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Automotive Systems and Terminology Flashcards

7 cards from real CALA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Automotive Systems and Terminology flashcards as text

  1. What does the term 'unibody construction' mean in automotive design?

    Answer: The body and frame are integrated into a single structural unit

    Unibody (unit-body) construction integrates the body and frame into one piece, which is the dominant design for modern passenger cars.

  2. Which component is responsible for converting the rotational motion of the engine into the linear motion needed to turn the wheels?

    Answer: Rack-and-pinion steering gear

    The rack-and-pinion steering gear converts the rotational input from the steering wheel/column into the lateral (linear) movement that turns the front wheels.

  3. What is the primary function of a vehicle's crumple zones?

    Answer: To absorb and dissipate crash energy away from the passenger compartment

    Crumple zones are engineered to deform progressively in a crash, absorbing kinetic energy and reducing the force transmitted to occupants.

  4. An adjuster notes a damaged 'strut tower' on a repair estimate. Which vehicle system does this component belong to?

    Answer: Suspension system

    The strut tower is a reinforced section of the vehicle's body/frame that mounts the top of the MacPherson strut suspension assembly.

  5. What does 'TPMS' stand for, and what does it monitor?

    Answer: Tire Pressure Monitoring System; air pressure in each tire

    TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) uses sensors in each wheel to alert the driver when tire pressure falls below safe thresholds.

  6. In the context of automotive glass, what is 'laminated' glass and where is it typically used?

    Answer: Glass bonded with a plastic interlayer, used primarily in windshields

    Laminated glass consists of two glass layers bonded with a PVB plastic interlayer so that when broken, it holds together rather than shattering — standard for windshields.

  7. What is the role of the 'pinch weld' areas on a vehicle body?

    Answer: Structural seams where body panels are welded together, also used as lift points

    Pinch welds are the flanged seams where body panels are spot-welded together, and they serve as the designated lift points for floor jacks.