Auto Service Terms Glossary
Service Terms & Glossary
Taking your car in for service can be especially hectic if you are unfamiliar with the many phrases and terms that technicians use. From basic words to complex ideas, we've put together a glossary of service terms and vocabulary to ensure you understand every aspect of your service experience.
ABS
Short for "Anti-lock Braking System;" computer-controlled system that prevents brakes from locking up and causing skidding during hard braking
Air Filter
Removes particles from air before it reaches the engine; should be replaced regularly to ensure proper combustion and efficiency
Antifreeze/Coolant
Used to cool the engine; chemical-based liquid that does not freeze in cold weather, preventing cracking of the engine block in winter
AWD
"All-Wheel Drive;" different from four-wheel drive; computer-controlled system that monitors and distributes power to each wheel
Brake Fluid
Hydraulic fluid used to activate the brakes
Brake Pads
High-friction material that rubs together to stop the car
Brake Rotors
Device that pads rub on to activate the brakes
Carburetor
Device that mixes air and fuel together (rarely found in modern cars)
Catalytic Converter
Used to reduce harmful emissions; made from rare metals
Clutch
Mechanism to disengage the engine from the transmission
E85
Gas mixed with denatured ethanol (up to 85 percent)
4WD
"Four-Wheel Drive;" system that sends power to all four wheels at the same time
Fuel Filter
Replaceable canister that filters fuel to remove harmful particles
HVAC
"Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning"
Oil Filter
Canister used to filter particles from oil; should be replaced at the same time as the oil
Oxygen (O2) Sensor
Emissions-control device that monitors rate of fuel combustion to improve efficiency
Pillar
Structure that supports the roof
Power Steering
Electric/hydraulic system that assists the driver as they steer
Powertrain
Engine, transmission, and other components involved in powering the vehicle; often includes axles
Radiator
System of small pipes used to cool the coolant-antifreeze; usually located near the fan
Suspension
System of springs and shock absorbers used to cushion the vehicle
Timing Belt
Central belt used for distributing power to some engine components, including overhead camshafts and sometimes the cooling system
U-Joint
"Universal Joint;" used to connect two U-shaped yokes under the car
VIN
Vehicle Identification Number is a unique number associated with your specific car
Water Pump
Circulates coolant-antifreeze through the car
Bill Seidle's Nissan
10500 NW 12th Street, Doral, FL 33172
Contact UsHours
| Monday | 9:00AM - 9:00PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00AM - 9:00PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00AM - 9:00PM |
| Thursday | 9:00AM - 9:00PM |
| Friday | 9:00AM - 9:00PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 8:00PM |
| Sunday | 11:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Monday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| you break it we fix it | |
| Monday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |