For example , as an automobile grows older , the failure rate in its fifth year of service may be many times greater than its failure rate during its first year of service -- one simply does not expect to replace an exhaust pipe , overhaul the brakes , or have major transmission problems in a new vehicle . For example , an automobile 's failure rate in its fifth year of service may be many times greater than its failure rate during its first year of service . One does not expect to replace an exhaust pipe , overhaul the brakes , or have major transmission problems in a new vehicle .