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.

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Solenoid

An electrically powered device which acts as a switch to the device it is connected to (i.e. it turns it on/off). Starter solenoids are among the more common solenoids on your vehicle that may fail.



See Also:
Electronic Sensor
Ground
Throttle Sensor
Spark Retard
ECM
Ignition Fire
Relay
Knock Sensor

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