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

Idle

An engine is said to "idle" when it's not doing "work," but rather is merely running with no throttle input at all.



See Also:
Tachometer
Grease Seal
Crankshaft Pulley
Lug Nuts
RPM
Gasket
Flash Point
Kickdown Switch

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: