Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function: COMPLETE GUIDE

We all have seen cars. Most of us even drove one. But, do you know what cars are made of? Their parts, location, and function? When we get something new, we always read the instructions to learn how it operates and what is it made of. Why should it be different with cars?

I know, in order to get your driving license you need to pass an exam about the traffic rules and to actually know how to drive. But, it is also important to know the parts of the carOpens in a new tab.

I will do my best to provide as many details and information as I can in this article. Below is a table of contents so you can jump to the part that interests you.

Car Engine Bay Parts

The engine is the heart of the vehicle. If you are not mechanic, opening the hood and looking at the engine can be very confusing. But, once you learn a thing or two about how the engine works, you will put together the whole picture, puzzle by puzzle.

Alternator

The alternator has main function supply the vehicle with electrical energy by converting the mechanical energy coming from the crank shaft and to recharge the car battery. The alternator is an essential item because a car battery doesn’t have the ability to recharge itself. It can only run for 15-30 minutes and then your car will turn of.

That’s where the alternator comes into place. As fuel is taken from the fuel tank into the engine and combustion occurs, the crank shaft gets moving power which is transferred to the alternator by the serpentine belt. The alternator takes that ‘moving’ or mechanical power and powers a magnet and a copper wire coil that transforms the mechanical energy into electrical energy.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Alternator
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Alternator

See: What Are The Symptoms Of A Bad Alternator?

I think that now you have the full picture about the importance of the alternator and why you must always have a functioning alternator. If you cannot start your car on your own, but you can do so by jump starting it, you might want to look into the battery or the alternator.

A full replacement of the alternator will cost from $500 to $1000.

There are 5 types of alternators:

  • Vehicle Alternators
  • Diesel-electric Locomotive Alternators
  • Marine Alternators
  • Brushless Alternators
  • Radio Alternators

Battery

The car battery has a main function to store electrical energy and to supply the starter with power in order to start the vehicle. The battery also provides electrical energy to the radio, lights and other car components driven by electricity.

See: What Drains A Car Battery While It Is Off?

Please note that when the vehicle is turned off, the battery can supply the carOpens in a new tab.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Battery
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Battery

If your car is constantly losing power you might need a new battery. A brand new battery costs anywhere between $50 and $200.

Most of the vehicle use a starting, lighting and ignition batteries.

Clutch

The clutch has a function to transmit the torque from the engine into the drive-train. Basically, the clutch enables smooth vehicle movement by delivering the power from the engine to the drive-train. Also, the clutch reduces drive related vibrations.

The clutch itself is located on the rear side of the engine and it is attached to the flywheel, and clutch pedal is located on the floor of the car, on the left far side. It can be found only on cars with manual transmission. The cars with automatic transmission have a built-in clutch that is not visible from the cabin. Replacing a clutch can cost anywhere from $1000 to $1400.

There are 9 types of clutches:

  • Single plate clutch: Mostly used on modern light vehicles.
  • Multi-plate clutch: More clutches means more friction surface, therefore, more capacity to transmit torque.
  • Cone clutch: The friction surfaces are in a shape of a cone(2 of them).
  • Centrifugal clutch: Uses centrifugal force to keep the clutches in engaged position.
  • Semi-centrifugal clutch: This clutches uses the centrifugal force only to transmit torque at higher speed engine. For regular speed, the clutch uses levers and clutch springs.
  • Dog and spline clutch: The two shafts are locked in with external teeth and sliding sleeve with internal teeth on a so called ”dog” lock.
  • Electromagnetic Clutch: The torque is transmitted mechanically, but the clutch operates electrically.
  • Vacuum clutch: This type of clutch uses a vacuum in the engine manifold that operates the clutch.
  • Hydraulic clutch: Same as the vacuum clutch. Only difference is that the hydraulic clutch uses oil pressure to operate instead of vacuum.

Radiator

The main function of the radiator is to prevent the engine from overheating by constantly circulating coolant in tiny metal hoses all around the engine that takes the heat from the engine and then cools the fluid with a fan before sending it back again.

If the car radiator is clogged or is leaking, the coolant will not be able to take the heat from the engine which will result in engine overheat. Basically, a small hole which can be repaired easily can cost you new engine.

How Do You Do A Coolant Flush? – Complete Guide

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Radiator
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Radiator

A brand new radiator can cost anywhere between $290 and $1200.

There are 2 types of radiators:

  • Aluminium Radiator: Used for high performance cars. Both body and the tank are made from aluminium.
  • Plastic and Aluminium Radiator: Mostly used in newer model cars. The body is made from aluminium and the tank is made from plastic. It is the cheapest to produce.
  • Copper and Brass Radiator: Manufacturers stopped making this type of radiator in the 1980s. They ran into a lot of issues because the copper is expensive and corrodes.

Radiator Fan

The radiator fan has a main function to supply cooling air to the engine through the grille and to cool down the hot coolant that is circulating around the engine and taking his heat before it is released back into circulation.

Basically, once the coolant completes a circle around the engine it is hot. Then, the coolant stored into the radiator where the fan cools it down before it is sent for another ‘cooling’ lap.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Radiator Fan
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Radiator Fan

This being an important part of the cooling system, you must always have an operating radiator fan. A replacement of the radiator fan can cost around $300 to $520.

See: How To Cool Down Overheating Engine Fast

There are 2 type sof radiator fans:

  • Mechanical Radiator Fan: Mostly used in older models. This type of radiator fans have a built in switch which allows the fan to stop cooling when the engine is cold.
  • Electric Radiator Fan: Found in newer vehicles. Operated by the engine computer.

Timing Belt

Timing belt is a reinforced rubber band that has a main function to connect the engine crankshaft to the camshaft in such a precise order that each time the car starts running, the timing belt is set in motion and it will turn the camshaft which will open and close the engine valve’s allowing the pistons to move up and down. This is a very precise operation and there is no room for error.

If your timing belt starts producing squeaking noises, it is definitely time to change it. A brand new belt costs between $500 to $900. But, if not changed on time, it can break and cause damage that will cost you up to $2000.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Timing Belt
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Timing Belt

The timing belt comes in metric and imperial dimensions. Check your manufacturer manual to see which size timing belt your car is using.

Spark Plug

Main function of the spark plug is to create a spark between two leads with a small gap between them that ignites the air/fuel mixture which creates an explosion that starts your engine.

The number of the spark plugs will depends on the number of cylinders. Example: V6 engine will have 6 spark plugs.

The spark plug has a lifespan of around 100,000 miles. After that, you will need around $40 to $150 to change your spark plug.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Spark Plug
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Spark Plug

There are 4 types of spark plugs:

  • Copper Spark Plug: Has a shorter lifespan but offers high performance because of the copper’s high conductivity.
  • Platinum Spark Plug: Longer lifespan than copper ones. Used in newer vehicles, has a great temperature resistance.
  • Double Platinum Spark Plug: Have a longer lifespan. Check your manual to see this type of spark plugs is recommended.
  • Iridium Spark Plug: Stronger than platinum, lasts 25% more. Famous for working under extreme conditions.
  • Double Iridium Spark Plug: Can lasts up to 4x longer than the standard copper spark plug.

Fuel Injector

As a primary fuel delivery system, the fuel injector is a small nozzle with a main function to spray fuel at high pressure into the combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine.

The fuel injector is a replacement for the carburetor.

The average replacement of the fuel injector can cost between $800 and $1450 depending on your car model.

There are 4 types of fuel injectors:

  • Single-Point Fuel Injection: The grandfather of fuel injection. Not so precise.
  • Multi-point Fuel Injection: Has a separate nozzle for each cylinder.
  • Sequential Fuel Injection: Sprays fuel in same time.
  • Direct Fuel Injection: Injects fuel directly into the combustion chambers, bypassing the valves.

Transmission

The main function of the transmission is to transfer the power generated from the engine to the drive shaft and rear wheels. The transmission has different gears which dictate the speed of your vehicle as well as the moving direction.

If you notice that your transmission is starting to fail, a complete replacement could cost from $1800 to $3400.

There are 4 types of transmissions:

  • Manual Transmission: At this type of transmission, the driver has to select each gear manually by moving the gear box and applying the clutch.
  • Automatic Transmission: Here the driver has to select a driving direction. Example: If you select D on your gear stick the car will move forward and all of the gear will be changed automatically. You just have to press the gas pedal.
  • Automated Manual Transmission: This type of transmission has an clutch built in which is controlled by a computer. You can choose to shift the gears manually or automatically on the gear stick.
  • Continuously Variable Transmission: Has no clutch, instead it uses belts and pulleys. Offers optimum power range and efficiency.

Car Air Conditioning

The main function of the car air conditioning system is to supply the passenger cabin with cool air through the AC vents as well as to filter the air and remove the moisture from the air before it reaches the cabin.

Your AC needs refrigerant in order to produce cold air. If your AC stops blowing cold airOpens in a new tab.

See: How To Get Your Car’s AC Ready For Summer

I usually add refrigerant every 2 years because I don’t use the AC very often. It costs around $200 to recharge my car AC.

Car Parts: Fluids

This section is about fluids needed in order for the car to run smoothly.

Engine oil

The engine oil main function is to lubricate, protect, cool, seal, reduce friction and clean all the moving parts within the engine. The engine oil is located in the bottom oil pan under the engine, but before it reaches the oil pan, it circulates the engine.

Without the engine oil, the motor will not run. That being said, it’s important to check your engine oil levels. To do so, you need to locate the oil dipstick. The oil dipstick has a yellow handle with ‘oil’ engraved on it and can be found in the engine bay.

See: How To Change Your Engine Oil – Beginners Guide

There are 4 types of engine oil: Full synthetic motor oil (great for vehicles that demand high level performance and lots of lubrication), synthetic blend motor oil (can be used for high performance and daily drive and its cheaper than full synthetic), conventional motor oil (most used motor oil for your daily) and high mileage motor oil (used for cars that have over 75,000 miles under their belt).

Transmission Fluid

The transmissions fluid main function is to lubricate, clean and protect all the components of both manual and automatic transmissions. The transmission fluid is located in the transmission fluid pan.

Before it reaches its main destination, the transmission fluid circulates and lubricates all the transmission components. When it comes to changing the transmission fluid, there is a bit controversy. On many cars, it says that the transmission fluid is good to go for decades, or as long as you are using your car.

But, myself and many other people who know what they are talking about recommend that you change it every 4-5 years. I mean, no fluid or oil can be good after 10,15 or 20 years. You can check your transmission fluidOpens in a new tab.

There are 6 types of fluids that you can use to lubricate your transmission: Dexron/Mercon (these are the most used fluids for automatic transmissions), HFM Fluids (same as the dexron and mercon, but even more effective), Synthetic Fluids (these cost more but are made to endure on drastic temperature changes), Type-F (this type is used for automatic transmissions, mostly on older models), Hypoid Gear Oil (this one is used for manual transmissions, it’s very effective), Motor Oil (usually it the motor oil is for the engine itself, but, you can use it to lubricate your manual transmission as well).

Power Steering Fluid

The power steering fluid main function is to lubricate and protect all of the components of the steering system. The PS fluid is a specially designed hydraulic fluid that runs through the steering mechanism and makes your steering wheel to turn with ease. The power steering fluid is located in a power steering fluid reservoir, under the hood (usually on the passenger side).

There is a steering wheel icon on the reservoir cap, so it’s easy to locate. There are markings on the side of the PS reservoir which tells you if your power steering fluid is low or full.

Many mechanics suggest that you change your power steering fluids before it hits 100,000 miles. If you notice that your steering wheel is harder to turn left and right, you could be experiencing a PS leak, or simply the PS fluid is no longer effective and need to be changed. The power steering fluid should have a light brick color.

If you notice that your PS fluid is darker, change it. There are different types of power steering fluids. Many cars use the same fluids as the transmission fluids (Dexron, Mercon, Type F, ATF, Hypoid Gear Oil, Synthetic Fluids, etc), but there are also fluids specially designer for the power steering system which many newer models use.

Coolant or Antifreeze

The coolant (or antifreeze) main function is to protect the engine components from freezing in the winter as well as balancing the engine temperature by removing the heat, especially in the summer. The coolant/antifreeze is located in a reservoir under the hood, in most cases on the passenger side.

The coolant/antifreeze reservoir has markings on the side that will tell you the level of your coolant. If your coolant level is low, you need to pour some. In order to do that, you need to open the radiator cap and add until it fits no more. This fluid is very important. As, I said before, it regulates the engine temperature. If you are low on coolant and you add water, the water will evaporate and your engine will overheat.

See: How Do You Do A Coolant Flush? – Complete Guide

There are 3 types of coolant/antifreeze: IAT (Inorganic additive technology which is used by older models), OAT( Organic acid technology which is used by newer models) and HOAT (Hybrid organic acid technology which is a enhanced version of OAT). The changing intervals of the coolant/antifreeze is 5 years or 50,000 miles. This is of course if you don’t have a faulty cooling system.

You should always perform visual inspections to see the condition of the coolant/antifreeze. There are two colors: green and orange. If your coolant is not in those colors, you should perform a coolant flush and change your coolant. How Do You Do A Coolant Flush? – Complete Guide. If your coolant reaches a low level before the changing intervals, make sure to inspect if your cooling system is leaking and fixOpens in a new tab.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that is used for transferring force into pressure in hydraulic brake and hydraulic clutch applications. Simply said, when you press the brake pedal, the brake fluid changes the force of your foot on the brake pedal into pressure that is distributed to the front and rear brakes and makes the car stop. The brake fluid is located in the brake fluid reservoir under the hood on the driver’s side of the vehicle.

The reservoir has markings on the side that will show you the level of your brake fluids. Trust me, you do not want to be low on brake fluid. Many mechanics suggest that you change your brake fluids every two years, or if the color changes from light yellowish to dark.

The brake fluids are designed to have a high boiling point. If the brake fluid has a low boiling point and it boils, it will become gas and will lose the ability to transmit force. There are 3 main types of brake fluid: DOT3 (glycol-based, absorbs water from air), DOT4 (also glycol-based, absorbs water from air) and DOT5 (sylicon-based, does not absorb water). It is important that you always keep your brake fluid reservoir closed and tightly sealed.

Car Parts: Filters

Without the filters, we would spend more time at the mechanic than driving the car. Imagine if your car has no fuel filter and all the dirt from the fuel gets into the engine? How far would you get?

Oil Filter

Oil filter main function is to remove all dirt, debris and other contaminants from the engine oil so your engine can have clean oil circulating.

As the engine runs, overtime, little metal parts fall off and circulate through the engine along with the oil and are eventually caught up by the filter. Depending on the vehicle model, the oil filter can be located under the engine or on the top of the engine.

The oil filter is usually changed when you change your engine oil. A quality oil filter costs anywhere from $7-$25. Although the oil filters look almost the same, there are small differences in the threads or the gasket size. It is important that you check your manufacturer manual before buying one.

See: How To Change Your Engine Oil – Beginners Guide

There are 6 types of oil filters:

  • Full-flow filter: The most commonly used oil filter. Works great in colder temperatures.
  • Secondary oil filter: Some car models have a secondary oil filter as a support to the main oil filter.
  • Cartridge oil filter: These filters are mounted upright and can be visually inspected without removing it.
  • Spin-on oil filter: Type of full-flow filter that is very easy to install.
  • Magnetic oil filter: It is mostly used as a secondary oil filter. It does a great job at removing metallic contaminants, but not so much dust and grime.

Fuel Filter

Fuel filters have a vital function in the fuel system. The main objective of the fuel filter is to prevent all of the impurities from the fuel, such as dirt, rust and other contaminants from getting into the fuel system and eventually into the engine.

The fuel filter is usually located on the fuel line, somewhere between the tank and engine.

It’s hard to tell the lifespan of an fuel filter because it depends on the clarity of the fuel. I usually change the fuel filterOpens in a new tab.

Manufacturers offer 2 types of fuel filters: Spin-on fuel filters (has excellent work-ability because the entire metal case can be replaced and Cartridge fuel filters (only the filter itself is changed).

Air Filter

The air filter has a main function to prevent debris from the environment getting into the engine and compromising the engine health.

You can only imagine how much debris get caught up in the air filter. A dirty or clogged air filter can affect your fuel economy as well as the acceleration. The lifespan of air filters is 15,000 to 30,000 miles, but I always change it when i change my engine oil and filter. A decent air filter costs anywhere from $20 to $50. The car air filter is located under the hood in a cold air collector box.

There are 3 types of air filters:

  • Paper Air Filters: These are the most commonly used air filters because of the low price.
  • Gauze Air Filters: Long lasting and cleanable air filters. They require maintenance every 5000 miles.
  • Protective Foam Air Filters: Mostly used by small engines. They have an extra layer of protective foam that keeps pollutants away from the combustion system.

Cabin Air Filter

Cabin air filter main function is to filter out the air coming from the air conditioning before it is released into the cabin. It keeps all the dust, dirt, pollen, bacteria and other contaminants that are bad for the human health. The fact that you are breathing a clean and fresh air inside the cabin, it’s because of the cabin air filter.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Filters - Air Filter
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Filters – Cabin Air Filter

You do need to have a clean cabin air filter at all times, but what you don’t need is mechanic skills to locate and change it yourself. The cabin air filter can be found in the glove box compartment. In order to find it, you need to open your glove box, pull the glove box door all the way down and you will see a plastic cover with ”cabin air filter” markings on it. A cabin air filter costs around $15-$25.

See: All You Need To Know About Cabin Air Filter

There are 4 types of cabin air filter:

  • Particulate cabin air filter: Even though it traps 0.3 microns and larger contaminants, it does not trap odors and gaseous pollutants.
  • Charcoal cabin air filter: This filter can remove odors and smoke as well as microscopic bacteria.
  • Activated carbon cabin air filter: Great at filtering odors and other gaseous contaminants as well as microorganisms.
  • Electrostatic cabin air filter: Uses static charge to capture pollutants. Great at removing odor, smoke and dust.

Interior Car Parts

This section is dedicated to all the items that can be found inside the cabin.

Steering Wheel

Steering wheel’s main function is to turn the front wheels left and right as the driver applies rotational commands to the steering wheel. The driver’s rotational commands pass through series of joints and other components of the steering system before finally reaching the wheels. The steering wheel is located in the cabin. It can be found on both left and right side. You can find a decent steering wheel starting at $100.

There are 6 types of steering wheels:

  • Tilt steering wheels: Mostly used in luxury cars because it has a highly adjustable features that can make any driver drive comfortably.
  • Telescope steering wheels: Only the height can be adjusted at this type of steering wheel.
  • Adjustable steering wheels: Same feature as the telescope steering wheels, but uses electric motors for height adjustment.
  • Swing-away steering wheel: These type of steering wheel can be adjust for up to 9 inches to the right.
  • Recirculating ball steering wheels: Used by many trucks and SUVs.
  • Rack-and-Pinion steering wheels: The most commonly used steering wheels in cars after 2010.

Airbags

The airbags are a safety feature that have a main function to minimize injury and even prevent death when an accident happens by inflating with air and stopping the passengers from hitting any hard surface.

The airbags are deployed when your car hits something and decelerates fast. But the airbags will not deploy every time we hit something. How does it know when exactly to deploy?

Whenever we hit something our car decelerates very fast. There is a chip called accelerometer that measures the change of speed and if the change of speed is great enough it will deploy the airbags.

There are more than one airbag in your vehicle. I am sure that you noticed the writing on your steering wheel or above the glove box.

Car AC Vents

Car AC Vents have a function to blow the cold air coming from the air conditioner into the passenger cabin therefore maintaining a cool and enjoyable temperature. The ac vents are connected directly to the air conditioner. Before the air enters the cabin, it passes through the cabin air filter which cleans the air before it releases it in the passenger cabin.

The car AC vents are located on top of the dashboard facing the windshield, on the driver side right behind the steering wheel, in the center console and on the passenger side. Ac vents can also be found in the back of the car, usually on doors.

Car Seats

Car seats provide comfort and security of the driver as well as the passengers. The car seats function is to keep you comfortable by providing back support as well as keeping you in one position while you drive. Car seats come in many forms. They can be racing seats, sport and tuner seats, suspension seats and classic seats. They cost anywhere from $50-$500.

It is very important that you adjust your car seats before driving. The car seats come with a mechanic or electric adjustment. On the mechanic car seats, there should be a metal bar in front bottom of the car seat that you can use to push the car seat back and forth as well as a handle on the side of the car seat for back adjustment. On the electric car seats, there are buttons located on the left side of the car seat that provide the same features as the mechanical car seat, plus more(height).

The car seats can be in different materials such as: Nylon, leather, polyester, vinyl and faux materials. Newer car models also have car seat heaters that are very handy in the winter.

Rear View Mirror

The rear view mirror allows the driver to see whats behind him making him more aware of his surroundings. The rear view mirror is especially useful when you are overtaking vehicles and parking in reverse. I always use the rear view mirror to see if there are any cars behind me on the highway, just in case i need to perform an emergency brake.

The rear view mirror is located inside the cabin in the middle of the windshield. It is highly adjustable which makes it easy for all drivers. The newer models come with a camera mounted on the rear view mirror for even more awareness of your surroundings. The rear view mirror can cost anywhere from $4-$650.

Car Seat Belt

Car seat belts are design to save a persons life in an accident. Basically, the car seat belt is wrapped around your body and when an accident occurs, the seat belt will hold your body strapped to the car seat and will prevent you from hitting your head on the steering wheel or eventually flying out o the car in a roll-over accident.

The car seat belts are located next to each car seat. The driver and all passengers have an individual car seat. It is illegal to drive without your car seat beltOpens in a new tab.

There are 6 types of car seat belts:

  • Lap style car seat belt: This is the first type of seat belt. It wraps around the waist of the person.
  • Sash type car seat belt: This type of car seat belt goes around the person’s shoulder and is tightened on the waist. Proved to be very bad.
  • Lap/Sash: A combination where the seat belts goes around the persons shoulder and waist.
  • Inertia reel: This is the most commonly used car seat belt. With it’s three-point design it goes around the shoulder, chest and pelvis.
  • Belt-in-seat: This type of car seat belt is safer in rollover crashes.
  • Five-point harness: The five point harness car seat belt is used at race cars and high performance vehicles.

Gas Pedal

The gas pedal also known as the accelerator, controls the amount of air that is being released into the engine which is connected to the electronic throttle control which makes sure that enough fuel is being burned to control the air-fuel ratio. In another words, the gas pedal controls the speed of your vehicle.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Gas Pedal
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Gas Pedal

The gas pedal is located on the the floor on the far-right, next to the brake. In a disabled people’s car, the gas pedal can be located on the left side on the floor or behind the steering wheel as push/pull lever.

A brand new gas pedal costs anywhere from $50-$120 depending on your car model and make.

Ignition Key

The ignition key main function is to start your car as well as to turn it off. When you put the ignition key in the ignition cylinder and you turn it to the right, the key is transmitting a signal to the transponder circuit which is coded to tell the engine to start. The ignition key is also used to lock and unlock your car.

An ignition car key costs anywhere from $50 for a basic key to over $500 for more advanced type of key.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Ignition Key
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Ignition Key

There are 9 types of ignition keys:

  • Basic car key: Used in older model cars. Easy to copy with easy to non security features.
  • Remove control car key: Produced after the basic key. Has a remote lock-unlock feature.
  • Car key transponder: Has an electronic transponder chip in the key which has one unique code. If the code doesn’t match with the code installed to the car, the engine won’t start.
  • Car key transponder with rolling codes: Has a series of unique codes to start your car.
  • Switchblade car key: The part of the key that goes into the ignition cylinder can be folded.
  • Smart car key: Designed by Mercedes-Benz. Does not have the usual metal sticky part that goes into the ignition cylinder. It looks more like an UBS.
  • Master car key: Mostly used by car dealerships to program replacement car keys.
  • Valet car key: It looks like a credit card. The key just needs to be near the car in order to lock/unlock and start the car.

Gear Stick

The gear stick is a metal lever which role is to change the gears on your vehicle. Gear stick, also called gearshift or shifter, is connected to the shift assembly, so anytime you change the gear into lower or higher, it corresponds with the transmission and changes the gear.

The gear stick is usually found between the driver’s and passenger seat, on the center console. Some older model vehicle’s have a gear stick right next to the steering wheel.

The manual gear stick has markings which are R for reverse, and the other are gear numbers from 1 to 6 depending on the vehicle.

The automatic gear stick has markings with: R for reverse, P for parking or e-brake, N for neutral and D for drive. Newer models will also have markings such as S for sport or C for comfort.

Car Dashboard

The car dashboard, also called dash or instrument panel is located in front of the driver and it’s function is to display instrumentation and control of your car’s operation.

In another words, it gives you an overview of all the vehicle’s operations going on at the moment. If something is wrong with your vehicle, the dashboard is the first place to look because it will show an error code.

Replacement of your car dashboard can cost you anywhere from $50 to $500 depending on your car make and model.

The car dashboard is equipped with gauges such as:

  • Fuel gauge which tells you the current fuel level.
  • Engine temperature which tells you the temperature of your engine.
  • Speedometer which shows you your current speed
  • Odometer tells you how many miles or kilometres your vehicle has.
  • Warning lights: If there is something wrong with your vehicle, a warning sign will pop up on the dashboard. On some models you will get a text, on some just an icon. Most common is the check engine light.

Horn

The horn with its ”honk” or ”beep” sound is used to warn other drivers or to get someone’s attention on the road. Mainly, it is used to express unsatisfactory while waiting for the red light to turn green. The horn is located on the front side of the steering wheel which makes it very accessible.

A horn replacement can cost anywhere from $140 to $160 with labor included.

There are two types of car horns: Disc and fanfare horns. The disc horn has that metallic sounding beep and the fanfare horn produces more richer sound.

Glove Compartment

Glove compartment or glove box is a compartment built in the dashboard located in front of the front seat passenger and is used to store important items from the vehicle such as manufacturer manuals, license and insurance as well as some other items that you would need at hand while in your vehicle.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Glove Compartment
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Glove Compartment

Although some glove compartments are equipped with a lock, most of them just have a latch that you need to pull down to open.

Exterior Car Parts

I know I should divide parts like interior or exterior, but I made it like that so even a rookie can learn something new about vehicles.

Hood

The car hood, also called a ”bonnet” has a purpose to cover the engine and to provide access to the engine when needed. Car hoods are usually made of steel and aluminum. It is secured by a concealed latch. To open the hood, first you need to pull the handle located on the inside the cabin on the driver’s side and then open the hood.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Hood
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Hood

The car people love the hood because they can built a custom one and make their cars look sick. I mean, we all love Toretto’s hood with the engine popping up.

Windshield

The windshield has a purpose to protect the driver and the passengers from winds and all the dust, insects and rocks that the wind can carry. The windshield can be found on the front and back of the vehicle. It is sealed and no air or rain will come inside the vehicle.

When it comes to safety, when accidents happen, the windshield is built to make sure the driver and the passengers stay inside the vehicle which can most definitely save a life. It also provides support to the roof so it doesn’t collapse during an accident.

See: Top 10 Ways To Clean Your Windshield

If you notice some rain or wind coming in the vehicle, its time for a new windshield. It costs between $100-$400 to replace the windshield.

Windshield Wipers

Windshield wiper is a rubber attached to a metal structure powered by an electric motor with a task to keep the windshield clean and to remove rain by moving back and forth. A vehicle is equipped with wipers on both the front and the back windshield.

See: How Long Does Windshield Wipers Last?

You can turn on your windshield wipers by pushing the stalk on the right side of the steering wheel up or down. There are couple of speeds that you can select.

There are 3 types of windshield wiper blades:

  • Conventional windshield wipers: Most commonly used windshield wipers. Have 4 to 8 pressure points to ensure best performance.
  • Flat windshield wipers: More and more new cars are equipped with the flat windshield wipers. The blade exactly matches the windshield.
  • Hybrid windshield wipers: A combination of the flat and conventional windshield wipers. They have the aerodynamic properties of flat windscreen wipers and the performance of the conventional windshield wipers.

Car Windows

The car windows have a purpose of protecting the driver and the passengers from wind, rain, debris and rocks that might find their way inside the car when you drive. The windows can be opened and closed by a handle located on each door or by a click of a button. Almost all newer models have electric windows.

If the window raising mechanism is faulty, the window can fall down inside the door frame. It costs from $100-$350 to repair a window, depending whats wrong with it in the first place.

There are 2 types of car windows:

  • Tempered glass windows: This type of windows shatters into small pieces when an accident happens to prevent you from getting a serious injury from the sharp edges.
  • Laminated glass windows: These are little bit stronger windows. They come with an layer of plastic and are little bit harder to break, but will prevent ejections from cars should an accident happen.

Car Doors

The car doors main function is to secure the vehicle and to provide access to the driver and the passengers. Each door has a lock on it which can be locked/unlocked by a unique key. Once unlocked, you need to pull the door handle to gain access. When inside, there is a door handle on the inside that you need to pull in order to get out. The car doorsOpens in a new tab.

The doors are attached to the car by hinges and in some cases mechanism such as tracks. A complete replacement of a door can cost up to $2500.

There are 9 types of car doors:

  • Regular car doors
  • Butterfly doors
  • Suicide doors
  • Gull-wing doors
  • Scissor doors
  • Sliding doors
  • Canopy doors
  • Dihedral doors
  • Swan door

Side-View Mirrors

Side-view mirror or wing mirror is a mirror that is located on the exterior side of the car doors with a purpose to help the driver see the areas behind and the side of the vehicle. It might sound simple, but without the side mirrors we won’t be able to park, or overtake vehicles efficiently.

Before driving your vehicle it is important that you adjust your side-view mirrors. Some vehicles have a small handle on the inside of the door for mirror adjustment, but on newer models you can adjust your side-view mirrors by a push of a button. A mirror replacement can cost from $200 to $1,500.

Rims

The rim is a cylindrical wheel that has a purpose to hold the tire on the wheel. Main purpose of the rim is to ensure proper fitting of the tire and rim in order to retain the air inside of the tire.

The price of the rim may vary. A standard steel rim can cost around $50 per rim. The ones used for aesthetics can cost up to $5000.

See: Can You Clean Your Chrome, Alloy And Steel Rims With Bleach

There are 4 types of rims:

  • Steel rims: The steel rims are the most common rims because they are the cheapest option. The only bad thing is their weight.
  • Alloy rims: The alloy rims are slowly taking over. They weight less because they are made of aluminium or magnesium.
  • Chrome rims: Mostly used because of their looks and not their performance.
  • Spinners: Very popular in the 90s. If you wish to leave an impression when driving, these are the right wheels for you.

Fender

The main purpose of the fender is to prevent the sand, mud, rocks and liquids spray being propelled into the air when the tire rotates. It is a part of the vehicle that gets damaged very often from all the rocks and debris hitting it. Fenders are locatedOpens in a new tab.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Fender
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Fender

A fender replacement can cost from $10 to $1300 depending on the car model and make.

Bumpers

A bumper is part of a vehicle that is attached to the front and the back of the car with a main function to absorb impact in a minor accident.

Newer model cars tend to use bumpers made out of flexible materials in order to minimize injuries made to pedestrians struck by cars.

A bumper replacement can cost from $500 to $15000.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Bumpers
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Bumpers

There are 5 types of bumpers:

  • Standard Bumper
  • Deep Drop Bumper: Mostly used on old trucks, has a heavy duty towing capacity.
  • Roll Pan Bumper: Can be found on custom built trucks.
  • Step Bumper: Used on higher vehicles suck as trucks, vans and SUVs.
  • Tube Bumper: Mostly used on jeeps.

Grille

The main function of the grille is to allow air to enter or exit which helps with the engine temperature whilst protecting the radiator and engine from rocks and other debris. It is located on the front of the car in front of the radiator.

There are 3 types of grilles:

  • Mesh Grilles: These grilles have a simple but elegant look. Many manufacturers choose to use this grille on their vehicles.
  • Billet Grills: Made from aluminum and iron, they are better looking than the mesh grilles.
  • CNC Grilles: Made completely by a computer. You can choose your design and the computer will do the rest.

Headlights

The main function of car headlights is to lighten up the roadway so the driver can safely drive the vehicle during the night. It is important that both of your headlights are fully functioning at all times. It’s a good idea to always keep a spare bulb in the trunk.

A headlight bulb replacementOpens in a new tab.

See: Top 8 Ways To Clean Foggy Headlights

Having the brightest headlights can be good for you because you can see better, but on the other hand, you could be blinding the drivers coming your way. There are 4 types of headlights that you can choose from.

Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function - Headlights
Parts Of Cars, Their Location and Function – Headlights

Over the years, the headlights have evolved and at the moment there are 4 types of headlights:

  • Halogen: Most commonly used headlights in modern vehicles. Casts a yellowish light.
  • LED: Same technology used on LED screen consoles. Costs more than halogen lights and has lifespan of 10,000 to 30,000 hours.
  • Xenon/HID: Used on high-end vehicles. They emit bluish-white light and are very effective.
  • Laser: New on the market. More efficient than LED headlights.