Glossary of Auto Terms

DriverSide's Car Dictionary has the most comprehensive definitions of automotive terms. This auto glossary can help you decipher what your mechanic is fixing and what the purpose or function of the particular auto part or accessory is for. We have taken the mystery out of automotive service jargon, so that you don't have to.

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Caster

One of the "Big 3" of alignment along with camber and toe, the easiest way to visualize caster is to think of "chopper" motorcycles that have extremely exagerrated caster angles by the steering rod angle coming out of the side of the wheel around "2 o'clock" rather than straight up and down at "noon." The interesting thing about caster is that significant changes in caster are generally less harmful than similar changes in toe or camber. Increased caster generally yields increased steering feel.



See Also:
Camber
Suspension System
Control Arms
CV Joints
Shock Absorbers
Bushings
Leaf Springs
Chassis

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