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.

Back

Emissions

Emissions are basically chemicals in exhaust gases that are harmful to air quality, mainly carbon monixide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and nitrogen oxides (NO). Healthy engines produce fewer of emissions, and older or "unhealthy" engines produce more. Some engine designs--like rotary engines, for example--produce more of certain emissions than others.



See Also:
Ram Tubes
Idle Speed Screw
Exhaust Gases
Air Filter
Fuel Filter
Rich Fuel Mixture
Pinging
Fuel Pump

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.



Enter Zip: