Glossary

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): A system that prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, ensuring that the vehicle maintains steering capabilities.

Airbag: A passive safety feature that inflates upon collision, protecting the vehicle’s occupants from injury.

Alternator: A device that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy, charging the car’s battery and powering its electrical systems.

Battery: Stores electrical energy to start the vehicle and power its electrical systems.

Brake Fluid: A hydraulic fluid in the braking system, responsible for transferring the force of the brake pedal to the brakes.

Brake Pads: Components that create friction against the brake rotors, slowing or stopping the vehicle.

Camshaft: A rotating shaft within the engine that opens and closes the intake and exhaust valves in the engine cylinders.

Clutch: Engages and disengages power from the engine to the transmission in manual vehicles.

Differential: Distributes engine torque to the wheels, allowing them to rotate at different speeds.

Drivetrain: Components that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels.

Engine Control Unit (ECU): The vehicle’s onboard computer, controlling various aspects of the engine’s operation.

Exhaust System: Channels exhaust gases away from the engine and out the rear or side of the vehicle.

Fuel Injection System: Introduces fuel into the combustion chambers of an engine.

Headlight: Front lights of a vehicle, illuminating the road ahead.

Ignition Coil: Transforms the battery’s low voltage to the thousands of volts needed to create an electric spark in the spark plugs.

Oil Filter: Removes contaminants from engine oil, ensuring clean lubrication.

Radiator: Cools the engine by dissipating the heat of the coolant.

Shock Absorbers: Components of the suspension system that smooth out the ride by absorbing bumps and jolts from the road.

Spark Plug: Ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine cylinders.

Suspension: Supports the vehicle’s weight, absorbs shocks, and helps maintain tire contact with the road.

Timing Belt: Controls the timing of the engine’s valves, ensuring they open and close at the correct times.

Transmission: Adjusts the power sent to the wheels, allowing for various speeds and torque.

Turbocharger: Boosts engine power by forcing more air into the combustion chamber.

Water Pump: Circulates coolant through the engine and radiator, helping regulate engine temperature.

Wheel Alignment: Adjusts the angles of the wheels to ensure optimal tire contact with the road.