What to Do When You Have Chronic Car Problems

Having to live with a car with chronic problems is depressing. Not only is it a bother having to organize for regular mechanical checkups, it is a constant threat to your personal and other people’s safety on the road. You may never find peace living with such an issue in mind, and any relief is highly welcome. Although some manufacturers own up their mistakes and the manufacturing defects, some of the chronic car problems out there are unclaimed manufacturers’ faults too. So, how do you deal with chronic car problems?

Whose Fault is it?

Begin by diagnosing the source of the defect. Is it due to irreparable damage after purchasing? Or is it from the manufacturer’s end? If you trace the defect to have developed after purchase, then alternatives could include replacing the defective parts, doing comprehensive repairs, or replacing the car altogether. However, if it is a manufacturer’s fault, then, you might be eligible for compensation. This would be such a relief! But, how do you determine that a defect originated from the manufacturer?

Check for Possible Safety Recalls by Manufacturer

The most logical point to try to locate where the fault lies in this case searching for possible safety recalls by your car’s manufacturer. Manufacturers regularly make safety recalls for cars to correct defects that are discovered later after sales have been made. You could begin by calling the concerned manufacturer and requesting for the company’s product service publication index. On receiving the index, you can look for the particular problem that your car has, and if it is listed, you can proceed to request a copy if the technical bulletin for further details.

An alternative route would involve working with the highway safety authority in your country. By providing them with factual details about your car, such as its model, make, and its registration number, the authority is at a position to provide a list of safety recalls that touched on your car.

Spotted Recalls? What Next?

If you have substantial information on safety recalls, check whether the associated defects are to blame for your car’s chronic problems. Also, it is important to confirm with the dealer that all recalls were appropriately dealt with. If so, you could be eligible for compensation or a free repair at the manufacturer’s cost. The next step is to contact the manufacturer’s consumer relations department to get the way forward. All consumers are protected the law.