Liability

2025 Mazda Miata

Dennis was related his son's tale of woe at lunch today. His son recently (like within the last year) bought a new Mazda Miata. The car developed a problem with the headlights - they would just turn off for no reason. Not good if you are driving at night. He took it back to the dealer, as you would, and they 'fixed' it. On the way home, the headlights shut off, so no, it wasn't fixed. Took it back to the dealer. This time they replaced the headlights. Son refuses to accept the car. Replacing the headlights is not going to fix the problem. So now they are headed to arbitration.

I'm thinking that the problem here is that while your average automotive technician (that's what they call mechanics now-a-days) may be perfectly competent when it comes to basic mechanical repairs, when a computer is involved, all bets are off. There are only three people in the entire country who are familiar enough with the computer system and the diagnostic tools to be able to correctly identify the problem. Computer systems are so reliable that there are not enough problems to make it worthwhile to train enough technicians so that you can have someone on hand when a computer does flake out.

This led to speculating about why cars with seemingly minor damage are often totaled (manufacturers don't want to get hit with any future warranty claims). I asked Google about this and all the explanations are something about the value of the car and the cost of repairs. I ain't buyin' it. Now I'm thinking the problem is that insurance companies don't want to get sued by someone when this car breaks down or, god-forbid, is in an accident. The basic economic only pan out if you can get out from under any potentional future warranty or liability claims. There is small niche of Americans who like nothing better than suing someone for something. All you need is be successful one time and you can start to think that this might be good way to make a living, maybe even become prosperous.