Automotive industry repair and maintenance challenges

The automotive industry is navigating challenges related to manufacturing quality, repair costs, and the long-term impact of the transition to electric vehicles (EVs).

In China, high repair costs for EVs have been highlighted after a battery casing component failure necessitated a full battery assembly replacement costing approximately 130,000 yuan, despite the specific broken part being available cheaply on e-commerce platforms. Meanwhile, Toyota has initiated a recall of over 250,000 vehicles due to potential engine defects, utilizing a specialized vibration-based inspection method to assess components without full engine disassembly.

Looking toward the broader industry, the shift to electric mobility is projected to disrupt the traditional maintenance sector. A European Commission report suggests mechanical repairs could decrease by nearly 45% between 2020 and 2030. In Spain, industry associations have expressed concern that up to 70% of certain operations could disappear, with potential aftermarket revenue reductions reaching 38% if the fleet becomes fully electric by 2050.