A Guide to Automotive Fasteners and Their Applications
Fasteners play an enormous role in the safety, performance, and reliability of vehicles. From securing engine components to holding together body panels, automotive fasteners are designed to meet the demanding requirements of the automotive industry. This guide will explore the most common types of automotive fasteners, their materials, coatings, and where they’re used.
Automotive Fasteners by the Numbers
Fasteners in an average vehicle
Weight reduction with proper fastener selection
Minimum strength grade for critical components
Types of Automotive Fasteners
Bolts and Screws
These are the most widely used fasteners in vehicles. Automotive bolts and screws are often manufactured to meet strict specifications for strength, corrosion resistance, and vibration resistance.
Common Types:
Nuts
Paired with bolts, automotive nuts are designed for high strength and vibration resistance.
Common Types:
Washers
Washers help distribute load and prevent fastener damage to surfaces. In automotive use, they can also assist with sealing and vibration reduction.
Clips and Retainers
These are essential for securing non-structural components such as trim panels, wiring harnesses, and insulation. They are typically made of durable plastics or lightweight metals.
Rivets
Used in permanent installations where welding isn’t practical, rivets are common in structural and body panel applications.
- Body panel assembly
- Structural joints
- Heat shield mounting
- Permanent connection
- No thread loosening
- Clean appearance
Threaded Inserts
These provide strong threads in softer materials like plastics or aluminum, often used for interior and electrical component mounting.
Materials Used in Automotive Fasteners
Automotive fasteners are manufactured from a variety of materials depending on their application:
⚙️
Carbon Steel
The most common choice for strength and affordability. Used in general automotive applications where corrosion isn’t a primary concern.
️
Stainless Steel
Offers excellent corrosion resistance for exhaust systems, trim, and underbody parts exposed to harsh conditions.
⚡
Aluminum
Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and used in performance or electric vehicles to reduce weight.
Alloy Steel
High-strength material for demanding applications like suspension or drivetrain components.
Coatings for Automotive Fasteners
To withstand road salts, moisture, and heat, automotive fasteners often receive specialized coatings:
Zinc Plating
Provides moderate corrosion resistance at a cost-effective price. Standard for most interior and protected applications.
Yellow Zinc
Enhanced corrosion resistance and easy identification. Often used for critical fasteners requiring visual inspection.
Phosphate Coating
Common for interior fasteners to improve lubricity and prevent galling during assembly.
Dacromet or Geomet
High-performance coatings for maximum corrosion protection in harsh environments like underbody applications.
Applications in the Automotive Industry
Automotive fasteners are used throughout every part of a vehicle, including:
Engine & Powertrain
High-strength bolts for cylinder heads, crankshafts, and transmission mounts
Suspension & Steering
Grade 8 or higher fasteners for safety-critical components like control arms and steering linkage
Body & Interior
Clips, retainers, and screws for trim, upholstery, and electronics
Exhaust Systems
Stainless steel or coated fasteners to withstand heat and corrosion in extreme conditions
Why Quality Matters
Automotive fasteners must endure extreme vibrations, heat cycles, moisture, and mechanical stress. Using the wrong fastener—or a poor-quality one—can lead to:
⚠️ Risks of Poor Quality:
- Component loosening
- System failure
- Safety hazards
- Increased maintenance costs
✅ Benefits of Quality:
- Reliable performance
- Extended service life
- Reduced warranty claims
- Enhanced safety
Quality Automotive Fasteners from SC Fastening Systems
At SC Fastening Systems, we stock high-quality automotive fasteners designed for durability and performance. From engine assembly bolts to trim panel clips, our comprehensive inventory meets the demanding requirements of automotive manufacturers, repair shops, and enthusiasts.
Whether you need OEM-grade fasteners for critical safety components or specialty hardware for custom applications, our automotive specialists understand the unique requirements of vehicle assembly and maintenance. Contact our automotive team today for expert guidance on fastener selection, material specifications, and coating options.
Fasteners that meet or exceed manufacturer specifications
Engine, suspension, body, and electrical fasteners
Quick turnaround for automotive production schedules
Certified materials and coatings for reliability
Volume discounts for OEMs and repair facilities
Expert guidance on fastener selection and application