11 Different Types of Automotive Fasteners

Automotive fasteners are essential components that hold vehicles together, ensuring safety and functionality. They come in various types, each designed for specific applications and loads. Here are 11 common types of automotive fasteners:

1. Bolts: Bolts are externally threaded fasteners designed to be inserted through holes and tightened with a nut. They are used in numerous applications, from securing engine components to attaching body panels. Different head types like hexagonal, flanged, and socket heads offer varied functionalities.

2. Nuts: Nuts are internally threaded fasteners that mate with bolts to secure components. They distribute the load and prevent loosening due to vibration. Various types exist, including hex nuts, lock nuts (nylon insert or deformed thread), flange nuts, and cap nuts, each serving different needs for security and accessibility.

3. Screws: Unlike bolts that require a nut, screws are typically self-threading and are driven directly into a material. Automotive screws come in various head types (e.g., pan head, flat head, truss head) and thread designs for different materials like metal or plastic.

4. Washers: Washers are thin, flat rings used under bolts and nuts to distribute the load, prevent damage to the fastened surface, and help prevent loosening. Different types include flat washers, lock washers (split or star), and spring washers.

5. Rivets: Rivets are permanent fasteners that consist of a head and a tail (shank). They are inserted through holes in the parts being joined, and the tail is then deformed to create a permanent, tight joint. Types include solid rivets, blind rivets, and pop rivets.

6. Clips: Automotive clips are used for a wide range of fastening tasks, often for securing trim, hoses, wires, and panels. They come in numerous designs like spring clips, U-clips, and R-clips, offering quick and easy assembly and removal in some cases.

7. Clamps: Clamps are used to hold parts together or to secure hoses and tubes. Examples include hose clamps (worm drive, spring), band clamps, and exhaust clamps, designed to provide a tight and secure seal or connection.

8. Pins: Pins are non-threaded fasteners used for alignment, pivot points, or to prevent movement between parts. Common types include cotter pins, clevis pins, and dowel pins.

9. Studs: Studs are externally threaded rods with threads on both ends. One end is typically fixed into a component (welded or threaded), and the other end receives a nut to fasten another part. Wheel studs are a common automotive example.

10. Retaining Rings (Snap Rings): These are circular, semi-flexible metal rings with open ends that can be snapped into a groove on a shaft or in a bore to retain components in place. Internal and external retaining rings are used.

11. Plastic Fasteners: With the increasing use of plastics in vehicles, various plastic fasteners like clips, rivets, screws, and push-in retainers are employed for their lightweight, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation in plastic components.