When you buy a new car, you expect everything to work perfectly. That’s the whole point of getting something new, right? But sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Some car features start acting up before you even hit the mileage or time limit on your warranty. It’s frustrating. You paid for peace of mind, but now you’re dealing with repairs and headaches. Knowing which features are most likely to fail early can help you watch for problems and maybe even save money.
Here are six car features that often break before the warranty even starts. If you’re shopping for a new car or already own one, keep an eye on these trouble spots.
1. Infotainment Systems
Infotainment systems are everywhere now. Touchscreens, navigation, Bluetooth, and voice controls all sound great—until they don’t work. Many drivers report glitches, frozen screens, or total system failures within the first year. Sometimes, the system just restarts on its own. Other times, it won’t connect to your phone or play music. These problems can be annoying and distracting. And they’re not always easy to fix. Software updates help, but not always. If your infotainment system starts acting up, document the issues and visit your dealer. Don’t wait. Some problems get worse over time, and you want a record in case you need a replacement.
2. Keyless Entry and Start Systems
Keyless entry and push-button start are supposed to make life easier. But these systems can fail early. Sometimes the car won’t recognize the key fob. Other times, the doors won’t unlock, or the engine won’t start. Batteries in the fob can die, but sometimes the problem is deeper. Sensors or wiring can fail, leaving you stranded. If you notice your keyless system acting up, replace the fob battery first. If that doesn’t work, get it checked. Early repairs are usually covered, but if you wait too long, you might be stuck with the bill.
3. Power Windows
Power windows seem simple, but they break more often than you’d think. Motors burn out. Switches stop working. Sometimes the window gets stuck halfway up or down. This can happen even in the first few months. It’s not just annoying—it can be a safety issue if you can’t close your window in bad weather. If your power windows start to slow down or make strange noises, get them checked. Lubricating the tracks can help, but sometimes you need a new motor or switch. Don’t ignore the problem. It rarely gets better on its own.
4. Backup Cameras
Backup cameras are now required in new cars, but they’re not always reliable. Some cameras fog up, get blurry, or stop working altogether. Wiring issues, water leaks, or software glitches can all cause problems. Sometimes the camera works one day and not the next. If your backup camera fails, it’s more than an inconvenience—it’s a safety risk. Clean the lens regularly and check for moisture. If the image is still bad, have your dealer look at it. Early repairs are usually covered, but you need to act fast.
5. Automatic Climate Control
Automatic climate control is supposed to keep you comfortable without constant fiddling. But sensors and actuators can fail early. You might notice the system blowing hot air when you want cold, or vice versa. Sometimes the fan won’t work at all. These problems can show up in the first year, especially if you use the system a lot. If your climate control isn’t working right, don’t just live with it. Report the problem and get it fixed. Sometimes a simple software update helps, but other times you need new parts.
6. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)
Tire pressure monitoring systems are meant to keep you safe. But the sensors inside each tire can fail early. You might see a warning light even when your tires are fine. Sometimes the system can’t read one or more sensors. Replacing these sensors can be expensive if it’s not covered. If your TPMS light comes on, check your tire pressure first. If the pressure is fine, the sensor might be bad. Get it checked before your warranty runs out.
What Early Failures Mean for Car Owners
Early failures in car features are more common than most people think. They can be annoying, but they also give you a chance to get repairs done while you’re still covered. The key is to pay attention. If something doesn’t work right, don’t ignore it. Document the problem, talk to your dealer, and get it fixed. This can save you money and stress down the road. And if you’re shopping for a new car, ask about these features. See if the dealer has had complaints or recalls. Being proactive helps you avoid bigger problems later.
Have you had a car feature break before your warranty even started? Share your story in the comments.
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