Just as we explored the exterior parts of a car previously, understanding the Interior Car Parts Names is equally important for any car owner or enthusiast. This article will guide you through the world of automotive interiors, detailing the names and functions of each component.
Knowing the different interior car parts names and their roles is crucial for informed car shopping, performing upgrades, or simply maintaining your vehicle for a safer and more comfortable driving experience. Many of these interior components offer opportunities for customization, from LED light upgrades and stylish seat covers to modern gauges and accessories that enhance both aesthetics and driving pleasure.
Essential Interior Car Parts Names
Here’s a list of the primary interior car parts you’ll find in most vehicles:
- Steering Wheel and Horn
- Ignition System
- Pedals (Accelerator, Brake, Clutch)
- Gear Shifter/Selector
- Dashboard
- Hazard Lights Button
- Seat Belts
- Airbags
- Rearview Mirrors (Interior)
- Parking Brake (Emergency Brake)
- Turn Signal Lever
- Center Console
- Glove Compartment
- Power Window and Door Lock Controls
- Interior Door Handles
- Audio System
- Infotainment Screen (Central Control Screen)
- Sun Visors
- Car Seats
- Floor Mats
- Roof and Headliner
Interior Car Parts Diagram
interior car parts names diagram
Detailed Look at Car Interior Parts
Let’s delve deeper into each of these interior car parts, understanding their function and significance:
#1. Steering Wheel and Car Horn
The steering wheel is the primary control for a vehicle’s direction. It translates the driver’s rotational input into the swiveling motion of the front wheels via the steering system. This system involves a series of joints and hydraulic lines that ultimately control the tires’ contact with the road.
Modern steering wheels often integrate additional controls for convenience and safety, such as cruise control, audio system adjustments, and even heating elements for colder climates. Upgrading your steering wheel with a new cover is a popular car interior modification. These covers come in various materials and designs, from leather to sporty patterns, enhancing both the look and feel of the wheel.
The car horn, activated by a button on the steering wheel, is a critical safety feature. It allows drivers to alert other road users to their presence or warn of potential hazards, playing a vital role in preventing accidents.
#2. Ignition System
The ignition system is where you start your car’s engine. Typically located on the steering column or dashboard, it’s the point where you insert your key or press a start button.
Turning the ignition key or pressing the start button activates the ignition switch, which then powers the vehicle’s engine and electrical systems, initiating the process that allows the car to move.
#3. Pedals
Looking down at the driver’s footwell, you’ll see the pedals. In most cars, the pedal on the right is the accelerator pedal (gas pedal). Pressing it controls the amount of fuel going to the engine, directly influencing the vehicle’s speed.
To the left of the accelerator is the brake pedal. Applying pressure to the brake pedal engages the braking system, slowing down or stopping the vehicle.
Cars with a manual gearbox include a third pedal on the far left: the clutch pedal. Automatic cars do not have a clutch. In manual vehicles, the clutch is essential for changing gears, which in turn alters the driving speed and engine torque. The pedal arrangement in a manual car from left to right is clutch, brake, and accelerator.
#4. Gear Shifter/Selector
The gear shifter (in manual transmissions) or gear selector (in automatic transmissions) is usually located between the driver and front passenger seats. In manual cars, it’s a stick used to manually change gears. The top of the shifter typically displays the gear pattern.
For vehicles with an automatic transmission, the gear selector, sometimes referred to as the “PRNDL” (for Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Low), allows the driver to select different driving modes.
Operating a manual transmission involves using the clutch pedal in conjunction with the gear shifter. Depressing the clutch disengages the engine from the transmission, allowing for gear changes. Moving the shifter engages different gears within the transmission, altering the vehicle’s speed and power output.
#5. Dashboard
The dashboard is a prominent interior car part situated at the front of the cabin. It serves as a central panel for displaying vital vehicle information and acts as a separation point between the front of the car and the driver’s area.
Dashboard designs vary significantly across car models and brands, reflecting different levels of sophistication and features. A modern dashboard typically incorporates:
- Fuel Gauge: Indicates the amount of fuel remaining in the tank, enabling drivers to manage refueling needs effectively.
- Speedometer: Displays the vehicle’s current speed, crucial for maintaining safe driving speeds.
- Tachometer: Shows the engine’s revolutions per minute (RPM), helping drivers monitor engine performance and shift gears appropriately in manual vehicles.
- Temperature Gauge: Indicates the engine’s operating temperature, warning of potential overheating issues.
In addition to these gauges, the dashboard also houses various warning lights and indicator lights that alert drivers to potential vehicle malfunctions or system alerts.
#6. Hazard Lights Button (Emergency Flashers)
The hazard lights, or emergency flashers, are activated by pressing a dedicated button, often marked with a triangle symbol.
When activated, all four turn signal lights blink simultaneously. This system is designed to warn other drivers of an emergency situation, such as a breakdown, accident, or when the car is parked in a hazardous location.
#7. Seat Belts
Seat belts are fundamental safety devices in a vehicle. When used correctly, they significantly reduce the risk of death and serious injury in a car accident.
Unbelted occupants are far more likely to be ejected from the vehicle during a crash, leading to severe injuries from impact with the road or being trapped under the vehicle. Even if not ejected, unrestrained occupants become a dangerous projectile within the car, capable of injuring or killing other passengers. Properly using seat belts is essential for the safety of everyone in the vehicle.
#8. Airbags
Airbags are supplementary safety restraints designed to protect vehicle occupants during collisions. They are inflatable cushions that deploy rapidly to prevent occupants from hitting the vehicle’s interior or external objects during a crash.
Crash sensors detect the severity of an impact and, if significant, trigger inflators to fill the airbags with gas within milliseconds.
Airbags typically require replacement only if they are deployed in an accident. Replacements should always be performed by qualified technicians using original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts to ensure proper functionality. Counterfeit airbags pose a serious risk, as they may fail to deploy or could even release dangerous shrapnel upon deployment.
#9. Rearview Mirrors
Rearview mirrors are adjustable reflective devices that provide the driver with a view of the area behind the vehicle.
Regulations in many countries, like the U.S., mandate that passenger cars have at least three rearview mirrors: an interior rearview mirror, a driver-side exterior mirror, and a passenger-side exterior mirror.
The interior rearview mirror is centrally mounted on the dashboard or windshield. It’s a flat, unit magnification mirror, meaning objects appear in their actual size and distance, providing a true representation of the scene behind the car.
#10. Parking Brake (Emergency Brake)
The parking brake, also known as the emergency brake, is a secondary braking system independent of the primary hydraulic brakes used to stop the car during normal driving. This redundancy is intentional, providing a backup braking system in case the primary brakes fail.
While primary brakes are designed for slowing and stopping the vehicle during motion, the parking brake is primarily intended to hold the vehicle stationary when parked.
However, in an emergency situation where the primary brakes fail, the parking brake can be used to slow down and stop the car. It’s crucial to apply it gradually and cautiously to avoid loss of control.
It’s recommended to engage the parking brake every time you park, regardless of the terrain or weather conditions, for both automatic and manual transmission vehicles.
#11. Turn Signal Lever
The turn signal lever, or car signal lever, is located on the steering column and controls the vehicle’s turn signals or indicators.
Moving the lever up or down activates the right or left turn signals, respectively, signaling the driver’s intention to turn or change lanes. This lever is a critical component of vehicle safety, ensuring clear communication of driving intentions to other road users.
#12. Center Console
The center console is the storage and control area located between the driver and front passenger seats. Typically found in cars with bucket seats, it’s positioned behind the gear shifter/selector.
The center console area often aligns with the part of a car’s floorpan where the transmission tunnel runs. Modern center consoles can integrate a variety of features, including:
- Storage compartments
- Cup holders
- Auxiliary power outlets (cigarette lighter)
- Audio controls
- Climate control system
- Infotainment display screens
In essence, the center console acts as a central hub for various vehicle functions and storage needs.
#13. Glove Compartment
The glove compartment, also known as the glove box, is a closed storage space integrated into the dashboard, usually in front of the passenger seat.
Despite its name suggesting glove storage, it’s commonly used for storing vehicle documents like owner’s manuals and insurance papers, as well as other small items such as maps, flashlights, and personal belongings.
#14. Power Window and Door Lock Controls
Power windows and door locks are electrically operated systems that allow for raising and lowering vehicle windows and locking/unlocking doors with the push of a button or switch.
These controls are typically located on the door panels and sometimes on the center console, providing convenient operation for the driver and passengers. Power windows replaced older crank handles, while power door locks offer centralized locking for all vehicle doors.
#15. Interior Door Handles
Interior door handles are used to open the car doors from the inside. They disengage the door latch mechanism, allowing the door to be pushed open.
Modern interior door handles are often made of plastic for cost, safety, and design flexibility. The linkage connecting both interior and exterior door handles is located within the door structure, behind the door panel.
#16. Audio System
A car audio system is the vehicle’s sound system, comprising speakers, amplifiers, and a source unit (like a radio or CD player).
Car audio systems are designed to play music and other audio entertainment within the vehicle. Modern systems can be highly sophisticated, with features like Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration, and premium sound quality.
#17. Infotainment Screen (Central Control Screen)
The infotainment screen, or car central control screen, is a central display in modern vehicles that integrates information and entertainment functions.
“Infotainment” combines “information” and “entertainment,” reflecting the system’s dual purpose. These systems are essentially in-car computers that combine features like:
- Digital radio
- GPS navigation
- Smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto)
- Vehicle settings and controls
- Backup camera display
The infotainment system serves as the primary interface for many of the vehicle’s electronic functions, often incorporating touchscreens, voice commands, and physical buttons for user interaction.
#18. Sun Visors
Sun visors are located above the windshield on the interior roof of the car. They are hinged flaps that can be adjusted to block sunlight and glare from the driver’s and passengers’ eyes.
Visors improve driving comfort and safety by reducing eye strain and visibility issues caused by direct sunlight.
#19. Car Seats
Car seats are designed for support, comfort, and safety. They feature a strong frame, typically made of metal or high-strength materials, and padding for cushioning and shock absorption.
Many car seats include adjustable features like:
- Seat height adjustment
- Seatback angle adjustment
- Lumbar support adjustment
These adjustments allow occupants to personalize their seating position for optimal comfort. Maintaining car seats involves regular cleaning, such as vacuuming to remove dirt and dust. Leather or fabric conditioners can help maintain the seat material, preventing cracking or fading. Car seat covers are a popular accessory for protecting seats, adding comfort, and changing the interior aesthetic. They are easy to install, remove, and clean.
#20. Floor Mats
Floor mats are essential for protecting the car’s interior flooring and maintaining cleanliness. They trap dirt, mud, and spills, preventing them from reaching the carpet underneath.
Most car floor mats are easily removable for cleaning, such as shaking out dirt or washing. Some mats have fixation points to secure them in place. In vehicles with durable rubber flooring, like commercial or off-road vehicles, floor mats may be considered less necessary.
#21. Roof and Headliner
The car roof and headliner are integral to the vehicle’s interior structure, providing structural support, insulation, and aesthetic appeal.
The roof provides structural rigidity, contributing to the vehicle’s overall strength and occupant protection, especially in rollover accidents. It also protects the interior from weather elements, keeping the cabin dry and comfortable.
The headliner is the interior fabric layer attached to the roof. It serves multiple functions:
- Sound absorption, reducing cabin noise
- Thermal insulation, helping to regulate cabin temperature
- Concealing structural elements, wiring, and hardware within the roof
Together, the roof and headliner create a functional, comfortable, and visually finished cabin space.
FAQs
What are the interior parts of a car called?
The main interior parts of a car include:
- Steering Wheel and Car Horn
- Ignition
- Pedals
- Gear Shifter
- Dashboard
- Emergency Flashers
- Car Seat Belts
- Airbags
What is an interior panel in a car?
Interior car panels serve as more than just door coverings. They protect the window mechanism when lowered and conceal electrical wiring and motors for windows and door locks, contributing to both aesthetics and functionality.
What is the top inside of a car called?
The top inside of a car is called the headliner. It’s a material that covers the vehicle’s ceiling, providing insulation against heat and noise and concealing wiring and hardware.
What is a dashboard in a car?
The dashboard is located at the front of the car’s interior. It houses instrument panels and acts as a partition between the front of the car and the driver.
What is the interior of a car made of?
Modern car interiors commonly use polymers for many parts, including lightweight seats, instrument panels, upholstery, sound control fabrics, headliners, dashboards, and door panels, due to their versatility and properties.
What are the different types of car interiors?
The different types of car interiors based on upholstery materials include:
- Nylon Upholstery: A common and durable fabric option.
- Polyester Upholstery: Another popular fabric choice.
- Vinyl Upholstery: A non-fabric, durable, and easy-to-clean option.
- Leather Upholstery: Considered a premium and luxurious interior material.
