Auto Repair Issues: Identifying Outside Influence or Manufacturing Faults
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Finding the Cause of Part Failure Can Be Tough
Sometimes, for warranty reasons, it’s essential to understand why a car part has failed. This is because many replacement parts offer a limited warranty against manufacturer defects. In addition, finding out if a mechanical failure was the driver’s fault can be a learning experience and help the owner better care for their vehicle.
At Driver’s Edge Complete Tire & Auto Service, we offer expert auto repair services in Dallas-Fort Worth on all make and model vehicles. We’re also experts at determining why a part has failed. Let’s take a look at how you can tell the difference between outside influence and manufacturing defects. When you need trustworthy auto repair, schedule an appointment at Driver’s Edge and trust that your vehicle is in the hands of the experts.
How To Determine the Cause of Part Failure
When determining whether or not a part has failed due to manufacturer’s error or outside influence, you’ll have to look at a few particular factors:
The Age of a Component
When something in your car fails, one of the first steps is figuring out how old the part is. Remember, nothing lasts forever, not even the smallest bits and pieces in your vehicle. Each component has a different life expectancy that will vary depending on how you maintain your vehicle. If the failed component or part is relatively new and fails within its warrantied coverage, it’s possible that the component may have failed due to a manufacturer’s error or poor craftsmanship.
Your Driving and Auto Care Habits
Another factor that you may want to look at is your driving habits. For example, if you experience fuel pump failure, you may want to ask yourself if any of your habits could be a contributing factor. For example, driving on a nearly empty gas tank can put unnecessary stress on your fuel pump and cause premature failure.
Car Maintenance History
When a component fails, you’ll want to check to ensure it’s been properly serviced throughout its life. For example, if you experience transmission failure, you may want to ask yourself if you performed routine transmission maintenance on your vehicle throughout its lifetime. Similarly, if you’re experiencing engine trouble, you’ll want to ask yourself if your engine has been well-maintained for as long as you’ve had your vehicle.
Many drivers don’t always realize the tremendous impact that routine service has on their vehicle’s various parts and components. One great example is the coolant flush. A coolant flush doesn’t only protect your engine from overheating, but it also helps prolong the life of your water pump.
Repeat Issues
If you notice that the same components are failing on your vehicle, this could be due to driver error or a part defect from the manufacturer. Sometimes, driving habits create excess wear on certain components of our vehicles. This is very common when it comes to brake repair.
Many drivers who drive using both feet do not realize the stress they put on their braking system. Those who drive with two feet will often rest their left foot on the brake without realizing it — causing persistent brake wear.
Check for Recalls
Checking for recalls is a fantastic way to find the solution to a mystery issue. Sometimes, drivers are left scratching their heads, wondering why certain components of their vehicle failed — only to find out much later that their mechanical failure was due to a part under recall. We recommend checking regularly to see if your vehicle has had any recent part recalls. This helps to prevent auto repair before a recalled component turns into a total breakdown.
How Long Auto Parts Typically Last
Here are some average life expectancies for various parts and components of the average vehicle:
- Engine — 150,000-200,000 miles
- Transmision — 300,000+ miles
- Alternator — 150,000 miles
- Fuel Pump — 100,000 miles
- Water pump — 60,000-90,000 miles
- Tires — 60,000-80,000 miles
- Brake Pads — 15,000-60,000 miles
- Brake Rotors — 30,000-70,000 miles
Schedule an Appointment at Driver’s Edge
Regardless of what kind of auto repair your vehicle needs, Driver’s Edge is here to get you back on the road. We’ve taken an extra step to provide the most trustworthy Dallas car repair by employing the most qualified auto mechanics. Our Dallas auto mechanics are ASE-certified and use high-quality replacement parts to ensure your car repairs are handled with total peace of mind.
We even feature fantastic auto service coupons to help you save on maintenance and repair services. When you’re looking for trusted Dallas car repair, schedule an appointment at Driver’s Edge and enjoy peace of mind today.
