The Technology Dictionary for Automotive Service Businesses

Whether you’re new to tech or a seasoned vet, it’s crucial we all know and agree on the slang. Below is a list of terms you’ll probably hear us talking about and definitely to know when we do.

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The Technology Dictionary for Automotive Service B …

Alphabetical List of Terms

5G Connectivity – High-speed cellular networks that enable faster data transfer for connected and autonomous vehicles.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) – Automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe following distance from the car ahead.

ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) – Technologies that aid drivers in various driving tasks for enhanced safety and comfort.

AI Hallucination is where a large language model (LLM) like OpenAI‘s GPT4 or Google PaLM creates false information or facts that aren’t based on real data or events.

Algorithm – A set of instructions for solving a problem or completing a task.

App – Short for "application," a software program that performs a specific function.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) – The simulation of human intelligence in computers. Enables ADAS systems to process complex situations and assist the driver effectively.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) – A system that automatically applies brakes if an imminent collision is detected.

Autonomous Driving – The technology that enables a vehicle to drive itself with minimal or no human intervention.

Bandwidth – The amount of data that can be transmitted over an internet connection in a given time.

Battery Management System (BMS) – Technology that monitors and manages a vehicle's battery pack to ensure safety and performance.

Binary Code – The basic language of computers, using ones and zeros.

Blind Spot Detection – A system that alerts the driver of vehicles or objects in their blind spots.

Brake Energy Recuperation – Similar to regenerative braking, this process captures energy lost during braking to recharge the battery.

Browser – A program used to access the internet (e.g., Chrome, Safari).

Byte – A unit of data typically representing a single character (e.g., letter or number).

Calibration – The process of setting up ADAS components to ensure they operate accurately, especially after repairs.

Camera – An optical sensor used to detect objects, lane markings, and road signs.

Charge-Depleting Mode – A mode where the vehicle uses stored battery energy until it reaches a lower limit, after which the internal combustion engine takes over.

Charge-Sustaining Mode – A mode where the vehicle’s battery is maintained at a constant state of charge without needing an external power source.

Cloud Computing – Using remote servers on the internet to store and process data.

Coding – Writing instructions in a language that computers can understand.

Collision Avoidance – Encompasses multiple systems (e.g., AEB, FCW) to prevent accidents by alerting the driver or taking corrective action.

Connected Car – A vehicle equipped with internet access, allowing it to share data with other devices or systems.

CPU (Central Processing Unit) – The brain of the computer that processes instructions.

Cybersecurity – The practice of protecting systems and networks from digital attacks. Specifically, protecting automotive systems and data from cyber threats as vehicles become more connected.

Data – Information processed or stored by a computer.

Database – A structured set of data stored in a computer.

Debugging – The process of finding and fixing errors in code.

Digital Twin – A virtual model of a physical vehicle, used to simulate performance and predict maintenance needs.

Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVI) – An electronic process that allows technicians to document, photograph, and share a vehicle's inspection results in real-time with customers, providing transparency and enabling informed repair decisions.

Download – To transfer data from the internet to a computer.

Driver Monitoring System (DMS) – Monitors the driver’s attention level, typically using cameras or sensors, and alerts if drowsiness or distraction is detected.

Drive-by-Wire – A system that replaces traditional mechanical control with electronic signals, allowing more precise control in hybrid vehicles.

Dynamic Range – Refers to a sensor’s ability to capture details across a range of lighting conditions, important for ADAS performance.

eAWD (Electric All-Wheel Drive) – A system where an electric motor powers the rear wheels, allowing for AWD performance without a mechanical link to the front engine.

Electrification – The shift from traditional combustion engines to electric-powered vehicles.

Electro-Mechanical Systems – Systems that combine electrical and mechanical processes, essential in modern vehicles.

Encryption – The process of converting information into a code to prevent unauthorized access.

Fast Charging – Technology that rapidly recharges an electric vehicle's battery, often in under 30 minutes.

Firewall – Security software that blocks unauthorized access to a network.

Fleet Management – Systems and technology that monitor and manage a group of vehicles used by a business or service.

Forward Collision Warning (FCW) – Warns the driver of a potential collision with the vehicle or object ahead.

Fuel Economy Rating – The measurement of fuel efficiency (typically in miles per gallon) that represents how efficiently a hybrid vehicle uses fuel and electricity.

Hardware – The physical components of a computer (e.g., keyboard, monitor).

HEV Mode – The default driving mode in hybrids, using both the engine and electric motor as needed.

Highway Assist – An advanced driver assistance feature that aids in lane-keeping, speed adjustment, and distance maintenance on highways.

Human-Machine Interface (HMI) – The user interface in a vehicle, including displays, voice control, and touchscreens.

Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) – Toyota’s proprietary hybrid technology that combines an electric motor with a gasoline engine for improved fuel efficiency.

In-Vehicle Payments – Technology that allows drivers to make purchases directly from the car, such as fuel or tolls.

Internet – The global network of computers connected to each other.

Information Technology (IT) is the use of computing and telecommunication technologies, systems, and tools to facilitate the way information is created, collected, processed, transmitted, and stored.

Infotainment – In-car entertainment and information systems, integrating navigation, media, and connectivity.

Keyboard Shortcut – A combination of keys that perform a specific task (e.g., Ctrl+C to copy).

Lane Departure Warning (LDW) – Alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane.

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) – A system that actively steers the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift.

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) – Laser technology used in autonomous vehicles to map surroundings and detect objects.

Lithium-Ion Battery – A type of rechargeable battery commonly used in hybrids for its high energy density and lightweight characteristics.

Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) – A vehicle that meets specific emission standards, producing fewer pollutants compared to traditional vehicles.

Machine Learning – The use of algorithms in ADAS to improve decision-making based on patterns in data.

Malware – Software designed to harm or exploit a computer or network.

Mobility as a Service (MaaS) – A model where users pay for transportation services on demand, often through shared or autonomous vehicles.

Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Battery – Another type of battery used in some hybrids; it’s more durable than lithium-ion but has a lower energy density.

Night Vision – Uses infrared sensors to detect objects in low-light conditions beyond the reach of headlights.

Obstacle Detection – Detects objects around the vehicle to avoid potential collisions, especially during low-speed maneuvers.

Operating System (OS) – The main software that manages computer hardware and software (e.g., Windows, macOS).

Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates – Wireless updates sent to the vehicle's software, allowing ADAS improvements without a service visit.

Parking Assistance – A system that helps the driver with parking, sometimes by taking over steering or providing guidance.

Parallel Hybrid – A hybrid system where both the electric motor and the internal combustion engine can independently or jointly drive the vehicle's wheels.

Pedestrian Detection – Identifies pedestrians in or near the roadway and can apply brakes to avoid a collision.

Pixel – The smallest unit of a digital image, often measured in dots per inch (DPI).

Predictive Maintenance – Using data and machine learning to predict and address vehicle issues before they occur.

Program – A set of instructions that a computer follows to perform a specific task.

Radar – Radio waves used to detect the distance, angle, and speed of objects around the vehicle.

Range Anxiety – The fear of running out of battery power in an electric vehicle without a nearby charging station.

Range Extender – A small auxiliary engine that generates electricity to recharge the battery and extend the electric driving range.

Regenerative Braking – A system that recovers energy during braking by converting kinetic energy into electrical energy, which is then stored in the battery.

Ride-Hailing – On-demand transportation services like Uber or Lyft, often part of the shared mobility ecosystem.

Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) – Detects and prevents the vehicle from unintentionally veering off the road.

Router – A device that connects multiple devices to a network.

Shared Mobility – Transportation models where vehicles are shared among users, such as car-sharing or ride-hailing.

Sensor Calibration – Adjusting the ADAS sensors to ensure accuracy, typically required after repairs or part replacements.

Sensor Fusion – The combination of data from multiple sensors (e.g., cameras, radar) to create a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle's surroundings.

Series Hybrid – A configuration where the internal combustion engine generates electricity to power the electric motor, which solely drives the wheels.

Server – A computer or system that provides data to other computers on a network.

Smart Charging – Systems that optimize electric vehicle charging, often scheduling it based on grid demand and pricing.

Smart Infrastructure – Technology-equipped infrastructure that communicates with connected vehicles to improve traffic flow and safety.

Software – The programs and other operating information used by a computer.

Storage – Where data is saved, such as a hard drive or cloud.

Subscription Model – A service model where customers pay a recurring fee for vehicle use or features rather than full ownership.

Sustainable Mobility – Initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact through EVs, car-sharing, and alternative fuels.

Surround View System – Uses multiple cameras to provide a 360-degree view around the vehicle for easier parking and maneuvering.

Tech Stack: A collection of software systems used together to get work done.

Telematics – Technology that collects and transmits data from the vehicle for diagnostics, safety, and monitoring.

Traffic Jam Assist – Helps maintain a set following distance and lane position in slow-moving traffic.

Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) – A system that reads and displays road signs to inform or warn the driver.

Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) – A vehicle that emits substantially fewer pollutants than the average for new vehicles, often a hybrid or electric.

Ultrasonic Sensors – Sensors that use sound waves to detect objects close to the vehicle, commonly used in parking assistance.

Upload – To transfer data from a computer to the internet or another device.

URL (Uniform Resource Locator) – The address of a web page on the internet.

V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) – Communication technology that allows vehicles to communicate with each other and infrastructure, improving safety and efficiency.

Vehicle Data Platform – A system for collecting, analyzing, and using data from a vehicle’s sensors and systems.

Zero Emission Mode (ZEV Mode) – A mode where the vehicle runs solely on electric power, producing no tailpipe emissions.

Software Terms

Point of Sale (POS) – A system that handles transactions and payments in your shop, integrated with service and inventory management.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) – A tool for managing customer interactions, history, and data to improve service and retention.

Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) – A feature that enables technicians to record inspection results, photos, and videos electronically, which can be shared with customers.

Work Order Management – Software functionality for creating, tracking, and managing work orders for each vehicle service.

Repair Order (RO) – The document created for each service, detailing tasks, labor, and parts, managed within the software.

Inventory Management – A system for tracking parts and supplies, helping maintain optimal stock levels and reduce downtime.

Service History – A record of all previous repairs and maintenance for each customer’s vehicle, accessible for reference and future recommendations.

Job Scheduling – A calendar tool to schedule and assign jobs to technicians, optimizing workflow and reducing wait times.

Appointment Reminder – Automated notifications to remind customers of upcoming appointments, reducing no-shows.

Labor Time Guide – A feature providing standard times for specific repairs, helping estimate labor costs and improve accuracy.

Parts Catalog – A digital catalog that provides information on parts availability, pricing, and specifications.

Technician Time Tracking – Tracks the time each technician spends on jobs, helping manage productivity and payroll.

Multi-Point Inspection (MPI) – A standardized inspection process that ensures thorough checks, often customizable within the software.

Diagnostic Codes – Codes (DTCs) generated from a vehicle’s system, allowing technicians to quickly identify issues.

Estimate Builder – A tool for creating cost estimates for repairs and services, based on labor, parts, and other fees.

Profit Margin Tracking – A feature that calculates and tracks profit margins on parts and labor for better financial insight.

Invoice Generation – Software that creates and manages invoices, allowing you to bill customers accurately.

Electronic Signature Capture – Allows customers to sign digitally on estimates and invoices, streamlining the approval process.

Parts Ordering Integration – Links directly to parts suppliers to streamline ordering and inventory updates.

Reporting & Analytics – Provides data on sales, expenses, and performance metrics to help improve business decisions.

Technician Efficiency – Tracks each technician’s productivity, showing time spent versus billed time on each job.

Shop Supplies Management – Tracks the use and charges of consumable supplies like oils, cleaners, and rags, billed to customers as needed.

Customer Portal – A web interface where customers can view their service history, schedule appointments, and approve repairs.

Warranty Tracking – Records details on parts and services under warranty, ensuring claims are managed effectively.

QuickBooks Integration – Synchronizes financial data with QuickBooks for streamlined accounting and bookkeeping.

Real-Time Notifications – Alerts customers and technicians to updates, approvals, or completed repairs in real-time.

Dynamic Pricing – Automatically adjusts part and labor prices based on demand, cost changes, or promotions.

User Permissions – Controls access levels for staff, ensuring that sensitive information is secure and only accessible to authorized users.

Document Storage – Stores documents like repair orders, inspection photos, and customer communications in one place for easy access.

Customer Pay vs. Warranty – Distinguishes between services paid directly by the customer and those covered under warranty, helping in billing and warranty claims.

Automatic Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Terms

ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) – Technologies that aid drivers in various driving tasks for enhanced safety and comfort.

Sensor Fusion – The combination of data from multiple sensors (e.g., cameras, radar) to create a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle's surroundings.

Camera – An optical sensor used to detect objects, lane markings, and road signs.

Radar – Radio waves used to detect the distance, angle, and speed of objects around the vehicle.

Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) – A system that uses laser light to create a 3D map of the vehicle’s surroundings.