There are 45 car parts that start with the letter K. From Kalorific Differential to Knuckle Seal. 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 K

Car parts function maintenance interval (months) replacement cost (USD)
Kalorific Differential Controls the flow of power to the wheels, ensuring smooth and efficient operation. 6 450
Karburetor Mixes air and fuel for the engine, providing the proper air-fuel ratio for efficient combustion. 12 150
Kerf Cut Brake Disc Reduces brake disc weight and improves heat dissipation 24 75-150
Key Cylinder Provides a mechanical lock for the ignition system 36 20-50
Key Security Chip An electronic security device embedded in the vehicle’s key that communicates with the engine control unit to enable starting and prevent unauthorized access. 48 100
Keyed Anti-Theft System Keyed Ignition Switch Kinetic Damping System Kinetic Recovery System
Keyed Ignition Switch Provides the electrical connection to start the engine and power the vehicle’s electrical systems. 24 50
Keying Agent A chemical compound added to the fuel to help prevent engine knocking and improve combustion efficiency. 6 20
Keyless Entry Fob Wireless remote control for locking/unlocking doors and trunk 60 25-100
Keyless Entry Receiver Allows the vehicle to be unlocked and started without the use of a physical key, using a wireless remote control or mobile device. 48 100
Keyless Ignition Module Provides the necessary electronic controls and communication for a keyless ignition system, allowing the vehicle to be started without a physical key. 48 150
Keypad Entry System A security feature that allows the driver to unlock the vehicle by entering a code on a keypad, rather than using a physical key. 48 150
Keyway Provides a positive mechanical connection between two rotating components, such as a shaft and a pulley or gear. 36 20
Keyway Tool Used to inspect and maintain the keyway in the crankshaft 12 10-30
Kick Down Cable Connects the accelerator pedal to the transmission, allowing the driver to downshift for increased acceleration. 24 30
Kick Panel Provides a protective and finished cover for the area below the dashboard, often housing the foot pedals and other components. 12 30
Kick Panel Bezel Decorative trim piece covering the kick panel area 36 15-40
Kinematic Linkage A system of interconnected mechanical links that translate motion and force between components, such as in the steering or suspension systems. 24 150
Kinetic Energy Accumulator A device that stores the vehicle’s kinetic energy during braking and releases it to provide additional power or acceleration. 48 500
Kinetic Energy Charge Controller A component that manages the flow of kinetic energy captured during braking and regulates its release to provide additional power or acceleration. 48 300
Kinetic Energy Converter Converts the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electrical energy, which can be used to charge the battery or power onboard electrical systems. 36 200
Kinetic Energy Flywheel Stores rotational energy to improve engine efficiency 60 200-500
Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) A system that captures the kinetic energy generated during braking and uses it to provide a temporary boost in power or acceleration. 48 800
Kinetic Energy Storage Battery A specialized battery that stores the kinetic energy recovered during braking, which can then be used to provide additional power or acceleration. 48 500
Kinetic Energy Storage Device A component that stores the kinetic energy recovered from braking, which can be later released to provide additional power or acceleration. 48 400
King Pin Connects the steering knuckle to the vehicle’s suspension, allowing the wheels to turn and the vehicle to steer. 24 100
King Pin Adjustment The process of adjusting the alignment and positioning of the king pin to ensure proper steering geometry and wheel alignment. 12 50
King Pin Bearing Supports the king pin and allows the steering knuckle to rotate smoothly, enabling the vehicle to steer. 24 50
King Pin Bushing Provides a wear-resistant interface between the king pin and the steering knuckle, reducing friction and wear. 24 30
King Pin Kit A set of components, including the king pin, bushings, and bearings, that is replaced as a complete unit during maintenance or repair. 24 150
Knee Bolster Provides a protective barrier between the dashboard and the driver’s knees, helping to prevent injury in the event of a collision. 60 200
Knee Pad Provides a soft, cushioned surface for the driver’s or passenger’s knees, improving comfort and reducing fatigue during long drives. 12 20
Knock Control Module Monitors the engine for signs of knocking and adjusts the ignition timing accordingly to prevent engine damage. 36 150
Knock Limiter Module Adjusts ignition timing to prevent engine knocking 24 75-150
Knock Sensor Detects engine knock (pre-ignition) and adjusts the ignition timing to prevent damage to the engine. 36 100
Knock Suppression Catalyst A knock suppression catalyst is a device used in some engines to reduce the occurrence of knocking or detonation by altering the combustion process. 12 75
Knock Suppression Coating Protects engine components from knock-induced damage 36 50-150
Knock Suppression System Reduces engine knock by adjusting ignition timing or fuel injection. N/A 200
Knuckle Bearing A knuckle bearing is a type of ball joint that connects the steering knuckle to the suspension control arm, allowing for smooth steering and suspension movement. 24 50
Knuckle Bushing Knuckle bushings are rubber or polyurethane components that fit into the steering knuckle, providing a cushioned connection between the knuckle and the suspension components. 24 25
Knuckle Dome Protects and seals the upper ball joint on the front suspension. 24 45
Knuckle Joint A knuckle joint is a type of mechanical joint that allows for rotational and angular movement, often used in the steering and suspension systems of vehicles. 24 35
Knuckle Mount Securely attaches the steering knuckle to the vehicle’s suspension system. 24 55
Knuckle Pivot Bolt Provides the pivoting point for the steering knuckle. 36 25
Knuckle Seal Prevents leakage of lubricant from the front wheel bearings. 24 20

Descriptions

Kalorific Differential
The kalorific differential is a crucial component in a vehicle’s drivetrain, managing the distribution of torque to the wheels for optimal performance and traction. It plays a vital role in maintaining the vehicle’s balance and responsiveness, especially during cornering and high-speed maneuvers.
Karburetor
The karburetor is a vital component in older vehicle engines, responsible for mixing the correct amount of air and fuel before it enters the engine cylinders. It plays a crucial role in optimizing engine performance and fuel efficiency, though it has been largely replaced by modern fuel injection systems.
Kerf Cut Brake Disc
Kerf cuts are small, evenly spaced grooves made in the surface of a brake disc to improve braking performance and reduce brake fade.
Key Cylinder
The key cylinder is the part of the ignition system where the car key is inserted to start the engine. It contains the tumblers that allow the key to turn the ignition.
Key Security Chip
The key security chip is an electronic component integrated into the vehicle’s key or key fob, serving as an anti-theft and security feature. This chip communicates with the engine control unit to authenticate the key and enable the starting of the engine, preventing unauthorized access and theft of the vehicle.
Keyed Anti-Theft System
Knee Airbag
Keyed Ignition Switch
The keyed ignition switch is the primary control point for starting and powering a vehicle’s engine and electrical components. It uses a physical key to engage the ignition system and activate the necessary circuits, ensuring a secure and controlled starting process.
Keying Agent
The keying agent is a specialized additive that is blended into the vehicle’s fuel, typically gasoline. Its primary function is to help prevent engine knocking or pre-ignition, which can cause significant damage to the engine. By improving the fuel’s combustion characteristics, the keying agent contributes to enhanced engine performance and efficiency.
Keyless Entry Fob
The keyless entry fob is a handheld device that communicates with the car’s computer to allow the driver to remotely lock, unlock, and access the vehicle without a physical key.
Keyless Entry Receiver
The keyless entry receiver is an electronic component that enables the vehicle to be unlocked and started without the use of a physical key. It communicates wirelessly with a remote control or a mobile device, allowing the driver to access the vehicle and start the engine without the need to physically insert a key into the ignition.
Keyless Ignition Module
The keyless ignition module is the central control unit for a keyless ignition system, responsible for managing the communication between the vehicle’s electronic systems and the wireless key fob or mobile device used to start the engine. This module enables the driver to start the vehicle without physically inserting a key into the ignition.
Keypad Entry System
The keypad entry system is a security feature that enables the driver to unlock the vehicle by entering a unique numerical code on a keypad, rather than using a physical key. This provides an additional layer of security and convenience, allowing access to the vehicle without the need to carry a key.
Keyway
The keyway is a small, rectangular groove cut into the surface of a shaft or hub, allowing for the attachment of another component through the use of a matching key. This ensures a secure, non-slipping connection between the two parts, crucial for transmitting torque and maintaining alignment.
Keyway Tool
The keyway is a slot in the end of the crankshaft that allows the transmission to be securely attached. The keyway tool is used to check for wear or damage to this critical component.
Kick Down Cable
The kick down cable is a mechanical linkage between the accelerator pedal and the transmission, typically found in vehicles with automatic transmissions. When the driver fully depresses the accelerator pedal, the kick down cable signals the transmission to downshift, providing a surge of power and acceleration for overtaking, merging, or climbing hills.
Kick Panel
The kick panel is a trim piece located at the base of the dashboard, covering the area where the driver and passenger’s feet are positioned. It serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose, protecting components while also providing a clean, finished appearance to the interior of the vehicle.
Kick Panel Bezel
The kick panel bezel is a plastic or metal trim piece that covers the area between the door sill and the floor of the vehicle, providing a finished appearance.
Kinematic Linkage
The kinematic linkage is a network of interconnected mechanical links and joints that transfer motion and force between various components in a vehicle’s steering or suspension systems. This linkage allows for the precise and coordinated movement of these components, enabling the vehicle to steer, turn, and handle effectively.
Kinetic Energy Accumulator
The kinetic energy accumulator, also known as a flywheel-based hybrid system, is a mechanism that captures the energy generated during braking and stores it in the form of rotational kinetic energy. This stored energy can then be released to provide a burst of additional power or acceleration, improving the vehicle’s overall efficiency and performance.
Kinetic Energy Charge Controller
The kinetic energy charge controller is a crucial component in a regenerative braking or Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS). It is responsible for managing the storage and release of the kinetic energy captured during braking, ensuring the efficient and controlled delivery of this energy to provide a temporary boost in power or acceleration when needed.
Kinetic Energy Converter
The kinetic energy converter, also known as a regenerative braking system, is a mechanism that captures the energy generated during braking and converts it into electrical energy. This helps to improve the vehicle’s overall efficiency and reduce the load on the battery, contributing to improved fuel economy or increased electric driving range.
Kinetic Energy Flywheel
The kinetic energy flywheel is a heavy, rotating disc that stores energy during engine operation and releases it during acceleration, improving overall vehicle efficiency.
Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS)
The Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) is an advanced technology that recovers the kinetic energy generated during braking and stores it in an energy storage device, such as a battery or flywheel. This stored energy can then be released to provide a temporary boost in power or acceleration, improving the vehicle’s overall efficiency and performance, particularly in urban driving conditions or during high-performance driving.
Kinetic Energy Storage Battery
The kinetic energy storage battery is a specialized energy storage device used in regenerative braking or Kinetic Energy Recovery Systems (KERS). It is designed to efficiently store the kinetic energy generated during braking, which can then be released to provide a temporary boost in power or acceleration, improving the vehicle’s overall efficiency and performance.
Kinetic Energy Storage Device
The kinetic energy storage device is a specialized component within a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) or a similar regenerative braking system. It stores the kinetic energy generated during braking, typically in the form of rotational energy in a flywheel or electrical energy in a battery. This stored energy can then be released to provide a temporary boost in power or acceleration, enhancing the vehicle’s overall efficiency and performance.
King Pin
The king pin is a critical component in a vehicle’s steering and suspension system, acting as the pivoting point that allows the front wheels to turn and the vehicle to steer. It is responsible for transferring the steering input from the steering wheel to the wheels, ensuring precise and responsive handling.
King Pin Adjustment
The king pin adjustment is a crucial maintenance procedure that involves fine-tuning the alignment and positioning of the king pin, which connects the steering knuckle to the vehicle’s suspension. Proper king pin adjustment ensures the correct steering geometry, allowing the wheels to turn smoothly and the vehicle to steer accurately, contributing to overall handling and tire wear performance.
King Pin Bearing
The king pin bearing is a crucial component that supports the king pin and allows the steering knuckle to rotate freely, enabling the vehicle to turn and steer effectively. These bearings must be properly lubricated and maintained to ensure smooth and responsive steering performance.
King Pin Bushing
The king pin bushing is a small, cylindrical component that fits between the king pin and the steering knuckle. It serves as a wear-resistant interface, reducing friction and wear between these two moving components. Properly maintained king pin bushings help ensure smooth, responsive steering and extend the service life of the steering and suspension system.
King Pin Kit
The king pin kit is a comprehensive replacement set that includes the king pin, bushings, and bearings necessary to fully service the steering and suspension system. By replacing the entire kit, rather than individual components, the mechanic can ensure proper alignment, smooth operation, and extended service life of the steering system.
Knee Bolster
The knee bolster is a safety feature located below the dashboard, designed to protect the driver’s knees in the event of a frontal collision. This energy-absorbing component helps to reduce the risk of knee and leg injuries by providing a cushioned barrier between the dashboard and the driver’s lower body.
Knee Pad
The knee pad is a small, padded component installed on the lower portion of the dashboard or door panel, designed to provide a comfortable resting surface for the driver’s or passenger’s knees. These pads help to alleviate pressure and discomfort during extended driving periods, enhancing the overall comfort and ergonomics of the vehicle’s interior.
Knock Control Module
The knock control module is an electronic control unit that constantly monitors the engine for the presence of knocking or pre-ignition. When detected, the module adjusts the ignition timing to reduce the intensity of the knocking, protecting the engine from potential damage caused by this harmful condition.
Knock Limiter Module
The knock limiter module monitors the engine for signs of detonation (knocking) and adjusts the ignition timing to prevent damage to the engine.
Knock Sensor
The knock sensor is an electronic device that monitors the engine for the occurrence of knocking or pre-ignition, which can cause significant damage to the engine if left unchecked. By detecting this condition, the knock sensor allows the engine control unit to adjust the ignition timing and fuel delivery to prevent further knocking, protecting the engine’s integrity.
Knock Suppression Catalyst
The knock suppression catalyst works by introducing a small amount of secondary air into the combustion chamber, which helps to control the timing and intensity of the combustion, reducing the likelihood of knock.
Knock Suppression Coating
A specialized coating applied to critical engine parts, such as pistons and cylinder walls, that helps reduce the effects of engine knocking and prevents premature wear.
Knock Suppression System
The knock suppression system is designed to prevent engine knock, which can lead to severe engine damage. It works by continuously monitoring the engine’s operation and making real-time adjustments to the ignition timing or fuel delivery to eliminate knock.
Knuckle Bearing
The knuckle bearing allows the steering knuckle to pivot and rotate, providing the necessary articulation for the front wheels to turn and the suspension to absorb shocks.
Knuckle Bushing
Knuckle bushings help to absorb vibrations, reduce noise, and maintain proper alignment of the steering and suspension system.
Knuckle Dome
The knuckle dome is a protective cover that shields the upper ball joint on the front suspension. It prevents dirt, debris, and moisture from entering the joint and causing premature wear.
Knuckle Joint
The knuckle joint enables the steering knuckle to pivot, allowing the front wheels to turn and the suspension to articulate, providing improved handling and ride quality.
Knuckle Mount
The knuckle mount is a critical component that connects the steering knuckle to the suspension, allowing for proper wheel alignment and steering control. It must be regularly inspected for wear and replaced if necessary.
Knuckle Pivot Bolt
The knuckle pivot bolt is a crucial fastener that allows the steering knuckle to pivot, enabling the wheels to turn. It must be properly torqued and checked periodically to ensure safe and responsive steering.
Knuckle Seal
The knuckle seal is a small but vital component that keeps the wheel bearing lubricated and prevents contaminants from entering the bearing assembly. Replacing a worn knuckle seal can help extend the life of the wheel bearings.

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