Glossary of Auto Terms

DriverSide's Car Dictionary has the most comprehensive definitions of automotive terms. This auto glossary can help you decipher what your mechanic is fixing and what the purpose or function of the particular auto part or accessory is for. We have taken the mystery out of automotive service jargon, so that you don't have to.

Engine > Power Stroke
Most common
Engine
Suspension
Brakes
Fuel System
Electronics
Cooling System
Terms/Tools
Back

Power Stroke

Occurs when the piston is pushed down by the expansion of the burning air/fuel mixture in the cylinder. It's called the "power" stroke because as the piston moves down on this stroke, it does so with great force, using the piston rod to push again on the crankshaft, which in turn rotates the axle(s), which move the car. Neat how that works, yes?



See Also:
Ball Joint
Flushing
Power Steering
Dipstick
Firing Order
Timing Light
Drivebelt
Manual Transmission

Diagnose Your Car's Problem

Engine won't start? Weird sound? Strange smoke? Got something going on with your car but not sure what it is? The easy to use DriverSide Diagnostic Tool is here to help you figure it out.



Enter Zip: