How to Pursue a Defective Vehicle Part Claim

Faulty Auto Parts: Next Steps

When a defective vehicle part causes an accident in California, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what comes next. Faulty brakes, airbags that fail to deploy, or even malfunctioning tires can turn a routine drive into a life-changing event. If you suspect a defective part played a role in your crash, it is important to know your rights and how to protect yourself. California law is clear: manufacturers, distributors, and sometimes retailers can be held accountable for injuries caused by dangerous auto parts. Acting quickly and thoughtfully can make all the difference.

If you need to understand your options after a car accident, you can also read about common causes of car accidents and how to avoid them or learn more about product liability claims in California.

What Counts as a Defective Part?

A vehicle part is considered defective if it is unreasonably dangerous when used as intended. Common examples in California include:

• Brakes that fail under normal conditions
• Airbags that do not deploy or deploy unexpectedly
• Tires prone to blowouts
• Steering components that break or jam
• Seatbelts that unlatch during a collision
• Electrical systems causing fires

Unlike typical wear and tear, these problems arise from poor design, manufacturing errors, or a failure to warn about known risks. Knowing the difference between a normal malfunction and a true defect is key.

You can read more about common defective vehicle parts causing accidents.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Defects are not always obvious. Pay attention to:

• Recalls on your make or model
• Unusual noises or warning lights
• Sudden loss of vehicle control
• Parts not working as described in your manual

Staying up-to-date with auto recalls and regular vehicle maintenance can help, but some defects only appear during an unexpected emergency.

California Law and Your Rights

California’s product liability laws are among the strongest in the nation. Under the law, you do not have to prove that a manufacturer was careless—only that the part was defective, and that defect caused your injury or loss.

California recognizes three main types of defects:

• Design defects (the part was dangerous from the start)
• Manufacturing defects (something went wrong during production)
• Failure to warn (no adequate instructions or safety warnings)

This means you can bring a claim if a defective part was a substantial factor in your injuries, even if you cannot pin down the exact moment when something went wrong.

For an overview of how product liability claims work, visit Product Liability in California.

Who Can Be Held Responsible?

California law allows claims against:

• Manufacturers of the vehicle or part
• Distributors and wholesalers
• Retailers who sold the vehicle or part

Even if you did not buy the part directly, you may still have a case if you were injured by its failure.

Gathering Proof: What to Keep

To support your claim, collect as much evidence as possible:

• The defective part itself (do not repair or discard it)
• Photos of the damage, scene, and injuries
• Police reports and medical records
• Maintenance and repair logs
• Recall notices or service bulletins

This documentation can make or break your case. If you are unsure where to start, an attorney can help you preserve critical evidence.

For more about proving manufacturer liability, see Proving Liability in Defective Vehicle Part Cases.

Steps to File a Claim

Here’s a step-by-step guide to pursuing a defective vehicle part claim in California:

1. Seek immediate medical care for any injuries.
2. Preserve the vehicle and the suspected defective part.
3. Document the accident and any evidence.
4. Report the incident to the authorities and your insurer.
5. Research recalls and service bulletins for your vehicle.
6. Contact a product liability attorney.
7. File your claim within California’s two-year deadline.

More details are available in Steps to File a Defective Vehicle Part Claim.

Common Obstacles and How to Overcome Them

Defective part claims can be complex. Challenges might include:

• Proving the part—not driver error—caused the crash
• Manufacturers denying responsibility
• Lost or altered evidence
• Delayed recalls or warnings

Acting quickly and working with experienced professionals can help you overcome these barriers.

Role of Recalls and Warnings

California law does not require that your part was officially recalled, but a recall can strengthen your case. If a manufacturer issues a recall after your accident, it may support your claim that the part was defective.

Damages You May Recover

Depending on your situation, you might be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost income and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage to your vehicle
• Emotional distress

The value of your claim depends on your unique circumstances. For more on how compensation works, visit Understanding Compensation in Consumer Product Lawsuits.

Time Limits: Don’t Wait

You generally have two years from the date of injury to file a product liability claim in California. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to recover damages. Exceptions exist, so speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

How an Attorney Can Help

A lawyer can:

• Investigate the cause of your accident
• Work with experts to prove the defect
• Negotiate with insurance companies and manufacturers
• Prepare your case for trial if necessary

For related topics, see how to prove a consumer product was defective or file a defective medical device lawsuit.

Taking Action: Your First Move

If you suspect a defective auto part caused your injuries, do not wait. The sooner you act, the better your chances of recovering evidence and protecting your rights. Even if you are unsure, having your case reviewed by a California attorney can clarify your options.

If you want to learn about other types of product liability, explore dangerous drugs, malfunctioning appliances, or hazardous toys.

Frequently Asked Questions About Defective Vehicle Part Claims

What is a defective vehicle part under California law? A defective vehicle part is one that is unreasonably dangerous due to poor design, manufacturing errors, or a lack of proper warnings, making it unsafe even when used as intended.

Who can I hold responsible for my injuries from a faulty auto part? You may bring a claim against the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer of the defective part under California’s product liability laws.

Do I need proof of a recall to file a claim? No, a recall is not required. However, a recall can serve as helpful evidence that the part was defective.

How long do I have to file a defective vehicle part claim in California? You typically have two years from the date of injury to file a claim, though exceptions can apply. Consulting an attorney promptly is recommended.

What damages can I recover if I win my case? You may recover costs for medical care, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and other losses related to the defective part.

Contact Attain Law for Help

If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective vehicle part in California, Attain Law attorneys are ready to guide you every step of the way. Call (888) 970-8627 or contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to support you.

Disclaimer: This is an advertisement. The information provided is for general purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for your specific case. Attain Law cannot guarantee outcomes, as results vary by situation.