At Langdon & Emison, we understand how devastating car defects can be. These defects can cause significant financial losses and pose serious safety risks to drivers, passengers, and others on the road. Understanding the most common car defects and the legal recourse available can help you stay informed and protect your rights. Keep reading for more, then call a Kansas City car accident lawyer at (866) 931-2115 to schedule a free consultation.

Common defective car parts

Car defects can affect various vehicle components. Here are some of the most common types of car defects.

Airbag defects

Airbags are crucial for safety, but defective airbags can cause more harm than good. Issues include failure to deploy, deployment with too much force, or deployment unexpectedly. The Takata airbag recall is a notable example, affecting millions of vehicles worldwide.

Brake defects

Defective brakes can prevent a vehicle from stopping properly, leading to accidents. Common brake defects include:

Brake pad wear: Premature wear can reduce braking efficiency.
Brake fluid leaks: Leaks can cause brake failure.

Tire defects

Tire blowouts and tread separation are common tire defects. These issues can cause the driver to lose control, especially at high speeds.

Seat belt defects

Seat belts are a primary safety feature, but defects can render them ineffective. Issues include:

Latch failures: The seat belt may not stay latched during a crash.
Retractor failures: The belt may not retract properly, leading to inadequate protection.

Steering defects

Steering defects can cause a vehicle to veer unexpectedly, making it difficult to control. Common issues include:

Power steering failure: Loss of power assistance can make steering difficult.
Steering column defects: Problems with the steering column can lead to loss of steering control.

Electrical system defects

Modern vehicles rely heavily on electrical systems. Defects in these systems can cause various problems, including:

Battery issues: Defective batteries can lead to vehicle breakdowns.
Wiring problems: Faulty wiring can cause fires or loss of vehicle functions.

Types of car defects

Car defects can be categorized into three main types: design defects, manufacturing defects, and marketing defects. Each type has its own implications and legal considerations.

Design defects

Design defects occur when a vehicle is inherently dangerous due to its design. This means that all cars of a particular model may be affected, leading to widespread recalls. Common design defects include:

Rollover propensity: Vehicles with a high center of gravity, like SUVs, are more prone to rollovers.
Roof crush: Inadequate roof strength can lead to collapse during a rollover, causing severe injuries.

Manufacturing defects

Manufacturing defects happen during production and usually affect only a subset of vehicles. Examples include:

Faulty airbags: Airbags that fail to deploy or deploy unexpectedly can cause serious injuries.
Defective tires: Tires prone to blowouts can lead to loss of control and accidents.

Marketing defects

Marketing defects involve inadequate instructions or warnings about the vehicle’s use. This can include:

Lack of safety warnings: Failure to inform consumers about the risks of using certain features can be dangerous.
Improper labels: Incorrect or missing labels on parts like seat belts and child car seats.

Missouri laws on car defects

Missouri law protects consumers who purchase defective vehicles. Under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act (MMPA), consumers can seek compensation for damages caused by car defects. The state’s Lemon Law also provides remedies for consumers who purchase new vehicles with defects that impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.

What to do if you encounter a car defect

If you suspect your vehicle has a defect, it’s crucial to take the following steps:

1. Document the issue

Keep detailed records of the defect, including photos, repair invoices, and communication with the manufacturer or dealer.

2. Report the defect

Report the defect to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the manufacturer. If the defect is widespread, this can help initiate a recall.

3. Seek legal advice

Consult with an experienced car defect attorney at Langdon & Emison. Our attorneys can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for any damages.

Suspect a defective car part caused your crash? Call Langdon & Emison

By staying informed about the most common car defects and knowing your legal options, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones on the road. Langdon & Emison is here to support you every step of the way.