Product liability attorneys throw the word “defects” around often. It means a flaw that makes a product unreasonably dangerous — but without examples, defects still feel too abstract to understand. Our attorneys find it helps to visualize defects through clear categories and relevant examples within each. Read on to understand the basis of defective product lawsuits. 

1. Car Parts 

The modern car contains an average of 30,000 individual parts. Whether nuts and bolts or airbags and electrical systems, each piece plays a role in getting passengers from point A to point B safely. When one of these pieces fails, drivers might lose control at high speeds, or occupants may be severely injured during a crash. 

2026 Example: Ford Motor Company 

Ford Motor Company led the industry in recalls in 2025 and continues to do so in 2026. Nearly 12.5 million models have been impacted by defects, including software issues, rearview camera failures, seat-belt problems and more. 

In June 2026, the brand recalled more than 540,000 Ford Expeditions due to a console issue. The chrome decals on the console tend to bubble and peel, leaving sharp edges that may cause injury. 

2. Appliances & Electronics 

Every day, we use appliances and electronics without thinking twice. But some of these products have dangerous defects. Faulty wiring, improper thermal regulation, lithium-ion battery failures and more form the basis of many defective product lawsuits.

2026 Example: Merkury Innovations 

In June 2026, Merkury Innovations recalled nearly 18,000 electronic fans. The Hot + Cool Heating and Cooling Fan is prone to catching fire when connected to a power source, leaving users at risk of severe burns or property damage. 

3. Children’s Toys

Even playtime isn’t safe from dangerous defects. Many mass-produced toys come with small parts, sharp edges, toxic materials, unclear warnings and more. Without regular toybox inspections, children may be put at severe risk of injury. 

2026 Example: Orb Funkee Squeeze Toys

In May 2026, Orb Funkee recalled 121,340 units of its “monkee” squeeze toys. The sand within the toys had asbestos present, which causes severe health issues like mesothelioma or lung cancer if inhaled.

4. Furniture 

Furniture contributes to a significant number of defective product lawsuits. Every year, an average of 17,900 people are treated in emergency departments for injuries from unstable, collapsing or otherwise hazardous furniture. 

2026 Example: Joy Furniture 

In May 2026, Joy Furniture recalled about 10,400 Talan and Royce Living Room Furniture Sets due to fire hazards. The power switch on the sofa, loveseat or recliner may malfunction and overheat — posing a risk of severe burns or property damage.

5. Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices 

Defects in medications and medical devices range from toxic contaminants to malfunctioning implants. These dangerous defects can cause severe adverse reactions, infections or fatal complications for patients. 

2026 Example: Boston Scientific 

In May 2026, Boston Scientific issued a recall to correct all 27 of its Accolade pacemakers and CRT-Ps. The models have a battery issue that may cause devices to enter safety mode, which limits their functionality and regulation capabilities. As of the recall, the defect had resulted in four deaths and 2,500 injuries.

Fight Back Against Defective Products 

The danger of defective products isn’t always obvious. These defects may seem minor at first, until they cause damage to you, your family or your property. To stay safe, we recommend checking your products against the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Recalls & Product Safety Warning database.

If you’ve already experienced an injury, contacting a firm of defective product attorneys in St. Louis will be your best next step. For a free consultation with Roman & Boock, contact us online or call 314.754.1500.