What is the bracket installed at the rear of the car?
The term "car rear mounting bracket" is somewhat vague. There are several common types available on the market, and they vary greatly in terms of function and appearance. Based on the scenario you described, it is most likely one of the following:
Rear cargo/passenger bracket (tail rack): The most common type, installed at the rear of the vehicle to expand its functionality. This could include bike racks, luggage racks, or metal racks for electric vehicles and motorcycles that carry both cargo and passengers. The materials are mostly aluminum (lightweight and corrosion-resistant) or carbon steel (with strong load-bearing capacity), with basic models capable of supporting up to 10-20 kilograms, and enhanced models up to 50-75 kilograms.
Rear bumper bracket: This is a structural component of the vehicle itself, acting as an "invisible frame" to support and secure the rear bumper. It helps distribute and absorb impact forces during collisions, protecting the vehicle. The materials include metal brackets made of high-strength steel and thermoplastic composite materials.
Rear axle bracket: A key component of the chassis suspension system, responsible for supporting and stabilizing the rear axle, ensuring smooth and comfortable driving. If it breaks, the vehicle will be unstable and make abnormal noises.
Rear functionality bracket (add-on part): For example, a rear tablet holder attached to the headrest to fix a tablet, or the adjustable bracket like the one from Changan Roumuzao that can change the angle of the rear seatback and increase the trunk space.
In summary, if it is an original part of the vehicle, it is likely to be a bumper bracket or rear axle bracket type of component; if it is added later by oneself, it is most likely a tail rack, tablet holder, or rear adjustment bracket.
How to distinguish
Based on usage: For carrying items, transporting people, or watching TV series, they are considered as functional extension parts; for the vehicle structure and safety, they are regarded as original factory structural components.
Based on installation method: The rear-mounted brackets are usually fixed with bolts or inserted into the original vehicle holes, allowing for non-destructive installation; the original factory structural components are developed and tested as an integrated part of the entire vehicle.
Based on load-bearing capacity: The tail racks for carrying items usually have a clearly marked load-bearing range, such as 10-20 kilograms or 50-75 kilograms; structural brackets do not emphasize this aspect but rather focus on rigidity.
It should be noted
If the added parts are non-original factory products, they might need to be removed during the annual inspection, and there might be risks of insurance disputes in case of accidents.
For example, the rear-mounted spare tire bracket, which is a modified support, will increase the weight of the vehicle's rear by 30-40 kg, change the distribution of front and rear axle loads, and affect handling and off-road performance. Therefore, it is necessary to assess carefully before installing it.
After installation, it is necessary to regularly check if the screws are loose. If any deformation or damage is found, it should be repaired or replaced in time.
The functions of installing rear brackets depend on the specific type. The common uses include:
Rear bumper bracket: This is factory-installed and its function is to fix and support the bumper. It absorbs and disperses impact forces during rear-end collisions, protecting the vehicle body and the occupants' safety, and preventing the bumper from loosening and sagging.
Rear rack/cargo bracket: This is an aftermarket installation, mainly for expanding storage space, such as for carrying goods, passengers, or delivering food. It is commonly found on electric vehicles, motorcycles, and some cars.
Clearance vehicle-specific bracket: This is for towing purposes. It can extend into the vehicle's bottom to grip the tires and lift the vehicle for towing.
Rear-mounted spare tire bracket: Installing a rear-mounted spare tire and bracket on an off-road vehicle will significantly increase the rear weight, change the distribution of front and rear axle loads, and affect handling and off-road performance.
The commonly referred to "rear brackets" are mostly the rear bumper brackets. They are hidden under the trunk and there are one on each side, like two hands supporting the bumper. Their core functions are three:
Fixing the bumper: Ensuring the bumper is firmly fixed to the vehicle body, without loosening or sagging.
Collision buffering: Absorbing the impact force immediately when rear-ended, dispersing it, and reducing vehicle damage.
Support structure: Making the rear more robust, protecting the safety of passengers in severe accidents.
If you notice the bumper sagging, abnormal sounds from the rear when passing over speed bumps, or uneven gaps between the bumper and the vehicle body, it is likely that the bracket is malfunctioning. It is recommended to check and repair it in time.
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