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油圧回路の説明お勧めサイト
N[Back to Top]
NEFR An acronym meaning Not Economically Feasible to Repair.
A vehicle that has deteriorated to a state where repair would far exceed the value of the vehicle.
A condition often brought on by following extended maintenance intervals.
(see also our Detailed Topic entitled The Sad Truth)
NegativeThe smaller of the two tapered battery post on top mount batteries.
Normally attached to ground and color coded black.
(see also positive)
NHTSAAn acronym meaning National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
A division of the Department of transportation that regulates automotive recalls and safety issues.
See our Links Category for current recalls and more information.
NISTAn acronym meaning National Institute for Standards and Technology.
A national organization concerned with setting standards for automotive air-conditioning systems.
Normal serviceAs defined by most manufacturers, should more properly be called ideal service.
For example longer trips at highway speed with little stop and go driving. Under these conditions the normal service schedule is okay.
(see also severe service and maintenance)
O[Back to Top]
OBD IIAn acronym meaning On Board Diagnostics II. This is a diagnostic standardization of fault codes and connections to the vehicle diagnostic system. Implementation began around 1994 and was implemented fully by 1996.
(see also our Vehicle Questions Category for What do OBDII codes actually mean?)
OctaneThe word octane is often interchanged with octane rating.
In reality octane is a hydrocarbon and octane rating is a point of pressure at which gasoline will spontaneously combust.
This is important in an engine, because when fuel combust before the ignition ignites it, damage may occur.
For more information see our Detailed Auto Topics Valve clatter, spark knock, pinging and pre-ignition of.
(see also octane rating and posted octane rating)
Octane ratingOctane rating refers to the ability of fuel to resist spontaneous combustion (pre-ignition.)
Iso-octane has a rating of 100 (great resistance to spontaneous combustion) and n-heptane has a rating of 0 (little resistance to spontaneous combustion.
Basically, fuel with a rating of 87 octane would have at minimum, the same spontaneous combustion point as a mixture of 87 percent iso-octane and 13 percent n-heptane.
(see also octane and posted octane rating)
OEMAn acronym meaning Original Equipment Manufacturer.
For instance a part that is the same manufacturer as the original part that came on the vehicle may be called an OEM part.
See also aftermarket part
Orifice tubeA small fixed tube used to regulate the flow of liquid refrigerant through the evaporator core, thus helping to regulate the temperature of the core.
(see also evaporator core and expansion valve)
Outer tie rodThe flexible pivot that connects the steering arm to the remainder of the steering mechanism.
Usually tapered and threaded at the connection with the steering arm and threaded to provide adjustment on the other end.
Steering-box type systems usually use a similar rod on the inner side connecting each with a threaded sleeve.
(see also inner tie rod)
P[Back to Top]
Parking brakeA series of mechanical devices that use a pedal or lever and cables to apply front or rear brakes.
So called because they are intended to hold the vehicle in place when parked. (see also emergency brake)
PCMAn acronym meaning Power Control Module.
The power control module is a computer that operates the engine and sometimes transmission of the vehicle.
(see also ECM)
PhaserA variable camshaft sprocket, used to change the valve timing while the engine is running.
Phasers are normally operated by oil pressure and controlled by the power control module. Solenoids may vary oil pressure supplied to the phaser and enable adjustment to camshaft timing.
PingingA rattling, pinging type noise, normally experienced on acceleration and under load. Left unattended engine damage can result.
For more information see our Detailed Auto Topics Valve clatter, spark knock, pinging and pre-ignition.
(see also spark knock, detonation and labor knock)
PlugShort for spark plug.
A replaceable component in the ignition system that provides the spark necessary for combustion.
Posi-tractionA brand name for a type of limited slip differential that used clutches and springs to assist rear traction.
The name is outdated today but is still often used to describe any limited slip differential.
(see limited slip)
PositiveThe larger of the two tapered battery post on top mount batteries.
Normally marked with a plus sign and color coded red.
See also negative
Posted octane ratingUS octane ratings are assigned based on a combination of two testing methods.
The results of the Research method and the Motor method are averaged for a posted octane rating.
On the label below, R stands for research and M for motor methods. See also octane and octane rating
PriceThe initial amount paid for a product or service without regard to other expenses involved or how long the product or service last.
See also The Difference In Price and Cost in our AGCO Philosophy Category. (see also Cost)
Program carA marketing term for a late model, low mileage used vehicle that is still under factory warranty.
These may come from all the same places that any used vehicles come from (e.g., auctions, trade ins, repossessions, etc.)
They should be viewed with the exact same cautions as any other used vehicle.
PSIAn acronym meaning Pounds per Square Inch; a measure of pressure. Also expressed as PSIA meaning pounds per square inch absolute.
PSI includes atmospheric pressure which is approximately 14.7 PSI at sea level. NOT the measure of tire pressure.
(see also PSIG)
PSIGAn acronym meaning Pounds per Square Inch Gauge; a measure of pressure that a gauge is likely to read.
It does not include atmospheric pressure which is approximately 14.7 PSI at sea level.
The pressure in a tire is expressed as PSIG.(see also PSI)
Q[Back to Top]
Quad-driverA portion of the power control module (PCM) that receive inputs are sends outputs to other sensors and devices.
Similar to the drivers on a home or office computer that control the printer and disk drives.
Each quad-driver controls four functions.
R[Back to Top]
R12The name of an air conditioning refrigerant also often referred to as Freon. Largely discontinued from automotive use by 1993.
R134AAn automotive air conditioning refrigerant brought into use after the discontinuation of R12.
Rack and pinion steeringA device that attaches the steering wheel to a small gear, known as the pinion.
When the gear is rotated by turning the steering wheel, the pinion drives a long gear known as the rack.
The rack moves at a 90 degree angle to the steering column.
The ratio of the two gears multiplies the steering effort and redirects motion in the proper direction to turn the front wheels in the direction desired.
ReboundUpward travel of the suspension; suspension returning to normal position after jounce.
(see also jounce)
RecallA mandatary correction of a defect in a vehicle, ordered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA.) Recalls are for defects that may affect public safety.
For information on recalls look in our Links Category.
RefrigerantA gaseous compound used in the air conditioner system, normally R134A or in older vehicles R12.
RemanufacturedA marketing term used to describe a rebuilt product.
RichA condition where the amount of air to fuel is less than the ideal 14.7 to 1. Too much fuel or too little air and can result in fowled spark plugs, poor fuel mileage and dark smoke from the exhaust.
RotationMoving front tires to the rear of the vehicle in an attempt to even out the wearing process.
Often the left-front is placed on the left-rear and the right-front on the right-rear. Tires may also be crossed to the rear in many cases (e.g., left-front to right-rear and right-front to left-rear. Rotation does not require balance, which is a totally different process. (see als
o wheel balance)
RWDAn acronym meaning Rear Wheel Drive. An arrangement where the rear wheels are linked to the transmission and are used to propel the vehicle. (see also FWD)
S[Back to Top]
SAEAn acronym meaning Society of Automotive Engineers. One of the organizations that helps set automotive standards such as oil ratings, used in the United States.
SAIAn acronym meaning Steering Axis Inclination. The angle formed by a line drawn through the upper and lower pivot points of the suspension and true vertical.
(see also Included angle and camber)
Severe serviceAs defined by most manufacturers is often the service most folks operate under. For instance, ANY of the following would be considered severe service.
Most daily trips are less than five miles one way.
Most driving is stop and go.
High temperatures, above 90' F.
Towing
If ANY of these conditions describes your use, it is better to follow the severe service schedule.
(see also normal service and maintenance)
ShimmyA condition where the steering wheel moves side to side when driving at certain speeds.
Often a condition of improper wheel balance.
(see also wheel balance, dynamic balance, static balance and wheel weight)
Shock absorberA hydraulic device that resist motion in the suspension of an automobile.
They are designed with specific rates of dampening and these rates may vary with the amount of force applied and differ on jounce and rebound.
(see also jounce, rebound, gas filled shock absorber and McPherson strut)
SIRAn acronym meaning Supplemental Inflatable Restraint.
A indicator to the driver that a fault has occurred in the air bag management system See our section onEngine Diagnostics.
(see also air bag)
SolenoidIn automotive terms a solenoid is an electromagnetic device used to convert electrical energy into physical movement.
Widely used in a many applications from controlling the valves in an automatic transmission to moving the starter drive gear.
An electrical coil is energized and draws a magnetic plunger in or out, depending on design.
Movement of the plunger is used to open valves, move switches, make or break electrical connections.
Spark knockA rattling, pinging type noise, normally experienced on acceleration and under load. Left unattended engine damage can result.
For more information see our Detailed Auto Topics Valve clatter, spark knock, pinging and pre-ignition.
(see also detonation, pinging and labor knock)
Spark plugA replaceable component in the ignition system that provides the spark necessary for combustion.
Speed ratingA testing method used to determine quality of a tire to resist centrifugal force.
Tires are tested by spinning at increasing speed until they are destroyed.
A heavier belted tire normally has a higher speed rating and is so noted on the tire sidewall with a letter designation.
S = 112 mph
T = 118 mph
U = 124 mph
H = 130 mph
V = 149 mph
Z = in excess of 149 mph
W = 168 mph
Y = 186 mph
SpiffA reward or monetary sum paid to a technician or service advisor in order to influence the sale of a specific product or service.
For instance ten dollars for each transmission flush.
Express your opinion on flat rate pricing. (see also wallet flushes)
Spiking the jobI derogatory term, used to describe the practice of misleading a client, in order to get the vehicle in the shop and disable it.
Often used with low-ball pricing.
Once the vehicle is disabled, it is far less likely to be taken out of the shop, once the true price is revealed.
(see also menu pricing)
StarterThe electrically operated motor that causes the engine to rotate when the starter switch is activated.
Static balanceBalancing a wheel in a single plane only (e.g., like a bubble balancer from days gone by) Because wheels have width, they need balance not only from side to side but also from one side of the width to the other. Static imbalance normally manifest as a bouncing vibration.
(see also dynamic balance, wheel balance and wheel weight)
SwaptronicsA derogatory term for an unskilled technician’s method of changing parts, especially electronic components hoping to solve a problem and rather than proper testing.
Synthetic oilA name that refers to certain properties possessed by an oil.
Contrary to common belief, it does not specify what the oil is made of and some oils sold as synthetic are actually highly refined petroleum products.
Also see our section on Oil, Lubricants and Gasoline for more.
T[Back to Top]
TCMAn acronym meaning Transmission Control Module. Another name for the computer that controls the transmission.
Sometimes transmission control is handled by the power control module, without a separate transmission computer see also PCM
Temporary battery endA terminal that clamps onto the end of a battery cable, as opposed to a proper factory crimp style terminal.
Often causing high resistance and damage to the electrical components of the vehicle.
TIMAn acronym meaning Technician Induced Malfunction; A derogatory term for an unskilled technician’s who causes further damage while testing or in an attempt to repair.
Top Tier GasolineSix top automakers, Audi, BMW, General Motors, Honda, Toyota and Volkswagen felt the EPA minimum detergent standards were too low.
These automakers established the Top Tier standard to address the problem.
In order to meet Top Tier, gasoline producers must meet several standards for reduced deposits and detergency in all of their grades.
The list of Top Tier providers may serve as a guide to motorist.
Some of the companies in our area that meet Top Tier are:
Chevron
Texaco
Conoco
Phillips 66
Shell
Torque ConverterOn automatic transmissions, the coupling device between the engine and transmission.
A fluid-filled turbine that allow the engine to continue to run while the vehicle is stopped.
As engine speed increases, torque is transmitted to the transmission.
Torque converters serve much the same function as the clutch on a manual transmission.
TPMSAn acronym meaning Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
A system that monitors tire air pressure and warns of a low tire.
Mandated by 2008 but also used on several vehicles much earlier.
Transfer caseAn apparatus that allows power to be transmitted from the transmission to the front and/or rear wheels.
(see also FWD, RWD and 4WD)
Transmission flushUsing a machine to run transmission fluid through a transmission, in an attempt to clean it.
The filter is not cleaned and sometimes a universal fluid is used, rather than that specified by the manufacturer.
(see also wallet flushes) and the section on proper transmission service.
TSBAn acronym meaning Technical Service Bulletin.
This is information, released by the manufacturer of a vehicle, subsequent to production.
Often it points to an improvement or change to resolve a problem.
It is NOT a recall and does not obligate the manufacturer beyond the normal vehicle warranty terms (see also recall)
Tune upAn obsolete and improper term.
Often used to describe replacing certain ignition components, with no regard to whether they are needed or will address the client’s problem.
Type FAn automatic transmission fluid used by Ford Motor Company several years ago. Largely out of current use except in classic vehicles. (see also Dexron, Mercon, ATF)
U[Back to Top]
U-jointAn abbreviation for universal joint.
A cross with four caps using roller bearings to allow the drive-shaft to operate at a limited range of angles.
U.S. built vehicleAccording to the American Automobile Labeling Act (AALA) A vehicle assembled in the United States, using at least 75% components that are from the United States or Canada.
(see also AALA)
Uni-bodyA vehicle construction technique where structural body panels are welded together to support the vehicle with no separate frame used.
Most cars built today are uni-body construction. (see also frame
Unidirectional treadA tire tread pattern where the grooves follow a single direction.
Theoretically better at dissipating water from under the tread while in motion.
Care must be taken to insure the tire is mounted properly and most have an arrow showing proper rotation.
Up-sellAdditional items or services sold to a client, beyond what they anticipated they needed. Often services which may not be needed, such as fuel injector cleaning, an engine flush or shocks and struts.
(See also Wallet flush)
V[Back to Top]
Vacuum brake boosterA chamber with a diaphragm dividing the two halves. Vacuum is present on both sides until the brake is applied.
On application, atmospheric pressure enters the pedal side, forcing the diaphragm towards the master cylinder.
This applies the brakes and greatly reduces brake pedal effort.
Valve bodyA component of the automatic transmission where valves, solenoids, check balls, passage ways and springs are used to control shifting and other functions of the transmission.
Valve clatterA rattling, pinging type noise, normally experienced on acceleration and under load. Left unattended engine damage can result.
For more information see our Detailed Auto Topics Valve clatter, spark knock, pinging and pre-ignition.
(see also detonation, pinging and labor knock)
Variable-ratio power steeringA system that uses a solenoid to control the amount of boost the power steering receives, based on speed and steering input. At low speed the boost is raised for ease of steering. At speed the boost is reduce for firmer control.
VINAn acronym meaning Vehicle Identification number.
A unique 17 digit number that identifies the vehicle and gives specific information.
For instance the first digit reveals the country of origin.
The eighth digit represents the engine option.
The tenth digit is the year model and the final seven digits are the serial number of the vehicle.
ViscosityIn oil, the resistance to flow at a given temperature and often expressed on a numeric scale.
On the scale established by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) the lower the number, the less resistance to flow. For instance an oil rated 10 oil flows more quickly than an oil rated 90, at the same temperature.
There are also other scales such as the one established by International Standards Organization (ISO).
W[Back to Top]
Wallet flushAny of a number of services, of questionable worth, often marketed by shops, merely to increase their profit.
(see also fuel injection flush, engine flush and transmission flush)
Wheel balancePlacing wheel weights on the outside and inside of a wheel to allow for variations in the weight of the wheel/tire assembly.
A properly balanced wheel will have only one weight per-side of the wheel and will not require re-balance under normal service, for the life of the tire.
(see also rotation)
Wheel offsetThe distance from the mounting face of a wheel to the actual centerline of the wheel.
A wheel with a mount face at the actual center would have zero offset.
If the mounting surface is inboard (toward vehicle center) of the wheel centerline, the offset is negative.
If the mounting surface in outboard (away from vehicle center) of the centerline, the offset is positive.
Wheel weightSmall pieces of metal (usually lead alloy) clipped or adhesively attached to a wheel in order to achieve balance of the wheel/tire assembly.
Wheel weights come in a variety of shapes to fit different style wheels as well as several different weight amount.
(see also wheel balance)
White boxA derogatory term for cheap aftermarket parts, often sold in a white box with no name.
(see also aftermarket part and counterfeit part)
X[Back to Top]
X-frameA vehicle frame that has an X-member welded between the frame rails. (see also X-member)
X-memberAn X-shaped member welded between the frame rails to strengthen a vehicle frame.
Y[Back to Top]
Y-pipeA Y-shaped pipe that connect the two exhaust banks of a V-style engine into one single pipe.
Often used to save money routing both banks through a single muffler and catalytic converter.
Z[Back to Top]
Zerk fittingThe small fitting used to attach a hydraulic grease gun to a component in order to apply lubrication (e.g., a ball joint or tie rod.)
油圧回路の説明お勧めサイト
N[Back to Top]
NEFR An acronym meaning Not Economically Feasible to Repair.
A vehicle that has deteriorated to a state where repair would far exceed the value of the vehicle.
A condition often brought on by following extended maintenance intervals.
(see also our Detailed Topic entitled The Sad Truth)
NegativeThe smaller of the two tapered battery post on top mount batteries.
Normally attached to ground and color coded black.
(see also positive)
NHTSAAn acronym meaning National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
A division of the Department of transportation that regulates automotive recalls and safety issues.
See our Links Category for current recalls and more information.
NISTAn acronym meaning National Institute for Standards and Technology.
A national organization concerned with setting standards for automotive air-conditioning systems.
Normal serviceAs defined by most manufacturers, should more properly be called ideal service.
For example longer trips at highway speed with little stop and go driving. Under these conditions the normal service schedule is okay.
(see also severe service and maintenance)
O[Back to Top]
OBD IIAn acronym meaning On Board Diagnostics II. This is a diagnostic standardization of fault codes and connections to the vehicle diagnostic system. Implementation began around 1994 and was implemented fully by 1996.
(see also our Vehicle Questions Category for What do OBDII codes actually mean?)
OctaneThe word octane is often interchanged with octane rating.
In reality octane is a hydrocarbon and octane rating is a point of pressure at which gasoline will spontaneously combust.
This is important in an engine, because when fuel combust before the ignition ignites it, damage may occur.
For more information see our Detailed Auto Topics Valve clatter, spark knock, pinging and pre-ignition of.
(see also octane rating and posted octane rating)
Octane ratingOctane rating refers to the ability of fuel to resist spontaneous combustion (pre-ignition.)
Iso-octane has a rating of 100 (great resistance to spontaneous combustion) and n-heptane has a rating of 0 (little resistance to spontaneous combustion.
Basically, fuel with a rating of 87 octane would have at minimum, the same spontaneous combustion point as a mixture of 87 percent iso-octane and 13 percent n-heptane.
(see also octane and posted octane rating)
OEMAn acronym meaning Original Equipment Manufacturer.
For instance a part that is the same manufacturer as the original part that came on the vehicle may be called an OEM part.
See also aftermarket part
Orifice tubeA small fixed tube used to regulate the flow of liquid refrigerant through the evaporator core, thus helping to regulate the temperature of the core.
(see also evaporator core and expansion valve)
Outer tie rodThe flexible pivot that connects the steering arm to the remainder of the steering mechanism.
Usually tapered and threaded at the connection with the steering arm and threaded to provide adjustment on the other end.
Steering-box type systems usually use a similar rod on the inner side connecting each with a threaded sleeve.
(see also inner tie rod)
P[Back to Top]
Parking brakeA series of mechanical devices that use a pedal or lever and cables to apply front or rear brakes.
So called because they are intended to hold the vehicle in place when parked. (see also emergency brake)
PCMAn acronym meaning Power Control Module.
The power control module is a computer that operates the engine and sometimes transmission of the vehicle.
(see also ECM)
PhaserA variable camshaft sprocket, used to change the valve timing while the engine is running.
Phasers are normally operated by oil pressure and controlled by the power control module. Solenoids may vary oil pressure supplied to the phaser and enable adjustment to camshaft timing.
PingingA rattling, pinging type noise, normally experienced on acceleration and under load. Left unattended engine damage can result.
For more information see our Detailed Auto Topics Valve clatter, spark knock, pinging and pre-ignition.
(see also spark knock, detonation and labor knock)
PlugShort for spark plug.
A replaceable component in the ignition system that provides the spark necessary for combustion.
Posi-tractionA brand name for a type of limited slip differential that used clutches and springs to assist rear traction.
The name is outdated today but is still often used to describe any limited slip differential.
(see limited slip)
PositiveThe larger of the two tapered battery post on top mount batteries.
Normally marked with a plus sign and color coded red.
See also negative
Posted octane ratingUS octane ratings are assigned based on a combination of two testing methods.
The results of the Research method and the Motor method are averaged for a posted octane rating.
On the label below, R stands for research and M for motor methods. See also octane and octane rating
PriceThe initial amount paid for a product or service without regard to other expenses involved or how long the product or service last.
See also The Difference In Price and Cost in our AGCO Philosophy Category. (see also Cost)
Program carA marketing term for a late model, low mileage used vehicle that is still under factory warranty.
These may come from all the same places that any used vehicles come from (e.g., auctions, trade ins, repossessions, etc.)
They should be viewed with the exact same cautions as any other used vehicle.
PSIAn acronym meaning Pounds per Square Inch; a measure of pressure. Also expressed as PSIA meaning pounds per square inch absolute.
PSI includes atmospheric pressure which is approximately 14.7 PSI at sea level. NOT the measure of tire pressure.
(see also PSIG)
PSIGAn acronym meaning Pounds per Square Inch Gauge; a measure of pressure that a gauge is likely to read.
It does not include atmospheric pressure which is approximately 14.7 PSI at sea level.
The pressure in a tire is expressed as PSIG.(see also PSI)
Q[Back to Top]
Quad-driverA portion of the power control module (PCM) that receive inputs are sends outputs to other sensors and devices.
Similar to the drivers on a home or office computer that control the printer and disk drives.
Each quad-driver controls four functions.
R[Back to Top]
R12The name of an air conditioning refrigerant also often referred to as Freon. Largely discontinued from automotive use by 1993.
R134AAn automotive air conditioning refrigerant brought into use after the discontinuation of R12.
Rack and pinion steeringA device that attaches the steering wheel to a small gear, known as the pinion.
When the gear is rotated by turning the steering wheel, the pinion drives a long gear known as the rack.
The rack moves at a 90 degree angle to the steering column.
The ratio of the two gears multiplies the steering effort and redirects motion in the proper direction to turn the front wheels in the direction desired.
ReboundUpward travel of the suspension; suspension returning to normal position after jounce.
(see also jounce)
RecallA mandatary correction of a defect in a vehicle, ordered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA.) Recalls are for defects that may affect public safety.
For information on recalls look in our Links Category.
RefrigerantA gaseous compound used in the air conditioner system, normally R134A or in older vehicles R12.
RemanufacturedA marketing term used to describe a rebuilt product.
RichA condition where the amount of air to fuel is less than the ideal 14.7 to 1. Too much fuel or too little air and can result in fowled spark plugs, poor fuel mileage and dark smoke from the exhaust.
RotationMoving front tires to the rear of the vehicle in an attempt to even out the wearing process.
Often the left-front is placed on the left-rear and the right-front on the right-rear. Tires may also be crossed to the rear in many cases (e.g., left-front to right-rear and right-front to left-rear. Rotation does not require balance, which is a totally different process. (see als
o wheel balance)
RWDAn acronym meaning Rear Wheel Drive. An arrangement where the rear wheels are linked to the transmission and are used to propel the vehicle. (see also FWD)
S[Back to Top]
SAEAn acronym meaning Society of Automotive Engineers. One of the organizations that helps set automotive standards such as oil ratings, used in the United States.
SAIAn acronym meaning Steering Axis Inclination. The angle formed by a line drawn through the upper and lower pivot points of the suspension and true vertical.
(see also Included angle and camber)
Severe serviceAs defined by most manufacturers is often the service most folks operate under. For instance, ANY of the following would be considered severe service.
Most daily trips are less than five miles one way.
Most driving is stop and go.
High temperatures, above 90' F.
Towing
If ANY of these conditions describes your use, it is better to follow the severe service schedule.
(see also normal service and maintenance)
ShimmyA condition where the steering wheel moves side to side when driving at certain speeds.
Often a condition of improper wheel balance.
(see also wheel balance, dynamic balance, static balance and wheel weight)
Shock absorberA hydraulic device that resist motion in the suspension of an automobile.
They are designed with specific rates of dampening and these rates may vary with the amount of force applied and differ on jounce and rebound.
(see also jounce, rebound, gas filled shock absorber and McPherson strut)
SIRAn acronym meaning Supplemental Inflatable Restraint.
A indicator to the driver that a fault has occurred in the air bag management system See our section onEngine Diagnostics.
(see also air bag)
SolenoidIn automotive terms a solenoid is an electromagnetic device used to convert electrical energy into physical movement.
Widely used in a many applications from controlling the valves in an automatic transmission to moving the starter drive gear.
An electrical coil is energized and draws a magnetic plunger in or out, depending on design.
Movement of the plunger is used to open valves, move switches, make or break electrical connections.
Spark knockA rattling, pinging type noise, normally experienced on acceleration and under load. Left unattended engine damage can result.
For more information see our Detailed Auto Topics Valve clatter, spark knock, pinging and pre-ignition.
(see also detonation, pinging and labor knock)
Spark plugA replaceable component in the ignition system that provides the spark necessary for combustion.
Speed ratingA testing method used to determine quality of a tire to resist centrifugal force.
Tires are tested by spinning at increasing speed until they are destroyed.
A heavier belted tire normally has a higher speed rating and is so noted on the tire sidewall with a letter designation.
S = 112 mph
T = 118 mph
U = 124 mph
H = 130 mph
V = 149 mph
Z = in excess of 149 mph
W = 168 mph
Y = 186 mph
SpiffA reward or monetary sum paid to a technician or service advisor in order to influence the sale of a specific product or service.
For instance ten dollars for each transmission flush.
Express your opinion on flat rate pricing. (see also wallet flushes)
Spiking the jobI derogatory term, used to describe the practice of misleading a client, in order to get the vehicle in the shop and disable it.
Often used with low-ball pricing.
Once the vehicle is disabled, it is far less likely to be taken out of the shop, once the true price is revealed.
(see also menu pricing)
StarterThe electrically operated motor that causes the engine to rotate when the starter switch is activated.
Static balanceBalancing a wheel in a single plane only (e.g., like a bubble balancer from days gone by) Because wheels have width, they need balance not only from side to side but also from one side of the width to the other. Static imbalance normally manifest as a bouncing vibration.
(see also dynamic balance, wheel balance and wheel weight)
SwaptronicsA derogatory term for an unskilled technician’s method of changing parts, especially electronic components hoping to solve a problem and rather than proper testing.
Synthetic oilA name that refers to certain properties possessed by an oil.
Contrary to common belief, it does not specify what the oil is made of and some oils sold as synthetic are actually highly refined petroleum products.
Also see our section on Oil, Lubricants and Gasoline for more.
T[Back to Top]
TCMAn acronym meaning Transmission Control Module. Another name for the computer that controls the transmission.
Sometimes transmission control is handled by the power control module, without a separate transmission computer see also PCM
Temporary battery endA terminal that clamps onto the end of a battery cable, as opposed to a proper factory crimp style terminal.
Often causing high resistance and damage to the electrical components of the vehicle.
TIMAn acronym meaning Technician Induced Malfunction; A derogatory term for an unskilled technician’s who causes further damage while testing or in an attempt to repair.
Top Tier GasolineSix top automakers, Audi, BMW, General Motors, Honda, Toyota and Volkswagen felt the EPA minimum detergent standards were too low.
These automakers established the Top Tier standard to address the problem.
In order to meet Top Tier, gasoline producers must meet several standards for reduced deposits and detergency in all of their grades.
The list of Top Tier providers may serve as a guide to motorist.
Some of the companies in our area that meet Top Tier are:
Chevron
Texaco
Conoco
Phillips 66
Shell
Torque ConverterOn automatic transmissions, the coupling device between the engine and transmission.
A fluid-filled turbine that allow the engine to continue to run while the vehicle is stopped.
As engine speed increases, torque is transmitted to the transmission.
Torque converters serve much the same function as the clutch on a manual transmission.
TPMSAn acronym meaning Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
A system that monitors tire air pressure and warns of a low tire.
Mandated by 2008 but also used on several vehicles much earlier.
Transfer caseAn apparatus that allows power to be transmitted from the transmission to the front and/or rear wheels.
(see also FWD, RWD and 4WD)
Transmission flushUsing a machine to run transmission fluid through a transmission, in an attempt to clean it.
The filter is not cleaned and sometimes a universal fluid is used, rather than that specified by the manufacturer.
(see also wallet flushes) and the section on proper transmission service.
TSBAn acronym meaning Technical Service Bulletin.
This is information, released by the manufacturer of a vehicle, subsequent to production.
Often it points to an improvement or change to resolve a problem.
It is NOT a recall and does not obligate the manufacturer beyond the normal vehicle warranty terms (see also recall)
Tune upAn obsolete and improper term.
Often used to describe replacing certain ignition components, with no regard to whether they are needed or will address the client’s problem.
Type FAn automatic transmission fluid used by Ford Motor Company several years ago. Largely out of current use except in classic vehicles. (see also Dexron, Mercon, ATF)
U[Back to Top]
U-jointAn abbreviation for universal joint.
A cross with four caps using roller bearings to allow the drive-shaft to operate at a limited range of angles.
U.S. built vehicleAccording to the American Automobile Labeling Act (AALA) A vehicle assembled in the United States, using at least 75% components that are from the United States or Canada.
(see also AALA)
Uni-bodyA vehicle construction technique where structural body panels are welded together to support the vehicle with no separate frame used.
Most cars built today are uni-body construction. (see also frame
Unidirectional treadA tire tread pattern where the grooves follow a single direction.
Theoretically better at dissipating water from under the tread while in motion.
Care must be taken to insure the tire is mounted properly and most have an arrow showing proper rotation.
Up-sellAdditional items or services sold to a client, beyond what they anticipated they needed. Often services which may not be needed, such as fuel injector cleaning, an engine flush or shocks and struts.
(See also Wallet flush)
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Vacuum brake boosterA chamber with a diaphragm dividing the two halves. Vacuum is present on both sides until the brake is applied.
On application, atmospheric pressure enters the pedal side, forcing the diaphragm towards the master cylinder.
This applies the brakes and greatly reduces brake pedal effort.
Valve bodyA component of the automatic transmission where valves, solenoids, check balls, passage ways and springs are used to control shifting and other functions of the transmission.
Valve clatterA rattling, pinging type noise, normally experienced on acceleration and under load. Left unattended engine damage can result.
For more information see our Detailed Auto Topics Valve clatter, spark knock, pinging and pre-ignition.
(see also detonation, pinging and labor knock)
Variable-ratio power steeringA system that uses a solenoid to control the amount of boost the power steering receives, based on speed and steering input. At low speed the boost is raised for ease of steering. At speed the boost is reduce for firmer control.
VINAn acronym meaning Vehicle Identification number.
A unique 17 digit number that identifies the vehicle and gives specific information.
For instance the first digit reveals the country of origin.
The eighth digit represents the engine option.
The tenth digit is the year model and the final seven digits are the serial number of the vehicle.
ViscosityIn oil, the resistance to flow at a given temperature and often expressed on a numeric scale.
On the scale established by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) the lower the number, the less resistance to flow. For instance an oil rated 10 oil flows more quickly than an oil rated 90, at the same temperature.
There are also other scales such as the one established by International Standards Organization (ISO).
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Wallet flushAny of a number of services, of questionable worth, often marketed by shops, merely to increase their profit.
(see also fuel injection flush, engine flush and transmission flush)
Wheel balancePlacing wheel weights on the outside and inside of a wheel to allow for variations in the weight of the wheel/tire assembly.
A properly balanced wheel will have only one weight per-side of the wheel and will not require re-balance under normal service, for the life of the tire.
(see also rotation)
Wheel offsetThe distance from the mounting face of a wheel to the actual centerline of the wheel.
A wheel with a mount face at the actual center would have zero offset.
If the mounting surface is inboard (toward vehicle center) of the wheel centerline, the offset is negative.
If the mounting surface in outboard (away from vehicle center) of the centerline, the offset is positive.
Wheel weightSmall pieces of metal (usually lead alloy) clipped or adhesively attached to a wheel in order to achieve balance of the wheel/tire assembly.
Wheel weights come in a variety of shapes to fit different style wheels as well as several different weight amount.
(see also wheel balance)
White boxA derogatory term for cheap aftermarket parts, often sold in a white box with no name.
(see also aftermarket part and counterfeit part)
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X-frameA vehicle frame that has an X-member welded between the frame rails. (see also X-member)
X-memberAn X-shaped member welded between the frame rails to strengthen a vehicle frame.
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Y-pipeA Y-shaped pipe that connect the two exhaust banks of a V-style engine into one single pipe.
Often used to save money routing both banks through a single muffler and catalytic converter.
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Zerk fittingThe small fitting used to attach a hydraulic grease gun to a component in order to apply lubrication (e.g., a ball joint or tie rod.)
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