Navigating the world of car maintenance can be confusing, especially with all of the specialized terms and parts involved. At PEAK, we encourage car owners to embrace a DIY approach to vehicle care, empowering you to take on tasks at your own comfort level. 

Our comprehensive glossary is designed to demystify the complex jargon of the car world (not to mention acronyms), and provide you with the knowledge you need to understand your vehicle inside and out. Whether you're tackling routine maintenance or exploring more complex repairs, PEAK's high-quality products and resources make DIY care simpler and more accessible. 

Welcome to the PEAK Glossary: your go-to guide for mastering car care with confidence.

Car Parts

Internal Mechanics

Coolants

Servicing

Safety

Regulation

Electric Vehicles

Eco-Friendly Parts and Methods

Finding What You Need

 

Car Parts

 

Electronic Control Module (ECM) 

An ECM is a small, computerized component in a car that manages and controls various electrical systems and functions. It’s like the brain of your car’s electrical system, using sensors and data to make decisions and control different parts of the vehicle.

ECMs manage a variety of tasks, such as controlling the engine's performance, regulating the air conditioning, managing the transmission, and even monitoring safety systems like airbags.

 

Engine Control Unit (ECU)

An ECU is a small computer inside a car that controls how the engine works. Similar to the ECM, the ECU is like the brain of the car's engine. Sensors gather information about the engine's performance and conditions, such as temperature, air pressure, and fuel levels. The ECU processes this information and makes adjustments to ensure the engine runs smoothly and efficiently.

The ECU controls things like fuel injection, ignition timing, and air-to-fuel ratio.

 

High Intensity Discharge (HID)

HID refers to a type of car headlight that produces very bright light using a different technology than regular halogen bulbs. HID headlights use an electrical discharge through a gas (typically xenon) to produce light. This creates much brighter and whiter light, improving visibility for the driver.

HID lights are also more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional halogen bulbs. Generally, HID options like PEAK’s HID Xenon Headlights provide better, brighter lighting for safer nighttime driving. 

 

Light-Emitting Diode (LED)

LED is a type of light source used for various lighting applications in vehicles, such as headlights, taillights, turn signals, and interior lights. LEDs are highly efficient, producing bright light while consuming less power than traditional incandescent bulbs. They have a longer lifespan and are more durable, making them ideal for automotive use.

PEAK offers a variety of premium low power consumption and high brightness LEDs, including fog lamps and interior bulbs, to brighten your car inside and out. 

 

Original Equipment (OE)

OE refers to the parts and components that are made by the vehicle's manufacturer, or by approved suppliers who hold a direct contract with the vehicle’s manufacturer. These parts are designed to meet the specific standards and specifications set by the car manufacturer, ensuring optimal performance, fit, and compatibility.

Using original equipment parts for repairs and replacements helps maintain the vehicle's reliability and performance as intended by the manufacturer. PEAK carries an array of OE parts and products which help you maintain your car’s original quality without paying dealership prices.   

 

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)

OEM refers to parts that are made by the same company that produced the original parts for the vehicle but are sold under the manufacturer's own brand rather than the car manufacturer's brand. 

OEM parts are identical to OE parts in terms of specifications, quality, and performance but may not carry the car manufacturer's logo. 

 

Original Equipment Technology (OET)

OET refers to the technologies and components that are designed, developed, and used by the original manufacturer of the vehicle-approved suppliers who hold a direct contract with the vehicle’s manufacturer.

These technologies and parts are created to meet the specific standards and requirements of the car manufacturer, ensuring optimal performance, safety, and compatibility. OET encompasses everything from the engine and transmission to the infotainment systems and safety features.

 

Internal Mechanics 

 

All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

AWD is a system in cars where power is sent to all four wheels at the same time. This does not always mean that all four wheels are receiving power equally. The AWD system can adjust the power distribution based on driving conditions, sending more power to the wheels with better traction when needed. This enhances stability and performance, especially on slippery or uneven surfaces.

Unlike 4 wheel drive, AWD operates continuously and automatically adjusts power distribution for optimal traction on various road surfaces.

 

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

In 4WD systems, the driver usually has the option to switch between two-wheel drive (2WD) and 4WD modes. This system is typically found in trucks and SUVs designed for off-road use. When 4WD is engaged, power is distributed equally to all four wheels, helping the vehicle handle rough terrains like mud, snow, or rocky paths.

Unlike all-wheel drive, 4WD can be switched on and off by the driver and is typically only used for off-road driving. 

 

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Front-wheel drive (FWD) is a system in which the engine powers only the front wheels, which handle both driving and steering the vehicle. This setup makes FWD cars easier to drive, particularly in rain or snow, and generally more fuel-efficient. The compact components located in the front of the car also provide more interior space.

  

Contamination Tolerant Additives (CTA)

Cars use different types of fluids to keep their parts running smoothly. For example, engine oil keeps the engine parts lubricated, and fuel is what the car burns to create power. Over time, these fluids can get dirty from dust, metal particles, or other debris that get into them. This can make the fluids less effective and can cause problems for the car.

To help prevent problems, manufacturers add CTAs, which are designed to help the fluids work well even when they get dirty. They help maintain the fluid's performance and protect the car's parts from damage caused by contaminants.

 

Horsepower (HP)

Horsepower is a unit of measurement that describes the power of a car's engine, indicating how quickly it can move the car. Higher horsepower means the car can accelerate faster and perform better, especially when carrying heavy loads or driving uphill. Essentially, it’s a metric of the engine’s strength which is tied to the vehicle’s overall performance.

 

Internal-Combustion Engine (ICE)

ICE is the type of engine most commonly found in cars. It generates power by burning fuel like gasoline or diesel inside a small chamber called a cylinder. The fuel is mixed with air and ignited by a spark, causing an explosion that pushes a piston. This movement turns the engine's crankshaft, which ultimately powers the car's wheels. To put it simply, an internal combustion engine works by burning fuel inside the engine to create power that moves the car.

 

Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)

RPM is a measure of how many times the engine's crankshaft completes a full rotation in one minute. It indicates how fast the engine is running. For example, when you press the accelerator, the RPM increases, meaning the engine is working harder and spinning faster. RPM tells you how quickly the engine is spinning and how much power it's generating at any given moment. 

 

Coolants

 

Antifreeze/Coolant (AFC)

AFC is a liquid added to a car's engine to regulate its temperature and prevent corrosion. AFC prevents the engine from overheating in hot weather and from freezing in cold weather, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly in all conditions.

Choosing the right AFC for your car plays a critical role in preventing engine issues and avoiding costly repairs, but with all the options available, this can be a more difficult task than it seems. PEAK’s Explore by Vehicle feature makes it easy to navigate an array of original equipment and all-make AFCs by providing suggestions that meet the requirements for your specific vehicle.  

 

Inorganic Additive Technology (IAT)

IAT is a type of engine coolant that’s typically green in color and relies on inorganic compounds, such as silicates and phosphates, to protect the engine's cooling system. IAT coolants are typically used in older vehicles and require more frequent replacement (approximately every two years/ 24,000 miles) compared to newer coolants like OAT or HOAT.

PEAK’s Conventional Antifreeze + Coolant is engineered for use in older cars and light duty trucks, and is specifically recommended for pre-2000 Chryslers, pre-2002 Fords, pre-1995 GMs, and all pre-1989 makes and models.

 

Organic Acid Technology (OAT)

OAT is a type of engine coolant that’s typically orange in color and relies on organic acids to prevent corrosion and protect the engine's cooling system. OAT coolants are used in newer vehicles and are typically long-lasting, requiring less frequent changing than traditional IAT coolants. OATs are often used in North American and European cars.

 

Hybrid Organic Acid Technologies (HOAT)

HOAT is a type of engine coolant that can be found in an array of colors and combines organic acids (OAT) with traditional inorganic additives (IAT) to keep car engines cool and prevent corrosion. HOAT coolants have the same, extended use interval of OAT coolants (approximately every five years or 50,000 miles.) HOAT coolants are used in newer Fords and Chryslers and some European cars. 

 

Phosphate Enhanced Organic Acid Technology (POAT)

P-OAT is a variant of OAT coolant that combines organic acids and phosphate compounds to provide excellent protection against corrosion and wear for the engine's cooling system. P-OAT coolants only need to be changed about every five years or 50,000 miles. This variant of coolant is often used in Asian cars, along with some North American makes.  

 

Supplemental Coolant Additive (SCA)

A SCA is a chemical compound added to coolants to enhance their performance. SCAs help prevent corrosion, cavitation (the formation of air bubbles), and scale buildup within the engine's cooling system. They also improve the coolant's ability to transfer heat, keeping the engine at the optimal temperature.

 

Servicing

 

Do It For Me (DIFM)

In the car world, DIFM refers to services where car owners rely on professionals for maintenance, repairs, and other automotive tasks, rather than doing it themselves. This can include anything from oil changes and tire rotations to more complex repairs and installations.

Car owners who choose DIFM services typically visit dealerships, independent garages, or service centers to have mechanics and technicians handle their car care needs. While DIFM can save owners time and effort, costs for these services can add up quickly. 

 

Do It Yourself (DIY)

DIY refers to car owners that perform maintenance, repairs, and modifications on their vehicles themselves, rather than relying on professional services. This can include routine maintenance tasks like changing the oil or coolant, replacing wiper blades, and filling up the DEF, or more involved projects such as installing new parts and performing upgrades.

At PEAK, we believe in the power of DIY to keep your car in great shape without breaking the bank. Check out our PEAK DIY HUB for FAQs, videos, product recommendations and more to help you get started or stay sharp. 

 

Extended Service Interval (ESI)

Extended service interval refers to a longer period or mileage between scheduled maintenance for a car. This means that you don't need to take your car in for routine services like oil changes or inspections as often. Advances in car technology and improved fluids and materials allow for these longer intervals, saving time and reducing maintenance costs for the car owner.

 

Lube, Oil, and Filter (LOF)

An LOF is a routine maintenance procedure for cars that involves lubricating moving parts, changing the engine oil, and replacing the oil filter. This service ensures the engine operates smoothly by providing fresh oil for lubrication and a new filter to keep the oil clean from contaminants. Regularly performing this service helps maintain the engine's performance, extend its lifespan, and prevent potential damage.

 

Lube, Oil, Filter, and Tire Rotation (LOFR)

An LOFR is a service that includes an LOF along with a tire rotation. Tire rotation is the process of moving tires from one position on a vehicle to another, such as from front to rear or side to side. This ensures even tire wear, prolongs tire life, and maintains balanced handling and traction, ultimately improving vehicle safety and performance.

 

Nitrogen (N2)

Nitrogen is used in car tires to maintain consistent tire pressure, reduce oxidation, and improve temperature stability. Its larger molecules leak out more slowly than oxygen, keeping tires properly inflated longer. Additionally, nitrogen reduces rubber oxidation and provides more stable tire pressure across temperature changes. 

 

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD)

OBDs are systems in cars that monitor and report the status of the vehicle's various components and systems. The OBD system uses sensors to detect issues and provides trouble codes when something goes wrong, such as lighting up the check engine light or low tire pressure icon on your dashboard. OBD helps maintain vehicle performance, efficiency, and safety by quickly identifying issues and allowing for timely repairs.

 

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is a safety feature in cars that keeps track of the air pressure in the tires. If the tire pressure drops too low, the system alerts the driver with a warning light on the dashboard. This helps ensure that the tires are properly inflated, improving fuel efficiency and tire lifespan, and preventing dangerous conditions such as flats.

 

Safety

 

Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)

A safety feature in cars that prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking. This helps the driver maintain steering control and avoid skidding, especially on slippery surfaces. It also allows the car to stop more effectively and safely in emergency situations.

 

Controlled Atmosphere Brazed (CAB)

Controlled atmosphere brazing is a method used to join metal parts which involves using filler metal to bind pieces in a special oven where the atmosphere is carefully controlled. This controlled environment helps ensure a clean, strong bond between the metals without oxidation, which can weaken the joint.

Metals that are CAB have clean, strong joints and are often used to make car parts that must be highly reliable, like those critical for safety and performance. 

 

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

ESC is a safety feature in cars that helps prevent skidding and losing control, especially during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. ESC uses sensors to monitor the car's speed, direction, and steering angle. If the ESC system detects that the car is starting to skid or lose control, it automatically applies the brakes to individual wheels and adjusts the engine power to help the driver regain control.

The main goal of ESC is to keep the car stable and prevent accidents, especially in slippery conditions like rain or snow, or during emergency maneuvers.

 

Gross Combination Weight (GCW)

GCW is the total weight of a vehicle, its trailer, and everything loaded in both. It's important for safety and legal reasons because exceeding the recommended GCW can make the vehicle difficult to control and stop, and can cause damage to both the vehicle and trailer.

 

Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)

GVW is the total weight of a vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and any other items inside. It is important to consider because exceeding the maximum GVW limit set by the manufacturer can make the vehicle unsafe to drive and cause damage.

 

Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

An SDS for a car provides crucial safety information about automotive chemicals, such as engine oil and coolant. It details the chemical composition, handling and storage instructions, first-aid measures, fire-fighting guidelines, and spill cleanup procedures. The purpose of a SDS is to instruct owners on how to safely use, handle, and respond to emergencies involving car-related chemicals.

 

Regulation

American Petroleum Institute (API)

The API is a trade association that represents the oil and natural gas industry. It sets standards for oil and fuel quality, promotes safety, and conducts research to ensure that fuels and lubricants are reliable and perform well in vehicles. All BlueDEF Diesel Exhaust Fluids are API certified products.  

 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The EPA is a U.S. government agency responsible for protecting human health and the environment. It sets and enforces regulations to reduce pollution and promote clean air, water, and land.

In car production, the EPA plays a crucial role by establishing emission standards that manufacturers must meet to limit harmful pollutants from vehicles. This includes regulating the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other pollutants that cars can emit.

Compliance with EPA standards is essential for car manufacturers to sell their vehicles in the United States, influencing car design, engine performance, and the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles.

 

International Standard Organization (ISO)

The ISO is a global organization that develops and publishes standards for a wide range of industries, including the automotive sector. ISO sets international standards to ensure quality, safety, efficiency, and interoperability of automotive components and systems.

These standards help manufacturers produce vehicles that meet consistent safety and performance criteria worldwide, facilitating global trade and enhancing consumer confidence in automotive products.

 

National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is an independent, non-profit organization that certifies automotive professionals and technicians. ASE certification ensures that these professionals have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform quality vehicle maintenance and repairs. 

The certification is widely recognized in the industry and helps consumers identify skilled and reliable technicians.

 

National Safety Council (NSC)

The NSC is a non-profit organization focused on promoting safety and preventing injuries and deaths in various environments, including on the road. The NSC provides education, resources, and advocacy to improve driver safety, reduce traffic accidents, and enhance overall road safety.

The organization offers programs on defensive driving, distracted driving prevention, and other initiatives aimed at making driving safer for everyone.

 

Electric Vehicles

 

Electric Vehicle (EV)

An EV is a type of car that uses electricity to power its engine instead of gasoline or diesel fuel. There are different types of electric vehicles, and they can be classified based on how they produce and use electricity. Generally, EVs are an eco-conscious alternative to traditional gas-powered vehicles. 

 

Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)

BEVs are cars that run entirely on electricity. They use a large battery to store electrical energy, which powers an electric motor to move the vehicle. Unlike traditional cars that use gasoline or diesel fuel, BEVs need to be plugged into a charging station or a regular electrical outlet to recharge their batteries.

This unique system requires unique care, including specialized coolants like PEAK OE Antifreeze + Coolant for Electric Vehicles. BEVs are known for being environmentally friendly because they do not produce tailpipe emissions.  

 

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV)

FCEV is a type of EV that uses hydrogen gas and oxygen from the air to generate electricity in a fuel cell, which then powers an electric motor. The only byproduct of this process is water vapor, making it a low-impact option. Unlike HEVs, FCEVs do not use gasoline, and unlike BEVs, they do not need to be plugged in for charging.  

 

Hybrid-Electric Vehicle (HEV)

HEVs combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The electric motor assists the gasoline engine, particularly during low-speed driving, and the battery is charged through regenerative braking and the engine itself, without needing to plug in. Many drivers appreciate the increased mileage allowed by HEVs compared to BEVs. 

 

Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

A PHEV, like an HEV, is a type of car that has both an electric motor and a gasoline engine. However PHEVs have an electric motor that can be charged by plugging the car into an electrical outlet or charging station.

PHEVs can run on electric power alone for a certain distance, and when the battery is low, the gasoline engine takes over. The hybrid systems in HEVs and PHEVs require unique maintenance products, such as PEAK’s OE Antifreeze + Coolant for Hybrid Vehicles, which is specifically designed to match the technology and color requirements of these vehicles. 

 

Eco-Friendly Parts and Methods 

 

Ammonia (NH3)

Ammonia is used in cars as part of the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in diesel engines.

In the SCR system, a liquid solution called Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), which contains urea, is injected into the exhaust stream. The urea in DEF decomposes to form ammonia, which then reacts with NOx in the presence of a catalyst to convert these harmful gasses into harmless nitrogen and water vapor.

In simple terms, ammonia helps clean up diesel exhaust by turning harmful pollutants into harmless substances.

 

Ammonia Oxidation Catalyst (AOC)

An AOC is a device located in the exhaust systems of some vehicles that helps convert ammonia gas into harmless substances like nitrogen and water. Ammonia oxidation catalysts are often used in vehicle emission systems to reduce pollution by speeding up the chemical reactions that break down ammonia.

 

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Carbon dioxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is naturally present in the Earth's atmosphere. When cars burn gasoline or diesel fuel, carbon dioxide is produced as a byproduct of the combustion process. Gas-powered vehicles are significant sources of CO2 emissions.

These emissions are harmful to the environment, trapping gasses in the atmosphere and contributing to global warming and climate change. Governments and regulatory bodies around the world have set standards and regulations to limit CO2 emissions from cars.

This has led to the development of more fuel-efficient engines, the promotion of hybrid and electric vehicles, and the implementation of carbon taxes and incentives for low-emission vehicles.

 

Water (H2O) 

Water plays an important role in emissions reduction. It’s a primary ingredient in diesel exhaust fluid and a key part of ammonia oxidation catalysts, both of which help to clean and reduce emissions. In some high-performance engines, water injection systems are used to cool the combustion chambers, which makes combustion more efficient and reduces the production of harmful NOx. 

 

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

DEF is a mixture of purified water and urea used in diesel vehicles to reduce harmful emissions. It works in a system called Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), where DEF is sprayed into the exhaust stream to convert harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen and water vapor, making the vehicle's exhaust cleaner.

Drivers need to regularly refill the DEF tank, much like refueling with diesel, to maintain this emission-reducing process. BlueDEF by OWI is America’s #1 DEF. With three unique varieties of BlueDEF Diesel Exhaust Fluid, you’re guaranteed to find the best quality option for your diesel vehicle. 

Learn more about DEF in our Ultimate Guide to Diesel Exhaust Fluid.

 

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)

EGR is a system in cars that reduces pollution by recirculating some exhaust gasses back into the engine's intake rather than releasing them through the exhaust pipe. This process lowers combustion temperatures, which decreases the production of harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx). By recirculating a portion of the exhaust gasses, EGR helps make cars cleaner and more environmentally friendly.

 

Oxidation Catalyst (DOC)

A DOC is a component used in a car's exhaust system to help reduce harmful emissions. It works by converting pollutants like carbon monoxide (CO) and unburned hydrocarbons (HC) into less harmful substances like carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapor. This process helps make the car's exhaust cleaner and less harmful to the environment. 

 

Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx)

NOx are harmful gasses produced during the combustion process in car engines, especially at high temperatures. They are major pollutants that contribute to smog and acid rain and can cause respiratory problems. Mitigating the release of NOx is a large part of reducing the harmful environmental impact of a vehicle. 

 

Particulate Filter (DPF)

A particulate filter is a device used in the exhaust system of diesel cars to capture and remove tiny soot particles from the exhaust gasses, making the car’s emissions cleaner. These particles, known as particulates, can be harmful to health and the environment. The filter traps these particles, preventing them from being released into the air, and then periodically burns them off during a process called regeneration.

 

Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)

SCR is a technology used in diesel vehicles to reduce harmful emissions. It works by injecting Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) into the exhaust stream. The DEF reacts with nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the exhaust, converting them into harmless nitrogen and water vapor. SCR is essentially a system that makes diesel vehicle emissions cleaner by turning harmful gasses into harmless ones. 

 

Finding What You Need

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

Navigating car care can be confusing with all the terminology, parts, and products. Whether you’re just starting to learn about your car or you’re a DIY expert, you probably have some questions.

FAQs show you’re not alone and answer the common questions you might have while learning a new car care task, like changing your oil or finding the right coolant for your vehicle. Check out PEAK’s DIY Hub FAQs for comprehensive answers to these questions that can help you find the next step whether you’re stuck on a task or just getting started. 

 

Old World Industries (OWI)

Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois, Old World Industries is a family-owned, domestic company specializing in automotive and chemical products.

Known across the industry for high-quality brands like PEAK, BlueDEF, Fleet Charge, and Final Charge, Old World Industries has been committed to delivering reliable and innovative solutions for car owners and professionals alike. 

With a reputation built on decades of expertise and a focus on meeting the needs of drivers across the world, Old World Industries stands out as a brand you can depend on for all your automotive care needs.

 

PEAK

PEAK is a subsidiary company of Old World Industries, specializing in high-quality automotive fluids and chemicals, including antifreeze, coolant, motor oil, and wiper blades. Accredited by industry standards for its superior performance, PEAK has gained widespread popularity in the U.S. and across the globe.

Renowned for its reliability and innovation, PEAK has earned a reputation as a trusted brand among car owners and professionals in the automotive industry. With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, PEAK continues to be a go-to choice for those seeking dependable automotive care products. 

 

Product Description Page (PDP)

A PDP is a web page on an ecommerce website that provides detailed information about one specific product. With the wide variety of products and product variants available in the automotive world, PDPs can be helpful in determining what exactly a product is/does and if it is right for your unique vehicle.

For all PEAK products, you can find a detailed product description, along with quality assurance information and standards, on the PDP below the product image. 

 

Stock Keeping Unit (SKU)

A SKU is a unique identifier used to identify and manage individual car parts or products in a store or warehouse. Each SKU represents a distinct item, such as a particular model of tire, a specific type of oil filter, or a unique car part, with its own specifications and characteristics.

Even items that are identical copies of each other have unique UPCs, so that they can be tracked individually. SKUs help businesses manage inventory, track sales, and streamline ordering processes. 

 

Universal Product Code (UPC)

UPCs are similar to SKUs in that they help manufacturers and retailers organize and track products. However, the UPC is the same for all units of a specific product. For example, all units of a specific type of headlight, like PEAK’s Power Vision Xenon Headlights, have the same UPC, but each individual unit of the headlight has its own unique SKU. 

 

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

A VIN is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle at the time of manufacture. This code acts like a fingerprint for the car, providing important information about its make, model, year of production, place of manufacture, and other specific details.

The VIN helps with vehicle registration, tracking recalls, obtaining insurance, and identifying the car's history, such as previous ownership and accident reports.