Automotive Glossary
Automotive Glossary
Browse the glossary using this index
Special | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | ALL
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KAMSee Keep Alive Memory. | |
KDSKick Down Switch. | |
KE-JetronicA mechanical injection system from Bosch, but with some electronic control. | |
KERSA kinetic energy recovery system is an electric generation, storage, and propulsion system used in Formula One (up to 2010 anyway), which generates electricity during slow down, stores energy in batteries or a flywheel, and boosts acceleration with electric drive motors assisting the engine. Many hybrid cars are similar. | |
KeyA locating device that sits in slots on a shaft and pulley or gear wheel. Also known as Woodruff key. | |
Key DataImportant, relevant information. | |
KeyboardThe typewriter-like keys used to input data into a computer. An input device. | |
kHzKilohertz | |
Kick DownA switch of a cable on an automatic transmission signals that the throttle is at least 90% open. Under certain conditions this causes a downshift for improved acceleration. | |
Kick Down SwitchSwitch on an automatic transmission that signals that the throttle is at least 90% open. Under certain conditions causes a downshift for improved acceleration. | |
Kick-outThe precipitation of dissolved binder or additive from solution as a result of solvent incompatibility. | |
KickbackRoad shocks transmitted to the driver through the steering system. | |
Kilowatt1000 watts | |
KineticMovement energy. | |
Kinetic BalanceThe balance of a rotating component about the perpendicular to the axis. Wheel balance has both static and dynamic quantities. | |
Kinetic EnergyEnergy in the form of a mass moving. | |
King Pin AngleAlternative term for KPI (King Pin Inclination). | |
King Pin InclinationThe angle that the king pin axis tilts from the vertical. Used to provide centre point steering where the centre of the tyre tread is on the steering pin axis. | |
King PinsA type of steering swivel fitted to beam axles. | |
KmKilometres | |
KNKKnock signal from an engine knock sensor to the ECM. | |
KnockAdvanced or quick detonation of fuel in a cylinder where the resultant pressure rise causes a shock wave through the piston, crankshaft and engine block. | |
Knock SensorA piezoelectric sensor used to provide sensor signals to an ECM when an engine is knocking. A closed loop control retards the ignition to prevent knock. | |
KnockingUsed to describe engine knock or a noise produced that sounds like one object hitting another. | |
KnowledgeKnowledge is defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as (i) expertise, and skills acquired by a person through experience or education; the theoretical or practical understanding of a subject; (ii) what is known in a particular field or in total; facts and information; or (iii) awareness or familiarity gained by experience of a fact or situation. | |
Knuckle (Steering)Steering stub axle assembly. Also known as a steering swivel. | |
KOEC''Key On, Engine Cranking'' | |
KOEO''Key On, Engine Off'' | |
KOER''Key On, Engine Running'' | |
kPaKilopascals - unit of pressure. | |
KPIKing Pin Inclination or the angle that the king pin axis tilts from the vertical. | |
KSKnock Sensor. | |
KVKilovolts | |