Category: Glossary of Car Terms

What is Tune Up?

When an engine is tuned up, a series of parts that wear out (spark plugs, plug wires, distributor cap, etc.) are replaced to bring the engine back to good operating condition. In addition, timing is checked and set.

What is Timing Chain?

Timing chains are metal chains that connect an engine’s camshaft to its crankshaft. Timing chains use sprockets that eventually wear out and can cause sloppy timing. When this happens, it is time to replace the sprockets and chain. If a timing chain breaks, the camshaft and crankshaft will go out of synch, causing potentially significant…

What is Turbo?

A turbo is used to increase the volume of air that an engine can take in, resulting in more power. It is driven by the engine’s exhaust.

What is Timing Belt?

Timing belts are rubber belts that connect an engine’s camshaft to its crankshaft. If a timing belt breaks, these two components will go out of synch, causing potentially significant engine damage.

What is Tire Gauge?

Tire gauges are used to measure the pressure inside of a tire. You should always check tire pressure when your tire is cold (when your vehicle hasn’t been driven for about an hour).

What is VIAS?

Variable Intake Air System (VIAS) also Variable Induction Air Control System. Nissan/Infiniti uses the VIAS to reduce the intake suction resistance of the intake air at higher speeds. When the engine is running at low or medium speed, the VIAS power valve is fully closed. Under this condition, the effective suction port length is equivalent…

What is Valves?

Valves are the part of an engine that let in air/fuel mixture and let exhaust out at specified times. They are opened and closed by the camshaft, which is timed to the crankshaft via the timing chain or belt for smooth operation.