Car parts and repair terms
The words you hear at a car service, explained in plain language.
15 pages in this section
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- Car technical inspection in Georgia: meaning and preparationCar technical inspection in Georgia checks roadworthiness. Learn what is examined, how to prepare and where to verify the current official rules.
- Catalytic converterA catalytic converter cleans exhaust gases before they leave the car. How it works, why it fails, the warning signs and what to ask the shop.
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- What is a CVT transmission, and how do you care for it?A CVT changes ratios without fixed gear steps. Learn how it works, why hybrid e-CVTs differ, and which fluid checks to ask your car service about.
- What is a hybrid battery and how does it work?Learn what a hybrid battery does, how it differs from a 12 V battery, signs of wear, and what to ask a shop in Georgia before testing or repair.
- What is a MAF sensor and why does it matter?A MAF sensor measures air entering your engine to help control fuel. Learn where it sits, why dirt causes hesitation and what to ask your shop.
- What is a shock absorber, and when does it need attention?Learn what a shock absorber does, how it differs from a spring or strut, and which signs of wear mean you should ask a shop to inspect your car.
- What is a timing belt, and does your engine have one?Learn what a timing belt does, how it differs from a timing chain, and what to ask a shop about your engine, replacement history and warning signs.
- What is a turbocharger, and how do you care for it?A turbocharger uses exhaust energy to push more air into an engine. Learn how it works, why oil matters and which warning signs need a shop's attention.
- What is a VIN number, and what can it tell you?A VIN identifies a vehicle and links it to recorded history. Learn where to find it, how to read it and what to check before buying a car in Georgia.
- What is ABS on a car, and what do its warning signs mean?ABS helps prevent wheel lock during hard braking. Learn what pedal pulses and the ABS warning light mean, and when to ask a shop to check your car.
- What is an EGR valve, and when does it need attention?Learn what an EGR valve does, why carbon blocks it, signs of a stuck valve, and what to ask a shop about cleaning, including on a Toyota Prius.
- What is an oxygen sensor, and what do its readings mean?An oxygen sensor helps control your engine’s fuel mixture. Learn what its readings and fault codes mean, and what to ask a shop before replacing it.
- What is OBD-II, and what can it tell you about your car?Learn what OBD-II is, where to find its port, what a basic reader reveals, and why fault codes and readiness checks need careful interpretation.