Cars are objects that elicit powerful emotional reactions. People form attachments to them; they are part of their identity. As such, it is understandable that people's feelings about cars can become entwined with their sexuality. There is even a term for this phenomenon: automotive fetishism. It refers to an attraction to vehicles, often involving strong feelings of attachment or desire towards them.

Researchers have found that some vehicle features can be particularly stimulating to those who experience autoeroticism. These features include side skirts, spoilers, diffusers, and exhaust pipes. They all contribute to a car's aggressiveness and can trigger arousal in individuals who feel passionate about them.

Side skirts are panels that cover the lower portion of a car's bodywork. They create a sleeker appearance, making the vehicle look more aerodynamic. Some models feature intricate designs that extend beyond the bodywork, which has been linked to increased attention from potential partners. Diffusers are similar structures that serve as air guides for the rear tires. They also make the vehicle appear sportier, increasing its appeal to admirers. Spoilers provide downforce on race cars, but they can also add visual drama to everyday vehicles.

Exhaust pipes allow gases to escape the engine safely while providing a unique sound and style. Many people find these elements to be visually appealing, contributing to their overall attraction to the car.

The presence of these design features indicates that the owner invested time, money, and effort into modifying their vehicle. This creates a sense of pride and ownership, adding to the intimacy between person and machine. The owner may perceive the car as a reflection of themselves and enjoy spending time with it. Therefore, seeing someone else driving the same type of car can evoke sexual responses due to the similarity to their own vehicle. Other factors such as color, shape, and performance can also influence attraction to a particular model or brand.

Many car enthusiasts have reported feeling aroused by the aggressive appearance of certain models, even if they do not own one.