Mechanics A–Z dictionary
UK trade reference · plain English
Vehicle-repair vocabulary should connect a symptom with a diagnosis and a clearly authorised repair. An illuminated warning light is not proof that one named part must be replaced. Customers should agree investigation limits, parts and approval for extra work. Mechanics need competence for the actual vehicle, equipment and energy systems, especially electric and hybrid vehicles. These definitions are not lifting, isolation or repair procedures and do not make a household tool kit suitable for professional work.
This A–Z combines useful technical vocabulary with links to full references where the article meets our depth and sourcing checks. An unlinked definition is intentionally kept here rather than turned into a shallow standalone page. Read a quotation against its actual scope: a familiar word is not a complete specification.
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A
- Alignment
- Adjustment or measurement of relevant wheel geometry in this context. It is different from wheel balancing and should follow diagnosis of wear, damage and the vehicle specification.
D
- Diagnostic code
- A recorded indication from a vehicle system. It supports investigation but is not, by itself, proof that a particular component should be replaced.
H
- Hybrid vehicle
- A vehicle combining more than one propulsion-energy source in its design. High-voltage or other specialist work requires appropriate competence and safe arrangements for the actual system.
M
- MOT
- The statutory test for specified roadworthiness requirements in Great Britain. It is not a full service or a guarantee that every mechanical component is fault-free.
S
- Service schedule
- The maintenance requirements and intervals for the actual vehicle. Use the applicable manufacturer information rather than assume every model needs the same parts at one mileage.
T
- Torque specification
- A specified tightening requirement for a particular fastener and assembly. Correct equipment and procedure matter; more force is not automatically safer or a repair for damaged threads.
V
- Vehicle lift
- Equipment for supporting and raising vehicles in a designed arrangement. Selection, inspection, maintenance and competent use are essential; a jack alone is not a universal support plan.
W
- Wheel balancing
- Correction of an appropriate wheel-and-tyre assembly's mass imbalance. It is a different process from alignment and will not repair every vibration or damaged component.
Read the slang and site language dictionary · Browse related encyclopedia references
Sources and further reading
Linked article sources support the technical background; informal usage is editorial and varies by region. Full specification and legal requirements must be checked in the original.
- www.hse.gov.uk/construction/healthrisks/hazardous-substances/scabbling-or-grinding.htm
- HSE: construction dust
- HSE: work equipment duties
- National Careers Service: occupational routes and duties
- HSE: motor vehicle repair hazards and competence
- GOV.UK: mobile-air-conditioning qualification scope
- GOV.UK: apprenticeship basics
Sources checked: 8 November 2026. General reference, not instructions for safety-critical DIY. National regulations and current standards must be checked for the project.
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