AAA Automotive Glossary
AAA Approved Auto Repair Article
By
AAA Automotive
Posted on July 15th, 2017
Have you ever read an article about a new car or spoken with a service advisor at a repair shop and ended up thinking to yourself, "I need a translator to understand what he/she was talking about!" You're not alone. The automobile industry and repair providers have their own unique vocabulary – a "language" that has added literally hundreds of words over the last 20 years. Many of the new terms involve electronic vehicle controls, wireless telematics capabilities, sophisticated infotainment offerings and advanced driver assistance systems. The AAA Automotive Glossary can help consumers better understand such vehicle terminology.
Most repair personnel have a good working knowledge of automotive technical jargon. Unfortunately, they sometimes assume
their customers share that understanding, and may use complex terms in an attempt to demonstrate competency and
sell a repair job. This can sometimes backfire, generating confusion or suspicion instead. The situation is further
complicated by unscrupulous shops that sometimes use technical doubletalk to intimidate motorists into purchasing
work that is unnecessary.
Even in the best of circumstances, you may sometimes find it challenging to understand exactly what a repair involves and why it is needed. That's why AAA has always recommended that motorists ask questions until they are satisfied, and never authorize repairs unless provided with a written estimate that clearly states what will be done and how much it will cost. To aid in understanding, the AAA Automotive Glossary defines most common technical terms you are likely to encounter when dealing with vehicles and their repair.
When it's time to have a vehicle serviced or repaired, look for a shop that communicates clearly, is happy to answer your questions, and employs ASE or factory-trained technicians. For a quality shop that can do the job right the first time, visit AAA.com/AutoRepair to locate a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility near you.
AAA Automotive Glossary
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Even in the best of circumstances, you may sometimes find it challenging to understand exactly what a repair involves and why it is needed. That's why AAA has always recommended that motorists ask questions until they are satisfied, and never authorize repairs unless provided with a written estimate that clearly states what will be done and how much it will cost. To aid in understanding, the AAA Automotive Glossary defines most common technical terms you are likely to encounter when dealing with vehicles and their repair.
When it's time to have a vehicle serviced or repaired, look for a shop that communicates clearly, is happy to answer your questions, and employs ASE or factory-trained technicians. For a quality shop that can do the job right the first time, visit AAA.com/AutoRepair to locate a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility near you.
Download the Glossary
AAA Automotive Glossary