A c-shaped device used with disc brakes. When a driver presses on the brake pedal, the caliper piston squeezes the brake pads against the rotor and causes the car to slow down or stop

Radio Anti-Theft Code. Many modern radios have special anti-theft circuitry that prevents them from operating after being disconnected from a power source. For these types of radios, it is necessary to enter a factory-supplied code to get the radio to

The fluid mixed with water that is put into your vehicle’s radiator. Antifreeze is traditionally green in color; however, newer long-life antifreezes may be red or orange. Please refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the proper antifreeze for your

Automatic chokes use either a heat- or computer-controlled element to turn on and off automatically as needed.

A computerized system that automatically maintains a selected temperature for your car’s interior. Also called climate control.

Automatic transmissions have hydraulically operated gear sets, which require no gear shifting or clutching by the driver.

The third major source of air pollution is automotive emissions. The emissions from the internal combustion engines were not an appreciable problem years ago because of the small number of registered vehicles and the nation’s small highway system. However, during

A safety device found on most recent cars that protects the driver (and in some cases, the passenger) in a crash by inflating a cushion hidden in the steering wheel and dashboard.

The airbag system consists of impact sensors, a system computer, a detonation device, and the airbag itself.

The air conditioning system is a related group of components that cool the incoming air taken in by the car’s interior ventilation system.

This device filters the air that goes into your engine. Without an air filter, harmful particles would enter your car’s engine and cause internal wear and damage.

Many emissions systems include an air pump, which pumps fresh air into a vehicle’s exhaust to help complete the combustion process and reduce emissions.

Alignment is when all your wheels are pointing in exactly the right direction. If one wheel is off by even one or two degrees, it is considered out of alignment. When a vehicle is out of alignment, excessive tire, steering

An alternator is an engine accessory that generates electricity to keep your battery charged and operate your vehicle’s electrical system.

The anti-roll bar is a suspension system component that helps a vehicle to stay flat and not lean excessively when cornering. Also called a sway bar or stabilizer bar.

Anti-Lock Braking System or Anti-Skid Brake System (ABS) uses a series of sensors, a computer and a high-pressure hydraulic pump to prevent your brakes from locking up during sudden stops on slippery surfaces.

Acceleration is what occurs when the car moves forward from a stop or a slower speed to a higher speed.

The pedal found on all cars that controls engine rpm. Also called the gas pedal.

Accelerator pumps are found in cars equipped with carburetors. When you accelerate, the accelerator pump delivers extra fuel through the accelerator pump circuit to allow the engine to deliver more power.

Refers to a power-operated feature on a car. For instance, power windows and power locks would be considered accessories.