Glossary of Auto Terms

DriverSide's Car Dictionary has the most comprehensive definitions of automotive terms. This auto glossary can help you decipher what your mechanic is fixing and what the purpose or function of the particular auto part or accessory is for. We have taken the mystery out of automotive service jargon, so that you don't have to.

Ignition Timing

The piston moves up and down in the cylinder (unless you've got a flat "boxer" engine, in which case it moves horizontally) to compress the air/fuel mixture, which is then sparked by the--you guessed it, spark plug. The timing of that spark is critical; too soon or too late, and things stop working correctly, and in some cases bending and breaking.

Diagnose Your Car's Problem

Engine won't start? Weird sound? Strange smoke? Got something going on with your car but not sure what it is? The easy to use DriverSide Diagnostic Tool is here to help you figure it out.

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