WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU HAVE A DEFECTIVE PART?
Most likely, it’s the veteran drivers that notice this the most — the move from repairing vehicle components to simply replacing them. Older car owners remember when technicians would rebuild brake calipers and wheel cylinders with new pistons and seal kits, or overhaul alternators with new brushes and diodes. Now, it’s pretty much a remove-and-replace world.
For many vehicle servicing needs, replacing rather than repairing can be a more economical process that also provides a longer-lasting job.
Consider brake calipers. When you factor in a technician’s time — well over $100 per hour in most shops — having the experts tear down and rebuild these vital safety components can be more expensive than simply buying a quality re-manufactured unit off the shelf for most mainstream vehicles. You also get the benefit of a product that was rebuilt in a factory environment, bringing consistency and reliability. But when the prices of the components rise, it may be time to seek alternatives to replacement.
A good example of this is smallbulb failures on instrument clusters and other dash controls. Few automakers offer replacement lights for these, sending consumers into shock when an estimate of over $1,000 is presented to solve a simple light problem. What not everyone knows is that most instrument clusters and HVAC controls use readily available bulbs, available online or at most electronic supply stores. While swapping out a light diode on a printed circuit board isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, most basic computer specialists or experienced auto technicians can proficiently complete this task.
Alternators are another example. While few consumers ever think about alternatives when their shop cites the need for a replacement alternator, sometimes these units can retail for $800 to $1,000. Yet there are still rebuilders who can repair and rewire defective alternators, often for a fraction of the cost of a replacement.
Moreover, the latest trend in automotive design that will definitely have drivers reach for their meds is when they get an estimate involving LED lamps and bulbs. Almost no automaker offers replacement bulbs or light strips.
The problem with most of these lamps is that the LED and strip lighting components were sealed inside when the lens was permanently affixed. There are plastic wizards who can separate the lenses and reseal them to their lamps, but they are often difficult to track down. Some body or mechanical technicians may have the necessary skills and tools, so it may bring some benefits to ask for a recommendation.
Finally, one of the biggest complaints at many auto service desks is from customers faced with replacing complete door latch assemblies just because a plastic clip has broken. The clips are often available for a few dollars from aftermarket parts retailers. While they don’t list their replacements according to vehicle year, make and model, bringing a sample to compare ensures getting the correct part.