Used Car Dictionary

Used car dictionary and automobile glossary from				noises.
Sydney Australia.				Coil Spring
For a more in depth glossary, go to				A suspension component made up of spiral-wound
AA Automobile Association				hardened steel, used to isolate a vehicle from the
U.K. motoring and travel organisation				up-and-down movement of the wheels on the road.
AANT				Collateral
Automobile Association Northern Territory				Assets owned by the borrower which document his
AARA				or her ability to repay the loan. Listed assets may be
The American Auto Racing Association, located in				seized by the lending institution if the loan is unpaid.
Spokane, Washington.				Collision Coverage
A-Bracket				Optional insurance that pays for damage to your car
Suspension link, shaped in plan view like the letter A.				caused by collision with another car or object.
Abbreviated Injury Scale				Collusion
Method of ranking injury severity in road accidents				The cooperation between two or more people to
using a scale of 1 to 6.				secretly defraud another person or company.
ABS				Combustion Chamber
Abbreviation for Anti-Lock Braking System.				Top section of the engine cylinder, where the air-fuel
Absolute Title				mixture is ignited by a spark plug. The explosion of the
A document that states a person or a legal entity has				combustion pushes the piston down into the cylinder,
the right of ownership.				producing the force that the transmission delivers to
AC				the drive wheels.
Abbreviation for Alternating Current or Airconditioning.				Common Law Liability
Acceleration				The responsibility of injury or loss imposed upon a
Measure of the rate at which speed increases.				person because of his or her actions.
Accelerator Pedal				Compact
Foot-operated control of engine speed.				A small car that can seat two to four people.
Accelerator Pump				Compound Interest
Small carburettor pump to squirt extra fuel into the				Interest computed on the sum of an original principal
mixing chamber when accelerating.				and accrued interest.
Accelerometer				Comprehensive Coverage
Instrument for measuring acceleration rate.				Optional insurance that pays for damage to your car
Accident				caused by things other than collision. For example, if
An unforeseen and unintended event or occurrence.				your car is stolen or vandalized.
Accumulator				Compression Ratio
Removes moisture from the liquid refrigerant in an				The ratio of the volume within an engine cylinder when
air-conditioning system.				the piston is at the bottom of its stroke, compared to
Ackermann Principle				the volume in the cylinder when the piston is at the top
Standard automotive steering principle whereby the				of its stroke. The higher the ratio, the more
inside wheel automatically turns an appropriately tighter				compression during combustion and the more powerful
circle than the outside wheel when taking a bend.				the engine.
Acoustic Induction Control				Compulsory Insurance
Engine air intake system using a valve that				Any type of insurance that is required by law.
intermittently closes or restricts the flow of air to the				Concealment
cylinders, improving engine performance at some				The withholding of facts by an applicant on an
engine speeds.				insurance application.
Acoustic Parking Aid				Console
Parking warning system that emits beeps when the				This may refer to the unit found between the front
car is reversing, advising when the car gets too close				driver and passenger seat that contains the automatic
to an obstruction.				transmission shifter, cupholders and a storage
Acquisition Fee				compartment. But it can also refer to the section of
A fee charged by the leasing company to buy the				the instrument panel that includes the controls for the
vehicle for the lessee and setup the lease. Also called				sound system and climate-control system, particularly if
the initiation fee, this typically runs about $450.				the panel flows down the center of the vehicle and
Acrylic Paint				includes the automatic-transmission shifter.
Plastic based automotive lacquer or enamel, used for				Constant-Velocity Joint (CV Joint)
automotive touch-up and respraying.				On front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles, a
Act of God				coupling that allows the front axle to turn at a constant
Any accident or event that is not by human hand and				speed at various angles when the vehicle turns. The
can not be prevented. Usually a natural cause.				CV joint is a shaft that transmits engine power from
Activated Charcoal Filter				the transmission to the wheel.
Device containing charcoal to absorb odours and				Contribution by Equal Shares
some pollutants.				Provision in insurance contracts which requires each
Active Body Control				company to share equally in the loss until the share of
Regulated suspension system using hydraulic and				each equals the lowest limit of liability under any policy
sensors to change the springing to suit the immediate				or the full amount of loss is paid.
situation.				Conversion
Active Damper Control				The wrongful use of a property by the person who
System to computer-control the shock absorber				owns it.
damping forces so each wheel varies its response				Convertible
according to the conditions.				Any car with a removable top, either a rag (cloth) top
Active Head Restraint				or hard top.
One designed that minimises whiplash injury during a				Coolant
rear-end collision.				Liquid used to carry heat away from the engine.
Active Restraint				Sometimes called antifreeze.
Seat belt or other safety device that becomes				Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE)
operational when the driver or passenger has taken an				The government tracks the average fuel economy of
appropriate action.				all the vehicles produced in a single model-year by
Active Safety				each individual manufacturer. CAFE is that rating.
Those vehicle qualities that help a driver avoid a				Coupe
potential accident, such as braking, steering and				Generally, a two-door car with close-coupled
cornering stability.				passenger compartment.
Active Suspension				Coupe de Ville
System in which electronic sensors work with				A coupe with an enclosed, rear passenger section and
hydraulic or another external forces to counteract				an open driver's section.
adverse suspension movements.				Craftsman Truck Series
Active Torque Split				These NASCAR Trucks are similar to a Winston Cup
System in which the transmission distributes engine				race car, under the skin. The body must be stock and
torque in controlled proportions between all wheels,				its shape is monitored by NASCAR officials. This new
varying the proportion front and rear to suit the				series of races has been called one of the most
conditions.				exciting in motorsports.
Actual Cash Value (ACV)				Crankshaft
Replacement cost of property lost. If your vehicle				The shaft that converts the up-and-down motion of
were stolen, totaled in an accident, or otherwise				the pistons into rotation. It is connected to the
rendered a loss, the Actual Cash Value is equal to the				transmission.
cost for a similar vehicle at current market prices.				Credit Worthy
Actuator				A consumer who will qualify for a vehicle loan. Same
A device that performs a mechanical action in				as a qualified buyer.
response to an input signal, which may be electrical or				Cruise Control
fluidic.				A device that, when set by the driver, will hold the car
Adaptive Airbag				at the chosen speed.
Two-stage airbag that can inflates in two stages. It is				Crumple Zone
partly filled in a low-speed collision and becomes fully				Portions of a vehicle's structure designed to buckle and
inflated above about 35 km/h.				fold in an impact, absorbing crash force rather than
Adaptive Cruise Control				transmitting it to vehicle occupants.
Device that enables the car's speed to automatically				Curb Weight
vary depending on the vehicle in front, using radar,				The weight of the vehicle without passengers, driver
cruise control sensors and, possibly, an external traffic				or cargo, but with all standard features, a full tank of
control centre.				fuel, and all the fluids necessary for proper function.
Adaptive Transmission				Cylinder Block
Device that evaluates various driving techniques to				The main part of the engine to which other parts are
determine the optimum change points for an auto				attached.
transmission.				Cylinder Head
Additional Insured				At the top of the engine block is the cylinder head
A person or company, other than the person named				which contains intake and exhaust valves. Air and fuel
on the account who is protected against damage or				enter the cylinder head through the intake valves and
loss.				spent leftovers are released after combustion through
Additional Insured/Loss Payee				the exhaust valves.
Since the lessor owns the leased vehicle, the lessee is				Damper
required to name the lessor "additional insured" in his				A device which reduces vibration.
insurance liability-coverage policy and as the "loss				Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
payee" in his collision and comprehensive policy.				These lights come on whenever the vehicle is turned
Adiathermal Glass				on; they make the vehicle more visible to other drivers.
Heat-absorbing window pane containing ferric oxide				Mandatory in Canada and standard equipment on
mixed with basic silica to reduce the amount of the				many vehicles sold in the United States.
sun's rays reaching the interior.				Dealer Charges
Adjustable Seat Belt Shoulder Height				Any extra charges for additional services or products
Mechanism in the b-pillar that permits the upper seat				sold by the dealer such as rust-proofing or extended
belt anchor's height to be raised or lowered.				warranties.
Adjustable shock absorber				Dealer Holdback
One that can be manually or electronically adjusted to				Also known as "pack." Manufacturer refund to a
change the dampening qualities.				dealer after a vehicle is sold. Usually a percentage (2
Adjusted Capitalized Cost				to 3%) of the MSRP.
The basis for the basic monthly payment.				Dealer Incentive
Adjuster				A limited time discount offered by the manufacturer to
The person working with the insurance agency who				a dealership.
determines the amount of damage, loss, and liability.				Dealer Incentives
ADRS				A cash refund or attractive lease or loan rate offered
Australian motor vehicle design rules.				by an automotive manufacturer toward the sale
Advance And Retard Mechanism				purchase of a new vehicle.
Distributor system to optimise the ignition spark timing				Dealer Invoice Price
to suit several factors including the load and engine				Also called dealer cost. The amount the dealer pays
speed.				for a car or truck. Deducted from this price may be a
ADRA				dealer incentive, which is a set discount offered for a
American Drag Racing Association, located in				limited period of time, or a dealer holdback, which is a
Spokane, Washington.				percentage of the vehicle's wholesale price.
Advertised Price, Average				Dealer Preparation Fee
The average listed price for a given year, make and				Extra charges for getting the car ready.
model combination, among the cars currently listed on				Dealer Sticker Price
Advertised Price, Lowest				The base price, or the price on the Monroney sticker,
The lowest listed price for a given year, make and				plus the suggested retail price of dealer-installed
model combination, among the cars currently listed on				options, dealer preparation, and add-ons such as
Advertised Price, Highest				undercoating.
The highest listed price for a given year, make and				Deductible
model combination, among the cars currently listed on				The amount of money or percentage of expenses
Aerobody Kit				that will be covered by the insured.
Panels to enhance the body's aerodynamic efficiency.				Default Charges
Aerodynamics				Fees charged the lessee as a result of missing
The wind resistance of a vehicle's design elements.				payments or otherwise defaulting on the lease. Typical
Aerodynamic vehicles claim to offer increased				charges include all remaining payments and any
performance and reduced wind noise while moving.				additional costs incurred in reclaiming the vehicle. The
More simply - the science of reducing wind drag. See				security deposit may also be lost.
Coefficient of Drag.				Deposit
Aerofoil				A sum of money to hold a deal until the paperwork is
Same as airfoil.				complete. If the deal is closed, the deposit is applied to
A-Frame				the down payment.
Chassis frame shaped like the letter a; also a				Depreciation
triangulated tow bar attached to the front of a towed				The decrease in a vehicle's market value over time.
vehicle.				The amount of yearly depreciation is affected by
Afterburner				vehicle condition; resale-marketplace supply and
Exhaust manifold that burns hydrocarbons and carbon				demand; and make and model reputation. Convertibles,
monoxide in the exhaust gases.				high-performance cars, trucks and vans tend to
Aftercooling				depreciate less than other vehicles.
Cooling of compressed gas after the compression				Destination & Delivery Charges
stage to increase its density. Also that part of the				The cost of transporting the vehicle from the
shutdown procedure in some turbocharged engines to				assembly plant to the dealership. Usually a flat fee
minimise bearing wear.				passed on to the buyer without any markup.
After-market				Diesel
Component, equipment or service added after a				An internal combustion engine in which the air-fuel
vehicle has left the assembly plant.				mixture is ignited by compression in the cylinder rather
After top dead centre				than by a spark. Diesel engines use diesel fuel rather
That moment after the piston has passed the top of				than gasoline and tend to be more fuel-efficient and
its travel in the cylinder and starts on the down stroke.				require less maintenance than gasoline engines, but it is
Agent				more complicated to get them to run cleanly. Also
A representative of the insurance agency, licensed by				used as a slang term: after turning off the ignition, the
the state, who solicits, negotiates, and countersigns the				engine continues to run for a short period.
contract. Also provides service to the policyholder for				Diesel fuel
the insurance agency.				The fuel used by a diesel engine. Usually found in
AHRA				tractor trailers and other trucks.
American Hot Rod Association				Differential
Air				A mechanical gearbox or fluid coupling that allows
Australian colloquialism for airconditioning.				wheels to rotate at different speeds. Usually located
Airbag				on an axle, it allows the outside wheels to turn faster
Fabric bag that automatically inflates in the event of a				than the inside wheels during cornering.
collision to cushion an occupant. Also a component in a				Four-wheel-drive and all-wheel drive vehicles have two
pneumatic suspension unit using compressed air as the				differentials, one for the rear axle and one for the
main spring.				front. all-wheel drive vehicles also may have a third or
Airbag Curtain				center differential on the drive shaft that runs between
Airbag that extends the full length of the passenger				the front and rear axles.
compartment and deploys in the event of a side				Ding
impact or rollover.				A small dent or scrape in the body of the vehicle.
Airbag Cut-Off				Direct Financing
System that automatically deactivates the passenger				Arranging the loan directly through a bank or credit
side airbag and seat belt pretensioner should a				union rather than through the dealer.
child-restraint system be on the front seat.				Direct Loss
Airbag Deployment Strategy				Damage or loss directly due to a particular event or
Electronic arrangement to automatically turn off the				peril.
engine and/or fuel pump and unlock the doors when				Disc Brakes
the airbag sensor is triggered.				Shiny metal discs, called brake rotors, are attached to
Airbox				the wheel hub, rotating with the wheel. When the
Scoop in the bodywork to channel relatively cool air to				brake pedal is depressed, the brake calipers squeeze
the engine's induction system.				the discs to slow the vehicle. See Brake Caliper and
Air Brake				Brake Rotor.
Brakes, usually on heavy-duty trucks, that use				Displacement
compressed air to operate.				The volume displaced by an engine's cylinders.
Air cleaner				Formerly measured in cubic inches, it is now more
Same as air filter.				commonly expressed in liters.
Airconditioning				Disposal Fee
Correctly, a reference to the car's total heating and				Also called Disposition Fees. Charge for costs
cooling system, though widely used to indicate				associated with picking up and processing the returned
refrigerated cooling only.				car at the end of the lease. This runs from $200 to
Aircooled engine				$400. Sometimes rolled into monthly payments. Often
One using fresh air blown over cooling fins on the				absorbed by dealers when another vehicle is leased.
cylinder block and cylinder heads to keep				Distributor
temperatures at the required level.				Part of the ignition (electrical) system. Delivers
Airdam				electricity from the ignition coil to the distributor cap and
Body panel fitted beneath the front bumper to reduce				the spark plug wires in the correct firing order. (The
air drag and aerodynamic lift.				firing order is that sequence in which each cylinder
Airdam skirt				begins its power stroke.) The spark plugs ignite the fuel
Panel under the front bumper to reduce any tendency				and air mixture in each cylinder thousands of times a
for the car's front to lift at speed.				minute, producing the explosion that pushes the piston
Air deflector				down in the cylinder to power the vehicle.
Large wing mounted on a roof or cab top to deflect				Double Wishbone Suspension
air over a trailer, reducing wind drag.				A type of independent suspension in which the upper
Air filter				and lower support pieces, or members, look
One that removes dust and insects from air entering				somewhat like a wishbone.
the engine.				Down Payment
Airflow meter				The up-front cash payment that the buyer makes to
Device for measuring gas flow, used to ensure				reduce the amount borrowed to purchase a car; the
accurate control of the air-fuel ratio.				difference between the loan amount and the purchase
Airflow sensor				price. A trade-in allowance and/or rebate also may be
That part of fuel-injection system that measures				used as down payment. The down payment helps
airflow.				protect the bank, credit union or finance company in
Airfoil				case the borrower defaults on the loan. A typical
Wing-like structure above the body that deflects the				down payment is about 20 percent of the vehicle's
airstream downwards to help keep the wheels firmly				sale price.
on the ground.				Drafting
Air Horn				A phenomena where two cars running nose to tail
Audible warning device operated by compressed air				together can move faster than an individual vehicle.
or exhaust gas. Also the air inlet to a carburettor.				Drive Axle
Air Induction				Connects the transaxle to the front wheels on a
Method of injecting additional air into the combustion				front-wheel drive vehicle.
chamber via a bypass, thus creating additional				Drive Range (EV)
turbulence.				The distance an electric vehicle can drive without
Air Injection				re-charging its batteries.
Device in which fresh air is injected at low-pressure				Drive Shaft
into the exhaust system to assist in burning exhaust				A rotating metal shaft that transfers power from the
gases more completely.				transmission differential gear assembly to the rear
Air Inlet Valve				wheels on a rear-wheel drive vehicle.
Movable flap in a plenum chamber to vary the ratio of				Drive Wheels
fresh air and recirculated air entering the ventilation				The wheels, front, rear, or both, to which the engine
system.				transmits its power.
Airpump				Drivetrain
Device for inflating tyres or providing compressed air.				Vehicle components which act together to move the
Also one that injects air into the exhaust manifold to				vehicle forward or backward. On a rear-drive vehicle, it
help complete the combustion of exhaust gases.				is the combination of the engine, transmission,
Air Resistance				differential and drive shaft. On a front-drive vehicle, it
Wind drag.				consists of the engine, transaxle and drive axles.
Air Scoop				Drum Brakes
Shaped section of the body to channel air to a				A braking system that uses a metal drum. Brake
particular component.				shoes press against the drum to slow or stop the car.
Air Shock Absorber				Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC)
One using compressed air as a damping medium.				Engine with two camshafts on top of the cylinder
Air Spoiler				head, one to open and close intake valves, the other to
Curved lip that deflects the airstream, increasing				open and close exhaust valves. See also Overhead
downward pressure on the car's rear.				Cam and Overhead Valve.
Air Spring				Early Termination
One that relies on compressed air to absorb the				Ending the lease before the contracted time. May be
energy of an impact.				involuntary, due to theft or accident.
Air Switching Valve				Early Termination Charge
Device within an air-fuel mixing system to prevent the				Additional fee charged when a lease is ended before
catalyst temperature rising excessively.				the agreed-upon term. Often represents a substantial
Air-To-Air Intercooler				penalty.
One that uses air as the cooling medium, instead of				Earned Premium
water.				The portion of the premium which is already paid from
Air valve				an expired policy term.
One-way valve that admits air to a pneumatic tyre.				Electric Vehicles (EV)
Also a carburettor valve that allows a controlled				Vehicles powered by electricity, generally using a
quantity of additional air into the fuel mixture.				rechargeable battery.
Airbag Lockout Switch				Electronic Control Module (ECM)
A device allowing the driver to turn off the front				The computer that controls the engine's fuel and
passenger airbag.				emissions systems. Among the devices it controls is
Airbag				the idle air control, or IAC, which regulates the idle
Safety device using an inflatable cushion that inflates				speed in fuel-injected engines. Also called the
and deflates within a fraction of a second to protect a				Electronic Control Unit (ECU).
vehicle occupant.				Electronic Fuel Injection System
Alignment				Injects fuel into the engine's cylinders with electronic
The proper adjustment of the car's suspension.				control to time and meter the fuel flow.
Correct setting of one or more adjustable				Electronic Valve Timing (EVT)
components. Generally refers to the wheel alignment.				System in which a computer controls the timing of the
Aligning Torque				opening and closing of cylinder valves.
Force that tends to make a tyre return to the				End of Lease Payment
straight-ahead position after being angled.				In an open-end lease, the amount the lessee pays at
Allen Key				the end of the lease; the difference between the
One made from hexagonal section steel to tighten or				vehicle's residual value, which was used to calculate
loosen bolts or set screws, made with a corresponding				lease payments, and the actual market value.
socket in their heads.				Engine Displacement
All-Indirect Gearbox				The total of the volume used for combustion inside the
Transmission in which all ratios between the input and				cylinders of an engine. Measured in liters on newer
output shafts are transmitted by gears.				models, or in cubic inches on older models.
All-Wheel Drive				Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Vehicle transmission system in which four or more				The federal agency that regulates air quality and sets
wheels are constantly under power.				automotive fuel-economy and emissions standards.
Alloy Wheel				Equity
Road wheel made from light metal.				The value left in a used vehicle after subtracting the
All-Terrain Vehicle				outstanding loan balance from its market value. For
One designed for use on land, swamps and water.				example, if $4,000 is still owed on a car worth $8,000
All-Weather Tyre				on the open market, then it has an equity of $4,000.
One with treads providing grip in mud, rain and slush.				Escrow
All-Risks Policy				A process in which a neutral third party takes care of
A policy covering all losses except those specifically				the transfer of ownership of the vehicle.
excluded in the contract.				Evaporative Emissions
All-Season Tyres				Evaporated fuel from the carburetor or fuel system
Tyres designed to provide good traction in winter				which mixes with the surrounding outside air.
snow and slush without wearing too quickly on dry				Evaporator Core
roads.				Part of the climate-control system that contains a liquid
All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)				refrigerant which turns to gas to absorb heat from the
A small, lightweight vehicle designed for recreational				air.
off-highway use.				Excess Mileage
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)				Any mileage over the amount agreed upon within the
A vehicle drivetrain with all wheels powered by the				lease. Generally incurs a per-mileage charge at the end
engine at all times. Sometimes called full-time				of the lease. Experts recommend a yearly mileage
four-wheel drive.				limit, or Mileage Cap, that exceeds normal driving
Alloy Wheels				needs.
Any non-steel road wheel. Mostly aluminum, but				Excess Mileage Charge
technically a mixture of two or more metals.				Additional charge at the end of the lease for every
Alternative Fuels				mile on the odometer over the limit stated in the lease.
May be alcohol-based, such as ethanol or methanol;				A typical charge is 15 cents per mile, but the fees can
compressed natural gas; or combinations of gasoline				be from 10 cents to 25 cents a mile. It costs less to
and alcohol.				figure your expected mileage use (or mileage
Alternator				allowance) realistically and prepay than to pay for
Produces alternating current and recharges the				excess mileage at lease end.
battery. Engine-driven generator that supplies current				Excess Wear and Tear
and charges the battery.				Visible damage to a vehicle that is above and beyond
Altimeter				what is considered normal wear and tear. Usually
Gauge showing the height above sea level.				specified in the lease contract. Will incur additional cost
AM/FM/MPX Radio				at lease-end. If possible, negotiate as specifically as
Unit combining an am radio and fm radio with a				you can in the lease what the lessor will consider
multiplex filter.				excess wear and tear.
Ammeter				Exclusion
Gauge showing the flow of electric current.				Any cause, condition, or property which are not
Ampere				covered by the policy.
Unit of measurement for the flow of current.				Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)
Amphometer				Part of the emissions system, it recirculates exhaust
Speed-detecting device using tubes across a road at				gases into the intake manifold, cooling the combustion
a measured distance apart.				chamber.
Amp-hour capacity				Exhaust Manifold
The rating of a storage battery.				The passages that route the exhaust gases towards
Amortization				the muffler and exhaust system.
The gradual reduction of a debt by periodic payments				Extended Coverage
large enough to meet current interest payments and				A policy that covers any extras that are not in the
repay the principal.				original policy.
Amount Financed				Factory Equipment
The portion of the purchase price that is actually				The standard and options that make up the equipment
financed. In addition to the cost of the car, it can include				of a used vehicle.
the costs of an extended warranty, credit life				Fan Belt
insurance, and other items rolled into the payments.				Transmits power from a crankshaft-driven pulley to an
AMS				engine fan and other accessories.
Atlanta Motor Speedway.				FIA
Anaerobic Compound				Federation Internationale De L'Automobile
Chemical compound (such as loctite) that sets hard in				Fifth Wheel
the absence of air.				Provides a flexible connection between the tractor and
Aneroid tube				the trailer.
Thermo-mechanical, temperature/pressure device to				Final Drive Ratio
regulate fuel entering a fuel-injection system.				The reduction ratio of the transmission gear set
Ancap Test				furthest from the engine. In other words, the ratio of
Australian new car assessment program, being a				the number of rotations of the drive shaft for one
comparative vehicle safety check to provide				rotation of a wheel. In general, a low final drive ratio
comparative crash protection standards, supervised by				results in better fuel efficiency, and higher final drive
organisations such as the nrma.				ratio results in better performance.
Anechoic Chamber				Firewall
Echo-free chamber used in noise-suppression work.				The metal panel that separates the engine
Angle of Approach/Departure				compartment from the passenger compartment. It also
Greatest grade angle that a vehicle can approach or				often includes sound and heat insulation.
run off without grounding the chassis or body ahead				First Party Coverage
of the front wheels or behind the rear wheels.				The compensation for loss or damage from your
Angular Velocity				insurance company rather than the person involved in
Speed of a rotating body expressed as the angle (in				the accident.
degrees or radians) through which a datum point				Flat Cancellation
passes in one second.				A cancellation of a policy free of any charge or fee.
Annealing				Flat Rate
Process of heating and slowly cooling to soften a				A rate that is not subject to any additions or
metal object and reducing internal stresses.				adjustments.
Annular Gear				Formula 1
Toothed wheel with teeth on the inner surface, as in				The most popular of all the forms of auto racing,
an epicyclic gear.				Formula 1 tends to be dominated by European drivers.
Anode				The parallels to Indy Car racing have lead to the
Positive pole in an electric circuit.				defections of drivers like Nigel Mansell, who seek the
Anodizing				greater spoils of victory here in the US.
Method of chemically treating the surface of an				Fortuitous Event
aluminium alloy component to provide a decorative and				An unforeseen accident.
or corrosion-resistant finish.				Four on the Floor
Anti-Burst Lock				(Slang) A four-speed manual transmission.
Door lock that remains closed during a collision.				Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Anti-dive				A transfer case distributes power to both axles in
Characteristic of a suspension system in which special				order to drive all four wheels.
geometry helps reduce the tendency of the nose to				Four-Wheel Steering
dip under braking.				Vehicle on which all four wheels turn when the driver
Antifreeze				turns the steering wheel. The rear wheels turn at a
Additive to lower the temperature at which the				smaller angle than the front wheels. This system
radiator coolant freezes.				appeared on a few sports models in the 1980s but
Anti-Foam Agent				was never very popular in North America.
Additive that reduces the tendency of a lubricant to				Front-Wheel Drive
foam.				Engine power is transmitted to the front wheels, which
Anti-Knock Compound				are the drive wheels. Also front-drive.
Additive to help reduce engine knocking.				Fuel Economy
Anti-Knock Rating				The number of miles a vehicle gets per gallon.
Resistance of a fuel mixture to knocking when burned				Fuel Injector
in the combustion chamber. It is known as octane				Taking the place of carburetors in the 1980s, the fuel
rating for petrol and cetane rating for diesel fuel.				injector is an electrically controlled valve that delivers a
Anti-Lift Geometry				precise amount of pressurized fuel into each
Suspension system arranged to reduce the tendency				combustion chamber.
of a car's rear to rise during braking.				Fuel Pump
Anti-Lock Braking System				A mechanical or electrical pump that pressurizes the
One incorporating electronic or other means of				fuel system to move gas from the fuel tank to the
preventing any wheel from ceasing to rotate (and				engine.
sliding) under heavy braking.				Full-Size
Anti-Roll Bar				A car that is usually four doors and seats anywhere
U-shaped device with one end connected to each end				from two to seven people.
of the suspension. It twists when one wheel is higher				Funny Car
than the other, acting as a torsion spring, thus helping to				This variation of a dragster hides the usual front engine
combat the body roll action.				chassis under a lightweight body that looks like a street
Anti-Skid Brakes				car.
Same as anti-lock braking.				Fuse
Anti-Squat				An electrical device that breaks the current in a circuit
Characteristic of a suspension system to reduce or				that is overloaded or shorted; it prevents damage to
eliminate the tail's tendency to dip under acceleration.				other components. However, the fuse itself may fail,
Anti-Submarine Ramp				and the most common repair when a fuse blows is to
Safety mechanism to reduce the risk of a passenger				simply replace it without working on any other electrical
sliding under the seat belt during rapid stopping.				component.
Anti-Tramp Bar				GAP Insurance/Protection
Additional method of locating a live axle to prevent				Stands for Guaranteed Auto Protection insurance.
axle tramp during hard acceleration.				Extra insurance for lease customers to cover the
Annual Percentage Rate (APR)				difference in the actual value of the vehicle and
The average compound interest rate over the life of				whatever is owed on the lease. Important if the car is
the loan. A yearly rate of interest that includes fees				stolen or totaled early in the lease term. It also covers
and costs paid to acquire a loan. Lenders are required				the difference in value between what may be paid by
by law to disclose the annual percentage rate, which is				an insurance carrier and what is still owed to the
used to compare various loans; it makes simple				leasing company, including future lease payments.
interest and compound interest loans comparable with				Gas-Charged Shocks
each other.				Also called gas-filled shocks. They are shock
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)				absorbers filled with a low-pressure gas to smooth the
A computer-controlled braking system that senses				vehicle's ride during up-and-down movement.
impending wheel lockup and pulses the brakes many				Gasket
times a second to prevent it. This results in the most				Any thin, soft material installed between two metal
important benefit of ABS: by preventing wheel lockup,				surfaces to create a good seal.
it allows the driver to maintain steering control.				Gasoline Alley
Unfortunately, too few drivers are trained to use ABS				This is the garage area at Indy, where major
properly. When the system engages, it may vibrate				mechanical work is done on the cars.
the brake pedal. A driver who doesn't know how to				General Property Taxes
use ABS may lift his foot from the pedal when he				Any tax on real estate or personal property.
receives this feedback, effectively disengaging the				Good Faith
system				A code of conduct between parties emphasizing
Anti-Roll Bar				honesty during the transaction.
A suspension component. A steel rod or tube that				Grand National Circuit
connects the left and right suspension members to				This was the previous name for Winston Cup Racing
resist roll or swaying of the vehicle. Improves handling.				before R.J. Reynolds became the sponsor in 1972.
Antifreeze				Grand Prix
A liquid that mixes with the water in a cooling system				A type of car race popular in Europe. Also, a French
of a vehicle's engine. Antifreeze keeps the water from				term meaning great prize.
freezing in the winter or cold climates, or from				Gray Market Vehicle
overheating in the summer or hot climates.				Any car that is imported, but not through authorized
A-Pillar				retailers. May have insufficent emissions standards.
Vertical roof support between the windshield and front				Greenhouse
edge of the front side window. Forward pillar to which				Used in automotive circles to describe all of the
the windscreen is attached, running from the body and				windows enclosing the passenger compartment.
supporting the roof.				Grille
Application				An opening in the front of the vehicle that allows air to
An initial statement of personal and financial information				reach the radiator.
which is required to approve your loan.				Gross Capitalized Cost
Applique				See Capitalized Cost.
Decorative metal or plastic panel.				Gross Income
Appraisal				The income of the borrower before taxes or
An opinion of the market value of an asset as of a				expenses are deducted; used to qualify for a loan or a
specific date.				lease.
Apron				Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
Panel under the radiator grille to reduce air resistance				The curb weight of the vehicle plus the maximum load
and hide the front suspension components.				it is designed to carry.
Aquaplaning				Handling
Phenomenon in which a film of water becomes				The ease of vehicle steering and maneuverability
trapped between a tyre tread and road surface,				around turns, up hills, etc.
causing the tyre to lock-up and slide instead of				Hatchback
revolving.				A passenger car with a full-height rear door that
ARCA				includes a rear window. Usually has a rear folding seat.
Automobile Racing Club of America, the little brother to				Hazard
the Winston Cup racing (ARCA is two levels below).				A situation that may increase the probability of a loss
ARCA sports similar cars with shorter races and small				or damage.
pay-outs.				Head Room
Armature				The distance from the top of an occupant's head to
Centre core of an electric component such as a				the headliner.
starter motor or generator.				Headliner
Armco				The interior covering of the roof. Headliners often
Trade name for a metal guardrail used on highways				contain consoles with slots for garage-door openers
and at race circuits to prevent vehicles leaving the				and other devices, as well as dome lights and wiring
road when control is lost.				for electrical and electronic components attached to
ASC				the headliner. The covering usually includes a
Anti skid control device.				sound-absorbing material.
ASCD				Highway Loss Data Institute
Automatic speed control device, also known as cruise				Sister organization to the Insurance Institute for
control.				Highway Safety. Funded by insurance companies.
Aspect Ratio				Hip Room
The ratio between the width and sidewall (or height) of				The allotted room between a passenger's hips and
the tyre. Tyres with lower aspect ratios, usually found				any other part of the vehicle.
on sports models, provide superior handling but a				Hold Harmless Agreement
harsher ride. The ratio between the height of a tyre				An agreement where one party assumes
and the width of its carcass, expressed as a				responsibility.
percentage.				Holdback
AS 2077				Manufacturer refund to a dealer after a vehicle is sold.
Testing procedure devised by the Australian				Usually a percentage of the MSRP.
Standards Association to measure fuel consumption.				Home Equity Loan
Aspirated engine				A loan secured by the equity in your home. Interest
One that draws in fuel mixture at normal atmospheric				paid is usually tax-deductible. Increasingly, consumers
pressure, as distinct from turbocharged or				are using home-equity loans instead of consumer loans
supercharged designs.				to purchase items, such as cars, for which
Assigned Risk Plan				conventional-loan interest is not tax-deductible.
A risk that must be insured by state law or otherwise.				Horsepower (hp, bhp)
Asymmetric carcass				Abbreviated as hp, as in 200-hp engine, or bhp (brake
Tyre in which the carcass is not uniform in				horsepower or net horsepower) to designate power
cross-section.				produced by an engine. In general, the higher the
Asymmetric Headlamps				horsepower, the higher the vehicle's top speed. One
Pair of headlamps in which one light beam shines at a				horsepower is the power needed to lift a 550-pound
different angle to the other. One beam illuminates the				weight one foot in one second.
kerbside, the other the road ahead.				Hot Rod
Asymmetric tread				A normal vehicle that has been altered to improve
Tyre tread with a pattern that is not uniform across				speed and overall appearance or look.
the tyre's width.				I-Beam Suspension
Atkinson Cycle				A suspension beam under the car that supports the
Internal combustion cycle that enables the compression				body in the shape of a capital I.
stroke and expansion strokes to be mechanically				Idle Speed
independent of each other.				The speed of the engine at minimum throttle and the
Atmospheric Engine				engine in neutral.
One in which normal atmospheric pressure draws in				IHRA
the fuel mixture, as distinct from forced induction using				International Hot Rod Association
a supercharger or turbocharger.				IMS
Atomisation				Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the site of the Indy 500.
The breaking of fuel, paint or water into a mist of				This is now an IRL event.
particles.				IMSA
ATV				International Motor Sports Association, founded by
Abbreviation for all-terrain vehicle.				John Bishop in 1969. Sanctions, organizes, markets and
Australian Design Rules				officiates professional auto racing events. Season
Safety and other regulations for new vehicles formed				begins in February at Daytona International Speedway
by a government-sponsored advisory committee.				and ends in October on the streets of New Orleans.
Popularly known as ADRS.				In-Line Engine
Auto-Adjusting Suspension				Cylinders are arranged side by side in a row and in a
Computerised system in which the shock absorber				single bank. Most four-cylinder and some six-cylinder
settings automatically vary to suit the road and driving				engines are in-line engines. In V-6, V-8 or V-12 engines,
conditions.				the cylinders are divided into two banks, each of which
Auto dipping rear view mirror				is angled away from the other in a 'V'.
Light-sensitive mirror that automatically dips to reduce				Incentive
glare when required.				A cash refund or attractive lease or loan rate offered
Autothermic piston				by an automotive manufacturer toward the purchase
Aluminium piston with a steel strut fitted to the				of a new vehicle.
piston-pin boss to limit thermal expansion in a direction				Indemnity
perpendicular to the pin, when hot.				A legal principle specifying that the insured not collect
Auto-Ignition				more than the actual cash value of a loss but be
Engine condition in which the incoming fuel-air mixture is				restored to approximately the same financial position
ignited before the spark plugs fire, usually caused by				that existed before the loss.
hot fragments of carbon.				Independent Suspension
Auto-Ignition Temperature				A suspension design that lets each wheel move up
That at which fuel in contact with air ignites and burns.				and down independently of the others. A vehicle can
Auto Lash Adjuster				have two-wheel or four-wheel independent
Type of hydraulic adjuster for maintaining the correct				suspension; sportier models have four-wheel
clearance between the rocker arm, camshaft and				independent suspension. See also Multi-Link
valve stem.				Suspension, Live Axle.
Auto Lighting Control				Indy 500
System that detects the natural light level and				The big race held in Indianapolis every year on
automatically activates the headlamps and tail lamps.				Memorial Day weekend.
Auto-Manual Transmission				Indy Lights
Dual operation transmission that operates fully				One level below Indy car racing, known for its lighter
automatically but also allows the driver to shift gears				version of actual Indy Cars. This is a stepping stone to
manually.				the Indy 500.
Automatic Clutch				Inflatable Tubular Restraint
One that automatically engages or disengages when				This tube of woven material is stiffer and stays
the driver touches the gearlever knob.				inflated longer than a traditional airbag cushion. The
Automatic Freewheeling Hub				tube protects the occupant's head and torso in a side
Four-wheel drive feature in which the wheel hubs				impact, in part by keeping them away from the point
automatically freewheel in 2wd mode and engage				of intrusion. The uninflated tube is tucked into the edge
when the control lever is moved to 4wd.				of the roof headliner. The tube is attached at the base
Automatic Level Control				of the A-pillar in front of the occupant, and at the
Device that maintains the car at a predetermined				roofline behind the occupant. When it inflates, the tube
height and attitude, regardless of load.				angles across the window to keep the occupants
Automatic Speed Control Device				head from hitting the window glass or metal side pillar.
Same as cruise control.				Because of the longer time the tubular restraint stays
Automatic Transmission				inflated, it is expected to also offer protection in a
One in which the speed of the output shaft varies				rollover.
automatically, to provide the most appropriate gear				Installment Loan
ratio for the road speed and engine load.				A loan repaid in separate smaller amounts, typically
Auto Reflex Mirror				monthly.
Interior rear view mirror that automatically changes				Instrument Panel
reflectivity when activated by strong light from behind.				The instrument panel contains the gauges in front of
Auto Rain-Sensitive Windscreen Wipers				the driver; the controls for the sound system and
Same as rain-sensitive windscreen wipers.				climate-control system; the glove box; vents for the
Autothermic piston				windshield defroster; and the front passenger-side
Alloy piston with a steel insert in the piston-pin boss to				airbag. The instrument panel is often delivered to the
limit thermal expansion of the hot piston.				factory as a complete module with electronic
Autronic eye				components already installed.
Electronic mechanism to automatically select high or				Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
low headlamp beam for the conditions.				Sister organization to the Highway Loss Data Institute.
Auto Mall				Funded by insurance companies.
Several Dealership operations located on one site.				Insurance Verification
Automatic Locking Retractor				Proof that the borrower has auto insurance.
Standard on 1995 and later models, this device is built				Integrated Child Seats
into the shoulder belt retractor and keeps the belt				May also be called integrated child-safety seats or
cinched tightly, which is essential for properly securing				integrated child-restraint seats. Built-in child seats that
a child-safety seat.				fold out of the seatback of a rear seat. Sedans with
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)				this option usually have one in the center of the rear
Automatically controls a vehicle's heating and cooling				seat; minivans may have one or two in the middle
systems, maintaining a temperature preset by the				seating positions. While NHTSA and every other
occupant.				safety organization stress that any child-restraint seat
Automatic Transmission				is better than none, built-in child-restraint seats are
A system that varies the power and torque to a				considered the safest alternative because they are
drivetrain without the use of a foot-operated clutch.				more securely anchored than a seat attached to seat
AWD				belts.
Abbreviation for all-wheel drive.				Integrated Safety Belts
Axial Flow				Also called integrated seat belts. Lap-and-shoulder
Design feature of a turbine or pump that permits fluid				belts that are built into the seat rather than anchored to
or air to pass in a direction parallel to its axis.				the side pillar and the floor pan. A recent innovation, this
Axle				arrangement ensures better belt fit and ensures that
Shaft on which a wheel, bearing or gear is mounted. A				the belt stays with the seat occupant when he or she
rotating metal shaft connected to the wheels on either				moves the seat forward or rearward. Some
side of the vehicle.				manufacturers also call this belt-in-seat.
Axle Casing				Intercooler
Outer casing of the axle that houses the crown wheel,				Device that cools air as it leaves a turbocharger or
pinion and half shafts.				supercharger before the air is blown into the engine air
Axle Location				intake. Cooling makes the air denser and richer in
Manner in which a live axle is positioned and its				oxygen, which lets the engine produce more power.
movements restricted.				Interest
Axle Ratio				The cost of the money borrowed, usually expressed
That between the speed of the propeller shaft and				as a percentage of the whole.
the speed of the shafts driving the wheels.				Interest Rate
Axle Shaft				The periodic charge, expressed as a percentage, for
Drive shaft going from a differential to a road wheel.				the use of credit.
Axle Tramp				Interior Payload
Violent shudder of the driven wheels when				The amount of space or material that can be carried
accelerating.				inside the vehicle.
Axle Wind-Up				Invoice Price
Same as axle tramp.				The initial charge to the dealer from the manufacturer,
B-pillar				including freight and delivery charges.
Vertical metal roof support between front and rear				IRL
side windows on the side of the vehicle.				Indy Racing League founded by Tony George in 1995
Balance Due				in response to re-occurring feuds and disputes with
The amount currently due, minus previous payments,				CART.
plus cash advances and purchases.				IROC
Bank Rate				International Race Of Champions
The amount the bank charges the consumer,				Jalopy
expressed as a percentage.				(Slang) An old, dilapidated automobile.
Base-Coat				Joint Tenancy
A coat of paint acting as the base for other layers to				Ownership that is shared by two or more persons.
be applied.				Keyless Entry
Base Price				A system for locking and unlocking doors of a vehicle
The price of a vehicle without options but including				with a central locking system without using the key.
standard equipment, factory warranty, and freight or				Usually, the user controls the locks by pressing a
destination charge. This price is printed on the				button on a remote key-fob transmitter. Some vehicles
Monroney sticker.				have electronic combination locks on the doors near
Basic Rate				the handle.
The rate from which discounts or additions are				Kilometers Per Hour (KPH)
calculated.				Multiply by 0.621 to convert to miles per hour.
Beater				Kit Car
(Slang) A car for everyday transportation. Usually not				A vehicle that is designed for assembly by the private
in perfect condition.				hobbyist.
Beltline				Lap-and-Shoulder Belt
A horizontal line, usually imaginary but sometimes				A safety belt that secures the driver and/or
indicated by a feature in the body design, just below				passenger in the seat with a continuous web of
the window openings on a car or truck body.				material which fits across the lap and crosses the
Bench Seats				upper body. It keeps the occupant from jerking
Full-length seat that can usually seat two or three				forward in the event of a crash. Also called three-way
people.				belt, three-point belt, or three-point safety harness.
Blanket Insurance				Lapse
A property-liability insurance that covers more than				The termination of a policy due to failure to pay the
one piece of property.				premium.
Bodily Injury Liability				Leaf Spring
Any liability that may result from the injury or death of				Suspension spring made up of several thin, curved,
another person.				hardened-steel or composite-material plates attached
Body Style				at the ends to the vehicle underbody. The curved
The type of exterior shell or shape to a vehicle (sedan,				shape of the plates allows them to flex and absorb
coupe, truck, etc.).				bumps.
Booster Seat				Lean or Rich Fuel Mixture
This child-safety seat is designed for children who are				The fuel mixture is lean when it has too much air, and
too large for a baby seat, but not big enough to sit				rich when it has too much fuel. These terms can also
safely in the vehicle's seats.				be used to refer to adjustments the electronic control
Bore				module makes to the fuel mixture in response to
Diameter of an individual engine cylinder.				various driving conditions, particularly on engines with
Borg Warner Trophy				variable-valve technology.
Victory in the Indianapolis 500 secures this, the most				Lease
coveted trophy in Indy Car racing.				A contract between lessor and lessee for a specified
Boxer Engine				time period and at a specified payment. The title to the
The cylinders are opposite (180 degrees apart) from				car remains in the name of the lessor as owner of the
each other. Also called flat engines, these are relatively				asset.
flat compared to In-line or V engines.				Lease-End Residual Value
Brake Booster				Used to estimate the value of the vehicle at the end
Device or system that helps reduce the force the				of the lease.
driver must exert against the brake pedal. May be				Lease Rate
hydraulic or electric.				The monthly finance cost of a lease, similar to the
Brake Caliper				interest rate on a conventional loan. Determined by the
A hydraulic (liquid-pressured) piston assembly that				money factor.
holds disc-brake pads.				Lease Term
Brake Drum				The number of months for which a vehicle is leased.
The large circular surface that the brake shoe presses				Leg Room
against to stop the vehicle.				With the front seat adjusted all the way back, the
Brake Pad				distance from the accelerator pedal's heel point to the
Used in a disc system, it is a replaceable piece of				back of the front seat cushion.
backing plate and additional friction lining.				Lemon
Brake Pull				(Slang) A vehicle, usually new, that has a large number
Occurs when the vehicle pulls suddenly to the left or				of defects.
right as the brake pedal is depressed. It indicates the				Lessee
brakes may be out of adjustment.				The person who leases a vehicle. The party paying
Brake Rotor				for the use of the vehicle (consumer).
Shiny metal disk that brake pads squeeze to stop the				Lessor
vehicle; hence the name disc brakes.				The person or institution who owns and leases the
Brake Shoe				vehicle to the lessee. The party funding the lease of
A curved, replaceable piece of friction material used				the vehicle placed in lease service. It can be the dealer,
on drum brakes. The wheel cylinder pushes the brake				a leasing company, or a financial institution such as a
shoes against the brake drum.				bank or credit union.
Broker				Liability
A person who represents the insured to solicit or				Any legally enforceable obligation.
negotiate for contracts. A broker may deal with many				Liability Coverage
agents or companies on behalf of his or her client.				A type of insurance that pays or renders service on
Bucket Seats				behalf of the insured for any loss or damage due to
Individual driver or passenger seats.				his or her negligence.
Bumper-to-bumper				Liability Limits
A type of warranty that covers the entyre vehicle for				The limit of insurance the company will pay for on a
a limited amount of time.				particular policy.
Busch Series				Lien
Just one level below Winston Cup, some drivers race				A legally documented claim against a vehicle by
at both this and Winston Cup level. These races, often				another party to which the vehicle has been offered
run the day before a Winston Cup race, have gained				as security for repayment of a loan or other debt. A
popularity and are now all televised live, nationally.				lien against the title may make it impossible to sell the
C-pillar				vehicle and transfer the title until the lien is cleared.
The vertical metal roof support between the side edge				Lienholder
of the rear windshield (also called the backlight) and the				An individual or company with a financial interest in an
rear edge of the rear window.				insured's vehicle.
CAM				Lift Gate
The Championship Association of Mechanics,				The rear opening on a hatchback.
established in 1989, is a non-profit organization that				Liftover
serves the needs of Indy Car crew members. It also				The distance a person must lift an object off the
acts to publicize their efforts.				ground to put it in a trunk or cargo bay.
Camber				Light-Duty
Inward or outward tilt of the wheels and tyres. This				Adjective that refers to passenger trucks, as opposed
adjustment affects how the vehicle holds the road and				to medium-duty or heavy-duty commercial trucks.
handles cornering.				Limited-Slip Differential
Camshaft				A device that helps prevent the drive wheels from
A machined shaft with lobes that open and close				skidding or losing traction by diverting power from the
engine-cylinder intake and exhaust valves. As the				slipping wheel to the opposite wheel on the same axle.
shaft rotates, the lobes push against valve springs to				Line of Credit
open the valves and rotate away to close them.				An approved loan amount that has not yet been used.
Driven by the crankshaft.				Litre
Capitalized Cost				Engine-displacement measurement, as in 2.0-litre
In a lease transaction, the price at which a financial				engine.
institution buys a vehicle from a dealer. Equivalent to				Live Axle
the cash purchase price if the consumer were buying				A solid axle allowing movement of the wheel on one
the vehicle outright, it includes taxes and any other				end to affect the opposite wheel. Found on older
additional charges. Also called Capital Cost.				rear-drive cars and tucks. Also called a rigid axle.
Capitalized Cost Reduction				Loan to Value Ratio (LTV)
In a lease transaction, an up-front payment made at				The ratio of the sales price or appraised value to the
the start of the lease. The lessee can use cash, a				loan amount. Obtained by divided price or value into
rebate or a trade-in. Similar but not equal to a down				loan amount. A vehicle with a $10,000 price and an
payment. The lessee must pay sales tax on the				$8,000 loan would have a loan-to-value ratio of 80
cap-cost reduction amount. Also called Capital-Cost				percent.
Reduction.				Lock or Lock-in
Captive Finance Company				A commitment you obtain from a lender assuring you
A financial institution owned by a manufacturer.				a particular interest rate for a definite time period.
Examples include Chrysler Credit, Ford Motor Credit				Protects you in case interest rates rise during the
and GMAC.				approval process, or between the time you apply for
Carburetor				the loan and actually receive the money you have
Device that mixes air with fuel, delivering the mixture				borrowed.
into the engine's combustion chambers. Only found on				Loss
older vehicles. By the mid-1980s, new emissions				The amount sought through an insurer's claim.
standards led to the use of fuel-injection systems,				M+S Rating
which do not require frequent adjustment.				A tyre rating which indicates a tyre designed to
Carrier				perform well in mud and snow.
The insurance company that provides the insurance.				MacPherson Strut
Casualty Insurance				A MacPherson strut is a unit that includes a damper or
Insurance covering the insured's legal liability for				shock absorber cartridge inside a large, long metal
damage to other person's property or injuries to them.				spring. MacPherson struts are used over the front
Other forms of insurance, such as burglary, robbery				wheels of most front-drive cars. Replacement of
and worker's compensation, belong in this category.				MacPherson strut cartridges requires a spring
Catalytic Converter				compressor.
An emissions-control device that removes unburned				Make
fuel from the exhaust by burning it.				The manufacturer of the vehicle (BMW, Chrysler,
Catastrophe Hazard				Honda).
The risk of loss by a peril to which a large number of				Malicious Mischief
insured are subject. Typical examples are hurricanes				The purposeful damaging of another's property.
and tornadoes.				Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor (MAP sensor)
Center High-Mounted Stop Light (CHMSL)				Detects engine load by measuring air pressure or
NHTSA-required brake light mounted higher than the				vacuum in the intake manifold.
taillights, at the top center or bottom center of the rear				Manual Transmission
windshield.				A transmission that varies the power and torque
Center of Gravity				through a foot pedal controlled clutch and a
The point of the car where, if it is suspended, it would				floor-mounted or steering-shaft-mounted gear selection
balance front and rear.				lever.
Center-Locking Differential				Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)
On all-wheel drive vehicles, a third differential in addition				The suggested selling price of the vehicle. Does not
to those for the front and rear axles. This third				include destination charges, optional equipment, or
differential allows the front and rear wheels to turn at				taxes.
different speeds as needed for cornering on dry				Market Value
pavement. On slippery surfaces, it locks all four wheels				The price for which something would currently sell.
together, either automatically or manually depending on				Mass Airflow Sensor
the system, for greater traction.				Device that measures the flow of air entering the
Central Locking System				throttle housing.
On a vehicle with power door locks, the system locks				Master Cylinder
or unlocks all doors at one time.				A piston-type pump that produces pressure in the
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)				brake hydraulic system.
Chemicals formerly used as refrigerants in cooling				Medical Payments Coverage
systems. No longer used because they are considered				Optional insurance that pays for medical and/or funeral
harmful to the Earth's ozone layer.				expenses for the driver and passenger of a vehicle.
Christmas Tree				Mid-Size
The pole of lights that starts a drag race, named for its				A medium size car designed to seat four to six
red and green lights. Most drag races use the pro or				passengers.
heads up start which has three lights in between the				Mileage Allowance
first (red) and last (green) stage.				The lessee's estimate of how much mileage he will
Claim				drive during the lease term. If the lessee
Request for payment of a loss as covered under the				underestimates how much he drives, he will face an
terms of an insurance contract.				excess mileage charge at lease end.
Clause				Mileage Cap
The term used to identify a certain section of the				In a lease transaction, the maximum number of miles
contract or policy.				the vehicle can be driven by the end of the lease.
Clearcoat				There is a per-mile penalty for exceeding this limit.
The transparent top coat of paint on many newer				Mileage Charges
vehicles; designed to create a long-lasting, lustrous				Fees assessed if lessee drives more than the
appearance.				contracted mileage limit.
Climate-Control System				Miles Per Gallon
The non-technical term for the heating, ventilation and				Fuel economy measurement. Abbreviated as mpg.
air-conditioning system (HVAC). Most current vehicles				Generally, a vehicle sticker may offer mpg ratings for
have all three - heating, defrost, and AC.				city driving, highway driving, and combined driving.
Closed-End Lease				Minimum Ground Clearance
In a lease contract, specifies the vehicle's residual value				The distance between the ground and the lowest point
at the end of the lease term. The lessee is not				of the vehicle chassis (usually the axle). A vehicle can
responsible for the value of the vehicle at term end,				drive over any object shorter than its minimum ground
but he may face charges for excess wear-and-tear				clearance.
and excessive mileage. Also called a walk-away lease.				Minimum Premium
Closing Costs				The smallest premium that an insurance company will
Any expenses added onto the lease that are incidental				accept for payment on a policy.
to the purchase. (For example, title fees and appraisal				MIS
fees.)				Michigan International Speedway. Site of the 1996 US
Clutch				500, a CART event.
Device that connects or disconnects the engine from				Model
the transmission.				The style of the vehicle produced by the manufacturer
Clutch Disk				(Ford Mustang, Chrysler LeBaron, Honda Civic).
Presses against the the transmission flywheel to				Money Factor
transfer power from the engine to the transmission.				The money factor is used to determine the lease rate.
CMS				For all intents and purposes it is the lease equivalent of
Charlotte Motor Speedway, home of the World 600				the interest rate on a conventional loan. The money
Winston Cup Race, now known as the Coca-Cola				factor is the current annual percentage rate divided by
600. This is a NASCAR event, also held on Memorial				24. To figure out the equivalent interest rate, multiply
Day.				the money factor by 2400. The money factor usually
Coefficient of Drag (Cd)				has two zeroes after the decimal point before the rest
A measure of the aerodynamic resistance of the				of the number, for example 0.004133, so any
vehicle body. The smaller the number, the more				differences in the figure seem very small, but
wind-cheating the body design and the greater				translated into an interest rate they can make a great
likelihood that passengers won't have to endure wind				difference in the actual finance cost of a lease.

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Used Car Dictionary