Car Body Terminology

Introduction

The car body is the exterior of a car. It is made up of a number of different parts, each of which has a specific function. The main parts of the car body are the roof, the doors, the hood, the trunk, and the bumpers.

Roof

The roof is the top of the car. It protects the interior of the car from the elements and provides structural support. Roofs can be made of a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and composite materials.

Types of Roofs

• Hardtop: A hardtop roof is made of a solid material, such as steel or aluminum. It is the most common type of roof found on cars.
• Convertible: A convertible roof can be folded down or removed, allowing the occupants of the car to enjoy the open air. Convertibles are often more expensive than hardtop cars.
• Sunroof: A sunroof is a panel in the roof that can be opened to let in sunlight or fresh air. Sunroofs can be manual or electric.

Doors

Doors allow occupants to enter and exit the car. They are typically hinged on one side and open outward. Doors can be made of a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and composite materials.

Types of Doors

• Sedan doors: Sedan doors are the most common type of door found on cars. They are hinged on the front and open outward.
• Coupe doors: Coupe doors are similar to sedan doors, but they are longer and have a more sloping roofline. They are found on coupes and sports cars.
• Hatchback doors: Hatchback doors are hinged at the top and open upward. They are found on hatchbacks and SUVs.
• Van doors: Van doors are large, sliding doors that are found on vans and minivans.

Hood

The hood is the front of the car. It covers the engine and other mechanical components. The hood is typically made of steel or aluminum.

Types of Hoods

• Standard hood: A standard hood is a solid panel that covers the engine. It is the most common type of hood found on cars.
• Power dome hood: A power dome hood has a raised section in the center that helps to cool the engine. It is often found on performance cars.
• Scoop hood: A scoop hood has a large opening in the front that allows air to flow into the engine. It is often found on race cars.

Trunk

The trunk is the rear of the car. It is used to store luggage and other items. The trunk is typically made of steel or aluminum.

Types of Trunks

• Standard trunk: A standard trunk is a closed compartment that is accessed through a lid at the rear of the car. It is the most common type of trunk found on cars.
• Hatchback trunk: A hatchback trunk is a large, open compartment that is accessed through a liftgate at the rear of the car. It is often found on hatchbacks and SUVs.
• Convertible trunk: A convertible trunk is a small, open compartment that is accessed through a lid at the rear of the car. It is found on convertibles.

Bumpers

Bumpers are located at the front and rear of the car. They protect the car from damage in the event of a collision. Bumpers are typically made of steel or plastic.

Types of Bumpers

• Standard bumper: A standard bumper is