Learn to Speak Car
Confused by car jargon? Browse our dictionary of automotive terms, features, and specifications — all explained in plain English.
ABD – Automatic Brake Differential
An Automatic Brake Differential (ABD) system works by using the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to applying braking power to any individual wheel that may be slipping during acceleration in order to maintain grip on the road.
ABL – Active Bending Lights
Active Bending Lights (ABL) is Volvo’s version of an Advanced Front-Lighting System (AFS).
ABS – Anti-Lock Braking System
An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) prevents the wheels of a car from locking up when the driver applies heavy pressure to the brake pedal, usually during an emergency braking situation.
ACC – Adaptive Cruise Control
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC; sometimes also called autonomous cruise control) is an evolution of standard cruise control where the car is able to adjust its speed of travel based on its surrounding environment – often based on what the car in front is doing. If the car in front of you slows down then your car will automatically slow down as well, then speed up again when the car in front does so. This makes the system extremely useful for motorway driving and busier periods such as rush hour.
AEB – Autonomous Emergency Braking
An Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system is one that detects that the vehicle is about to crash into an object ahead and automatically applies the brakes in an attempt to avoid the collision.
AFS – Adaptive Front-lighting System
An Advanced or Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) automatically adjusts the direction of the headlight beam in different conditions – generally to follow curves in the road.
Alloy Wheels
Alloys are mixtures of metals or other elements. Alloy wheels in the automotive industry are generally made from an alloy of aluminium or magnesium (which forms the basis of the common term “mags”). Producing wheels using this method gives designers a huge amount of choice as to how the wheel will look, as well as creating a wheel that is as strong as steel at a much lighter weight.
Android Auto
Android Auto is a smart and intuitive system designed to enhance your driving experience by seamlessly integrating your Android smartphone with your car's infotainment system.
Apple CarPlay
Apple CarPlay is a smart and intuitive system that allows you to seamlessly integrate your iPhone with your car's infotainment system, providing convenient access to your favorite apps, music, navigation, and more.
ASL – Automatic Sound Leveliser
An Automatic Sound Leveliser (ASL) automatically adjusts the volume of your car soundsystem to account for changing noise levels inside the car.
ASR – Anti-Slip Regulation
Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR; also referred to by the German name Antriebsschlupfregelung) is another name for a Traction Control System (TCS).
Attention Assist / Driver Alert / Fatigue Detection Systems
These systems are fairly new so there is no common, agreed upon term to describe them yet, but what all of these systems aim to do is monitor and correct driver fatigue. Different manufacturers tackle the problem in different ways – some use the existing lane departure assist system to analyse and detect if the car’s movements might be as a result of the driver getting tired, while some systems have a camera that focuses on the driver and analyses facial movements such as drooping eyelids or relaxing muscles.
Automatic Parking Assistance
Automatic parking assistance does exactly what it sounds like it should – assists you in parking your car automatically. Most systems allow you simply to approach a car park space then press a button to have the car manoeuvre in the space by itself. Most systems work with parallel parking, angle parking, and side-by-side parking. The car uses a range of sensors to ensure it doesn’t collide with other cars or objects.
Automatic Tailgate / Hands-Free Liftgate/Boot
The rear door of a car can be called many things, depending on where you’re from – trunk lid, boot lid, tailgate, liftgate…they all refer to the door to access the luggage compartment at the rear of the car. An automatic (or hands-free) version of this door allows you to open it without any physical interaction with the car.
Autonomous Cars
An autonomous car (also called a self-driving car) is a car that is able to operate with little or no human input. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) classifies autonomous cars from level 0 to level 5.
AWD/4WD – All Wheel Drive / Four Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive (AWD; or Four Wheel Drive (4WD)) refers to a setup where the power from the engine is distributed to rotate all four wheels. This differs from front- and rear-wheel drive cars where the power is sent to either the front or rear wheels only.
BDW – Brake Disk Wiping
A Brake Disc Wiping (BDW) system is a safety feature that most UAE drivers will never need to make use of – it wipes off the film of water than can build up on brake discs when driving in the rain or on wet roads.
Blind Spot Warning
Blind spot warning systems work by displaying a visual alert to the driver to warn them that there is another vehicle in their blind spot. This warning is normally displayed on either the wing mirror, the dashboard, or on the windscreen if the car is fitted with a head-up display.
Boot Capacity (Luggae Space)
Boot capacity, also known as trunk space (in North America), refers to the amount of storage space available in the rear compartment of a vehicle.
BOS – Brake Override System
A Brake Override System (BOS) is a system that detects when the driver is pressing both the brake and the accelerator at the same time, and is able to automatically slow the car down (overriding the fact that the accelerator is being pressed). It works on the theory that pressing both the brake and accelerator at the same time is not normal behaviour and that the probable intention of the driver is to slow the car down.
Boxer Engine
In a common petrol engine, the pistons inside the engine move up and down vertically, or on a slight angle in the case of a “V” engine. In a boxer engine the pistons lie flat and move up and down horizontally instead (towards either side of the car).
CBC – Cornering Brake Control
Cornering Brake Control (CBC) works in a similar way to Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) by distributing the brake force to different wheels depending on where it’s needed to keep the car stable. Some manufacturers consider this part of an Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system.
Climate Control / Automatic Air Conditioning
Automatic air conditioning (often referred to as climate control) is a system where the driver only needs to set the temperature that they want the interior of the car to be, and the air conditioning will automatically adjust itself to reach the desired temperature and maintain it. The system will control the speed of the fan but the driver is able to adjust this if necessary, along with the location from which the air is distributed.
Cooled Seats
Cooled seats are a premium feature found in many modern vehicles, offering enhanced comfort and relaxation during hot weather.
Cruise Control
Cruise control allows you to set the car to travel at a specific speed, without the need for you to continue to press the accelerator. You simply accelerate up to the speed that you want to continue cruising at then set the cruise control at that speed and the car will automatically continue driving at that speed. Most cars then allow you to alter the speed up or down a little at the touch of a button, so that you don’t need to reset your speed for small changes. The set speed can be cancelled either by pressing a button to cancel it, or by putting even a small amount of pressure on the brakes. Then, when you want to continuing cruising at the speed you had previously set, you just need to select the ‘Res’ option (which stands for Resume) and the car will automatically accelerate back up to the speed you set.
CTA - Cross Traffic Alert
Cross Traffic Alert (sometimes called Rear Cross Traffic Alert) is a system that warns you if a car is approaching from the side when you are backing out of a car park space.
CVT – Continuously Variable Transmission
A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a type of automatic transmission that can seamlessly change through an unlimited number of gears.
CWS – Crash Warning System
A Crash Warning System (CWS; sometimes known as a collision warning system, collision avoidance system, or collision mitigating system) is a system that alerts the driver of an imminent crash with the vehicle in front, and often will apply the brakes automatically if the driver does not take action fast enough. This second feature is referred to as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).
Design Language
The term “design language” refers to the theme that the car designers followed when designing a particular car, or range of cars.
Drivetrain
The drivetrain is the set of components that deliver power from the engine (or electric motors) to the wheels, but does not include the engine itself.
DRL – Daytime Running Lights
Daytime running lights are lights mounted at the front of a vehicle for the purpose of ensuring that the car is visible to other road users. Daytime running lights are automatically switched on when the car is put into drive mode during daylight hours when the headlights are not switched on. On some cars the daytime running lights are deactivated when the headlights are switched on.
DSTC – Dynamic Stability Traction Control
Dynamic Stability Traction Control (DSTC) is simply a combination of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and a Traction Control System (TCS).
EBA – Emergency Brake Assist
Emergency Brake Assist (EBA; sometimes just called brake assist) systems work on the theory that most motorists don’t press the brake pedal hard enough in an emergency braking situation. Due to the fact that few drivers ever need to use the full force of their brakes most people are unprepared for just how hard they need to apply the brakes in these situations. A lot of drivers can also be unnerved by the “bumping” sensation that is felt when the [ABS system](/learn-to-speak-car/abs-anti-lock-braking-system/) kicks in which can cause them to release pressure on the brake pedal at the wrong time.
EBC – Engine Braking Control
Engine Braking Control (EBC) is another name for an Engine Drag Torque Control (EDTC) system.
EBD – Electronic Brake-Force Distribution
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD; also known as Elektronischer Bremskraftverteiler (EBV) in German) is a system that works alongside ABS to to ensure that the correct brake pressure is applied to each wheel in every situation. The EBD system constantly monitors variables such as the road surface, pressure on the brake pedal, vehicle weight, and more
EDL – Electronic Differential Lock
An Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) is a system which works alongside a stability control and/or traction control system to alter the amount of torque (turning power) that is distributed to the wheels during turning to help the car keep a grip on the road.
EDTC – Engine Drag Torque Control
Engine Drag Torque Control (EDTC) is a system that applies additional torque (turning power) to wheels when needed to keep them rotating in order to prevent the car from sliding. When a driver changes down a gear quickly, or takes their foot off the accelerator suddenly, the air pressure inside the engine changes which causes something called “engine braking” which slows the car down.
Electronic Boost Controller
An electronic boost controller is an aftermarket device which car tuners attach to the car in order to control the amount of boost pressure provided by a turbo or supercharger.
EPB – Electronic Park Brake
An Electronic Park Brake (EPB) replaces the traditional manual handbrake lever with a button or switch.
ESC – Electronic Stability Control
An Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system attempts to prevent a vehicle from spinning or sliding by applying the brakes to the necessary wheels to try and correct an inadvertent loss of traction.
Front Parking Sensors
Front parking sensors use ultrasonic or radar technology to detect obstacles, such as other vehicles, walls, or posts, in close proximity to the front of the car. They provide audible or visual alerts to warn the driver of the distance between the vehicle and the obstacle, helping to prevent collisions during parking maneuvers.
FWD – Front-Wheel Drive
A Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) car is one where the power from the engine is distributed only to the front wheels.
HHC – Hill Hold Control
Hill Hold Control (HHC) is a system that holds the car stationary when facing up a hill – such as a highway ramp.
HTRAC – Hyundai TRACtion
Hyundai TRACtion (HTRAC) is a traction system developed by Hyundai which splits the power from the engine between the front and rear wheels depending on where it is needed for any given driving situation.
HUD – Head-Up Display
A head-up display is named for the fact that it allows a driver to keep their head up and focused on the road while simultaneously being able to view vehicle information.
hybrid_fuel_type
The common definition of a hybrid car is one that uses a traditional petrol engine combined with an electric motor (or set of electric motors) to provide power for the car.
IDIS – Intelligent Driver Information System
The Intelligent Driver Information System (IDIS) is a Volvo system that assists the driver by processing information in the car.
Infotainment
Infotainment is a term used to describe the information and entertainment system inside a car.
ISOFIX
ISOFIX refers to the international standard for the attachment points for child safety seats in cars.
Lane Departure Assist
Lane departure assist can refer to one of two systems – either a system that warns you when you are about to exit your lane unexpectedly, or a system that combines the warning feature with autonomous steering to actively keep you inside your lane.
Leather Seats
Comfort: Leather seats are known for their softness and suppleness, providing a comfortable seating experience, especially during long drives. They can also adjust to your body temperature, making them feel cozy in cooler weather and cooler in warmer weather.
MPV – Multi-Purpose Vehicle
MPVs are designed to carry up to around seven people in comfort and safety. They are normally smaller than a van, but larger than the average sedan or station wagon/estate, with a high roof which makes it easy to take loads in and out of the car while giving all passengers plenty of space inside.
MSR – Motor Slip Regulation
Motor Slip Regulation (MSR) is Fiat’s version of an Engine Drag Torque Control (EDTC) system.
NCAP – New Car Assessment Programme
A New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP) is an assessment organisation in a specific region which crash tests new cars to determine a safety rating for each vehicle based on a number of variables.
Number of Doors
The number of doors on a vehicle refers to the openings through which passengers and cargo can enter and exit the car. Most commonly, vehicles are categorized by the number of doors they have, typically ranging from two to five doors, although some vehicles may have more.
Panoramic Sunroof
A panoramic sunroof is a premium feature that offers an expansive and immersive open-air experience, spanning the length of the vehicle's roof.
PEPS – Passive Entry, Passive Start
A PEPS (Passive Entry, Passive Start) system allows you to open the doors and start your car without needing to take the key out of your pocket or bag.
Power To Weight Ratio
The term power-to-weight ratio refers to how much power a car has relative to its weight.
Powertrain
Powertrain is a word to describe the parts of a car that generate power and deliver that power to the ground to propel the car forward. In regular cars this includes the engine, gearbox, drive shaft(s), differential(s), and the wheels. In electric and hybrid vehicles the powertrain also includes the battery pack and electric motor as well.
RAB – Ready Alert Braking
A Ready Alert Braking (RAB) system anticipates when the driver might be about to make a sudden stop and prepares the brakes in case they are required.
Rear Parking Sensors
Rear parking sensors utilize ultrasonic or radar technology to detect objects, such as other vehicles, walls, or obstacles, located behind the vehicle. When an obstacle is detected within a certain range, the sensors provide audible or visual alerts to warn the driver, indicating the distance between the vehicle and the obstacle.
Remote Start
Remote start enables you to start your vehicle without being inside it. Remote start systems are either operated by a button on the key fob or an app on your phone. At the press of a button your car will turn itself on and start running which can be a huge benefit in the UAE during the hotter months as it allows you to get the car running with the air conditioning going before you even step outside. Different systems work in slightly different ways – the traditional form of remote start requires you to have a line of sight with the car and be within 50-100m of the car, while more modern systems allow you to start the car using your smartphone from anywhere in the world.
Reversing Camera
A reversing camera, also known as a backup camera or rearview camera, is a modern safety feature designed to enhance visibility and assist drivers when reversing their vehicle.
RMI – Roll Movement Intervention
A Roll Movement Intervention (RMI) system detects when a vehicle may be on the verge of rolling and takes corrective action through usage of the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system to try and ensure that the vehicle remains upright.
RWD – Rear-Wheel Drive
A Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) system is where the power from the engine is sent to the rear wheels of the car only. The rear wheels then push the rest of the car forward with the front wheels only being used for steering and braking.
SBBR – Schluss-Blink-Brems-Rückfahrleuchten
This German phrase refers to a tail light setup where all four of the tail light functions – tail lights, indicators, brake lights, and reversing lights are all contained within a single housing and controlled by a single electronic unit.
SIPS – Side Impact Protection System
The Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) is (as the name suggests) a side impact protection system developed by Volvo. It uses advanced vehicle construction techniques combined with airbags to protect occupants against a side impact.
Speedometer Error
Every car on the road has a degree of speedometer error. In a standard setup where the car has not been modified the speedo will always read a speed that is slightly higher than the actual speed that the vehicle is travelling. Manufacturers deliberately design the system in this way to ensure that the speedo never reads a speed lower than what the car is actually travelling. This is done for both safety reasons and so that the manufacturer cannot be liable for speeding fines incurred by the driver.
Split Folding Rear Seats
Split folding rear seats allow you to fold down one or both sections of the rear seatback independently, providing flexibility in seating arrangements and cargo configurations. This versatility allows you to optimize the use of space in the rear compartment, accommodating passengers and cargo simultaneously as needed.
Supercharger
A supercharger is a device that forces air into the engine to enhance performance. It operates in a very similar way to a turbocharger, and in fact a turbocharger is actually a form of supercharger (and used to be called a turbosupercharger) but the term “supercharger” in modern automotive use is generally accepted to refer to a supercharger that is mechanically driven (by a belt, chain, gear etc. unlike turbos which are driven by air flow).
SUV – Sports Utility Vehicle
An SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle) is traditionally a large, five-door vehicle with off-road capability.
TCS – Traction Control System
A Traction Control System (TCS) can work in a number of different ways but the end goal is always the same – to stop a wheel (or wheels) from slipping unintentionally, helping the car to maintain grip.
TPMS – Tyre-Pressure Monitoring System
Sorry to all you American readers – we’re using the international spelling of tyre for this one! A Tyre-Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) constantly monitors tyre pressures and will generally alert the driver if the pressure in any tyre drops below a pre-determined level.
Trim Level
Trim Level is a term that refers to how well-equipped a certain car model, or sub-model is.
TSR – Traffic-Sign Recognition
A Traffic-Sign Recognition (TSR) system uses cameras and image-processing software to recognise various traffic signs.
Turbocharger
A turbocharger (more commonly known simply as a turbo) is a device that forces air into the engine to enhance performance.
VDC – Vehicle Dynamic Control
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is another name for an Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system.
Vehicle Model Year
The vehicle model year is the year in which a particular car model was manufactured and released for sale to the public. New model years often bring updates and improvements, such as enhanced technology, updated styling, or tweaks to performance. However, it's also worth noting that sometimes changes between model years can be minor, so it's essential to research specific differences if you're comparing two model years of the same car.
Voice Control
Voice control technology in vehicles allows drivers to operate various functions using voice commands, providing a hands-free and safer driving experience.
Wheelbase
The wheelbase of a vehicle refers to the distance between the centers of the front and rear wheels. It's a fundamental measurement that plays a significant role in determining a vehicle's stability, handling, and interior space.
Wireless Device Charging
Wireless charging is a convenient and hassle-free way to power up your mobile devices without the need for cables or plugs. Here's what you need to know about it:
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