In the auto repair industry, many of the terms used sound foreign to drivers. Although they may refer to common parts or familiar procedures, words like "differential," "flywheel," and "dipstick" aren’t common jargon used by people who don't spend time working on cars. Here are some essential car terms everybody should understand.

4 Automobile Terms Everyone Should Know

1. Lube Job

A "lube" job involves lubrication of automobile components to reduce friction and preventing wear. Technicians grease the moving parts of the suspension system, drivetrain, and steering system. Consider this when your car makes squeaking or clunking sounds during operation.

2. Differential

This device lets the outer drive wheel on a vehicle spin quicker than the inner wheel; it’s essential that the outer wheel travels further than its opposite whenever the vehicle turns corners. When the differential fails, you may notice whining or transmission slippage and jerking.

3. Flywheel

On a manual transmission vehicle, this device smooths the power output from a piston engine. It rotates on bearings and provides constant power to the driveshaft rather than the intermittent output produced by the reciprocating pistons.

4. Dipstick

This metal shaft reaches into the engine and measures the depth of essential vehicle fluids. For instance, when they pull out an oil dipstick, a service technician can see residue that indicates how much oil the vehicle contains and if it needs more. Transmission fluid can also be checked by removing the dipstick.

For work on your differential, flywheel, or other essential auto parts, contact Friendly Transmission Service in High Point, NC. They are family-owned and -operated and have served Guilford County as well as the Triad area since 1986. They also specialize in transmission repairs, rebuilds, and maintenance for foreign and domestic vehicles of nearly any model year. Visit their website to connect with them online, or call (336) 882-1164 to schedule an appointment.