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Glossary of Automotive Repair Terms

There are 14 entries in this glossary.
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Term Definition
Active Suspension

ABC- Active Body Control. A computerized hydraulic suspension system that uses hydraulic "actuators" instead of conventional springs and shock absorbers to support the vehicle's weight. A "chassis computer" monitors ride height, wheel deflection, body roll and acceleration to control ride and body attitude. Bumps are sensed as they are encountered, causing the computer to vent pressure from the wheel actuator as the wheel floats over the bump. Once the bump has passed, the computer opens a vent that allows hydraulic pressure to extend the actuator back to its original length.

Air Conditioning

The A/C system uses a refrigerant to cool the air and carry heat away from the passenger compartment. Major system components include a compressor, condenser, evaporator, accumulator or receiver/dryer, and orifice tube or expansion valve.

Aliases (separate with |): A/C
Anti-lock braking system

System that prevents wheel lock-up by automatically regulating the brakes. ABS can decrease braking distances, prevent skidding and allow more control during sudden stops.

Aliases (separate with |): ABS
Backfire

Gunshot-like sound from the engine or tailpipe.

Balance

By adding small amounts of lead weights to the wheel, it is possible to equal out any unevenly distributed weight, which may be present in the tire or wheel. Proper balance helps eliminate unwanted wheel and tire vibrations, and uneven wear caused by an out-of-balanced tire and wheel condition.

Ball Bearing

A bearing made up of hardened inner and outer races between which hardened steel balls roll.

Check Engine Light

A warning light that comes on if the computerized engine control system detects an engine performance or emissions problem. Also called the "malfunction indicator lamp" (MIL). To determine the nature of the problem, the computer system must be accessed to read a fault code (see Diagnostic Trouble Code).

Courtesy Inspection

Performed during oil changes at no charge Rennen Import's thirty-one (31) point courtesy inspection is meant to find the most obvious failures or potential failures on your vehicle in order to avoid future unexpected break-downs while still getting you back on the road as quickly as possible.

Original Equipment

Parts made either by the car manufacturer or automotive parts supplier that is branded with the car manufacturers logo and/or in the car manufacturers box.

Aliases (separate with |): OE
Safety Inspection

In-depth diagonostic procedure performed that might include disassembly; usually charged for.

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