Vehicle Construction and Parts Flashcards

Which glass type is used for automotive side windows because it shatters into small, relatively harmless pebbles upon breakage?

Answer: Tempered glass

Tempered glass is heat-treated to create surface compression stresses that cause it to fragment into small cubes rather than sharp shards when broken.

What is the difference between a MacPherson strut and a double-wishbone suspension design in terms of vehicle construction?

Answer: MacPherson combines the shock absorber and spindle into one unit; double-wishbone uses separate upper and lower control arms

The MacPherson strut integrates the shock absorber, spring perch, and steering knuckle into a single assembly, while double-wishbone uses two separate A-arms to locate the spindle.

What is a 'torque box' in the context of unibody vehicle construction?

Answer: A reinforced structural section at the junction of the rocker panel and floor pan that resists twisting forces

Torque boxes are heavily reinforced structural nodes where major body sections meet, designed to resist torsional loads transmitted through the chassis.

When assessing damage to a vehicle's door, what is the term for the structural beam inside the door that provides side-impact protection?

Answer: Side impact beam or intrusion bar

Side impact beams (intrusion bars) are steel or aluminum reinforcements inside door panels mandated by FMVSS 214 to resist lateral intrusion during crashes.

Which vehicle construction technology uses computer-designed sections that progressively buckle in sequence to maximize energy absorption?

Answer: Programmed deformation or 'triggered' crush zones

Triggered crush zones use engineered weak points (initiators) stamped or pressed into rails so that collapse progresses in a controlled accordion pattern.

What is the function of the firewall (also called the dash panel or bulkhead) in vehicle construction?

Answer: It separates the engine compartment from the passenger cabin and provides structural support

The firewall is a structural panel that isolates the passenger compartment from the engine bay, reduces noise/heat transfer, and provides attachment points for the dashboard and pedals.

In vehicle construction, what is the purpose of 'hem flanges' on body panels?

Answer: They are folded edges where two panels are crimped together to form a finished, strong seam

Hem flanges are created by folding the edge of an outer panel over an inner panel edge, creating a clean, strong joint used on hoods, doors, decklids, and fenders.