Auto Glossary
Automotive Terms Made Simple
A to Z
Common Automobile Terms
Automotive terminology can sometimes be difficult to understand. Our glossary provides simple explanations of commonly used automobile terms.
A
ABS
A braking technology designed to help prevent wheel lock during certain braking situations.
A
Alternator
A component that generates electricity while the engine runs, helping to charge the battery and power electrical systems.
C
Coolant
A fluid that circulates through the engine's cooling system to help manage operating temperature.
E
Engine
The system responsible for converting energy into mechanical power used to move a vehicle.
H
Horsepower
A unit commonly used to describe an engine's power output.
O
Odometer
An instrument that records the total distance a vehicle has travelled.
R
RPM
Revolutions per minute: a measure of how fast the engine's crankshaft is turning.
S
Suspension
The collection of components that helps connect the vehicle to its wheels while managing movement and road impacts.
T
Torque
A measure of rotational force.
T
Transmission
A system that manages how power from the engine is delivered to the wheels.
T
Tread
The patterned surface of a tire that contacts the road and helps provide grip.
More terms coming. We add new entries only when they can be explained accurately. For details about a specific vehicle, refer to its owner's manual.