Automotive terms Modern (E)
Automotive Technical terms and abbreviations overview used in the industry, Guide and explanations.
The following are examples of Mid Modern technical terms recommended for general use worldwide.For in-depth specific terms also see terms for historic vintage and specific areas such as Paint.
EARLY:
Condition where shift occurs before vehicle has reached proper speed, which tends to labor engine after upshift.
EBCM:
See Electronic Control Unit (ECU).
ECM:
See Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
ECU:
Electronic control unit.
ELECTRODE:
Conductor (positive or negative) of electric current.
ELECTROLYSIS:
A surface etching or bonding of current conducting transmission/transaxle components that may occur when grounding straps are missing or in poor condition.
ELECTROLYTE:
A solution of water and sulfuric acid used to activate the battery. Electrolyte is extremely corrosive.
ELECTROMAGNET:
A coil that produces a magnetic field when current flows through its windings.
ELECTROMAGNETIC INDUCTION:
A method to create (generate) current flow through the use of magnetism.
ELECTROMAGNETISM:
The effects surrounding the relationship between electricity and magnetism.
ELECTROMOTIVE FORCE (EMF)
The force or pressure (voltage) that causes current movement in an electrical circuit.
ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT:
A digital computer that controls engine (and sometimes transmission, brake or other vehicle system) functions based on data received from various sensors.
Examples used by some manufacturers include Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Vehicle Control Module (VCM).
ELECTRONIC IGNITION:
A system in which the timing and firing of the spark plugs is controlled by an electronic control unit, usually called a module. These systems have no points or condenser.
ELECTRONIC PRESSURE CONTROL (EPC) SOLENOID:
A specially designed solenoid containing a spool valve and spring assembly to control fluid mainline pressure. A variable current flow, controlled by the
ECM/PCM, varies the internal force of the solenoid on the spool valve and resulting mainline pressure. (See variable force solenoid.)
ELECTRONICS:
Miniaturized electrical circuits utilizing semiconductors, solid-state devices, and printed circuits. Electronic circuits utilize small amounts of power.
ELECTRONIFICATION:
The application of electronic circuitry to a mechanical device. Regarding automatic transmissions, electrification is incorporated into converter clutch lockup, shift scheduling, and line pressure control systems.
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (SD):
An unwanted, high-voltage electrical current released by an individual who has taken on a static charge of electricity. Electronic components can be easily damaged by ESD.
ELEMENT:
A device within a hydrodynamic drive unit designed with a set of blades to direct fluid flow.
ENAMEL:
Type of paint that dries to a smooth, glossy finish.
END BUMP (END FEEL OR SLIP BUMP):
Firmer feel at end of shift when compared with feel at start of shift.
END-PLAY:
The clearance/gap between two components that allows for expansion of the parts as they warm up, to prevent binding and to allow
space for lubrication.
ENERGY:
The ability or capacity to do work.
ENGINE:
The primary motor or power apparatus of a vehicle, which converts liquid or gas fuel into mechanical energy.
ENGINE BLOCK:
The basic engine casting containing the cylinders, the crankshaft main bearings, as well as machined surfaces for the mounting of other components such as the cylinder head, oil pan, transmission, etc.
ENGINE BRAKING:
Use of engine to slow vehicle by manually down-shifting during zero-throttle coast down.
ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM):
Manages the engine and incorporates output control over the torque converter clutch solenoid. (Note: Current designation for the ECM in late model vehicles is PCM.)
ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE (ECT) SENSOR:
Prevents converter clutch engagement with a cold engine; also used for shift timing and shift quality.
EP LUBRICANT:
EP (extreme pressure) lubricants are specially formulated for use with gears involving heavy loads (transmissions, differentials,etc.).
ETHYL:
A substance added to gasoline to improve its resistance to knock, by slowing down the rate of combustion.
ETHYLENE GLYCOL:
The base substance of antifreeze.
EXHAUST MANIFOLD:
A set of cast passages or pipes which conduct exhaust gases from the engine.
