There are 69 car parts that start with the letter C. From Cabin Air Filter to Cylinder Piston. Car parts refer to the various components that make up a vehicle, each playing a crucial role in its overall operation and performance. These parts can range from essential functional components like engines and transmissions, to auxiliary parts such as belts and hoses. The proper maintenance and timely replacement of car parts are vital for ensuring vehicle safety, efficiency, and longevity. With advancements in technology, many car parts now include electronic components, enhancing their functionality and enabling features such as automated driving systems and improved infotainment options.

An interesting fact about car parts is that many vehicles contain around 30,000 different parts, and the automotive industry is continuously evolving with new materials and technologies. For instance, lightweight composites are increasingly being used to improve fuel efficiency, while high-strength steel remains a staple for structural components due to its durability.

Here’s what each of the columns in the table means:

Function: A brief description of what the car part does within the vehicle system.

Maintenance Interval (months): The recommended time period after which the part should be inspected or replaced, measured in months.

Replacement Cost (USD): An estimate of the average monetary cost incurred when replacing the part, expressed in U.S. dollars.

Description: A detailed explanation of the car part, including its significance, materials, and placement in the car’s architecture.

Car parts That Start With C

Car parts function maintenance interval (months) replacement cost (USD)
Cabin Air Filter Removes dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants from the air entering the vehicle’s cabin. 12-24 $10-$50
Cable, Parking Brake Transmits the force from the parking brake lever to the parking brake mechanism to engage the rear brakes and hold the vehicle in place when parked. 12 40-100
Caliper Applies pressure to the brake pads, causing the vehicle to slow down or stop. 24-48 $50-$200
Camshaft A rotating shaft that opens and closes the engine’s valves, controlling the timing of the intake and exhaust strokes 3 450
Camshaft Position Sensor Monitors the position and rotation of the camshaft, providing data to the engine control unit. 48-60 $50-$150
Canister Purge Valve Controls the flow of fuel vapors from the fuel tank to the engine for combustion. 36-60 $50-$150
Carburetor A device that mixes air and fuel for the engine, regulating the air-fuel ratio 6 150
Cargo Net Helps secure and organize items in the vehicle’s cargo area, preventing them from shifting during driving. as needed $10-$50
Carpet Covers the floor of the vehicle’s cabin, providing insulation, comfort, and a finished appearance. as needed $100-$500
Catalytic Converter A device that uses a catalyst to convert harmful exhaust emissions into less toxic substances 36 800
Center Console Provides storage space and houses various controls and features within the vehicle’s cabin. as needed $100-$500
Centralized Body Control Module Manages and integrates various electronic systems and functions within the vehicle. 60-96 $500-$1,500
Charge Air Cooler Cools the compressed air entering the engine, increasing its density and improving engine performance. as needed $200-$800
Chassis The underlying frame that supports the body and other components of a vehicle 60 2000
Chassis Control Module An electronic control unit that manages the various systems and components that make up the vehicle’s chassis 12 450
Chassis Harness Provides the electrical connections and wiring for the various components within the vehicle’s chassis. as needed $50-$300
Chassis Lubrication System Provides lubrication to the various moving parts within the vehicle’s chassis, reducing friction and wear. 12-24 $50-$200
Chassis Subframe Provides a sturdy, load-bearing structure that supports the vehicle’s engine, transmission, and other major components. as needed $500-$2,000
Chassis Wiring Harness Provides the electrical connections and distribution of power and signals throughout the vehicle’s various systems and components. 96 300-800
Choke Temporarily enriches the air-fuel mixture during cold engine starts to improve cold starting and warm-up performance. N/A 20-50
Cigar Lighter Provides a power source for accessories like cigarette lighters or 12V electrical devices. N/A 10-30
Cigarette Lighter Provides a power source for various electrical accessories, such as phone chargers or portable air compressors. as needed $10-$50
Clearance Lamp Helps indicate the overall width and height of a vehicle, particularly important for larger vehicles like trucks and trailers. as needed $10-$50
Climate Control System Regulates the temperature, humidity, and airflow within the vehicle’s cabin, ensuring a comfortable environment for occupants. as needed $500-$2,000
Clutch A mechanism that connects and disconnects the engine from the transmission, allowing the driver to control the power delivery 24 500
Clutch Disc Transmits the engine’s power to the transmission, allowing the vehicle to engage and disengage the drivetrain. 48-96 $200-$500
Clutch Master Cylinder Generates hydraulic pressure to actuate the clutch, allowing the driver to engage and disengage the clutch. 48-96 $50-$200
Clutch Pedal Allows the driver to engage and disengage the clutch, enabling gear changes in a manual transmission vehicle. as needed $50-$200
Coil Pack Generates the high-voltage electrical pulses that fire the spark plugs in the engine’s cylinders. 48-96 $100-$300
Coil Spring A type of suspension spring that provides a smooth, comfortable ride by absorbing the impact of bumps and potholes 60 150
Coil-Over Shock Combines the coil spring and shock absorber into a single unit, providing both suspension and damping functions 48 150-500
Combination Lamp Combines multiple lighting functions, such as turn signals, brake lights, and taillights, into a single unit. as needed $50-$200
Combination Switch Controls various vehicle functions, such as turn signals, headlights, and windshield wipers 60 50-150
Combination Valve A brake system component that combines the functions of a proportioning valve and a safety valve, distributing brake pressure to the front and rear wheels 60 100
Compressor Pressurizes the refrigerant in the air conditioning system, allowing it to absorb heat from the cabin. 48-96 $300-$800
Condenser Removes heat from the refrigerant in the air conditioning system, causing it to condense into a liquid. 48-96 $100-$400
Connecting Rod Connects the piston to the crankshaft, transferring the force from the piston’s reciprocating motion into the crankshaft’s rotational motion. 96 80-200
Connector Provides secure and reliable electrical connections between various components and wiring harnesses in the vehicle. as needed $1-$20
Constant Velocity (CV) Joint Allows the drive shaft to transmit power to the wheels while allowing for changes in suspension movement 48 100-300
Control Arm Connects the wheel hub to the vehicle’s suspension, allowing for controlled movement and stability. 48-96 $100-$500
Control Module (Engine) Manages the operation of the engine, controlling functions such as ignition timing, fuel injection, and emission systems 60 200-500
Control Module (Transmission) Manages the operation of the transmission, including gear shifting, torque converter lockup, and transmission fluid pressure control. 96 300-800
Coolant Expansion Tank Stores the excess coolant in the cooling system, allowing for expansion and contraction as the engine temperature changes. 24-48 $50-$150
Coolant Hose A flexible rubber or silicone tube that carries the engine coolant between the radiator and the engine 12 30
Coolant Overflow Bottle Stores excess engine coolant and allows for expansion and contraction of the coolant as the engine temperature changes. 36-72 20-60
Coolant Overflow Tank A reservoir that holds excess engine coolant and allows for expansion and contraction of the coolant as the engine temperature changes 12 50
Coolant Temperature Sensor Monitors the temperature of the engine coolant, providing data to the engine control unit. 48-60 $20-$100
Coolant Water Pump Circulates the engine coolant through the cooling system, ensuring proper heat transfer and distribution. 48-96 $100-$300
Cooling Fan An electric or mechanical fan that helps draw air through the radiator to dissipate heat from the engine coolant 12 150
Cooling Fan Clutch A device that engages and disengages the cooling fan based on the temperature of the engine coolant 24 100
Cooling Fan Relay Controls the operation of the cooling fan, turning it on and off as needed to maintain proper engine temperature. 48-60 $20-$100
Corner Sensor (Parking Assist) Detects obstacles near the vehicle’s corners, providing feedback to the driver or autonomous parking system 60 50-200
Corrosion Inhibitor Helps prevent and control the corrosion of metal components in the vehicle’s cooling system. 12-24 $5-$20
Crankcase Breather Filter Removes oil mist and vapors from the engine’s crankcase ventilation system before the air is returned to the intake system. 12-24 15-40
Crankcase Ventilation System A system that removes harmful vapors and gases from the engine’s crankcase, preventing them from being released into the atmosphere 12 75
Crankcase Ventilation Valve Regulates the flow of blow-by gases from the crankcase back into the engine’s intake system 36 30-100
Crankshaft The main rotating shaft in an engine that converts the reciprocating motion of the pistons into rotational motion, transmitting power to the transmission 48 800
Crankshaft Position Sensor An electronic sensor that monitors the position and speed of the crankshaft, providing data to the engine control unit 24 150
Crankshaft Sensor Monitors the position and rotational speed of the crankshaft, providing data to the engine control module 48 50-150
Cruise Control Actuator A mechanism that adjusts the throttle position to maintain a constant vehicle speed when cruise control is engaged 36 300
Cruise Control Module The electronic control unit that manages the cruise control system, processing input from various sensors to maintain a constant vehicle speed 36 400
Cruise Control Switch A switch that allows the driver to engage and disengage the cruise control system 24 50
CV Axle A type of constant-velocity joint that transmits power from the transmission to the wheels, allowing for smooth and efficient power delivery 36 300
CV Boot A flexible, protective cover that surrounds the constant-velocity (CV) joint, preventing the ingress of dirt, water, and other contaminants 24 50
Cylinder Block The main structural component of the engine that houses the cylinders, crankshaft, and other internal components 60 1500
Cylinder Head The component that sits atop the cylinder block, containing the engine’s valves, camshaft, and other components responsible for the intake and exhaust of air and fuel 48 800
Cylinder Head Gasket A seal that sits between the cylinder head and the cylinder block, preventing leaks of coolant, oil, or combustion gases 36 200
Cylinder Liner A removable, cylindrical component that forms the walls of the engine’s cylinders, providing a smooth, durable surface for the pistons to move within 72 400
Cylinder Piston A component that moves up and down within the engine’s cylinders, converting the energy from the combustion of the air-fuel mixture into rotational motion 48 150

Descriptions

Cabin Air Filter
Helps improve air quality and reduce allergens inside the vehicle.
Cable, Parking Brake
Essential component in the parking brake system, allowing the driver to manually apply the rear brakes when the vehicle is stopped.
Caliper
An essential part of the disc brake system, the caliper houses the brake pads and allows the vehicle to be brought to a controlled stop.
Camshaft
The camshaft is a critical component that ensures proper valve timing and engine operation. It is typically made of hardened steel and requires periodic inspection and replacement to maintain optimal performance.
Camshaft Position Sensor
Ensures proper timing of the engine’s intake and exhaust valves, improving performance and fuel efficiency.
Canister Purge Valve
Part of the evaporative emission control system, the purge valve helps reduce hydrocarbon emissions and improve fuel economy.
Carburetor
The carburetor is an older technology that has largely been replaced by fuel injection systems. It uses a venturi to create a vacuum that draws in fuel, which is then mixed with air and delivered to the engine.
Cargo Net
Provides a convenient way to keep the trunk or cargo area tidy and prevents loose items from becoming a hazard.
Carpet
The vehicle’s carpet protects the underlying floor from wear and tear, while also enhancing the overall interior aesthetics.
Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is an essential emission control component that reduces the amount of pollutants released into the atmosphere. It uses a precious metal catalyst to convert carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides into less harmful compounds.
Center Console
An integral part of the vehicle’s interior design, the center console allows for convenient access to storage, cup holders, and other in-car amenities.
Centralized Body Control Module
Helps coordinate the operation of different components, such as lighting, windows, doors, and other vehicle systems, ensuring their seamless integration and functionality.
Charge Air Cooler
Also known as an intercooler, the charge air cooler helps to reduce the temperature of the air from the turbocharger or supercharger, leading to more efficient combustion and increased power output.
Chassis
The chassis is the backbone of a vehicle, providing structural integrity and supporting the weight of the engine, transmission, suspension, and other components. It is a critical safety feature that must be regularly inspected for any signs of wear or damage.
Chassis Control Module
The chassis control module is responsible for coordinating the operation of the suspension, steering, and braking systems, ensuring a smooth and safe ride. It monitors sensor data and adjusts the settings of these systems to optimize performance and handling.
Chassis Harness
Ensures that all the electrical systems and sensors in the chassis, such as the suspension, steering, and brakes, are properly connected and functioning as intended.
Chassis Lubrication System
Helps maintain the smooth operation and longevity of components like ball joints, tie rods, and other chassis elements that require regular lubrication.
Chassis Subframe
The chassis subframe is a critical structural component that helps distribute the vehicle’s weight and absorb impacts, contributing to the overall safety and handling of the car.
Chassis Wiring Harness
The main electrical ‘nervous system’ of the vehicle, the wiring harness ensures all electrical components receive the necessary power and information to function properly.
Choke
Used in carbureted engines, the choke temporarily restricts air flow to the engine, creating a richer fuel mixture for easier cold starting.
Cigar Lighter
A convenience feature that allows the driver or passengers to power small electrical devices while on the road.
Cigarette Lighter
A convenient feature that allows users to power or charge devices while on the go, though its use has declined with the rise of USB charging ports in modern vehicles.
Clearance Lamp
Also known as marker lamps, clearance lamps are typically located on the top, front, and rear of a vehicle, providing visibility and helping to prevent collisions in low-light conditions.
Climate Control System
Includes components like the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) unit, temperature sensors, and controls, allowing drivers and passengers to adjust the cabin’s climate to their preferences.
Clutch
The clutch is a key component in manual transmission vehicles, allowing the driver to engage and disengage the engine from the drivetrain. It consists of a friction disk that is pressed against the flywheel by a pressure plate, and requires periodic adjustment or replacement to maintain proper operation.
Clutch Disc
An essential component of a manual transmission system, the clutch disc connects and disconnects the engine from the transmission, enabling smooth gear changes and vehicle operation.
Clutch Master Cylinder
Part of the hydraulic clutch system, the master cylinder translates the driver’s input on the clutch pedal into the necessary hydraulic pressure to operate the clutch mechanism.
Clutch Pedal
An important control input for drivers of manual transmission vehicles, the clutch pedal must be properly functioning to ensure smooth and controlled gear shifts.
Coil Pack
Replaces the traditional distributor and coil system, providing individual, direct ignition for each cylinder, improving engine performance and efficiency.
Coil Spring
Coil springs are a common type of suspension component, used in both the front and rear of a vehicle. They are made of a spiral-wound metal rod that compresses and expands to absorb the vertical forces applied to the wheels, helping to maintain the vehicle’s stability and ride quality.
Coil-Over Shock
Helps provide a comfortable and controlled ride by absorbing road impacts and controlling suspension movement.
Combination Lamp
Helps to improve the aesthetics and visibility of a vehicle’s rear lighting, while also reducing the number of individual components that need to be maintained.
Combination Switch
Allows the driver to easily access and operate multiple vehicle systems through a single, centralized interface.
Combination Valve
The combination valve is an important safety feature in a vehicle’s brake system, ensuring that the front and rear wheels receive the appropriate amount of brake pressure to prevent lockup and maintain control during braking. It helps to prevent the rear wheels from locking up before the front wheels, which could lead to a loss of stability.
Compressor
A critical component of the vehicle’s air conditioning system, the compressor circulates the refrigerant and enables the cooling of the air that is distributed throughout the cabin.
Condenser
Helps dissipate the heat absorbed by the refrigerant, allowing it to be effectively cooled and circulated back through the air conditioning system for continued cooling of the cabin.
Connecting Rod
An essential component of the engine’s reciprocating assembly, the connecting rod converts the linear motion of the piston into the rotational motion of the crankshaft.
Connector
Ensures the uninterrupted flow of electrical signals and power, maintaining the proper functioning of the vehicle’s electrical systems.
Constant Velocity (CV) Joint
Ensures smooth and efficient power delivery to the wheels, even during cornering and suspension travel.
Control Arm
An essential component of the suspension system, the control arm helps to maintain proper wheel alignment, provide a smooth ride, and ensure the vehicle’s handling and stability.
Control Module (Engine)
The ‘brain’ of the engine, responsible for optimizing performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance.
Control Module (Transmission)
Works in coordination with the engine control module to ensure the transmission operates efficiently and seamlessly with the engine.
Coolant Expansion Tank
Helps to maintain the proper level of coolant in the system, preventing overheating and ensuring the efficient operation of the vehicle’s cooling system.
Coolant Hose
Coolant hoses are responsible for circulating the engine’s coolant, which helps to dissipate heat and maintain the optimal operating temperature of the engine. They must be regularly inspected for cracks, leaks, or other signs of wear and replaced as needed to prevent overheating and potential engine damage.
Coolant Overflow Bottle
Helps maintain the proper coolant level in the system and prevents spills or leaks, protecting the engine from overheating.
Coolant Overflow Tank
The coolant overflow tank is an important component of the vehicle’s cooling system, providing a place for excess coolant to be stored as the engine heats up and the liquid expands. It helps to maintain the proper coolant level and prevent overflow or leaks, which could lead to engine overheating.
Coolant Temperature Sensor
Helps the engine control unit optimize engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions by adjusting various parameters based on the coolant temperature.
Coolant Water Pump
A vital component of the cooling system, the water pump keeps the coolant moving, allowing it to absorb heat from the engine and dissipate it through the radiator.
Cooling Fan
The cooling fan is a critical component of the vehicle’s cooling system, helping to circulate air through the radiator and remove excess heat from the engine coolant. It is typically powered by an electric motor or a mechanical linkage to the engine, and must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure proper cooling system performance.
Cooling Fan Clutch
The cooling fan clutch is a mechanism that controls the operation of the cooling fan, only engaging it when the engine coolant temperature reaches a certain threshold. This helps to improve fuel efficiency by reducing the load on the engine when the fan is not needed, and ensures that the cooling system is able to maintain the optimal operating temperature.
Cooling Fan Relay
Plays a crucial role in the engine’s cooling system, ensuring the fan is activated when the coolant temperature rises, preventing overheating and potential engine damage.
Corner Sensor (Parking Assist)
Enhances the driver’s awareness of their vehicle’s surroundings, improving safety and ease of maneuverability.
Corrosion Inhibitor
Additive to the engine coolant that helps protect against the formation of rust and scale, which can lead to reduced cooling system efficiency and potential component failure.
Crankcase Breather Filter
Helps prevent oil contamination of the intake system and reduces emissions by filtering the crankcase ventilation airflow.
Crankcase Ventilation System
The crankcase ventilation system is an important emission control component, responsible for capturing and recirculating the blow-by gases that are produced during the engine’s combustion process. This helps to reduce the release of pollutants and improve the overall efficiency and environmental friendliness of the vehicle.
Crankcase Ventilation Valve
Part of the engine’s emission control system, helps reduce the release of unburnt hydrocarbons into the atmosphere.
Crankshaft
The crankshaft is a critical component of the engine, responsible for converting the up-and-down motion of the pistons into the rotational motion that is transmitted to the transmission. It is a precisely engineered part made of hardened steel, and requires regular inspection and maintenance to ensure proper engine operation and longevity.
Crankshaft Position Sensor
The crankshaft position sensor is an important electronic component that helps the engine control unit (ECU) to precisely time the ignition and fuel injection events. It sends information about the crankshaft’s position and rotational speed to the ECU, which in turn adjusts the engine’s operation to optimize performance and efficiency.
Crankshaft Sensor
Ensures accurate timing of the engine’s ignition and fuel injection systems, improving performance and efficiency.
Cruise Control Actuator
The cruise control actuator is a key component of the cruise control system, responsible for adjusting the throttle position to maintain the desired speed set by the driver. It receives signals from the cruise control system and works in conjunction with other sensors to accurately maintain the vehicle’s speed, improving fuel efficiency and reducing driver fatigue on long trips.
Cruise Control Module
The cruise control module is the central brain of the cruise control system, receiving input from various sensors and using that information to adjust the throttle position and maintain the desired speed. It is an important feature that helps to improve fuel efficiency and reduce driver fatigue on long highway drives.
Cruise Control Switch
The cruise control switch is the primary interface between the driver and the cruise control system, allowing the driver to activate, deactivate, and adjust the desired speed. It is typically located on the steering wheel or on the turn signal stalk, providing easy access for the driver.
CV Axle
The CV (constant-velocity) axle is a critical component of the vehicle’s drivetrain, responsible for transmitting power from the transmission to the wheels. It uses a series of internal joints and a sliding shaft to allow for smooth, seamless power delivery, even when the wheels are turning at different speeds, such as when the vehicle is cornering.
CV Boot
The CV boot is an important part of the CV axle assembly, protecting the delicate internal components from the elements. It is made of a durable, flexible material, such as rubber or plastic, and must be regularly inspected for cracks or tears to ensure that it continues to provide effective protection and prevent premature wear or failure of the CV joint.
Cylinder Block
The cylinder block is the foundation of the engine, providing the structural support and housing for the cylinders, pistons, crankshaft, and other critical components. It is typically made of cast iron or aluminum alloy, and must be designed to withstand the high pressures and temperatures generated during the engine’s operation.
Cylinder Head
The cylinder head is a crucial engine component that houses the valves, camshaft, and other mechanisms responsible for the intake and exhaust of the air-fuel mixture. It must be precisely engineered to ensure efficient airflow and proper valve timing, as well as withstand the high temperatures and pressures generated during the engine’s operation.
Cylinder Head Gasket
The cylinder head gasket is a critical sealing component that helps to maintain the proper compression and prevent the leakage of fluids or gases between the cylinder head and the cylinder block. It must be able to withstand the high temperatures and pressures generated during the engine’s operation, and is typically replaced during major engine overhauls or repairs.
Cylinder Liner
The cylinder liner is a replaceable sleeve that lines the inside of the engine’s cylinders, providing a smooth, wear-resistant surface for the pistons to move within. This design allows for easy replacement of the liner, rather than requiring the entire cylinder block to be replaced if the cylinder walls become worn or damaged over time.
Cylinder Piston
The cylinder piston is a critical engine component that converts the energy released during the combustion of the air-fuel mixture into the rotational motion that is transmitted to the crankshaft. It must be precisely engineered to withstand the high temperatures and pressures generated during the engine’s operation, and is typically made of lightweight, durable materials such as aluminum or lightweight steel alloys.

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