After a defective parts accident, adjusters commonly argue that the problem was “maintenance,” “driver behavior,” or “wear and tear.” In practice, that argument can be especially persuasive when:
- The vehicle was serviced more than once before the crash (or records are incomplete)
- The failed component was replaced quickly after the collision
- The incident happened during busy driving conditions (rush hour, school-area traffic, or work commutes)
- The vehicle’s onboard data isn’t preserved and codes are cleared during repairs
Ohio law requires proper documentation to support the timing and cause of a claim. And the practical reality is that evidence can disappear fast—especially when a vehicle is repaired before anyone has documented the failure mode.


