Parts That Don't Last

Longevity is defined as lasting a long life. Several vehicle components should have longevity in the automotive industry, but how they stand up against time requires subjectivity. To avoid unnecessary auto repairs, we recommend keeping a vehicle logbook.

Suppose you drive an average of 14,263 annually or 275 miles per week. In that case, your part longevity formula differs from a driver who exceeds these numbers or a driver who underperforms these numbers. Precision International in Asheville, North Carolina, recommends that each driver use a specific periodic maintenance schedule based on driver behavior.

We'll start at the bottom of the vehicle and work our way up. Tires have a longevity number. The type of miles driven and the surface type driven on will influence tread life and the suspension. The suspension has a longevity formula and is protected by the manufacturer warranty or bumper-to-bumper warranty to entice buyers to buy.

The brake pads have a longevity formula. How many times do you use your brakes versus the type of force applied to the rotors equals the number of miles the pads will last. As we move upward in the vehicle, we encounter the oil filter, which has a shorter longevity than most other parts. It cleans the oil and is routinely changed every 3,000 to 6,000 miles.

The two pumps, the fuel pump and the water pump also have longevity issues. Pumps control circulation and the delivery of fluids to cool the engine. How these two pumps relate to longevity depends on the vehicle's performance. Pumps are designed to have a longevity cycle, typically 60,000 miles.

Wiper longevity is connected to the number of swipes, the type of debris removed from the windshield, and weather conditions. Suppose you drive in the Atlantic states or the Northeast. In that case, your longevity number is far different from drivers in the west, where temperatures are moderate annually.

The battery also has its own longevity formula. Where the vehicle is stored, humidity, hours of non-use, and cleanliness are longevity keys. Connected to the battery are different types of lights. Headlights will have a shorter longevity formula than blinkers, and blinkers will have a shorter longevity span than flashers. It all comes down to the frequency of use. When something needs protecting from a surge, the fuses are there. Fuses have a unique longevity formula, are independent, and perform a remarkable job. They may blow out or live lifetimes, so having a skilled eye on those at all times is imperative.

Precision International in Asheville, North Carolina, invites you to stop by our shop at 23 Sardis Road Asheville, NC 28806 or give us a call at (828) 670-9191 and have a complete vehicle inspection on part longevity.