The Vanagon Dictionary

Vertical structural components that support the vehicle's body

• safety
• structure

Condition where the vehicle turns less than intended, sliding towards the outside of a turn

• handling
• safety

a structural component designed to protect occupants in the event of a rollover

• safety
• interior

Computer system that controls the deployment of airbags in the event of a collision

• safety
• electronics

Type of airbag that provides protection for occupants' heads and sides

• safety
• restraint

Components designed to support and protect the head and neck in the event of an impact.

• safety
• comfort

A system that prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking

• brakes
• safety

Function that prevents the vehicle from rolling away accidentally when standing still or setting off

• brake
• safety

A device used to hold or secure a first-aid kit

• safety
• storage

Type of seat belt that restrains occupants in their seats

• safety
• restraint

Traction control system that intervenes in the engine management to counter wheel slip

• traction
• safety

A type of seat belt that retracts and has three points of attachment

• safety
• interior

A type of seat belt that provides three points of contact with the body

• seat
• belt
• safety

A type of seat belt that does not retract and has three points of attachment

• safety
• interior

Department of Transportation. an agency of the U.S. Federal Government that has authority over some aspects of auto- mobile construction, especially in the safety-related areas.

System designed to reduce the risk of injury in rear-end collisions by coordinating deceleration of the torso and head.

• safety
• comfort

(Technischer Überwachungs Verein) An agency of the German Federal Government. sort of a combination of DOT and EPA , as well as being responsible for inspecting cars every few years. They very thoroughly checks the car's safety features (breaks, body rust, steering). Older cars often fail, so they head for Eastern Europe, while Germany is left with only spic-and-span cars. Some people believe there is a collusion with car manufacturers to increase turnover.