Recent concerns about control of US ports have focused on the possibility of US ports being used as a conduit for terrorists to attack the United States. What many people don’t realize is that only about 5% of all containers that pass through our port system are inspected by authorities. That means 95% of containers never receive a visual inspection, although many do get electronically scanned. Still, it is the naked eye that can detect and determine if something in a container is not quite right. As far as auto parts are concerned, a visual inspection is necessary; unfortunately, many false parts pass. A global epidemic is underway that has little to do with terrorists and everything to do with counterfeit auto parts. Let’s take a look at the counterfeit parts “industry” and how you can avoid being taken away.
Yes, it’s an industry… the “business” of counterfeit auto parts. Every year, billions of dollars worth of fake auto parts are produced around the world and distributed to unsuspecting consumers. In some countries, the problem is completely out of control, causing injury, even death, to drivers and their passengers. Frequently counterfeited parts include:
Camshafts
rocker arms
Antifreeze
transmission fluids
Aspects
Belts
distributor caps
valves
alternators
brake pads
air conditioning condensers
shocks and struts
oxygen sensors
Plugs…
…The list goes on and on and on…
So how can you spot a fake auto part? A visual inspection of the product is very important. Look at the piece and feel it. If it appears or looks different than the part you’re replacing, that can be a sure sign that it’s a counterfeit. Also, check the packaging carefully: oddly shaped or fitted packaging, mismatched logos, typos, anything out of the ordinary should alert you.
If you think a part is fake, contact the seller and let them know you suspect they sold you a counterfeit part. Don’t accuse the retailer of knowingly doing something wrong; any decent retailer will quickly remedy the situation, since it is their reputation that is at stake.
No, you can’t guarantee that you’ll never buy a counterfeit auto part, but you can certainly narrow down the chances. Deal only with reputable retailers and when shopping online avoid buying from foreign suppliers. Auto parts wholesalers can not only save you money, but also lower the risk of you getting something that isn’t genuine. How is that? Because wholesalers buy everything directly from the manufacturer. No middleman standing in the way of jacking up prices or potentially trying to pass off as genuine auto parts that are actually fake.
The counterfeit auto parts industry is booming, but you can do your part to lessen its impact. Be aware of what you’re buying and only buy your auto parts from reputable dealers who stand behind everything they sell.