Transaxles are a combination of components; the transmission and differential. Most front-wheel drive cars have transaxles. However, some rear wheel drive cars, such as some Porsches, new Corvettes and Alfa Romeos, have rear-mounted transaxles.
Category: Glossary of Car Terms
What is Transfer Case?
The transfer case is used in 4WD vehicles to regulate power to the front and/or rear axles.
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.
What is Vacuum Hose?
Vacuum hoses connect between vacuum-powered accessories and a vacuum source like the engine’s intake manifold.
What is Vapor Lock?
Vapor lock occurs when an engine gets so hot, it boils the fuel travelling through the fuel lines. This creates vapor, which then prevents the engine from running.
What is Valve Cover?
The valve cover is the metal cover that is attached to the cylinder head. It allows technicians easy access to an engine’s valves and rocker arms for adjustment and checks.
What is Voltage Regulator?
The voltage regulator regulates the power output of the alternator to prevent overcharging the battery and electrical system.
What is Variable Assist Power Steering?
Variable-assist power steering is desgined to vary the level of power assist according to vehicle speed or angle of the steering wheel.
What is Vacuum?
Vacuum results as an engine sucks in air. Engine vacuum is also used to power some accessories, such as brake boosters.
What is VCM?
An acronym for Vehicle Control Module, the on-board computer that controls the engine management, transmission, and other systems such as antilock brakes.
What is Universal Joint?
Universal joints are part of a car’s driveline. They allow the driveshaft to continue to rotate at all angles.
What is Washer Nozzles?
These are the jets on the hood or in the wipers that spray washer fluid onto the windshield.
What is Wiper Arms?
These are the parts of your wipers that go between the wiper pivots at the base of the windshield and wiper blades.
What is Wheel Nuts?
Wheel nuts are used to attach a wheel to a hub.
What is Water Pump?
Part of the cooling system. The water pump circulates coolant through the cooling system, helping the engine stay in the desired temperature range.
What is Water In Fuel Warning Light?
This is a warning light only found on diesel-engined cars. Since diesel fuel collects water, a sensor in the fuel tank will go off when the ratio of diesel fuel to water reaches a certain level.
What is Warm-Up Cycle?
The PCM uses warm-up cycles instead of key cycles to clear DTCs. A Warm-Up Cycle is achieved when the engine coolant temperature rises at least 22
What is Wax?
Wax is a product used to protect paint finishes and create extra shine.
What is Washer Fluid?
This is special fluid designed to clear the windshield quickly and with little residue.