Car Part Terms and Mechanic Jargon GlossaryAutoworks Colorado2023-11-29T22:04:45+00:00

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If you’re a car owner, you’re no stranger to the world of mechanic jargon. Maintaining these high end machines can be costly and confusing, so it’s important to speak the right language if you’re going to talk shop with your mechanic and understand what you’re paying for. From terms like “timing belt,” “ignition timing,” and “distributor,” to “con-rod” and “camshaft,” car jargon can be confusing for the uninitiated. But for those of us who breathe motor oil, these words are like poetry. Understanding the ins and outs of car terminology is like being fluent in a secret language. It’s the key to unlocking the magic of these beautiful machines. So if you’re looking to increase your understanding of car terminology and mechanic jargon, you’ve come to the right web page.

automobile terms glossary

#1 The Timing Belt

What is it? A timing belt is a critical part of your car’s engine that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft. It needs to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, so why is it so expensive to replace?

#2 The Water Pump

Water pumps are essential parts of a car’s engine cooling system. They pump coolant from the radiator through the engine to absorb the heat produced by the combustion process. Should I replace it when I get a new timing belt?

#3 The Oxygen Sensor

The oxygen sensor, often referred to as an O2 sensor, is a device that measures the amount of oxygen present in the exhaust stream. Most car owners are not aware of its existence, until your check engine light goes on.

#4 Brake Rotors

It is recommended to replace your brake rotors every time you replace your brake pads to ensure your car’s optimal performance. You may also need to replace your rotors if you experience any vibrations or pulsations while braking.

#5 Brake Calipers

Brake calipers come in two types: floating and fixed. Floating calipers are used in most modern cars and are easier to replace. Fixed calipers, on the other hand, are bulkier, more expensive, and typically reserved for high-performance vehicles.

#6 The Window Regulator

It’s essential to have your window regulator inspected regularly. Common signs of a faulty window regulator include slow-moving windows, grinding noise when operating windows, or windows that don’t move at all.

#7 The Mass Airflow Sensor

One of the most significant signs of a failing Mass Air Flow sensor is a Check Engine light on your dashboard. Other symptoms may include rough idling, reduced power, hesitation, or stalling.

#8 Catalytic Converters

A catalytic converter is a small device that is installed in your car’s exhaust system. It is essentially a canister filled with a ceramic honeycomb coated in precious metals (this is why they are stolen), such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium.

#9 The Camshaft

There are two main types of camshafts, overhead camshaft (OHC) and overhead valve (OHV). OHC engines have the camshaft located on top of the cylinder head, while OHV engines use a single camshaft that is located in the engine block.