Glossary
Here is a compilation of car terms that we think you will find helpful as you research your next purchase. These are common terms that you might come across while shopping for your next vehicle. Contact us if
you feel there is something that should be included in our glossary, and we will definitely consider your suggestion.
termination fee
The amount a consumer must pay at the end of a closed-end lease if they do not want to buy the car and pay the residual value.
throttle body fuel injection (TBI; a.k.a. fuel injection, electronic fuel injection, EFI)
A fuel-supply system that has taken the carburetor's place, increasing vehicle reliability, efficiency and emissions performance
tire aspect ratio
Tire height relative to tire width.
tire codes
Codes found on tires that can be decoded.
tire series
Tire aspect ratio as whole number.
TLEV
Transitional Low Emissions Vehicle
top-tether anchor
A fastener used for attaching compatible safety seats.
torque (a.k.a. horsepower, power ratings)
Force exerted by a car engine.
torque steer
The condition when a front-wheel-drive car pulls to one side or another when accelerating.
torsional rigidity
Car body's resistance to twisting forces.
traction control
System that helps a car maintain traction during acceleration.
transfer case
A gearbox that divides power between two separate axles in a four-wheel-drive system; some cars include a low-gear setting for off-road use.
turbocharger
A device that increases engine power by pumping air into combustion chambers.
turn-in
The transition between forward motion and a turn; varies from car to car and dependent also on how a driver turns.
