A mechanic is going viral on Facebook after pointing out what he says is an unusual detail on a 2025 Lincoln he was working on. In a video posted by JI Mobile Mechanics LLC, a mobile repair service based in southern New Jersey, one of the shop’s mechanics walks viewers through the car while performing maintenance. While he doesn’t specify exactly what he’s fixing, he highlights something he finds odd. According to the mechanic, several key components appear to be made of plastic, including the drain bolt, drain pan, and transmission pan. “As you can see, everything is plastic,” the mechanic says in the clip. “I would love to know what you other mechanics think about the plastic set-ups with all this stuff.” As of this writing, the video has drawn more than 353,000 views. Why Are These Parts Made Of Plastic? According to Jalopnik, a lot of newer cars use plastic parts because they’re cheaper, lighter, and designed to work with modern components. Many vehicles today come with plastic oil pans, so manufacturers pair them with plastic drain plugs instead of metal ones. The two are designed to fit together in a way that helps prevent damage. A metal bolt threaded into a plastic pan can wear it down over time, while a plastic plug is less likely to strip or crack the material. There’s also a cost and weight factor. Plastic is cheaper to make and is lighter, which can improve fuel efficiency. That might not sound like much on its own, but it adds up across an entire vehicle. Plastic can also help with corrosion. Unlike metal, it doesn’t rust, which can extend the life of those components. In some cases, these parts are meant to be replaced regularly. Plastic drain plugs, for example, are often considered single-use and swapped out during oil changes to help prevent leaks. That said, not everyone is sold on the switch. As JI Mobile Mechanics LLC’s video would suggest, it seems as though some mechanics prefer metal parts because they tend to feel more durable and familiar. After all, plastic components can wear out or become brittle over time, especially when exposed to heat. So while the design choice may throw some mechanics off guard or look odd at first, it’s nothing new—just a broader shift in how modern cars are built. Mechanics Offer Thoughts On Plastic Parts Commenters who watched the video from JI Mobile Mechanics LLC weighed in on the use of plastic components, just as the mechanic invited them to do. Some said they’re fully on board with the shift, though not always for the same reasons. “As [a] mechanic, we love it because everything can break easily,” one person wrote. “So more clients to fix it.” Others pointed out that plastic isn’t necessarily a downgrade from metal. “That’s what they said about plastic radiator tanks and intake manifolds,” another commenter noted. “Engineering polymers can outlast steel in many instances. It’s fine. Metal does not always imply quality or longevity.” A few mechanics said the parts are tougher than they look. “Those plastic pans are stout,” one person wrote. “I had to replace one on a trax due to a leak, and they will take some abuse. Far more durable than the stamped steel pans.” “Those will literally last longer than the steel pans,” another added. Some also highlighted practical benefits. “Never seen a plastic pan break. Radiator plugs have been plastic for at least 20 years now. It’s lighter and don’t rust,” one commenter wrote. Still, not everyone was convinced. “Used to work at Ford, I see a lot of oil leaks on plastic components,” one mechanic wrote. “Personally prefer a bolt over the plastic thing lol,” another added. A few commenters wondered whether the move toward plastic could make repairs more accessible. “Does that mean I can just print new parts?” one person asked. “If I can 3d print my own parts, lfg,” another wrote. At least one commenter offered a practical tip for dealing with plastic drain plugs and pans. “Just include a new one on every oil change,” they wrote. Motor1 has reached out to JI Mobile Mechanics LLC via a direct message on Facebook. We will update this story if they respond. We want your opinion! What would you like to see on Motor1.com? Take our 3 minute survey. - The Motor1.com Team