List of 44 Essential Car Interior Parts & Accessories: Name, Diagram, Function & Images

Let’s explore car interior parts along with names, diagram and images! Having slouched around all summer, we are all waiting for a chance to be in our cars and travel. Who needs boring television shows, sports matches, or house parties when a road trip is enough to bring us energy and refreshment? A simple long trip on the road is what we need right now, and we need it now. 

We love road trips because we can escape our homes without going through crowds of vulnerable people. But in order to get your car ready for a road trip, you need to know at least the basic names of the parts in your car’s interior, and nowadays, families are increasingly reliant on cars for transportation.

Car Interior Parts & Names: Basics, History & Evolution

Car Interior Parts Basics

A car is made up of numerous internal parts, all of which are necessary to make it function properly.  Likewise, we can say that cars mainly run on roads, with a seating capacity of one to eight people providing a smooth and faster-traveling advantage.

Car Interior Parts History

Karl Benz invented the first car in 1886, which consists of many internal and external components such as a fuel pump, carburetor, engine, fuel tank, fuel rails, cooling system, fuel pressure regulator, and a lot more.

Car Interior Parts Evolution

Nowadays, a modern car is mainly used for the transportation of people rather than goods; its main purpose is to haul people rather than goods. Since its invention, additional features and controls have been added to cars, making them more complex. It also runs on roads, seats one to eight passengers has four wheels, and is primarily designed to transport people. However, there are types of cars like pick-up cars which are used to transport goods as well as people.

There is no doubt that innovation in the automotive industry is driving customers to invest in modern vehicles and their components. Manufacturers and component suppliers in the automotive industry will all agree that the industry is booming now more than ever before.

What are Car Interior Parts? Name & Diagram

What are Car Interior Parts?

A car’s interior consists of the inner interior components that drivers and passengers can feel inside a vehicle when they enter. They are major safety features and they are also providing the right incentives to make the right choice.

Car Interior Parts Name

Steering WheelsMusic Box and Additional Speakers
Hand BrakesBeverage or Cup Holder
Rear View Mirror in the carCenter Console
Temperature GaugePedals
HVAC or Cooling System in any carInterior Lighting
Fuel GaugeHeadrests
Audio Player of a CarSeat Belts
Car Interior LightningRear-View Camera
Speedometer in a CarHVAC Controls
Door panels and associated consolesDoor Handles and Locks
Brake pedal and Clutch pedalGlove Compartment
Airbags for your safetyCoat Hooks
Fabrics used in interior segments in carsBack-Seat Entertainment System
Headliner in the interior of a carChild Safety Seats
Tibia pad of a car interiorSoundproofing and Insulation
Carpet at the FloorGrab Handles
Decoration of a car InteriorArmrests 
Sun Protection with MirrorStorage For Under Floor
Steering CoverTool Box
Extra Seat CoverFirst Aid Box
Various PocketsCargo space cover
Sunroof
Grilles for HVAC
Infotainment System

Car Interior Parts Diagram with Label

Let’s see a typical car interior part diagram for basic understanding:

Different types of Car Interior Parts You Must Know

There are many items that makeup car interiors (as well as Chevy, Mopar, and Ford truck interiors). The foremost common components can be found within the steering wheel, car seats, carpet, headliner, entryway boards, dashboard, as well as electrical components.

You can update a few of these components in expansion by including custom-driven light options, tactical situate covers, present-day gages, and contraptions to make your driving encounter more pleasant or complement your vehicle’s interior. In this list you will find the names of all the parts in your car’s interior:-

01. Steering Wheels

The car steering wheel, the most attracted item in car interior parts, often referred to as the driving wheel, is a crucial component of the vehicle’s steering system. It serves as the primary interface between the driver and the car’s direction, allowing the driver to control the movement of the vehicle. Steering wheels are equipped with various controls, such as those for windshield wipers, lights, and turn signals, providing convenient access to essential functions while driving. 

Modern cars employ power steering systems that enhance the ease of steering, either through hydraulic or electric assistance, making it more comfortable for drivers to navigate their vehicles. Additionally, safety features like the horn are integrated into the steering wheel, providing a means for drivers to alert nearby vehicles and pedestrians to prevent collisions.

The power steering system, now a common feature in approximately 80% of vehicles on the road, plays a pivotal role in reducing the effort required to turn the steering wheel and control the vehicle’s direction. This system can be divided into two categories:

  • Hydraulic power steering (HPS)
  • Electric power steering (EPS).

HPS uses hydraulic fluid, pumps, and pistons to assist in steering, while EPS employs an electric motor and advanced sensors to provide steering assistance. These power steering technologies make driving more comfortable and precise, ensuring that drivers can navigate their vehicles safely and with minimal physical effort.

02. Hand Brake in Car Interior Parts

The car’s handbrake, also known as the emergency brake, serves a dual purpose in modern vehicles. While it is commonly used to keep the car stationary when parked, its primary historical function was to act as a backup braking system in case the main hydraulic brakes failed. However, in contemporary cars, it may lack the braking power to bring the vehicle to a complete stop on its own. One of the most important components in car interior parts, which should be used cautiously.

The handbrake works by mechanically overriding the hydraulic brake system, typically using cables to engage either the drum brakes or the disc brakes, depending on the car’s design. Despite its reduced role in stopping the vehicle, the handbrake remains an essential safety feature and a valuable tool for parking on inclines.

There are several types of handbrakes found in cars, including the pedal style, button-activated electronic system, center-level handbrake, and lever-style handbrake. Each of these mechanisms provides a means to engage and disengage the handbrake, ensuring that the vehicle remains stationary when needed and offering drivers various options depending on the car’s design and age.

03. Rear View Mirror in the car

The rearview mirror, the most attracted item in car interior parts, in a car is a crucial component for enhancing driving safety. Positioned on the windshield, it provides the driver with a unique view of the area directly behind the vehicle, allowing them to monitor traffic and potential hazards without the need to turn their head. Rearview mirrors serve as an essential tool in safe driving practices, enabling drivers to make informed decisions on the road. 

However, it is important for drivers to adjust and utilize their mirrors correctly before driving to ensure optimal visibility and minimize distractions. Regularly checking all mirrors while driving, as recommended by many driving instructors, helps maintain awareness of the surrounding traffic and contributes to a safer driving experience.

In contrast, the steering wheel is the primary control interface between the driver and the vehicle’s direction. It enables drivers to steer the car and navigate safely on the road. Modern steering wheels often include additional features such as controls for lights, turn signals, and windshield wipers, enhancing their functionality and convenience for drivers. One of the most important component in car interior parts, to avoid collision.

04. Temperature Gauge

The car thermometer monitors the temperature of the engine’s cooling water. That indicator tells if the engine coolant is cold, normal, or hot. and that is a crucial dial on the automobile dashboards. 

If the thermometer indicates a high value, the car may be overheated. Another reason your reading may be pricey is that you may have lost the coolant. Coolant loss may occur from small leaks and evaporation. The third reason why the thermometer reading is too high is that the thermostat may be damaged. 

In that situation, the coolant temperature switch may need to be changed. The final reason the temperature gauge is showing high might be due to a water pump or water pump gasket failure. One of the most important components in car interior parts, which should be checked all the time to avert any kind of damage.

04. HVAC or Cooling System in any car

Air conditioning, heating, and ventilation are collectively known as HVAC, which employs a range of technologies to manage, replenish, purify, cool, heat, and circulate humidity in enclosed places. The HVAC system generates and supplies heating and cooling for industrial and residential buildings. The HVAC system is simple to locate anyplace, from housing units to submarine habitats. These systems create an ecologically favorable atmosphere.

The popularity of these systems is expanding day by day. One of the key reasons for their appeal is their great economy and versatility. They are popular in new buildings because they use fresh outdoor air to deliver high-quality inside ventilation. The HVAC system in any modern or future carOpens in a new tab. follows any of these two methods:-

  • Air re-circulating is the first way, in which the air conditioner constantly redistributes the air within the automobile to cool it in this fashion.
  • The second option is to use clean air, the air duct at the front of the automobile is opened in this technique, responsible for much different air to be sucked inside the vehicle. 

05. Fuel Gauge

A car’s fuel gauge among the car interior parts is a critical dashboard component that continuously monitors the level of gasoline in the fuel tank and displays this information to the driver. Fuel gauges are essential tools for drivers to keep track of their vehicle’s fuel levels, enabling them to plan refueling stops and avoid running out of fuel. There are various types of fuel gauges, including

  • balanced coil A.C. electric,
  • bimetal electric,
  • thermal electric, and
  • thermostatic electric

Each fuel gauge utilizes different mechanisms to accurately measure and display the fuel level. These gauges have evolved over time to provide precise and reliable information to drivers, enhancing the overall driving experience.

In contrast, steering wheels serve as the primary interface between the driver and the vehicle’s direction. Modern steering wheels come equipped with various controls for functions like lights, turn signals, and windshield wipers, making them a central hub for driving control. Additionally, advanced steering systems, such as power steering, have been integrated into steering wheels to reduce the physical effort required for steering, further enhancing driver comfort and safety.

06. Audio Player of a Car

The sound framework is one of the foremost vital inside parts of the car. It gives data and excitement to the passengers of the car. Moreover, you will be able to play tunes agreeing to your intrigue within the vehicle sound framework, it is an entertainment device to make your road trip more awesome and memorable.

The vehicles had straightforward AM radio at the beginning of the 1950s, with the progression of innovation, that basic AM radio was changed over into the route framework, Blu-ray player, DVD player, CD player, record player, cassette player, and smartphone controllers such as Android and CarPlay Auto, according to your convenience.

07. Car Interior Lightning

For security and comfort, lighting in the sunshine and at night must be flexible. Plastic LEDs and acrylic fiber optic light tubes offer assistance to make controls and instrument boards more discernible. Exploring is less demanding with overhead arch lighting and illuminated buttons and handles. Plastics’ utilization in security entryway lighting makes a difference in alarming oncoming cars of halted roadside vehicles.

The 2015 LincolnOpens in a new tab. MKC protected insides lighting application and now takes the benefits of the optical straightforwardness of a forte polymer and geometrically reflected surfaces to move the light in an imaginative and effective way upward from the foot of the glass holder.

08. Speedometer in a Car

A speedometer could be a gadget that measures and shows the speed of a car. They are flawlessly appropriate for engine vehicles, they started to be accessible as standard hardware at the start of the 20th century. 

Speedometers have extraordinary names for other vehicles and use some other implies of speed detecting. That can be known as the Pit log in watercraft and in the flying machines, it is called the airspeed marker or indicator. For example, the 2024 Toyota Rav4 can reach up to 69 MPH only in 5.9 Sec.

09. Door panels and associated consoles

Polymer materials are well suited for adaptable, inventive, and special plans; coming about in a la mode, comfortable, scratch-resistant tough inside features, applied in any modern luxurious car. 

Plastic has transformed the design of automotive components, specifically entryways and conveniences. ABS, SMA polymers, and Polypropylene are generally used to create such lightweight, strong, and complex forms of comfort you could get in a car. Armrests, container holders, and capacity areas are examples of a few of the conveniences. SMA polymers

These elements would be difficult to duplicate as effectively and with the same workmanship as any other family of materials, and the plastics help to reduce disturbance, over-shaking, and other violence inside the vehicle’s interior.

Glass holders are a focal point for customer assessments of vehicle contribution, and they must accommodate a broad range of holder sizes without tipping under normal driving situations. 

According to industry estimates, the 2017 Passage Super Obligation Truck has a live pivot, making it adaptable to a variety of holders while reducing 10 pieces to 3. The vehicle also has a quad-barrel convertible container holder, which allows the comfort to switch from two glass holders and a box to a four-container holder support.

Plastic entrance units may save time in production and assembly. The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette has an inventive entrance trim with a unique blend of plastics. You can check the interior design of 2024 Corvette ZoraOpens in a new tab. as well. With regard to a thermoplastic polyolefin fabric specifically designed for this purpose, the outcome may be a door-trim skin or foil with a less scraped surface and less scratched and damaged surface, resulting in less absorbed the impact and weight.

10. Brake pedal and Clutch pedal

You will be able to discover the clutch pedals as they were in manual transmission vehicles. These pedals are introduced on the floor to the brake pedal cleared outside. As you press your car’s clutch pedal, it closes the clutch, finishing the control exchange from the motor to the transmission. As you discharge it, it opens the clutch and begins the control exchange preparation from the motor to the transmission.

The most recent cars have a brake pedal. This pedal employments to control the braking framework of your car. It is introduced on the car floor to the cleared out of the quickening agent pedal. It is associated with the brakes. As the driver presses the brake padel, it pushes the brakes and stops or moderates the vehicle’s speed. The driver employments his/her right foot to press the pedal to apply brakes.

11. Airbags for your safety

The airbag is one of the foremost critical inside parts of the car. It contains a pack that inflates and flattens rapidly on the occasion of a mischance or a mishappening. The airbag encompasses an adaptable texture sack, inflatable module, airbag pad, and affect the sensor

The most important objective of the airbag in a car is to donate delicate padding and control to the passenger of the car within the occasion of an occurrence. It minimizes the harm between the insides of the car and the flailing tenants. 

Airbags are planned to consequently blow up within the occasion of sudden deceleration or affect constraints that would demonstrate a collision. Once the pack is full of discussions, it secures a driver and/or traveler by:

  • Provides a padding-type structure around your neck, head, and spine.
  • Limiting the distance at which a person’s head can fling forward would reduce the force impacting the head.
  • Diminishing the hazard that a casualty will venture through the window or be catapulted from the car. 

Without an airbag to avoid affect strengths, mischance casualties may effectively capitulate to deadly wounds such as broken necks, disjoined spinal ropes, traumatic brain wounds, or deadly lacerations.  

12. Fabrics used in interior segments in cars

Plan adaptability, erosion resistance, and favorable mechanical properties make polymer composites a consistent choice for coverings and inside surfaces in a car. Customers request surfaces with a high-quality design and feel, to make a car both comfortable and more efficient.

Plastic or poly-fibers used in the car inside parts can give a comparative aesthetic design and layout to normal materials, available with best-in-class scratch resistance for insides seats and surfaces. For illustration, numerous producers are utilizing counterfeit calfskin in automobiles owing to taken toll on effectiveness, stylish request, and other benefits. Utilization of the texture gives various critical natural benefits, counting redirecting what is recorded as over 5-million water bottles from landfills each year.

13. Headliner in the interior of a car

A headliner could be an item that is used to cover the car roof, it may be a combination of an inner bubble back support, an internal inflexible substrate, and an external layer of texture. Within the most recent vehicles, the headliner has diverse capacities and is being modularized.

The headliner is the interior roof covering, usually made of fabric or vinyl. It adds to the overall aesthetics of the cabin and also helps with insulation and noise reduction. In some vehicles, the headliner may incorporate features like built-in lighting or air vents.

14. Tibia pad of a car interior

The Tibia Pad of a car is installed between the vehicle carpet and the floor of a car, the tibia cushion is made of a polystyrene gum-type structure for the convenience of the passenger. In case of a mishap, the tibia cushion works as a vitality safeguard, decreasing the effect on the vehicle traveler’s legs.

The foremost advanced tibia cushions moreover have the capacity to retain or decrease commotion. 

15. Carpet on the Floor

The carpet on the floor not only adds a layer of insulation but also provides a soft and comfortable surface for your feet. It is typically made from durable materials that are easy to clean, making it ideal for everyday use. 

Some high-end cars even feature premium carpets with intricate designs that add to the luxury feel of the interior. Colors and Textures: Car manufacturers offer a variety of colors and textures, allowing customers to choose the carpet that best suits their style and preferences.

16. Decoration of a Car Interior 

In order to create an appealing and cohesive look, interior decoration elements are carefully chosen. For instance, wood trim can give a classic and elegant feel to the interior, while leather accents exude luxury. Manufacturers may offer a range of customization options, allowing buyers to select the color schemes and materials that best suit their preferences.

17. Sun Protection with Mirror

Sun visors often come with extendable panels, allowing you to block sunlight from various angles. The mirrors on these visors are equipped with lights for better visibility when checking your appearance or assisting passengers. Some visors even have built-in vanity mirrors, enhancing their functionality.

18. Steering Cover

Steering wheel covers come in various materials, including leather, suede, and rubber. They not only protect the steering wheel but also provide a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during long drives. Some covers are designed with textured patterns or ergonomic shapes for enhanced control and aesthetics.

19. Extra Seat Cover

Seat covers are available in a wide range of styles, from sporty and vibrant to understated and elegant. They not only safeguard your seats but also allow for easy removal and cleaning. High-quality seat covers can also provide additional padding and support, making your journeys more comfortable.

20. Various Pockets

Glove boxes are often equipped with compartments for organizing essential documents, like registration papers and owner’s manuals. Door pockets are designed to accommodate water bottles or small items you want to keep within arm’s reach. Center console compartments may have built-in charging ports for electronic devices.

21. Sunroof

Sunroofs can be panoramic, covering a large portion of the roof, or smaller for selective ventilation. Some models include a sunshade that can be drawn to block sunlight completely. Modern sunroofs are often equipped with features like wind deflectors to minimize noise and drafts when open.

22. Grilles for HVAC

HVAC grilles come in various shapes and sizes to direct airflow where it is needed most. Some grilles have adjustable louvers, allowing passengers to customize their airflow preferences. They are designed to blend seamlessly with the car’s interior design.

23. Infotainment System

The infotainment system constitutes the car’s audio and entertainment features, typically presented via a touchscreen interface. It provides access to various functionalities, including radio, music, navigation, and smartphone integration (e.g., Apple CarPlay and Android Auto).

Additionally, it offers access to various applications that enhance the driving experience. Modern infotainment systems have become a focal point of the car’s interior, offering both entertainment and convenience to occupants.

24. Music Box and Additional Speakers

In high-end audio systems, the head unit may feature touchscreen displays and advanced connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional speakers are strategically placed to create a surround sound experience, immersing passengers in a rich and clear audio environment.

25. Beverage or Cup Holder

Cup holders are often lined with rubber or other grip-enhancing materials to secure beverages in place. Some cup holders are designed to be adjustable, accommodating various cup sizes or even providing heating or cooling functions to maintain the temperature of your drinks.

26. Center Console 

Situated between the front seats, the center console serves as a versatile control hub. It encompasses various functions, including housing the gear shift, which manages gear selection in automatic or manual transmission vehicles. It also features cup holders to secure beverages during transit, providing convenience for occupants. 

Moreover, the center console typically incorporates storage compartments for small items like smartphones, sunglasses, and other essentials. Furthermore, it often houses controls for climate settings, allowing passengers to adjust air conditioning, audio system settings, and, in some cases, navigation.

27. Gear Lever or Gearshift

In all cars, a gear lever or gear shift will be there. In case of automatic, it doesn’t require to shift based on the speed or road contour but in case of manual, it requires to change as per requirements.

28. Interior Decorative Lighting

Beyond basic overhead dome lights and reading lights, modern cars incorporate ambient interior lighting. This lighting is designed to enhance the overall aesthetics of the cabin. It can often be customized in terms of color and intensity, creating a comfortable and visually appealing atmosphere. Whether it is soft, warm lighting for a cozy ambiance or brighter illumination for practicality, interior lighting enhances the overall driving experience.

29. Headrests

Headrests are integral components attached to the tops of car seats. They serve multiple purposes, including providing essential neck support, which can reduce the risk of whiplash injuries during rear-end collisions. Additionally, headrests enhance passenger comfort, particularly during long journeys. Safety-wise, they play a crucial role in mitigating neck and head injuries in the event of an accident.

30. Seat Belts

While not physically part of the interior, seat belts are fundamental safety components. They are paramount in securing passengers within their seats during sudden stops or accidents. Seat belts significantly reduce the risk of injury by preventing passengers from being thrown forward or ejected from the vehicle in the event of a collision.

31. Rear-View Camera

Many contemporary vehicles come equipped with a rear-view camera system that activates when the car is shifted into reverse. This live video feed from the rear of the vehicle aids in parking and obstacle avoidance, significantly improving overall safety. It provides a clear view of what is behind the car, making parking maneuvers and reversing safer and more manageable.

32. HVAC Controls

The Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) controls empower passengers to precisely manage the interior climate. These controls include temperature settings, fan speed options, and air distribution preferences. They are pivotal in ensuring passenger comfort, allowing individuals to tailor the cabin environment to their liking in different weather conditions.

33. Door Handles and Locks

Don’t think that the door handle is the part of a car’s exterior only, it is also has in the car interior too. Door handles are not only the entry points to the car’s interior but also the primary means of securing the vehicle. Many modern cars incorporate electronic keyless entry and push-button start systems for added convenience. These features enhance both security and ease of access, contributing to a seamless driving experience.

34. Glove Compartment

The glove compartment, often referred to as the “glove box,” is a storage compartment typically located on the passenger side of the dashboard. It’s designed to store important documents, such as the vehicle’s registration and owner’s manual, as well as personal items like sunglasses or gloves. It helps keep these items organized and easily accessible.

35. Coat Hooks

Coat hooks are small hangers usually positioned on the rear side of the front seats or on the grab handles in the ceiling. They allow passengers to hang coats, clothing, or bags, keeping them off the seats and preventing wrinkles or damage.

36. Back-Seat Entertainment System

Many modern vehicles offer back-seat entertainment systems, which can include screens, DVD players, or even tablet mounts. These systems are designed to keep passengers in the rear seats entertained during long journeys, making the car interior more enjoyable, especially for families with children.

37. Child Safety Seats

While not a permanent fixture of the car interior, child safety seats are essential for transporting infants and young children safely. Car seats are specially designed to provide the proper restraint and protection based on a child’s age and size. Properly installed child safety seats are crucial for ensuring the safety of young passengers.

38. Soundproofing and Insulation

Quality soundproofing and insulation materials are used extensively in car interiors to reduce road noise, engine noise, and vibrations. These materials help create a quieter and more comfortable cabin, allowing occupants to enjoy conversations, music, and hands-free phone calls without interference from external noise.

39. Grab Handles

Grab handles, also known as assist handles, are typically mounted on the interior roof pillars and above the doors. They provide passengers with a secure grip for stability when getting in and out of the vehicle, especially during off-road or rough driving conditions.

40. Armrests 

Armrests are commonly found on the doors and center console of car interiors. They provide a comfortable place for drivers and passengers to rest their arms during longer drives, reducing fatigue.

These interior components contribute to the functionality, comfort, safety, and overall aesthetics of a car’s interior. Car manufacturers continuously innovate to incorporate new features and technologies that enhance the overall driving experience and passenger convenience.

41. Storage For Under Floor

In many cars, under the fool mat, there is a storage box which is used to keep small items. Apart from that, there is a space adjacent to the box for keeping the spare tire. However, in a few car, the spare tire is kept outside and inside storage can be bigger.

43. Tool Box

This is a very common item which is kept in all the cars for emergency or any repairing activity. In my Jeep Grand Cherokee, it is kept in the cargo space and it can be kept at any place as it’s a box only.

43. First Aid Box

This is also one more important common box in case of any medical emergency. Many medical items are kept and it needs to be checked often for the validity. All types of cars have this box.

44. Cargo Space Cover

Not in all the car, but many cars especially mine one has a cover on the cargo space so that the items kept in that area will not be visible. This cover is adjustable and it can be used or can be retained both way possible.

Conclusion

Finally, we have covered a basic details of various car interior parts and accessories for common cars. Please let us know if any questions!

MechStudies

Hello Everyone! We, Rituparna Guha & Firan Mondal, are delighted to present our Mechanical Engineering articles. We will capture all types of articles and try to explain in the simplest way with a lot of diagrams! Happy Reading....

One thought on “List of 44 Essential Car Interior Parts & Accessories: Name, Diagram, Function & Images

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recent Posts