Spare parts

[OriginalBigAl]

Most cars have a production run of around 6 years before they have major facelifts and alterations which could mean parts which fit the new model are no longer compatible with the original. Do all manufactures have a legal responsibility to provide correct parts for older models and over what timescale?
Like battery driven tools which change on a 2 year cycle and the old batteries become unavailable and the new design batteries don't fit your not so old drill will this be replicated in the modern car industry.
If MG change the design of the MG4 in say 2027 with new battery technology/ motor etc, for the next 7 years under the warranty terms for the old model the parts will have to be stocked ( if they are no longer made ) . This is expensive and what happens when this 7 year period ends, if there are problems sourcing spares now as as been reported , what's it going to be like in 10 years and beyond time. ( not including future political decisions ).
Some of us , not many I grant , would want to keep this car for a long time, but even for shorter term owners , if they want to sell on the secondhand market , a prospective new owner would want these questions answered.
I realise some consumable parts like brakes/ suspension will be made by 3rd parties if the market is deemed strong enough and there will be battery re-conditioner specialists around by then but maybe this could be a subject for discussion both here and a future podcast.

 

[pollenface]

I've still got the same makita drill i bought 22yrs ago and can still buy new batteries that fit it.

 

[OriginalBigAl]

I've still got the same makita drill i bought 22yrs ago and can still buy new batteries that fit it.

I have a similar Makita and yes, the Ni-cad batteries are still available new, at a price, but this is deemed a premium brand and with many thousands sold and a 3 year battery life its good that Makita see it replacement item. I have Worx tools where if the battery replacement is available its at 3-4 times the cost of the original.
In relation to the MG4 how many freshly made batteries will there be that are a straight replacement for todays range in 10-12 years time when there might be a problem with the original and its out of warranty and the newer versions have a newer battery version. A new one might be one thats been stored for a number of years , and the cost will reflect that or more likely a re-furbished part exchange item which if it lasts another 8 years will outlast the vehicle. There will be other parts which will be unique to our models whose manufacture will cease on model change so the question remains do SAIC have a legal responsibility to provide the necessary support network for our versions and for how long?

 

[pollenface]

I don't think that's a question anyone can answer without a crystal ball.

I have to say the battery is the least of my concerns. If i get 10-12yrs out of it, for me that's 250,000-300,000kms of driving, I'd be happy.