Guide to Essential Car Part Terminology | Generated by AI
When discussing car parts in English—especially for insurance or repairs—the terminology can vary slightly between American (US) and British (UK) English.
Question: How do you call different parts of a car, especially for repair, maintenance, accidents, and insurance (including windows, front surfaces, and the A/B pillars)?
Answer:
1. Structural Pillars (The “Zhu” 柱)
In English, the vertical supports of a car’s roof are called Pillars. They are lettered from front to back:
- A-Pillar: The support on either side of the windshield.
- B-Pillar: The center support between the front and rear doors (on sedans/SUVs).
- C-Pillar: The support at the rear of the passenger area.
- D-Pillar: Found in SUVs or station wagons; it is the rearmost pillar by the trunk/cargo area.
2. The Exterior “Face” and Body Panels
The “front surface” is often referred to as the front fascia or front end.
- Hood (US) / Bonnet (UK): The cover over the engine.
- Bumper: The protective bar at the very front or back.
-
Note: The painted plastic part you see is the Bumper Fascia, while the metal bar behind it is the Bumper Reinforcement.
- Grille: The mesh/opening that allows air to the radiator.
- Fender (US) / Wing (UK): The panel over the front wheels.
- Quarter Panel: The large body panel over the rear wheels (the “rear fender”).
- Rocker Panel (or Sill): The metal strip under the doors between the wheels.
3. Windows and Glass
- Windshield (US) / Windscreen (UK): The large front window.
- Rear Window (or Rear Glass): The back window.
- Side Windows: The glass in the doors.
- Quarter Glass: Small, often triangular windows located near the A-pillar or C-pillar.
- Sunroof / Moonroof: The glass panel on the roof.
4. Severe Accident & Insurance Terms
If you are involved in a major accident, these terms are frequently used by adjusters:
- Frame (or Chassis): The main structural “skeleton.” If this is bent, it is called Frame Damage.
- Totaled (Total Loss): When the cost to repair the car exceeds its value.
- Crumple Zones: Areas designed to deform during a crash to absorb energy.
- Deployment: Used specifically for Airbags (e.g., “The side-curtain airbags deployed”).
- Deductible: The amount you pay out of pocket before insurance covers the rest.
- OEM Parts: “Original Equipment Manufacturer” (genuine parts from the car maker).
Quick Reference Table: US vs. UK
| Part | US Term | UK Term |
|---|---|---|
| Front Cover | Hood | Bonnet |
| Rear Storage | Trunk | Boot |
| Front Window | Windshield | Windscreen |
| Front Side Panel | Fender | Wing |
| Fuel | Gas | Petrol |
Would you like me to create a specific list of phrases to use when describing an accident to an insurance agent?
References:
- List of auto parts - Wikipedia
- Car Terms & Auto Service Glossary - Cars.com
- A, B, C, and D Pillars Explained - J.D. Power
- Glossary of Auto Body Terms - Showtime Collision