Have you ever wondered what the correct name is for that very box in the car where we put documents, small items or a phone charger? Many car owners use the word “glove compartment,” but this is far from the only and not always correct name. Depending on the location, purpose and even the make of the car, this compartment may have different names - from official terms to slang expressions.
In this article we will look at the names of all possible “boxes” in the interior and trunk of a car, where these names came from and which of them are considered correct from the point of view of automakers. You will learn not only about the usual glove compartment (or glove box), but also about less obvious compartments - for example, a niche under the armrest, secret compartments in the doors or hidden cavities under the trunk floor. We will also tell you how these names differ in foreign and domestic cars, and why some terms can be misleading.
If you have ever confused “glove compartment” and “glove box” or did not know what the compartment under the seat is called, this article will help you understand all the nuances. We'll also give practical tips on how to use these spaces effectively to keep your car organized and the things you need within easy reach.
Glove box vs glove box: what's the difference?
The most famous “box” in a car is, of course, glove compartment. But few people know that this word is purely colloquial, and the official name sounds different. In technical documentation and operating instructions, this compartment is most often referred to as glove box (English) glove compartment). Why is this so?
The name “glove box” comes from the days when cars did not have heating, and drivers kept gloves in this compartment to prevent them from freezing. Over time, the function of the box expanded, but the term remained. In Russia, the word “glove compartment” has taken root - from the word “mess,” which reflects its common condition: many people put everything there, from documents to empty bottles.
Interestingly, in some countries this compartment is called differently. For example:
- 🇺🇸 In the USA - glove box or glove compartment (glove box).
- 🇬🇧 In the UK - glovebox (together).
- 🇩🇪 In Germany - Handschuhfach (literally "glove compartment").
- 🇫🇷 In France - boîte à gants (glove box).
In Russian cars, especially in older models (for example, VAZ-2107 or Moskvich-412), the glove compartment was often very small and inconvenient. In modern foreign cars, such as Toyota Camry or Volkswagen Passat, this compartment has become more spacious, and sometimes even equipped with lighting and cooling. But the essence remains the same: this is the main place for storing small items in the cabin.
Other “boxes” in the car interior: names and purposes
In addition to the glove compartment, there are other storage compartments inside the car that many people are not even aware of. Let's figure out what they are called and what they are intended for.
1. Storage compartment under the armrest (or central armrest with compartment). This box is located between the front seats and is often used to store larger items: a tablet, wallet, glasses or even a small bag. In some models (for example, Kia Sportage or Hyundai Tucson) there is a 12V socket or USB port. Officially, this compartment may be called:
- 📦 Center console storage (center console compartment) - in English instructions.
- 📦 Ablagefach (storage compartment) - in German cars.
- 📦 Just “armrest box” - in Russian manuals.
2. Compartments in doors. Almost all modern cars have pockets or small drawers in the door panels. They are designed for bottles, cards or other small items. B BMW or Mercedes-Benz these compartments are often lined with soft material and backlit. In budget models (for example, Lada Granta) they can be plastic and without additional options.
3. Niche under the seat. Some cars (especially crossovers and SUVs) have hidden compartments under the front seats. For example, in Nissan X-Trail or Mitsubishi Outlander You can store small things there. In old UAZ or Nivah these niches are often used for tools.
4. Secret compartments. Some premium cars (eg. Porsche or Audi) have hidden drawers with a lock where you can store valuables. B Tesla Model S there is a "safe" under the central screen.
If your car does not have an armrest with a box, you can purchase one and install it yourself. Many models (for example, for Toyota Corolla or Ford Focus) are sold separately and are attached to standard places.
The trunk and its “boxes”: what belongs to what
The trunk is not just a large space for things, but a whole system of compartments and niches. Many car owners do not know how to correctly name certain parts of it. Let's take a closer look.
1. Main trunk compartment. This is the space that opens when you lift the lid. In hatchbacks (eg Volkswagen Golf) it is combined with the interior, and in sedans (for example, Skoda Octavia) separated by the back of the rear seat. In the instructions it is called luggage compartment (luggage compartment) or simply trunk (in the USA).
2. Trunk floor. Many cars have an additional compartment under the trunk floor. There is often a spare tire, jack or tools there. In crossovers (for example, Renault Duster) this compartment can be very deep. In premium cars (eg. Volvo XC90) sometimes organizers or even a small refrigerator are installed there.
3. Niche for first aid kit and fire extinguisher. Most cars have special mounts for a first aid kit and fire extinguisher. They can be located:
- 🚑 On the rear wall of the trunk (for example, in Lada Vesta).
- 🚑 Under the floor (for example, in Kia Rio).
- 🚑 In the niche of the rear wing (for example, in Ford Mondeo).
4. Nets and pockets on the trunk walls. In many modern cars (for example, Peugeot 3008 or Citroën C5 Aircross) on the side walls of the trunk there are mesh pockets or plastic compartments for small items. They help keep the trunk tidy and prevent cargo from shifting.
5. Hooks and loops. These are not exactly “boxes”, but they are also important elements. They are designed to secure bags, nets or cargo. In some machines (for example, Volkswagen Tiguan) there are retractable hooks that are hidden in the trim.
| Compartment name | Official term | Colloquial name | Example car |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glove box | Glove compartment | Glove compartment | Toyota Corolla |
| Compartment under the armrest | Center console storage | Armrest drawer | Hyundai Solaris |
| Trunk floor | Underfloor storage | Niche under the floor | Renault Kaptur |
| Door pockets | Door pockets | Door compartments | Kia Ceed |
| Niche for first aid kit | First aid kit compartment | Compartment for first aid kit | Lada XRAY |
The trunk of modern cars often has hidden compartments that are not described in the instructions. For example, in Skoda Kodiaq Under the floor there is an additional niche for storing dirty shoes or tools.
Hidden and unobvious compartments: where to look for additional space
Many car owners are surprised to learn that their car has hidden drawers and niches that they didn't even know existed. Let's look at the most unexpected storage places.
1. Compartment behind the glove compartment. In some vehicles (eg Ford Focus or Opel Astra) there is additional space behind the glove box. To get to it, you need to remove the glove compartment or fold down its lower part. You can store documents or small things there that should not be in plain sight.
2. Recess under the rear seat. In sedans and station wagons, there is often free space under the rear seat. B Volkswagen Passat or Audi A4 You can store a spare jacket or small luggage there. In some machines (for example, Chevrolet Cruze) this compartment is closed with a plastic cover.
3. Compartments in the ceiling. In minibuses and large crossovers (for example, Toyota Hiace or Mercedes-Benz V-Class) there are shelves or drawers for storage above the passengers' heads. This is less common in passenger cars, but in some models (for example, Citroën C4 Picasso) there are compartments in the overhead console.
4. Secret drawers in the dashboard. In older cars (eg. VAZ-2106 or GAZ-24) behind the dashboard there are sometimes niches where you can hide valuables. This is less common in modern cars, but in some models (for example, Jeep Wrangler) there are hidden compartments under the panel.
5. Compartments in bumpers. In some SUVs (eg. Land Rover Defender) the rear bumper has niches for storing tools or cables. This is very rare in passenger cars, but in Suzuki Jimny There is a small box in the rear bumper.
How to find hidden compartments in your car?
Study the instruction manual - sometimes there are non-obvious storage locations indicated. Inspect the interior and trunk for plastic covers or hatches. Check the area under the rugs and behind the trim. In some cars, hidden drawers open only when the seats are in a certain position.
How to correctly name compartments in a car: a car owner's dictionary
To avoid confusion in terms, we have compiled a small dictionary of the names of compartments in a car. It will help you better understand instructions, communicate with car service technicians, and simply sound more competent.
- 📄 Glove box (glove compartment) is the official name of the glove compartment.
- 📦 Central drawer (center console storage) — compartment under the armrest.
- 🚗 Underground (underfloor storage) — space under the trunk floor.
- 🚪 Door pockets (door pockets) - compartments in door panels.
- 🔑 Secret compartment (hidden compartment) - a hidden niche for valuables.
- 🏥 Niche for first aid kit (first aid kit compartment) - a place to store a medical kit.
- 🔧 Tool compartment (tool compartment) — a box for a jack and keys.
Knowledge of these terms will be useful not only for general development, but also in practical situations. For example, if you order organizers for a car, it will be easier for you to choose accessories for a specific compartment. Or if you are selling a car, you can competently describe all its capabilities.
By the way, some countries have their own unique names. For example, in Japan the glove compartment is sometimes called dash box (from dashboard - dashboard), and in Australia you can hear slang glovy (from glove compartment).
☑️ What to check when buying a used car in terms of compartments?
What should not be stored in car drawers: safety rules
Not all things can be stored in the compartments of the car. Some items can be dangerous, while others will simply ruin your car. This is what is strictly not recommended to be stored in the interior and trunk drawers.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave car documents (STS, PTS) unattended in the glove compartment or armrest. In the event of a theft or robbery, this will make your life much more difficult. It is better to keep them with you or in a hidden compartment.
1. Flammable items. Lighters, gas cans (for example, for refilling lighters), aerosols - all of this can explode when heated. It is especially dangerous to leave such things in the glove compartment in the summer, when the temperature in the cabin can reach 60-70°C.
2. Food and drink. Food left for too long can spoil, leak, or attract insects and rodents. This is especially true for sweet drinks and fruits. If you are carrying food, it is better to use a thermal bag.
3. Electronics. Phones, tablets, laptops and even chargers should not be left in the car in the sun. High temperatures can damage them or shorten battery life.
4. Weapons and dangerous objects. Even if you have a permit to carry an injury rifle or a knife, it is not safe to store them in the glove compartment. In the event of an accident or a traffic police stop, this may raise unnecessary questions. In addition, in some countries, storing weapons in an accessible place in the vehicle is prohibited by law.
5. Valuables. Wallet, jewelry, watch - it’s better to take all this with you. Car thieves often check the glove compartments and armrest drawers first.
6. Liquids in fragile containers. Water bottles, oil or antifreeze cans can leak and damage the casing or electronics. If you need to carry liquids, use sealed containers.
7. Medicines. Many drugs deteriorate at high temperatures. Additionally, some medications (such as nitroglycerin) can be dangerous when heated.
⚠️ Attention: If your machine has a cooling compartment (such as some Mercedes-Benz or BMW), you shouldn’t put everything there either. The cooling system is designed for a certain load, and overload can damage it.
How to organize space in car drawers: practical tips
Proper organization of space in the car will not only make your trips more comfortable, but will also help avoid chaos. Here are some tips on how to effectively use the compartments in your car.
1. Use organizers. There are many accessories for car boxes:
- 📂 Organizers for the glove compartment (with compartments for documents, glasses, pens).
- 🧴 Stands for bottles and glasses (attached to door pockets).
- 🔧 Tool boxes (installed in the trunk).
- 🎒 Organizer bags for the trunk (with pockets for small items).
2. Separate things into categories. For example:
- 📄 In the glove compartment: documents, napkins, pen, notepad.
- 🔌 In the box under the armrest: chargers, cables, powerbank.
- 🚗 In the door pockets: a bottle of water, cards, small purchases.
- 🆘 In the trunk: first aid kit, fire extinguisher, tools, spare tire.
3. Use multifunctional accessories. For example:
- 🔦 Flashlight with magnet (can be attached to metal parts in the trunk).
- 🔌 Cigarette lighter splitter with USB ports (conveniently placed in a drawer under the armrest).
- 🧴 Phone holder with a compartment for small items (attached to the dashboard).
4. Clean regularly. Once a month, check all compartments and get rid of unnecessary items. This will help avoid the accumulation of garbage and maintain order.
5. Think about safety. If your car has hidden compartments, use them to store valuables. Do not leave gadgets, money or documents in sight.
6. Adapt to the season. In summer, you should have sunglasses and a bottle of water in your car; in winter, you should have a glass scraper and warm gloves. Store seasonal items in accessible compartments.
If your car doesn't have a lot of storage space, consider adding accessories like seatback nets, headrest organizers, or trunk storage bins.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about boxes in the car
Why is the glove compartment called a glove compartment?
The word "glove compartment" comes from the colloquial "bardak", which means disorder. This name reflects the typical state of this compartment, where everything is often dumped. The official name is the glove box (glove compartment), since it was originally intended to store gloves.
Where can you hide valuables in your car?
Best places for hidden storage:
- Secret compartments under the trunk floor (if your model has them).
- Niche under the rear seat (in some cars).
- Compartment behind the glove compartment (if there is one).
- Special safes (installed in premium cars).
You can also use magnetic boxes that are attached to metal parts of the body.
What is the name of the box under the seat in a car?
The compartment under the seat is usually called niche under the seat or compartment under the chair. In the instructions it may be designated as under-seat storage. In some machines (for example, Ford Transit) This compartment is used to store tools or spare parts.
Is it possible to store documents for a car in the glove compartment?
It is not recommended to store documents in the glove compartment, as this is the first place that thieves check. It is better to carry them with you or use a hidden compartment. If the documents are still in the car, make sure that the glove compartment is locked with a key.
What to do if there are no storage boxes in the car?
If your car has few compartments, you can:
- Install an additional organizer in the trunk.
- Use nets on seat backs.
- Buy a box for the armrest (if it is not included in the package).
- Use magnetic holders for small items.
You can also contact a car service center, where you will be offered options for retrofitting.