February 24, 2025 | Car Accidents
The auto industry sold nearly 16 million vehicles in the United States in 2024, each of which contains thousands of parts that could potentially fail. That means there are quite literally millions of opportunities for something to go wrong. Motor vehicle defects lead to thousands of accidents each year, as well as costly repairs, lost time, and major struggles across the board.
Types Of Motor Vehicle Defects
Vehicle defects can affect any make or model, from economy cars to luxury vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that mechanical failures contribute to about 44,000 crashes annually.
Leading vehicle defects include the following:
Brake System Failures
Brake failures are some of the most dangerous defects to occur in vehicles. According to federal safety data, brake-related problems account for nearly 22% of mechanical vehicle failures in crashes.
Brake defects that lead to failures include things such as:
- Faulty Brake Lines: Can rupture or leak without warning
- Defective Brake Pads: Wear down faster than they should
- Anti-Lock Brake System Malfunctions: Cause unpredictable stopping
- Master Cylinder Failures: Reduce overall braking power
- Brake Fluid Leaks: Compromise the entire system
Each of these issues requires immediate attention, as driving with compromised brakes puts everyone on the road at risk.
Steering System Malfunctions
Steering failures often happen at the worst possible moments, such as during turns. The most common steering defects and flaws are as follows:
- Power Steering Pump Failures: Make the wheel suddenly hard to turn
- Broken Steering Linkages: Cause complete loss of control
- Defective Steering Columns: Can lock up unexpectedly
- Faulty Steering Controls: Electronic systems in newer vehicles can experience glitches
- Worn Tie Rods: Affect wheel alignment
Each of these defects often leads to rollover accidents when drivers lose control at higher speeds.
Tire Defects
The NHTSA estimates that tire-related crashes lead to over 11,000 accidents annually. Major tire defects include things like:
- Tread Separation: Happens suddenly at highway speeds
- Sidewall Failures: Cause immediate blowouts
- Bead Failures: Can cause a tire to separate from the rim
- Manufacturing Defects: Can cause rubber compounds to deteriorate
- General Design Flaws: Lead to uneven wear
These issues are very dangerous because they often occur without any advance warning to the driver.
Electrical System Problems
Modern vehicles depend heavily on complex electronics. When these systems fail, the consequences can be severe and unpredictable. A few common electrical defects include:
- Unexpected Airbag Deployments and Failures: Can injure an unsuspecting driver
- Engine Control Unit Malfunctions: Can cause stalling
- Wiring Harness Defects: Often lead to short circuits
- Battery System Failures: Affect critical safety features
- Sensor Malfunctions: Can give false readings
Each of these problems can lead to many other system failures, making the entire vehicle unsafe to operate.
How Manufacturers Handle Defects
Vehicle manufacturers should strictly follow federal safety standards for every component. In the event that defects are discovered, they need to do the following:
- Report the defect to safety regulators promptly
- Issue clear recall notices to all affected vehicle owners
- Provide free repairs or replacements for defective parts
- Track completion rates of recall repairs
- Document all steps taken to address the defect
For the process to be effective, manufacturers should act quickly.
What To Do When You Discover Vehicle Defects
If you suspect a vehicle defect, consider the following:
- Document any unusual behavior or malfunctions in detail
- Take photos and videos of visible problems
- Get a professional inspection from a certified mechanic
- Check for active recalls on the NHTSA website
- Keep all repair records and correspondence
- Report serious safety issues to NHTSA immediately
Following these steps creates a clear record that can be important if the defect leads to an accident.
The Impact Of Vehicle Defects
Driving a defective vehicle is a road hazard that can put thousands of drivers at risk. Injuries and property damage are avoidable when manufacturers stick to the highest standards of quality assurance. And consumers (drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike) should know that they are protected by product liability laws when defective vehicles cause harm.
Contact a South Carolina Car Accident Lawyer at Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers Today
For more information, contact the car accident law firm of Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation. We have five convenient locations in South Carolina: Columbia, Lexington, Orangeburg, and Blythewood.
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