How long do car manufacturers have to make spare parts?
As a car owner, understanding the lifespan of spare parts availability can significantly impact your vehicle maintenance and repair decisions. This article delves into the regulations and practices surrounding spare parts production by car manufacturers, ensuring you are well-informed about your options when it comes to repairs.
The Legal Framework
In many countries, car manufacturers are required by law to provide spare parts for a certain period after a vehicle model is discontinued. This period can vary significantly based on local regulations and the type of vehicle. Generally, manufacturers are expected to supply parts for at least 10 years after the last unit of a model is sold. This ensures that consumers have access to necessary components for repairs and maintenance.
Factors Influencing Spare Parts Availability
Several factors can influence how long manufacturers continue to produce spare parts:
- Model Popularity: High-demand models may see extended parts availability due to ongoing consumer interest.
- Manufacturer Policy: Some manufacturers voluntarily extend the availability of parts beyond the legal requirements to enhance customer satisfaction.
- Aftermarket Options: The rise of aftermarket suppliers can also affect the availability of original parts, as these companies often produce compatible parts for older models.
What Happens After the Spare Parts Period?
Once the designated period for spare parts production has ended, car owners may face challenges in sourcing original parts. However, there are alternatives:
- Aftermarket Parts: These are produced by third-party manufacturers and can often be more affordable than original parts.
- Used Parts: Salvage yards and online marketplaces can be excellent sources for finding used components that are still in good condition.
- Custom Fabrication: In some cases, specialized shops can create custom parts for older vehicles, although this can be more expensive.
Conclusion
Understanding the timeline for spare parts availability can help you make informed decisions about your vehicle maintenance. While manufacturers typically provide parts for at least 10 years after a model's discontinuation, various factors can influence this timeline. Being aware of your options, including aftermarket and used parts, can ensure that you keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it taking so long to get parts for my car?
Global supply chain issues
This supply chain disruption means that more car replacement parts are now often on back order, extending the repair timeframe. Shops may even delay scheduling repair appointments until they're sure they have the required parts on hand to avoid rescheduling.
How long do car parts take to come in?
After market parts can be obtained as fast as the store can deliver. OEM parts coming from a dealership might be obtained in a couple of hours or overnight. Some OEM parts coming from a factory depot may take a week. If you have a foreign specialty car it might take weeks or longer.
Why do cars not come with spares anymore?
There are several reasons why automakers have removed or minimized the spare tire. To improve fuel efficiency. Removing the spare can reduce a vehicle's weight by up to 50 pounds, including the jack and lug wrench.
How long does it take to get OEM parts?
Most of the orders are shipped complete within 2-3 business days. A few of the parts ordered from the manufacturer may take up to 5-6 business days to arrive and will shipped to you immediately. Depending upon location, ground shipments usually take 2-7 days.
How long do spare parts have to be available?
Time limits on spare parts
Depending on the type of appliance, the spare parts must be available for a minimum of 7 to 10 years. This time period started when the last product of that particular model of the appliance is on the market.
How long is the average backorder?
between 14-21 days
However, the average wait time for backorders can vary between 14-21 days. Generally, businesses will provide an estimated time frame during which they expect to fulfill backorders. It's always a good idea to check this estimate and stay in communication with the seller to receive any updates on your order status.
Why are so many car parts on backorder?
As people have returned to work and resumed their normal activities, the demand for vehicles has increased, leading to a surge in sales. This increased demand has put pressure on the supply of auto parts, making it more difficult to obtain the necessary components for repairs and maintenance.
How long can car parts be on backorder?
The wait time for back-ordered car parts can vary significantly. Generally, the typical duration for backorders in the auto parts industry can range from 8 to 12 weeks. However, this can be longer depending on the demand for the specific part, the supplier's location, and the current state of the global supply chain.
How long does Ford make parts for cars?
Ford Dealers Parts Dept. will stock most parts up to (10) years after initial production of XYZ model year. Things like say specific floor mats to XYZ model, interior hard/soft components, exterior hard/soft body panels, larger engine components and the like.
How long are car manufacturers required to provide parts?
The dealership is not required to stock the parts but the manufacturer is obligated to have parts for 10 years after they discontinue a model, and then after that if it was not a popular model they are not required.
