Prevailing Through Endurance

3 examples of vehicle manufacturing defects

by | Jun 9, 2025 | Vehicle Defects

A vehicle defect can stem from flaws in the manufacturing process. Such a defect can lead to minor inconveniences or a serious safety hazard. If your new car has a defect that has not been fixed by the dealer or manufacturer despite several attempts to do so, chances are the error might have happened in the production process.

Below are three examples of vehicle manufacturing defects:

1. Dimensional variation

When a car manufacturer deviates from the dimensions of vehicle components specified by the designer, a car may have defects, such as reduced vehicle performance, difficulty closing doors, misaligned door handles and windows that fail to seal properly.

A manufacturer should use various techniques, including automated systems and cameras, to detect and correct any inaccuracies.

2. Structural instability

A manufacturer who uses a substandard vehicle frame or other components related to the vehicle’s safety and stability endangers the car’s occupants. Structural instability can also be caused by welding issues. For example, using inappropriate welding techniques that weaken the frame.

Additionally, an incorrectly assembled subframe can affect a vehicle’s alignment and handling, which leads to poor stability. If your car is always pulling to one side,  it’s possible this is because it is structurally unstable.

3. Material defects

How a manufacturer handles materials is crucial. This is because poor handling can compromise a material’s structural integrity. For example, using high temperatures during plastic molding when making car parts can cause the material to degrade. And if the heat treatment process is inadequate, the material may not achieve the intended hardness level, leading to reduced durability and functionality.

These are a few examples of vehicle errors that can occur during a car’s manufacturing process. If your car has any of these defects, you may be eligible for a replacement or refund of your purchase price from the manufacturer. Learn more to know the steps to take.