Become an expert on all things motoring! This dictionary of terms and phrases will help you understand exactly what things are, what gets done and why.

Definitions starting with D

  • Diesel Engine

    Diesel engines burn fuel more efficiently than engines powered by petrol. Diesel has more usable energy than petrol, as a different process is used to refine it.

  • Differential Fluid

    Differential fluid lubricates the gears in the axles of your car. Your axle can be damaged if your car is leaking differential fluid.

  • Directional Tyre

    A directional tyre is designed to better channel water and snow away from under the tyre. They are generally used in high-performance applications. Because of their arrow-like tread design they only work in one direction, and can only be rotated front to back.

  • Diesel Engine

    Diesel engines burn fuel more efficiently than engines powered by petrol. Diesel has more usable energy than petrol, as a different process is used to refine it.

  • Differential Fluid

    Differential fluid lubricates the gears in the axles of your car. Your axle can be damaged if your car is leaking differential fluid.

  • Directional Tyre

    A directional tyre is designed to better channel water and snow away from under the tyre. They are generally used in high-performance applications. Because of their arrow-like tread design they only work in one direction, and can only be rotated front to back.

  • Disc Brake

    Disc brakes stop or slow down your car when the brake pedal is pushed. In a disc brake design, a brake pad is pressed against a rotor to create friction. Brake pads wear down over time and must be replaced or the rotor will be damaged and your car may not brake properly.

  • Drive Axle Boots

    The drive axle boots are rubber covers for the CV joints. These boots can become cracked or torn, allowing dirt in and grease to leak out. This can cause damage to the joint. Your drive axle boots should be checked regularly to prevent joint failure.

  • Drive Belt

    The drive belt powers the AC compressor, alternator, air pump, power steering, and water pump. This belt is powered by the engine and should be replaced if you notice cracks, or according the manufacturer’s guide. The car will not run if the drive belt is broken.

  • Drive Shaft

    The drivetrain is a combination of parts that transfers power to the wheels from the engine. It consists of the engine, transmission, and wheels, including the axles, clutch, CV joints, differential, drive shaft, and transaxle of the car.

  • Drum Brakes

    Drum brakes help to stop or slow down your car using a brake shoe to apply friction to a drum. Drum brakes are most often found in trucks and older cars, as they are quite large. Newer cars usually use a different system for braking.

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