicle is purchased that
reflects the person or entity registered with the state as its legal owner.
Torque
A measurement of an engine's power that indicates how
forcefully it can rotate the crankshaft at a given engine speed.
Total due at signing
See "drive off fees."
Tow hooks
Metal hooks or eyelets, either fixed or removable, that are
attached to a structurally sound section of a vehicles frame and used as pickup
points for tow cables.
Towing capable
A vehicle with features and equipment that make it
well-suited for pulling a trailer.
Towing capacity
The maximum amount of weight a vehicle is capable of towing
(according to its manufacturer).
Track
The distance from the center plane of one wheel to the
center plane of its opposing wheel.
Traction control
Also known as "traction control system," or
"TCS." A safety feature that regulates wheel spin and prevents loss
of control under acceleration by ensuring maximum traction and contact between
the tires and the road (by adjusting brake pressure to one or more wheels,
closing the throttle, or reducing the fuel supply to at least one or more
cylinders).
Traction control system
See "Traction control."
Trade-in
A vehicle that is currently owned by the purchaser of a new
or used vehicle from a dealer and that is exchanged for the newly purchased
vehicle in order to reduce its net price.
Trailer hitch
A metal device attached to a structurally sound section of a
vehicles frame that is used to support a trailer while coupling it to the
vehicle.
Trailer hitch mountings
Trailer hitch attachment points on the body or chassis.
Trailer wiring
A flat, four-way, weatherproof connector located near a
vehicles trailer hitch used to complete the circuits for a trailers ground,
running, left signal, right signal and break lights.
Transaxle
A combination transmission and differential/drive axle
assembly.
Transfer case fluid
Lubricant used in the transfer case.
Transmission modes
Driver-selectable transmission settings that change drive
ratios and/or shift points for fuel economy or performance.
Transmission overdrive
A final gear ratio for an automatic transmission that has an
output speed greater than its input speed, which increases highway fuel
economy.
Transmission type
The type of transmission: automatic, manual, shiftable
automatic or automated manual.
Trip computer
An electronic device used to calculate and display trip
information, such as distance traveled, average speed and fuel economy.
T-top
A vehicle roof with removable panels on either side of a
rigid bar, running from the center of the vehicles A pillar to the center of
its B pillar.
Turbocharger
Sometimes referred to as a "turbosupercharger." A
device that uses an exhaust-driven turbine to force air into an
internal-combustion engine in order to increase engine power.
Turn signals
Flashing amber-colored lights that indicate when a vehicles
driver intends to make a turn or lane change.
Turning circle
Also referred to as "turning diameter." The
diameter of the circle made by a vehicle in a full-lock 360 degree turn.
Two-stage unlocking
A remote electronic door lock system that opens the driver’s
door on the first press and the other doors on the second press.
12V DC outlet
An electrical socket receiving 12v DC current produced and
stored by a vehicles charging system.
U
U-joints
Universal joints, which are flexible joints used on drive
shafts that are composed of two U-shaped yokes that share a common cross-shaped
member.
ULEV program
Ultra-low emission vehicle standard; an emissions standard
within the LEV program, tighter than the LEV standard.
Under seat storage
A storage console located under a vehicles seat.
Underbody
The area of a vehicle that is typically not visible from
above and that is exposed to the road.
Underhood label ID
A label required by the EPA that is affixed to the underside
of a new vehicles hood to designate its engine family and EPA vehicle test
group.
Understeer
A handling characteristic of a vehicle that causes it to
turn less sharply than the driver intends because the front wheels are sliding
to the outside of the turn.
Underwriter
A company that engages in insurance underwriting. See
"Underwriting."
Underwriting
The process of evaluating the risk exposure to a potential
insured (or class or category of insureds), whether to accept the risk and
offer insurance coverage, and the premium to be charged for that coverage.
Universal remote
control
A wireless device that can be programmed to control all
aspects of a vehicles entertainment system.
Universal remote
transmitter
An electronic device integrated into a key or key fob that
controls a vehicles remote-operated accessories.
Upholstery
Cloth, leather or synthetic material used to cover a
vehicles seats, door panels, arm rests and headrests.
Up-sized wheels
See "Plus size wheels."
Upside-down
The status of a vehicle loan when the loan amount is greater
than the current value of the vehicle.
V
Vacuum lines & hoses
Flexible tubing used to carry air, fluids, vapors or
pressurized gas.
Valve clearance
The maximum amount of space between a rocker arm or cam and
the part it contacts to actuate a valve.
Valve gear type
The number of camshafts used by an engine, as well as their
orientation in relation to its valves.
Valves per cylinder
The total number of intake and exhaust valves employed in
each individual cylinder of an engine.
Vanity mirrors
Mirrors commonly placed on the underside of a vehicles sun
visors intended to be used for personal grooming.
Variable
gear ratio steering assembly
The steering mechanism that converts the rotational motion
of a steering wheel to the side-to-side motion of a lever that is connected to
the steering linkage.
Variable valve timing
An engine feature that allows the lift, timing or duration
of the engines valve train to be changed dynamically while it is in operation.
Vehicle
Identification Number
A Vehicle Identification Number, or "VIN," is the
unique code that is assigned to an individual vehicle by its manufacturer and
that distinguishes it from all other vehicles. No two vehicles can have the
same VIN. Typically, the VIN is stamped into a plate or printed on a
sticker and affixed to the vehicle in several different places, including
inside the engine bay and on the driver's side door jamb.
Certain digits in the VIN identify a vehicle's attributes, including its final
point of assembly, its model year, the manufacturer and, usually, the model of
the vehicle. For a complete description of how to read a vehicle's VIN, please
see Making Sense
of Your VIN.
Modern, 17-digit VINs can be used to access many records relating to a vehicle,
including ownership, accident and repair histories. Edmunds does not offer such
reports, but our advertiser AutoCheck does. For more information, please
see Which Vehicle
History Report Is Right for You?.
Our VIN Check page
is a central location for information about Vehicle Identification Numbers.
Vehicle type
The type of vehicle class, examples of which are large cars,
midsize cars, minivans, pickup trucks, small cars, special purpose vehicles,
sports utility vehicles, station wagons and vans.
Ventilated seats
Seats that can direct ambient cabin air through tiny holes
in the center section of the seat bottom.
Video game input
A set of RCA plugs located in the rear passenger section of
a vehicle.
Video monitor
A color or monochromatic liquid crystal display used for
information, navigation or video located in a vehicles dashboard, headliner or
headrests.
Video remote control
A wireless device that uses infrared or radio frequency to
control a vehicles video system.
Video source
A device that produces a video signal to be displayed by a
vehicles entertainment system.
W
Water pump
A device that circulates coolant through a vehicles cooling
system.
Water pump weep hole
A small orifice on a water pump behind and below the exposed
end of the shaft.
Watts
A measure of the amount of power that an amplifier is
capable of producing or a speaker is capable of enduring.
Weather strip
The rubber stripping around a vehicles doors and hatches or
their portals.
Well-to-wheel
See "Environmental impact."
Wheel alignment
The adjustment of various components to meet predetermined
specifications for camber, caster, toe and ride height.
Wheel bearings
The assemblies that permit smooth rotation between the wheel
hub and spindle.
Wheel covers
A decorative metal or plastic disc that obscures a vehicles
stamped steel wheels, lug nuts and/or hubs from view.
Wheel cylinders, rear
In drum-type brakes, small-bore hydraulic cylinders that are
fitted between the brake shoes and are actuated when the brakes are applied.
Wheel diameter
The diameter, in inches, of a vehicles wheel.
Wheel locks
Special lugnuts intended to prevent wheel theft that can
only be installed or removed with a specific wrench or key.
Wheel lug nuts/bolts
The nuts that hold a wheel onto its hub.
Wheel offset
The distance from a wheel’s hub-mounting surface to the
centerline of the wheel. Zero offset means the hub-mount surface is even with
centerline. Positive offset means the hub-mount surface is towards the front
(or outside) of the centerline. Negative offset means the hub-mount surface is
towards the back (behind) of the centerline.
Wheel specs
The dimensions of a vehicles wheels.
Wheel speed sensor
wiring
Electrical connections of the system that relay the speed of
each wheel to a computer that makes adjustments in brake application to prevent
wheels from locking up.
Wheel width
The distance of a wheel from bead to bead.
Wheelbase
The distance between the center of a vehicles front axle and
the center of its rear axle.
Wholesale value
The price at which dealers purchase vehicles from other
dealers or from lenders, usually at auction.
Wideband oxygen sensor
A faster, more sensitive oxygen sensor that enables an
engine control unit to make changes to the air/fuel ratio more rapidly and precisely
than with a conventional sensor.
Width
The width of a vehicle at its widest point.
Window control
The manner in which a vehicles windows are operated: manual
control, power control, one-touch, automatic or remote control.
Window sticker
See "Monroney sticker."
Wireless data link
A method of transferring digital data wirelessly through
Bluetooth or WiFi technology.
Wiring harness
The groups of wires and connectors that carry electric
current through the vehicle.
Z
ZEV
Zero emission vehicle. The most restrictive emissions
standard.