Assam ASSEB HSLC NSQF Automotive study materials
Assam ASSEB HSLC NSQF Automotive study resources

Assam ASSEB HSLC NSQF Automotive key terms

Assam ASSEB HSLC NSQF Automotive · Get comfortable with the vocabulary.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Clothing and gear such as safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toe boots worn to protect the body from workplace hazards. In automotive workshops, PPE also includes ear protection and respirators when needed.

Related: Workshop Hazard, Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
Workshop Hazard

Any condition or action in a workshop that can cause injury or damage, such as slippery floors, unguarded machinery, or improper lifting. Identifying hazards is the first step in preventing accidents.

Related: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)

A safety procedure that isolates energy sources (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic) before maintenance. Locks and tags prevent accidental startup, protecting workers from serious injury.

Related: Workshop Hazard, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Torque Wrench

A wrench designed to apply a specific torque to a fastener. It clicks or signals when the set torque is reached, ensuring bolts are tightened correctly without damage.

Related: Fastener, Torque Specification
Feeler Gauge

A set of thin metal blades of precise thickness used to measure small gaps, such as valve clearances or spark plug gaps. The blade that fits snugly indicates the gap size.

Related: Vernier Caliper, Valve Clearance
Vernier Caliper

A measuring tool with a main scale and a sliding vernier scale used to measure internal, external, and depth dimensions to a precision of 0.02 mm or 0.001 inch.

Related: Feeler Gauge, Micrometer
Micrometer

A precision measuring instrument with a calibrated screw used to measure thickness or diameter to 0.01 mm. It is commonly used to check wear on engine components like cylinder bores and brake discs.

Related: Vernier Caliper, Cylinder Bore
Four-Stroke Cycle

The operating cycle of most automotive engines, consisting of intake, compression, power, and exhaust strokes. Each stroke corresponds to one full movement of the piston.

Related: Piston, Crankshaft
Piston

A cylindrical component that moves up and down inside the cylinder bore, transmitting force from combustion to the connecting rod and crankshaft. It is fitted with rings to seal the combustion chamber.

Related: Crankshaft, Cylinder Bore
Crankshaft

A rotating shaft that converts the reciprocating motion of the pistons into rotational force. It drives the flywheel, transmission, and auxiliary components via belts or gears.

Related: Piston, Flywheel
Valve Clearance

The small gap between the valve stem tip and the rocker arm or cam follower. Correct clearance is essential for proper valve operation and is measured with a feeler gauge.

Related: Feeler Gauge, Four-Stroke Cycle
Clutch

A mechanism that engages and disengages the engine from the transmission, allowing smooth starts and gear changes. It transmits torque through friction between the flywheel and clutch disc.

Related: Flywheel, Gearbox
Gearbox

A transmission component containing gears that provide different speed and torque ratios between the engine and the wheels. It allows the vehicle to operate efficiently at various speeds.

Related: Clutch, Differential
Differential

A gear assembly that allows the drive wheels to rotate at different speeds while delivering power, essential for smooth cornering. It is part of the driveline in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles.

Related: Gearbox, Driveshaft
Driveshaft

A rotating shaft that transmits torque from the transmission or transfer case to the differential. It often includes universal joints to accommodate suspension movement.

Related: Differential, Gearbox
Hydraulic Brake System

A braking system that uses brake fluid under pressure to force brake pads or shoes against a rotating surface. It multiplies pedal force and provides reliable stopping power.

Related: Brake Fluid, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

An electronic system that prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking by rapidly modulating brake pressure. This helps the driver maintain steering control and reduces stopping distance on slippery surfaces.

Related: Hydraulic Brake System, Wheel Speed Sensor
Wheel Alignment

Adjustment of the angles of the wheels (camber, caster, toe) to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications. Proper alignment ensures even tire wear and stable steering.

Related: Suspension System, Tire Tread Depth
Suspension System

The assembly of springs, shock absorbers, and linkages that connects the vehicle body to the wheels. It absorbs road shocks, maintains tire contact, and contributes to ride comfort and handling.

Related: Wheel Alignment, Shock Absorber
Shock Absorber

A hydraulic device that damps spring oscillation in the suspension system, preventing excessive bouncing and improving road holding. It converts kinetic energy into heat.

Related: Suspension System, Wheel Alignment
Battery

A device that stores electrical energy chemically and supplies it to the vehicle's electrical system. It provides power for starting, lighting, and ignition, and is recharged by the alternator.

Related: Alternator, Starter Motor
Alternator

A belt-driven generator that converts mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy to charge the battery and power the vehicle's electrical systems while the engine runs.

Related: Battery, Starter Motor
Starter Motor

An electric motor that cranks the engine by turning the flywheel until the engine starts and runs on its own. It draws high current from the battery.

Related: Battery, Alternator
Fuel Injection

A system that delivers fuel into the engine's intake or combustion chamber in a precisely metered spray. It improves efficiency and emissions compared to carburetion.

Related: Fuel Pump, Engine Lubrication
Engine Lubrication

The circulation of oil through the engine to reduce friction, cool components, and clean internal parts. It prevents metal-to-metal contact and extends engine life.

Related: Oil Filter, Cooling System
Cooling System

A system that removes excess heat from the engine to maintain optimal operating temperature. It typically uses a liquid coolant, radiator, water pump, and thermostat.

Related: Engine Lubrication, Radiator
Radiator

A heat exchanger that dissipates heat from the engine coolant to the atmosphere. It consists of tubes and fins that maximize surface area for cooling.

Related: Cooling System, Thermostat
Chassis

The framework of a vehicle that supports the body, engine, and suspension. It provides structural integrity and serves as a mounting point for major components.

Related: Frame, Vehicle Body
Frame

The main structural skeleton of a vehicle, often made of steel or aluminum. It supports the chassis components and absorbs road loads and impacts.

Related: Chassis, Vehicle Body
Fastener

A hardware device that joins or secures two or more parts, such as bolts, nuts, screws, and rivets. Proper selection and torque are critical for safety and reliability.

Related: Torque Wrench, Torque Specification
Torque Specification

The manufacturer-recommended tightening force for a fastener, usually given in newton-meters (Nm) or pound-feet (lb-ft). Following it prevents loosening or damage.

Related: Torque Wrench, Fastener
Preventive Maintenance

Scheduled servicing such as oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections performed to prevent breakdowns and extend vehicle life. It reduces long-term repair costs.

Related: Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), Service Manual
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)

An alphanumeric code stored by the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system when a fault is detected. Technicians use a scan tool to read DTCs and guide repairs.

Related: On-Board Diagnostics (OBD), Preventive Maintenance
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD)

A computer-based system in modern vehicles that monitors emissions and engine performance. It illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) when a fault is detected.

Related: Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), Scan Tool
Workplace Communication

The exchange of information among team members, supervisors, and customers through verbal, written, and digital channels. Clear communication prevents errors and improves safety.

Related: Service Manual, Job Card
Job Card

A document that records details of a repair or service job, including customer information, vehicle details, work requested, and parts used. It helps track progress and ensure accountability.

Related: Workplace Communication, Service Manual
Entrepreneurship

The process of starting and running a business, taking financial risks in hope of profit. In automotive trades, it may involve opening a repair shop or parts dealership.

Related: Workplace Communication, Customer Service
Customer Service

The assistance and support provided to customers before, during, and after a service. Good customer service builds trust, loyalty, and a positive business reputation.

Related: Entrepreneurship, Workplace Communication
Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

A document that provides information about the hazards, handling, storage, and emergency procedures for a chemical product. It is essential for safe use of workshop chemicals.

Related: Hazardous Waste, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Hazardous Waste

Waste that poses a risk to human health or the environment, such as used oil, solvents, and batteries. It must be stored, labeled, and disposed of according to regulations.

Related: Safety Data Sheet (SDS), Waste Segregation
Waste Segregation

The practice of separating waste into categories (e.g., recyclable, hazardous, general) at the point of generation. It facilitates proper disposal and recycling and reduces environmental harm.

Related: Hazardous Waste, Safety Data Sheet (SDS)