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Automotive Acronyms (A-Z List & Definitions)

Updated: Dec 16, 2022

Automotive acronyms are shortened forms of words or phrases that are commonly used in the automotive industry.


These acronyms are used to save time and space when communicating technical information, and they can be found in a variety of contexts, including repair manuals, parts catalogs, and discussions among automotive professionals.


It's important to familiarize yourself automotive acronyms if you work in the automotive industry or plan to do your own repairs on your vehicle. This can help you communicate effectively with other professionals and understand technical information more easily.


This page serves as a comprehensive A-Z glossary of all acronyms and terminology used in the automotive industry.


A

A4: 4-speed automatic transmission - a type of automatic transmission with four gears.

A5: 5-speed automatic transmission - a type of automatic transmission with five gears.

A6: 6-speed automatic transmission - a type of automatic transmission with six gears.

ABS: Anti-lock brake system - a safety system that prevents the wheels from locking up during heavy braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control and avoid skidding.

AC: Alternating current - an electric current that periodically changes direction.

ACC: Adaptive cruise control - a type of cruise control system that uses sensors to detect the speed and distance of other vehicles and automatically adjusts the speed of the vehicle to maintain a safe following distance.

ADAS: Advanced driving autonomous systems - systems that use sensors and computer-controlled algorithms to assist the driver in operating a vehicle.

ADB: Adaptive driving beam - a type of headlight system that uses sensors and computer-controlled algorithms to adjust the beam pattern of the headlights to improve visibility and reduce glare for other drivers.

AdvHEV: Hybrid vehicle - a type of vehicle that uses both a conventional internal combustion engine and an electric motor for propulsion, with the ability to switch between the two depending on driving conditions.

AEB: Autonomous emergency braking - a safety system that uses sensors and computer-controlled algorithms to automatically apply the brakes in an emergency situation to avoid a collision.

A/C: Air conditioning - a system that uses refrigerant and a compressor to cool the air inside a vehicle.

A/T: Automatic transmission - a type of transmission that uses a complex system of gears and clutches to automatically shift gears as the vehicle moves.

AFL: Adaptive front light - a type of headlight system that uses sensors and computer-controlled algorithms to adjust the beam pattern of the headlights to improve visibility and reduce glare for other drivers.

AFS: Adaptive front-light system - a type of headlight system that uses sensors and computer-controlled algorithms to adjust the beam pattern of the headlights to improve visibility and reduce glare for other drivers.

AHC: Automatic height controller - a system that automatically adjusts the ride height of a vehicle based on driving conditions and load.

AIR: Secondary air injection system - a system that injects fresh air into the exhaust stream of an engine in order to reduce emissions.

AMT: Automated manual transmission - a type of transmission that uses a hydraulic or electrical system to operate the clutch and shift gears, allowing the driver to shift gears manually or let the transmission shift automatically.

AT: Automatic transmission - a type of transmission that uses a complex system of gears and clutches to automatically shift gears as the vehicle moves.

ATLS: Automated truck loading systems - systems that use sensors and computer-controlled algorithms to assist in loading and unloading cargo from a truck.

ATX: Automatic transmission - a type of transmission that uses a complex system of gears and clutches to automatically shift gears as the vehicle moves.

Autogas: LPG when used as a vehicle fuel - autogas refers to liquid petroleum gas (LPG) when it is used as a fuel for vehicles. LPG is a clean-burning, low-emission fuel that can be used as an alternative to gasoline or diesel.

Aux: Auxiliary (normally referring to the auxiliary audio input) - auxiliary refers to an additional or supplementary feature or system. In the context of an audio system, it often refers to an auxiliary input, such as a headphone jack.

AWD: All-Wheel Drive - a type of drivetrain that powers all four wheels of a vehicle, allowing it to have better traction in all types of road conditions.

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