Expansion reduction of metal component assemblies using composites

A method of minimizing thermal expansion in a component assembly for a vehicle having at least two components with substantially different linear coefficients of thermal expansion, the method comprising:

• coupling a polymeric composite structure having a first coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CLTE) and a modulus of greater than or equal to about 40 GPa to a first surface of a first metal component having a second CLTE, where the first metal component further defines a second surface opposite to the first surface disposed in proximity with a second component having a third CLTE, wherein the second CLTE is greater than or equal to about 25% more than the third CLTE, while the first CLTE is less than or equal to the third CLTE, so that the polymeric composite structure coupled to the first surface reduces radial thermal expansion of the first metal component and minimizes separation of the second surface of the first metal component from the second component, wherein the coupling comprises attaching the polymeric composite structure to the first metal component via one or more mechanical interlock features.