Knowing it’s the anti-lock braking system (SAR or ABS), adaptive cruise control (ACC), or if your vehicle has four-wheel drive (AWD) will give you a better understanding of your bill.
Getting to the workshop by car is always a hassle. And certainly if we don’t understand the terms that technicians use and we don’t even specify on the invoice what type of repair or parts we pay for. Some terms related to vehicles are quite intuitive; however, the more complex ones can
confuse drivers when they try to
understand its meaning In addition, the more informed you are, the more opportunities you will have to solve any problem yourself. For this reason, Stress Free Car Rental explains 15 basic terms from automotive jargon:
HE: Refers to the anti-lock braking system, that is, it is the system that takes over the brakes when it detects that the tires may lock and skid. In the event of sudden braking, SAR kicks in and changes the braking force quickly to control steering.
ACC: It is an automated vehicle speed control system that can identify vehicles in front and adjust the vehicle speed accordingly. It may also be referred to as ‘Smart Cruise Control’.
AWD or four-wheel drive It means that the power is sent to all wheels of the vehicle. Four-wheel drive vehicles can be permanent (power is always sent to all wheels) or switchable. The latter means that the power is mainly sent to two wheels, but it can be sent to all four when slip is detected. Some manufacturers also call it 4×4 or 4WD.
Diesel particulate filter (FAP): A diesel particulate filter captures and stores the particles from the diesel exhaust gases. This is intended to reduce the emissions of this type of vehicle.
Overhead Cam Engine (DOHC): The overhead camshaft engine is a modern engine design with two camshafts instead of one. These are located in the head of the cylinders and ultimately make the vehicle more powerful and efficient than a single overhead cam engine.
calipers: The caliper is the part of the brake that squeezes the brake disc when the brake pedal is depressed, preventing the wheels from turning.
timing belt: The timing belt is a rubber belt that controls the timing of certain elements of a vehicle’s engine. Manufacturers often recommend replacing the timing belt after a certain number of miles. This part can be very expensive to repair if it breaks.
Catalyst: Catalysts convert harmful gases (such as carbon monoxide or nitrogen oxide) released by exhaust gases into less harmful gases or water vapour.
Chassis: It is the structural core or skeleton of a vehicle consisting of a frame that integrates and holds the bodywork.
cruise control: Also known as cruise control, cruise control is a system that automatically regulates the speed of a vehicle and is often used on highways. The driver can set the desired speed (using a series of buttons often located on the steering wheel).
Fan belt: The fan belt uses the motor to power things like the alternator and water pumps. The fan belt has a tendency to stretch and sometimes even fall off, so it may need to be adjusted or replaced periodically.
flywheel: It is a metal disc that provides inertia of the engine and transmission. Almost all motor vehicles have one.
immobilizer: An immobilizer is an electronic protection device that is connected to the vehicle’s engine and ignition system. When the immobilizer is active, the engine cannot be started, even with the key.
delay: A complicated system of springs at each corner of the vehicle allows the wheels to move independently of the chassis and react to bumps and bumps in the road.
enter: The drawings of the rubber of the tires of the vehicles. When the tread wears, the tires offer less grip. For this reason, it is required by law that the tread has a depth of at least 1.6 mm over 75% of the tire width of the vehicle.
Source: La Verdad
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
