The supply chain woes extend beyond new car inventory and used car prices. Repair facilities, both dealership-based and standalone garages, are struggling to procure parts, leaving vehicles inoperative for extended periods. The dearth of parts and labor compounds the issue, with some components experiencing months-long backlogs.

Long Wait Times for Repairs

Anecdotes highlight the severity of the situation. Instances of minor car damage leading to month-and-a-half waits for repairs are not uncommon. Even basic collision and mechanical parts, as well as some electronic components, are challenging to obtain. A seasoned parts business veteran confirms this as the worst situation he’s encountered, with no foreseeable timeline for resolution.

Impact on Transportation and Accessibility

The scarcity of parts directly affects transportation reliability. Vehicles, often crucial for daily life, risk prolonged downtime due to the unavailability of essential components. The dearth of rental cars exacerbates the issue, with Enterprise Rent-A-Car visibly affected and other rental services 

struggling to maintain inventory.

The Evolution of the Automotive Industry

The impending shift to electric vehicles further complicates the parts crisis. Manufacturers are redirecting resources from internal combustion engine vehicles to electric ones, halting new engineering and development for traditional vehicles. This transition reduces the production of parts for existing vehicles, contributing to the scarcity.

Potential Long-term Implications

The current parts crisis might persist indefinitely, resembling a scenario where older vehicles become inoperable due to unattainable parts, akin to the frozen-in-time automotive situation in Cuba post-embargo. Unlike earlier vehicle eras, modern parts are specialized, impeding interchangeability and further exacerbating the issue.

The gravity of this potential part of the crisis demands attention and discussion. The implications for the usage and maintenance of vehicles in the coming years, particularly those older than a few years, warrant contemplation. Conversations on the ramifications and potential solutions are crucial to understanding and addressing this looming challenge. Please share your thoughts in the comments.