Common Car Parts That Wear Out and When to Repair Them – Our cars are a major investment and, as with any investment, it always pays to ensure they remain functional for as long as possible. By design, most cars are modular entities made up of hundreds of individual parts. If just one of these parts wears out it can cause your car to either stop working entirely or at least work a little less efficiently.
Over time, extensive usage, environmental factors, and just general old age can deteriorate various components of your car but in many cases, it doesn’t need to cost a fortune. If you know what to look for and where to look, you can ensure your individual components remain strong and functional and understand when it might be time to send them off to the mechanics for repairs.
Brakes: The Lifeline of Your Vehicle
Brake components such as brake pads, rotors, and brake lines are crucial for your safety, undergoing significant stress every time you press down on the brake pedal. These pads will naturally wear down over time which can decrease braking performance and potentially cause damage to the rotors. It’s much cheaper to replace brake pads than rotors so be sure to check in on your brake pads every 10,000 to 15,000 miles. You should also listen out for any unusual noises when braking, which usually indicates it’s time for a replacement.
Tyres: Your Contact Point with the Road
Tyres endure constant contact with the road so are the parts of your car you’ll probably have to replace the most frequently. The lifespan is, of course, going to be influenced by road conditions, driving habits, and maintenance practices, as well as the quality of the tyres themselves. Regular inspections can help identify when the treads are worn down to the legal limit of 1.6mm, which is mandatory in the UK for tyre replacement. To ensure your tyres last as long as possible, rotate them every 5,000 to 7,000 miles and remember to keep them properly inflated!
Suspension: Ensuring a Smooth Ride
Suspension components such as shocks, struts, and tie rods ensure your car handles properly and rides smoothly. These parts can wear out due to constant movement, road conditions, and general vehicle ageing. Signs of worn suspension include a rougher ride, uneven tyre wear, and noise or vibration during driving. Typically, suspension components should be inspected at least once a year or every 12,000 miles. Replacing worn suspension parts can restore ride comfort, improve handling, and prevent further damage to other vehicle components.
Battery: The Power Behind the Engine
If your car battery goes then your car is effectively a very large paperweight and there are dozens of factors to consider when it comes to battery health. Factors like temperature fluctuations, age, and the demands of the car’s electrical system can degrade the battery over time and, to be honest, there’s very little you can really do to stop it. Symptoms of a failing battery include issues with electrical components and swollen battery cases, but even if you’ve noticed none of these problems it’s typically recommended to have your battery tested every year. If you’re experiencing battery issues, a full servicing at a local garage can diagnose and rectify any problems, ensuring that your car remains reliable, especially under extreme weather conditions.
Poppy Watt