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Auto Parts Glossary: Car Part Terms Explained

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Auto Parts Glossary

PCD, offset, OEM, ceramic pads β€” auto parts come with a lot of jargon. Here’s a plain-English glossary so you can shop with confidence.

πŸ’¬ Chat with us β€” Viber 0907 133 4680

New to car parts? These are the terms you’ll see most often, explained simply.

PCD (Bolt Pattern)

The Pitch Circle Diameter β€” the number of wheel bolts and the diameter of the circle they form (e.g. 4×100). Your mags must match your car’s PCD. See our PCD guide.

Offset

How far a wheel’s mounting face sits from its centerline. The right offset gives proper clearance and stance; the wrong one causes rubbing.

OEM

Original Equipment Manufacturer β€” parts that match what your car came with from the factory.

Aftermarket

Parts made by companies other than your car’s manufacturer. Quality ranges from budget to premium β€” brand and material matter most.

Ceramic Brake Pads

Brake pads made with ceramic compounds β€” quiet, low-dust, and long-lasting. Ideal for daily driving. See ceramic vs semi-metallic.

Semi-Metallic Brake Pads

Brake pads with metal content for strong bite and heat resistance β€” great for heavy or spirited driving, but noisier and dustier.

Brake Shoe

The curved friction component in drum brakes (often on the rear of pickups and older cars), versus pads used in disc brakes.

DRL

Daytime Running Lights β€” lights that stay on during the day for visibility and a modern look.

Aspect Ratio

In a tire size like 185/65 R15, the 65 is the aspect ratio β€” the sidewall height as a percentage of width. See how to read tire size.

Mags / Alloy Wheels

Lightweight wheels made from aluminum or magnesium alloy β€” better looks and performance than steel. Browse our mag wheels price list.

Still have a question?

Message us your car and what you’re trying to fix β€” we’ll translate the jargon and recommend the right part.

πŸ’¬ Chat with us β€” Viber/WhatsApp 0907 133 4680