Navigating the world of automotive terminology can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to understand the specific components of your vehicle. If you’re focusing on parts of a car that start with ‘C’, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will explore essential car parts beginning with the letter ‘C’, providing clear definitions and explaining their crucial roles in your vehicle’s operation. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a student mechanic, or simply a curious car owner, understanding these terms will enhance your automotive knowledge.
Essential Car Components Starting with ‘C’
Let’s delve into a detailed list of car parts that start with ‘C’, expanding on the basic definitions provided in the original glossary to offer a more comprehensive understanding.
C-Pillar
The C-pillar is a structural part of a car’s body. It refers to the vertical support post located at the rear of the vehicle, specifically between the back edge of the rear side window and the rear windshield (also known as the backlight). The C-pillar contributes to the car’s structural integrity and roof support, especially in sedans, SUVs, and wagons. In vehicle design, the pillars are typically labeled alphabetically from front to rear (A-pillar, B-pillar, C-pillar, and sometimes D-pillar in larger vehicles).
Camber
Camber describes the angle of a car’s wheels when viewed from the front. It’s the inward or outward tilt of the wheel relative to the vertical axis of the vehicle.
- Positive Camber: The top of the tire tilts outwards, away from the vehicle’s center.
- Negative Camber: The top of the tire tilts inwards, towards the vehicle’s center.
Proper camber adjustment is crucial for optimal tire contact with the road surface, which directly impacts handling, cornering ability, and tire wear. Incorrect camber can lead to uneven tire wear and reduced vehicle stability.
Camshaft
The camshaft is a critical component within the engine. It’s a rotating shaft equipped with lobes (cams) that control the opening and closing of the engine’s intake and exhaust valves in each cylinder. Synchronized with the crankshaft’s rotation, the camshaft’s lobes press against valve lifters or rocker arms, causing the valves to open at precise moments during the engine’s combustion cycle. This precise timing ensures the engine breathes efficiently, allowing air and fuel to enter and exhaust gases to exit at the correct times for optimal engine performance.
Capitalized Cost (in Leasing)
In the context of car leasing, Capitalized Cost refers to the agreed-upon price of the vehicle used to calculate the lease payments. It’s essentially the starting point for the lease agreement and is comparable to the purchase price if you were to buy the car outright. The capitalized cost includes the vehicle’s price, taxes, and any other fees or additional charges rolled into the lease. Negotiating the capitalized cost is a key aspect of securing a favorable lease deal.
Capitalized Cost Reduction (in Leasing)
A Capitalized Cost Reduction is an upfront payment made by the lessee at the beginning of a car lease. This payment reduces the capitalized cost, thereby lowering the monthly lease payments. Capital cost reductions can take various forms, including cash, manufacturer rebates, or the trade-in value of an existing vehicle. While similar to a down payment in a purchase, it’s important to note that sales tax is often applied to the capitalized cost reduction amount in a lease.
Captive Finance Company
A Captive Finance Company is a financial institution that is owned and operated by a vehicle manufacturer. These companies, such as Ford Motor Credit (owned by Ford), GM Financial (formerly GMAC, associated with General Motors), and Toyota Financial Services (owned by Toyota), primarily provide financing and leasing options for the manufacturer’s vehicles. Captive finance companies often offer competitive rates and incentives to promote sales of their parent company’s cars.
Carburetor
The carburetor is a device that was historically used in gasoline engines to mix air and fuel before delivering this mixture to the engine’s combustion chambers. Carburetors work based on venturi effect principles to create the correct air-fuel ratio for combustion. However, carburetors have largely been replaced by fuel injection systems in modern vehicles due to stricter emission standards and the superior efficiency and control offered by fuel injection. Carburetors are mostly found in older cars, pre-dating the widespread adoption of fuel injection in the mid-1980s.
Carrier (Insurance)
In insurance terms, the carrier is simply the insurance company that provides the insurance coverage. When you purchase car insurance, the carrier is the company underwriting the policy and responsible for handling claims and providing the promised coverage as per the insurance contract.
Casualty Insurance
Casualty Insurance is a broad category of insurance that covers liability for losses resulting from accidents and negligence, potentially causing bodily injury or property damage to others. In the context of car insurance, casualty insurance typically refers to liability coverage, which protects the insured driver from financial losses if they are found legally responsible for an accident that injures someone else or damages their property. Casualty insurance can also extend beyond auto insurance to include other forms of liability coverage, as well as protection against events like theft, vandalism, and certain natural disasters.
Catalytic Converter
The Catalytic Converter is an emissions control device integrated into a vehicle’s exhaust system. Its primary function is to reduce harmful pollutants in the exhaust gases produced by the engine. Through chemical reactions, the catalytic converter converts pollutants like hydrocarbons (unburned fuel), carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances such as carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen. It plays a vital role in meeting environmental regulations and reducing a vehicle’s impact on air quality.
Center High-Mounted Stop Light (CHMSL)
The Center High-Mounted Stop Light (CHMSL), often referred to as the third brake light, is a safety feature mandated in many countries. It’s a brake light positioned higher than the standard taillights, typically located in the center of the rear windshield or decklid. The CHMSL provides a more visible brake signal to drivers in following vehicles, especially in heavy traffic, improving safety and reducing the risk of rear-end collisions.
Center of Gravity
The Center of Gravity (CG) is a theoretical point in a vehicle around which its weight is evenly balanced. Imagine balancing a car on a single point – that point would be its center of gravity. The CG’s location significantly influences a vehicle’s handling and stability. A lower center of gravity generally contributes to better stability and cornering performance, while a higher CG can make a vehicle more prone to rollovers.
Center-Locking Differential
A Center-Locking Differential is a component found in all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles. In addition to the front and rear axle differentials, an AWD vehicle with a center differential has a third differential positioned between the front and rear axles. This center differential allows the front and rear wheels to rotate at different speeds, which is crucial for smooth cornering on paved roads. However, in slippery conditions, a center-locking differential can be engaged (either automatically or manually, depending on the system) to lock the front and rear axles together, providing maximum traction by ensuring all four wheels turn at the same rate.
Central Locking System
The Central Locking System is a convenience and security feature in modern vehicles equipped with power door locks. It enables the driver (or sometimes passengers) to lock or unlock all vehicle doors simultaneously using a single switch or button, often located on the driver’s door or via a remote key fob. This system enhances convenience and security by simplifying door locking and unlocking.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are chemical compounds that were previously widely used as refrigerants in vehicle air conditioning systems. However, CFCs were found to be harmful to the Earth’s ozone layer, contributing to its depletion. Due to international agreements and environmental concerns, CFCs have been phased out and replaced by more environmentally friendly refrigerants in vehicle air conditioning systems.
Christmas Tree (Drag Racing)
In drag racing, the Christmas Tree is the vertical set of lights used to start a race. Named for its resemblance to a decorated Christmas tree due to the arrangement of lights, it provides a visual countdown sequence for racers. A standard drag racing “Christmas Tree” includes lights for staging, pre-staging, and a countdown sequence with amber, green, and red lights. Different types of starts, like “pro” or “heads-up” starts, utilize varying sequences and intervals on the Christmas Tree.
Claim (Insurance)
An insurance claim is a formal request made by the insured to the insurance company (carrier) for payment of a loss or damage covered under the terms of their insurance policy. For car insurance, a claim is typically filed after an accident or incident where the insured vehicle is damaged or involved in an event covered by their policy (e.g., collision, theft, vandalism).
Clause (Insurance)
In insurance policies and contracts, a clause refers to a specific section or provision that outlines particular terms, conditions, exclusions, or details of the coverage. Insurance policies are comprised of numerous clauses that define the rights and responsibilities of both the insurer and the insured.
Clearcoat (Paint)
Clearcoat is a transparent top layer of paint applied over the base color coat in many modern vehicle paint finishes. The clearcoat layer is designed to provide enhanced gloss, depth, and protection to the underlying color coat. It protects the color from UV damage, scratches, and environmental elements, contributing to a long-lasting and lustrous appearance.
Climate-Control System
The Climate-Control System is a general term referring to the vehicle’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, often abbreviated as HVAC. Modern vehicles typically incorporate all three functions – heating, defrosting, and air conditioning – within an integrated climate control system to regulate the temperature, airflow, and humidity inside the car cabin for passenger comfort.
Closed-End Lease
A Closed-End Lease, also known as a walk-away lease, is a type of car lease where the lessee is not responsible for the vehicle’s residual value at the end of the lease term. The lease agreement specifies an estimated residual value at the lease inception. As long as the lessee adheres to the lease terms regarding mileage and vehicle condition (normal wear and tear), they can simply return the vehicle at the end of the lease without further financial obligation related to the car’s market value. However, lessees are still liable for charges related to excessive mileage or damage beyond normal wear and tear.
Closing Costs (Leasing)
Closing Costs in car leasing refer to various fees and expenses incurred at the start of the lease agreement, in addition to the capitalized cost and monthly payments. These costs can include items such as title fees, registration fees, document fees, acquisition fees, and sometimes an appraisal fee. Closing costs vary and should be reviewed carefully when finalizing a lease agreement.
Clutch
The clutch is a mechanical device used in vehicles with manual transmissions to connect and disconnect the engine from the transmission system. When engaged, the clutch allows engine power to be transmitted to the transmission and drive wheels. When disengaged (by pressing the clutch pedal), it interrupts the power flow, allowing the driver to shift gears without grinding or damaging the transmission.
Clutch Disk
The clutch disk is a key component of the clutch assembly. It’s a friction plate that is pressed against the engine’s flywheel to transmit power from the engine to the transmission input shaft. When the clutch is engaged, the clutch disk is clamped tightly between the flywheel and the pressure plate, creating friction that transfers engine torque to the transmission.
Coefficient of Drag (Cd)
The Coefficient of Drag (Cd) is a dimensionless measure of a vehicle’s aerodynamic resistance. It quantifies how easily a vehicle moves through the air. A lower Cd value indicates less aerodynamic drag, meaning the vehicle is more streamlined and “wind-cheating”. Lower drag coefficients contribute to better fuel efficiency, reduced wind noise, and improved high-speed stability. Vehicle designers strive to minimize the Cd to enhance performance and efficiency.
Coil Spring
A Coil Spring is a common suspension component. It’s a helical spring made of hardened steel, designed to absorb and dampen road shocks and vibrations. Coil springs are used to support the vehicle’s weight and allow the suspension to move up and down as the wheels encounter bumps and irregularities on the road surface, providing a more comfortable ride.
Collateral (Loans)
In the context of vehicle loans, collateral refers to assets pledged by the borrower to secure the loan. For a car loan, the vehicle itself typically serves as collateral. If the borrower defaults on the loan (fails to make payments), the lending institution has the legal right to seize the collateral (the car) to recover the outstanding loan amount.
Collision Coverage
Collision Coverage is an optional type of car insurance that pays for damages to your vehicle resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object. This coverage is regardless of who is at fault in the accident. Collision coverage typically has a deductible, which is the amount the insured pays out-of-pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in.
Combustion Chamber
The Combustion Chamber is the space at the top of the engine cylinder where the air-fuel mixture is ignited. It’s the area above the piston where combustion takes place. The spark plug ignites the compressed air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, causing a rapid expansion of gases that pushes the piston down, generating power.
Common Law Liability
Common Law Liability refers to legal responsibility for injury or loss imposed based on judicial precedents and common law principles, rather than statutory law. In the context of vehicle operation, common law liability can arise from negligent actions that cause harm to others.
Compact Car
A Compact Car is a vehicle size classification. Generally, it refers to a small car designed to seat two to four adults comfortably. Compact cars are typically smaller than mid-size cars but larger than subcompact cars, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and passenger/cargo space.
Compound Interest
Compound Interest is a method of calculating interest where interest is earned not only on the initial principal amount but also on the accumulated interest from previous periods. In financial contexts like car loans or leases, understanding compound interest is important as it affects the total cost of borrowing.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive Coverage is another optional type of car insurance. It protects your vehicle against damages from events other than collisions. This includes incidents like theft, vandalism, natural disasters (hail, floods), fire, and animal damage. Like collision coverage, comprehensive coverage often has a deductible.
Compression Ratio
The Compression Ratio is a ratio that compares the volume of an engine cylinder when the piston is at its lowest point (bottom dead center) to the volume when the piston is at its highest point (top dead center). A higher compression ratio generally indicates a more powerful and efficient engine because it means the air-fuel mixture is compressed to a greater extent before ignition, leading to more complete combustion and increased power output.
Compulsory Insurance
Compulsory Insurance refers to any type of insurance that is required by law. In most jurisdictions, car insurance liability coverage is compulsory, meaning drivers are legally obligated to carry minimum levels of liability insurance to cover potential damages or injuries they may cause to others in an accident.
Concealment (Insurance)
In insurance, concealment refers to the act of withholding relevant facts or information by an applicant when applying for insurance coverage. Failing to disclose important information, such as previous accidents or traffic violations, can be considered concealment and may have consequences, potentially leading to claim denial or policy cancellation.
Console
The Console in a car can refer to different interior components.
- Center Console: Typically located between the driver and front passenger seats, often housing the gear shifter, cupholders, storage compartments, and controls for features like electronic parking brakes or drive mode selectors.
- Dashboard Console (or Center Stack): The central section of the instrument panel that houses controls for the infotainment system, climate control, and sometimes other vehicle functions. This section often flows down the center of the dashboard.
Constant-Velocity Joint (CV Joint)
Constant-Velocity Joints (CV Joints) are specialized couplings used in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles. They are located in the drive axles and allow the axles to transmit power from the transmission to the wheels at a constant speed, even when the wheels are turning and the suspension is moving. CV joints are essential for smooth and efficient power delivery to the wheels, especially during steering and suspension articulation.
Contribution by Equal Shares (Insurance)
Contribution by Equal Shares is a provision in some insurance contracts that applies when multiple insurance policies cover the same loss. It dictates that each insurance company will share equally in covering the loss until each company has paid up to the lowest policy limit among all applicable policies, or until the full loss amount is paid.
Conversion (Legal)
Conversion in a legal sense, particularly related to vehicles, refers to the wrongful use or possession of someone else’s property, depriving them of its use and benefit. For example, if someone takes your car without permission and uses it as their own, that could be considered conversion.
Convertible
A Convertible is a car body style characterized by a roof that can be retracted or removed, allowing for open-air driving. Convertible roofs can be made of soft materials (fabric or vinyl, often called “rag tops”) or hard materials (retractable hardtops).
Coolant
Coolant is a fluid used in a vehicle’s engine cooling system to regulate engine temperature. It circulates through the engine, absorbing heat and then dissipating that heat through the radiator. Coolant is also often called antifreeze because it contains antifreeze chemicals to prevent freezing in cold temperatures and raise the boiling point in hot temperatures, ensuring effective engine cooling in various climates.
Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE)
Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) is a set of regulations in the United States that establish fuel efficiency standards for vehicle manufacturers. CAFE standards require each manufacturer to meet a fleet-wide average fuel economy target for all the vehicles they sell in a given model year. These regulations are designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce energy consumption in the transportation sector.
Coupe
A Coupe is a car body style traditionally defined as a two-door car, often with a sloping rear roofline and a sporty appearance. Coupes typically have a smaller rear seating area compared to sedans.
Coupe de Ville
Coupe de Ville is a historical term, primarily associated with Cadillac, denoting a type of coupe body style. Originally, it referred to a coupe with an enclosed passenger compartment in the rear and an open driver’s compartment (like a town car or de Ville). Over time, the term evolved to simply denote a luxurious or formal two-door coupe.
Craftsman Truck Series (NASCAR)
The Craftsman Truck Series, now known as the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, is a NASCAR racing series featuring pickup trucks. These trucks, while resembling stock production pickup trucks in appearance, are highly modified for racing, sharing many underlying mechanical similarities with NASCAR Cup Series race cars. The Truck Series is known for its exciting and competitive racing.
Crankshaft
The Crankshaft is a fundamental engine component. It’s a rotating shaft that converts the reciprocating (up-and-down) motion of the pistons into rotary motion. The crankshaft is connected to the pistons via connecting rods. As the pistons move up and down in the cylinders due to combustion, they rotate the crankshaft, which in turn provides rotational power that is transmitted to the transmission and ultimately to the wheels.
Credit Worthy
Credit Worthy or creditworthiness describes a consumer’s ability to qualify for a loan or credit based on their credit history and financial stability. A creditworthy individual is considered a low-risk borrower by lenders, making them eligible for vehicle loans and leases at favorable terms. “Qualified buyer” is a similar term.
Cruise Control
Cruise Control is a driver-assistance system that automatically maintains a set vehicle speed. Once activated by the driver and a desired speed is set, the system takes over throttle control to maintain that speed, allowing the driver to remove their foot from the accelerator pedal. Cruise control is primarily used for comfortable highway driving.
Crumple Zone
Crumple Zones are specifically designed structural areas in a vehicle’s body engineered to deform and collapse in a controlled manner during a collision. Crumple zones are strategically located in the front and rear of the vehicle to absorb and dissipate crash energy, reducing the force transmitted to the passenger cabin and thereby enhancing occupant protection in accidents.
Curb Weight
Curb Weight is the standard weight of a vehicle as it would sit “at the curb,” ready for operation. It includes the weight of the vehicle itself with all standard equipment, all necessary operating fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc.), and a full tank of fuel. Curb weight does not include the weight of passengers or cargo.
Cylinder Block
The Cylinder Block is the main structural component of an engine. It’s the foundation of the engine, typically made of cast iron or aluminum, and contains the engine cylinders. Other engine components, such as the cylinder head, crankshaft, and oil pan, are attached to the cylinder block.
Cylinder Head
The Cylinder Head is located at the top of the cylinder block, closing off the top of the cylinders. The cylinder head typically houses the intake and exhaust valves, valve springs, and camshaft(s) in overhead valve or overhead cam engine designs. The cylinder head plays a critical role in controlling the flow of air and fuel into the cylinders and the expulsion of exhaust gases after combustion.
This expanded guide provides a more in-depth look at car parts starting with ‘C’, offering detailed explanations and relevant context for each term. Understanding these components is a valuable step in enhancing your automotive knowledge.
