Types of Automotive Fasteners

Fasteners are essential components in automobile manufacturing and repair. Bolts, rivets, blind bolts, screws, washers, and other components hold a car together, so it’s essential to choose the right fastener for each application.

Automotive fasteners must be strong enough to withstand continued vibration and corrosion. Because auto designs are unique, specialty fasteners are sometimes needed for specific car models. Auto fasteners must also be serviceable; many must be removed or replaced during car repair.
 
Auto fasteners are specialized, so it’s essential to choose the proper one, considering safety, performance, longevity, serviceability, and cost. Here’s an overview of the most common types of auto fasteners.

Bolts

Bolts are among the most common auto fasteners. They’re used for various purposes, such as mounting the engine to the chassis. There are multiple types of auto bolts, including hub bolts, hex flanges, carriage bolts, and U-bolts. Bolts are designed to be easy to remove and replace during repairs.
 
Bolts must be durable, so they’re made from strong materials, such as steel and stainless steel, that resist corrosion. Titanium is becoming increasingly popular for electric vehicles and other vehicles because they’re strong and lightweight.

Nuts

Where bolts are used, you usually find nuts as well. Automotive nuts are paired with bolts and are often made from carbon steel. There are different types of nuts, including hex, flange, cap, barrel, locking, and wing nuts, some of which require special tools or nose pieces.
 
When choosing automotive bolts, you must know the thread types and materials. Coarse threads have thread peaks that are farther apart and are typically used for softer materials, such as fiberglass or aluminum. Fine threads are closer together and are used for a stronger hold since there are more threads per inch.

Screws 

Just as screws are incredibly versatile, which is why they are used for construction and other applications, automotive screws are typically used in applications where they need to be removed frequently.
 
There are several types of automotive screws, including self-tapping, machine screws, and sheet metal screws. They also come in different head types, including Phillips, flat, and hex heads.

Washers

Washers are used in cars for the same reasons they are used elsewhere: to distribute the joint’s load, prevent damage, and provide additional spacing.
 
For different applications, washers are available in metal, plastic, and rubber. They’re also available in various configurations, such as flat washers, locking washers that won’t loosen, and fender washers that spread the load across the surface, such as when you torque a bolt.

Rivets

For permanent joints, more automakers are turning to rivets rather than welding. Rivets are easy to install with a rivet gun and deliver lasting performance. They’re also easy to remove and replace, which is common in auto body repairs. Automobiles use the same rivet designs that are common for other applications: pop rivets, solid rivets, and structural rivets.

Clips and Clamps

Clips and clamps are the most common specialty fasteners used in cars. Clamps secure hoses and electrical wires throughout the vehicle. Carmakers also use clips and camps to secure upholstery, plastic components, and bodywork.
 
Carmakers are using more plastic in their cars for body and interior design and to reduce weight. Many of these plastic parts are clipped in place using specialty fasteners. Clips and clamps are made of plastic and metal, are usually easy to install, and are reusable.

Pins

Cars vibrate and flex when they hit the road, so you need a way to align and secure auto components with minimal movement. Pins are the ideal fastener for the job. Cars use various pins, such as cotter, roll, and clevis pins. Pins are used for everything from securing axles to making hinges and door locks.

Studs

Studs are also commonly found in auto designs. Studs are threaded rods without a head secured to the car. Attachments are securely anchored to the studs using bolts. The most common type of studs in vehicles is the wheel fasteners, which are used to hold the tire rim in place. Manifolds also commonly use studs.

Grommets and Bushings

Wires running through sharp metals, such as from the dashboard to the engine, must be protected. That’s where you will find grommets and bushings. Automotive grommets and bushings are made of rubber or plastic and are used to protect against sharp edges and absorb vibration.

Shop the Bay Supply Marketplace for Automotive Fasteners  

When choosing a suitable fastener for any automotive application, you must consider how it works based on the load and the amount of vibration it needs to withstand. You must also consider other factors, such as corrosion, repairs, and replacement.
 
It pays to inspect and replace auto fasteners regularly. Choosing the right size and type of fastener is essential for safety, serviceability, and performance.
 
Bay Supply carries a full line of automotive fasteners. Visit the Bay Supply Marketplace for the automotive fasteners that best meet your needs.