by Garrett McKinnon
VehicleMD Staff Writer
Originally published in Winter 2010 Issue

It’s a fact that any industry develops its own jargon, words and phrases that often seem incoherent to the layperson unfamiliar with them. The same is true of the automotive service industry, whose helpful technicians and service writers often, though usually unintentionally, revert to speaking “car” to customers, using terms most drivers will have never heard.

Following is an “A to Z” of some of the more common terms you might hear bandied about in an automotive service facility, along with what they mean.

ATF – Automatic transmission fluid. The fluid that is used in modern automatic transmissions. Acts as a lubricant, a hydraulic fluid and a coolant. Most vehicles will require at least one ATF service during their lifetime. Check your owners manual for the correct interval.

Beam Blade – A new type of wiper blade that uses a pre-formed plastic frame instead of a metal frame to stretch a wiper blade across a windshield. Beam blades provide uniform wiping pressure and a generally superior wiping action than conventional wiper blades. Many also feature built-in airfoils designed to keep the wiper blades flush with the windshield at highway speeds.

Cabin Air Filter – A type of filter that removes dust, smog and other airborne contaminants from the air entering your car’s passenger compartment. Generally require replacement every 15,000 miles. Note that some upscale cabin air filters come with a layer of activated charcoal that can even remove odors from the air coming into your car.

Differential – A device that transfers torque (rotational energy) from the engine to the drive wheels. The differential allows each wheel to turn at a unique speed (crucial when the car is turning) while still supplying equal torque. Most differentials use dedicated gear oil that is heavier than motor oil, and most differentials will require at least one fluid change during a vehicle’s life span. Also known as a final drive unit or colloquially as a “gearbox.” Tip: It is very important to have the differential oil changed if your car has been driven through deep water, as even a little water that finds its way into the differential can cause lasting damage.

Emissions – The exhaust gas that comes from your vehicle. Many states require emissions testing to ensure vehicles meet clean air standards.

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