When it comes to car repair, most people want to find a trustworthy shop they can rely on. However, with the prevalence of counterfeit spare parts in the automotive industry, it can be challenging to know whom to trust.
The dangers of using fake parts for your car maintenance
Though counterfeit parts often are a lot cheaper than OEM (original equipment manufacturer) spare parts, the truth is these products are often of inferior quality and may not meet safety standards.
In some cases, fake parts can damage your car or put you at risk of being in an accident. For example, counterfeit airbags have been known to fail during deployment, leaving occupants vulnerable to severe injuries. Similarly, fake brake pads may not provide adequate stopping power, increasing the chance of an accident.
Look out for the red flags to avoid putting your life at risk by using fake auto repair parts.
Telltale signs of fake parts
Many fake or counterfeit parts are making their way into the market, and it can be difficult to spot the difference. Here are a few telltale signs that a car part may be fake:
- The price is too good to be true: If you find a replacement part that seems unusually cheap, it’s likely not genuine.
- The quality is poor: Fake parts are often made from inferior materials, and the level of craftsmanship is often a lot less than usual. As a result, they may not fit properly or function as intended.
- There is no warranty: Most reputable manufacturers offer a warranty on their products. If a replacement part comes without any guarantee, it’s probably not up to par.
Being aware of these signs, you can help to ensure that you only install high-quality parts in your vehicle.
What to do if you’re given fake parts for your car
If you have received counterfeit replacement parts for your vehicle, you can do a few things:
- First, take some photos or videos of the fake parts to have evidence if you need to make a claim. If you paid for the parts with a credit card, you could file a dispute with your credit card company. This will give you a chance to get your money back and pressure the company that sold you the fake parts.
- You should then contact the company who sold you the parts and explain the situation. If they refuse to help, your next step would be to get in touch with the manufacturer of the genuine parts. See if they can help you track down the source of the counterfeit parts and get you some compensation.
- Finally, you should always take your car to a reputable mechanic and have them inspect the fake parts. They’ll be able to find some genuine replacement parts for you.
In conclusion, it’s vital to be aware of the dangers of using fake car parts, as they may not meet safety standards and could put your life at risk. If you are given counterfeit parts, follow the mentioned tips to get your money back and protect yourself.