When you are fixing your car, it never hurts to know which of the auto parts available for sale seem to wear out faster than other components. That way you can gauge any future auto expenses and repair costs. Naturally, the parts that are replaced depend on the make and model of your car, the type of driving you do (in the city or on the road), and the number of miles you generally log each year on your vehicle. The climate also affects the durability of an auto part.
An Economical Alternative
The choice of used auto parts online is usually based on price. Indeed, buying used versus new can save you a good deal of money—as much as 50% in some cases. A used parts auto dealer can provide parts from dismantling such makes of cars like the Ford, Holden, Toyota, Hyundai, Subaru, Kia or Nissan.
The Oil Filter – An Oft-Replaced Part
Normal wear and tear cause certain parts to wear down fairly fast, especially when combined with driving that is deemed to be somewhat reckless or excessive. Under normal driving conditions, mileage and wear can cause your oil filter to need replacement after seven months for each 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
Windscreen Wiper Blades
With respect to exterior parts, windscreen wiper blades usually have to be replaced in most climates every two years. They are replaced less often in hot climates if a car regularly sits outside.
Air Filters
Air filters are replaced about every 40,000 miles or after about three years. If you drive your auto on dusty roads or in the Outback, then expect to replace the filter before three years’ time.
Brake Pads
Brake pads start to squeak after about 30,000 miles or after three years. If you drive a heavier automobile, then the pads will wear out more quickly than if a vehicle is lighter or smaller.
The Battery
Expect to replace your battery after about four years, regardless of the mileage.
The Head Lamps
The headlamps on your car usually need to be replaced after about six years. It just depends on how much you drive at night. Driving on bumpy or rough roads also shortens the life of bulbs that feature filaments. However, driving on the aforementioned terrain has no effect on LED lights.
Tyres
Tyres on a car are generally replaced every six years, depending on the annual mileage and the wear rating on the tyres. Aggressive driving manoeuvers and hard-cornering will increase the wear of the tyres significantly. Choose tyres with high-wear ratings to reduce the amount of replacement.
The Alternator
Both the alternator and fuel pump can last the life a car or succumb to failure after a period of about five years. The alternator, which keeps the battery charged, can stop operating if high-demand applications are employed.
The Fuel Pump
The fuel pump, when it fails, can do so because of rust damage or the build-up of dirt inside the fuel tank. Driving with a low level of fuel inside the tank can cause the pump to fail as well.