Which Car Parts Wear Out the Fastest?

We all know that vehicles require routine maintenance to remain roadworthy. Still, while some components are likely to last the lifetime of the car, others need to be replaced regularly. Learn which car parts are most likely to need attention and when.

Windshield & Wiper Blades

Windshield wipers are likely to wear out faster than any other car part. If you regularly park outside, the sun’s UV rays could harden the rubber and require a replacement as often as once a year. Fortunately, replacement wiper blades are affordable, and you can either install the new wipers yourself or ask a mechanic to do it for you.

Your windshield is also at risk of a short lifespan. When debris flies up from the road and hits the glass, you might end up with a deep rock chip. Have your windshield repaired quickly to prevent the chip from spreading. This is likely to occur in Colorado’s climate where summer highs and winter lows make the glass expand and contract. Once the crack spreads, the only option is to replace the entire windshield.

Brake Pads & Rotors

Brake pads are the most frequently replaced component of the brake system. They usually wear out after three to five years, or 30,000 to 70,000 miles. The heavier the vehicle, the faster the brake pads wear out. Stop-and-go traffic also causes more wear and tear.

Rotors can wear down as well. These car parts prevent the brake system from overheating. However, if they wear down, you run the risk of dangerous brake failure. To prevent this, watch for symptoms that you need brake repair, including high-pitched squealing, grinding, vibrating, or a “pulsing” sensation from the brake pedal.

Battery

The battery is what gives the engine a jolt of electricity to start up when you turn the ignition. Most batteries start wearing out after four to six years. A dying battery can make the car difficult to start, and the check engine light may also flash on and off. If you notice these symptoms, a car battery test can reveal whether it’s time for a replacement.

Spark Plugs

Spark plugs transfer energy from the battery to the fuel in the engine’s cylinders so the car starts when you turn the key. Spark plugs need to be replaced roughly every 30,000 miles, though the actual lifespan depends on the type of spark plugs you have and your driving style. Signs of worn-out spark plugs include difficulty starting your car, rough idling, slow acceleration, and misfiring or surging of the engine.

Light Bulbs

Brake lights, turn signals, taillights, and headlamps should be replaced as soon as you notice they’re burned out, which might happen after about 500 to 1,000 hours. Since they’re located on the outside of the car, you might need help from another person to identify when certain bulbs need attention. Consider changing out both headlights at once, even if only one has burned out.

Suspension

Made up of primarily shocks and struts, the suspension keeps your ride even and under control. After about 50,000 to 75,000 miles, the shocks and struts start to become soft. This may cause dips and nose dives when driving over bumps, hitting potholes, or stopping quickly. A new suspension keeps your car driving smoothly and safely.

Fuel Pump

As a vital component of the fuel line, the fuel pump propels gasoline from the tank into the engine. It may need to be replaced every 60,000 miles. You might notice sluggish behavior from your car if the pump isn’t working as it should.

Tires

Most tires must be replaced every five to seven years to maintain adequate tread for safe performance, especially on wet or icy roads. The rubber tends to wear out more quickly if your wheels are misaligned, so make sure you have alignment services performed when having new tires installed. Then, rotate your tires at every oil change to help them last longer.

Water Pump

This car part circulates coolant from the radiator to the engine and back again. The water pump is likely to wear out after six to eight years, or 60,000 to 90,000 miles. If it malfunctions, the car may fail to start, overheat frequently, or leak coolant.

Fuses

Your car’s electrical system depends on reliable fuses. These car parts aren’t checked during routine maintenance and only need attention when they experience connection issues to do corrosion, or they blow completely. Either scenario may result in dead dashboard lights, flickering interior lights, malfunctioning windshield wipers, inoperable windows, and other issues with vehicle instruments. Replacing a corroded or blown fuse is an easy task you can probably do yourself.

Repair or Replace Car Parts at Scott’s Fort Collins Auto

Whether you need any of these car parts replaced, or you require more major services, such as an engine rebuild, Scott’s Fort Collins Auto has you covered. Our team is ASE-certified with experience dating back to 1993. The comprehensive knowledge and expertise of our mechanics ensure a positive outcome from working with us.

Give us a call today at (970) 682-4202 to schedule an appointment. You can also schedule an appointment online or drop by any one of our 5 convenient locations.