Common Car Terms Defined in Elk Grove, CA

Understanding Vehicle Specs in Elk Grove, CA

If you're getting confused by all the auto industry lingo, our team at Elk Grove Honda can help you locate your next vehicle by taking away your stress with the help of our comprehensive guide. We understand how intimidating it can be, and with the help of this list of terms, you can make an informed decision with confidence.

Common Car Terms You Should Know

• Torque (lb-ft)– Torque helps your vehicle accelerate from a stopped position. The more torque you have, the more power your engine will produce.
• Curb Weight – This is the weight of your vehicle without cargo and passengers.
• Suspension – Your suspension helps absorb road imperfections so you can enjoy a smooth driving experience.
• Drivetrain – The drivetrain determines the power to move your wheels. There are three types of drivetrains:
• All-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD): All four wheels receive power and are most notably used in off-road vehicles.
• Front-wheel drive (FWD) Only the two front wheels receive power.
• Rear-wheel drive (RWD): Only the two rear wheels receive power, and this is most commonly seen in performance-based vehicles.
• Turbocharged vs. Naturally Aspirated – The main difference between a turbocharged engine and a naturally aspirated engine is that a turbocharged engine is equipped with a turbine, while a naturally aspirated engine is not. The turbocharged engine uses the turbine to help compressed air enter the engine, while a naturally aspirated engine uses atmospheric pressure to move the air.
• Reading Engine Descriptions – Every engine is different, so each one has its own meaning, such as "turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder."
• Turbocharged: The engine uses turbines to move compressed air.
• 2.0L: The engine’s size is measured in liters, so this specific engine is 2.0 liters.
• 4-Cylinder: The size and power of the engine are determined by the number of cylinders, so there are four cylinders in this engine.
• Wheelbase – The distance between the front and rear wheels, which is also important when determining a vehicle's stability and performance.
• MPG (Miles Per Gallon) – The MPG determines how many miles a vehicle can travel on a single gallon of gas.
• Towing Capacity – If you need to tow objects behind the vehicle, then you’ll want to know the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow, otherwise known as the towing capacity.
• Transmission – The transmission helps the vehicle transfer power from the engine to the wheels; the most common transmission includes:
• Manual Transmission: Requires the driver to manually shift the gears using a clutch.
• Automatic Transmission: Your vehicle automatically and seamlessly shifts gears without input from the driver.
• Horsepower (HP) – The amount of power your engine produces determines how fast your vehicle can travel.

Find Your Next Vehicle at Elk Grove Honda

If you’re looking for a car that perfectly fits your lifestyle and budget, then head on over to the Elk Grove Honda dealership in Elk Grove, CA. Our large selection of new and pre-owned vehicles is sure to have something that meets your needs. Our team of friendly and knowledgeable professionals is here to assist you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate, come visit us today or shop online and let us help you find the car of your dreams!