There is no way to know which part will fail first in a car, but some parts almost always fail sooner than others. Car batteries typically last no more than five years, and maintenance items, like brake pads, air filters, and spark plugs, must be replaced at regular intervals. Engine accessories, like the alternator or water pump, are often some of the first major parts to need replacement. The car’s engine and transmission usually last the longest, although that is not always the case in every vehicle. Some car complaints about newer vehicles are related to the engine and transmission, although this is pretty rare.