Ever found yourself scratching your head while looking at a vehicle for sale advert or reading a review? You're not the only one! Buying your next vehicle can be tricky at the best of times with things like deposits, finance, trade-ins, appraisals and of course finding a vehicle you love to worry about. That's why we have put together our list of the most common abbreviations you are likely to find here on Drivesouth. Make purchasing your next vehicle that much easier with this great glossary of must-know terms!
Abbreviations:
4WD/4x4 – Four wheel drive vehicle. A common option in both Utes and SUV's
ABS – Anti-lock braking system. An anti-skid braking system that prevents your wheels from locking up during braking, especially in an emergency.
A/C – Air conditioning. A modern must-have!
ACC – Automatic climate control. More advanced than AC - this offers control of the temperature in the whole cabin
Alloys – Alloy wheels. Can often improve the look of the vehicle and are
lighter and more durable than steel.
AWD – Popular terminology for permanent four-wheel-drive systems. The vehicle can distribute power to all four wheels rather than just to the front or rear wheels only. Also 4wd, 4x4.
Auto/A/T – Automatic transmission.
BAS – Brake assist system. Instantly increase braking power in an
emergency to shorten the braking distance.
BLIS/BLW – Blind Spot Information System. A system using radar to inform the driver of vehicles in the proximity of the rear of the car. Especially handy when changing lanes!
BSM - Blind Spot Monitoring. A blind-spot monitor is a vehicle-based sensor device that detects other vehicles located to the driver’s side and rear. Warnings can be visual, audible, vibrating or tactile. However, blind-spot monitors are an option that may include more than monitoring the sides of the vehicle. It can include "Cross Traffic Alert," "which alerts drivers backing out of a parking space when traffic is approaching from the sides"
BT – Bluetooth. More commonly found in vehicles after 2012, before
this they can be BT but for phone calls only and not for music - always check with the dealer if you are unsure.
CC/Cruise – Cruise control. This lets you set the speed you want when you are travelling and allows the vehicle to take over the gas for you.
CVT – Continuously variable transmission. A type of automatic transmission that can better control the engine speeds.
DRL – Daytime running lights. Front lamps are used to increase daytime
driving visibility.
DPF – Diesel particulate filter. A diesel engine device designed to remove
diesel particulate matter that can build up from the exhaust gas
of a diesel engine.
EBA - Emergency Brake Assist. Brake-assist monitors brake pedal force and input speed to determine when emergency braking is occurring. When detected, it automatically applies maximum braking force to all wheels.
EFI - Electronic Fuel Injection. EFI systems replace carburettors as fitted to older vehicles. The electronically controlled fuel injectors deliver fuel more efficiently, improving economy, emissions and drivability.
ESP – Electronic stability program. Helps to correct the vehicle instability during an uncontrollable or emergency.
FCM – Forward Collision mitigation. Radar used to identify obstructions
ahead and warn of a potential crash.
F/L or FL – Facelift. This happens when a vehicle model has its front end redesigned but the functionality remains the same. This is essentially an appearance upgrade.
Full serv./FSH – Full-service history. This is a detailed history of when the car was in for servicing and what mechanical repairs or maintenance was undertaken. This provides valuable insight into the history of the vehicle.
FWD - Front Wheel Drive. Engine power is delivered through the front wheels. More common today than Rear Wheel Drive. Also 2wd, 2x4
HEV - Hybrid-Electric Vehicle - Vehicle which combines a conventional internal combustion engine propulsion system with an electric propulsion system.
LED - Light-emitting diodes. Usually referring to a type of ultra-bright
headlamps that are brighter & longer lasting than traditional alternatives.
LEV - Low-emission Vehicle. A vehicle which emits low levels of exhaust emissions, anti-pollution.
MMI/Multimedia – A single integrated interface which controls a variety
of devices & functions of the vehicle. Usually via the steering wheel
and display screen.
ORC – On road costs. Registration, WOF, delivery, warranty. All of these
can fall under ORC which is added to the advertised or negotiated
price.
Rev. Cam/RVC – Reversing camera. This is a camera on the rear of the vehicle which gives a view from behind when in reverse. Particularly helpful for parking!
SAT–NAV/Nav – GPS technology interface built into the system of the
vehicle. This can often be spoken and app-based in newer models.
SUV – Sport Utility vehicle. An SUV is a cross between a classic sedan and a utility vehicle providing the comfort of the utility vehicle but the handling of a sedan.
TDI – Turbodiesel injection. Most modern diesel engines are now fitted
with this feature to maximise performance
Tints – Tinted windows. Either the passenger and drivers windows have
been tinted as well as the rear. Front windows are not allowed to be tinted under New Zealand law.
VIN - Vehicle Identification Number. A unique 17 digit number, for each car, that can identify the date of manufacture, manufacturing plant and standards etc.
ZEV – Zero-emission vehicle. A vehicle that emits zero exhaust emissions
while driving, aka a fully electric vehicle!
Look out for our next list featuring common badge designations and definitions!
