Tips on "How to talk to techs"

Automotive service technicians speak their own technical language. You can help them by using their words if you understand their meaning. Here are some common examples.

HESITATES / HESITATION

A pause on acceleration when you depress the gas pedal.

 

MISSING

This describes the feel you get when one or more of the engines’ cylinders doesn’t provide power during its cycle. Usually rhythmic, it is often called “Putting” due to the “Putt-Putt-Putt” that can be heard out the exhaust pipe.

 

PUTTING

See “Missing”.

 

STALLS

Engine dies, usually when decelerating or at stops. Although the vehicle can die at cruising or road speeds. WHEN it stalls is crucial information to solve this problem if it is not consistent.

 

INTERMITTENT

A Condition that comes and goes. Example: A vehicle may miss only when cold or only on hard acceleration.

 

SLUGGISH

Lack of Performance, No “guts”, Lackadaisical acceleration.

 

HOT SOAK

Describes a condition where a vehicle has been fully warmed up then sits for a short period. Stops at gas stations, video stores, convenience stores, etc. are good examples.

 

CRANKS, NO START

In this condition the vehicle starter engages correctly and cranks the engine but the engine does not start.

 

NO CRANK, NO START

This describes the condition where the starter does not engage at all. Usually the battery or starter is at fault, although many other factors are involved as well.

 

PINGING

This is the term most used to describe pre-ignition detonation. This usually a noise similar to marbles rattling in a can, and is normally heard on acceleration, up hills or during interstate style driving. This condition can be caused by poor octane gas, poor engine tune, overheating or several other factors. Frequently this leads to severe engine damage.

 

KNOCKING

Although sometimes interchanged with “pinging”, knocking is a much deeper tone. It usually sounds like a hammer striking a heavy metal object and is usually somewhat muffled. This is normally not good news when used to describe engine noise.

 

SQUEAL

Self-Explanatory. Generally heard from the brakes, it may also come from drive belts slipping or metal parts rubbing together.

 

SQUEAK

See “Squeal”.

 

CHIRP

A sound like a baby bird under the hood. Usually a belt rubbing its side against a pulley.

 

CLUNK

A heavy knock, usually external or under car. Generally occurs going into drive or reverse or over a bump.

 

SHUDDER / CHATTER

Feels like driving over a washboard or rumble strips.

 

WHOOSH

The sound your money makes when it disappears because of lack of correct repairs.