The Perils Of Using Fake Car Parts

The perils of using fake car parts Cash-strapped motorists risk falling prey to sellers of counterfeit and sub-standard car parts which, in the long run, could cost them dearly. So how do they trust that the part they are sold is the real deal? Having a broad understanding of the auto component industry is a starting point.

- Glenda Williams

Aside from the dangers that counterfeit replacement car parts pose through accidents caused by part failure, inferior quality parts are likely to require frequent replacement. Then there is the thorny issue of impact on car warranty.

It all adds up to the likelihood that a cheap fix could, in the long run, cost motorists more than genuine parts.

“It is important that motorists understand the level of standards and quality checks that go into OEM [original equipment manufacturers] parts. Original parts ensure optimum safety. Counterfeit parts may be cheap, but motorists run the risk of safety issues as well as long-term maintenance costs and unnecessary and costly repairs,” says Renai Moothilal, executive director of the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers of South Africa (NAACAM).

Many motorists are unaware of the consequences of using counterfeit parts, and often unsuspecting vehicle owners are duped into purchasing fake parts thinking they are genuine.

SA’s car parts industry

The majority of NAACAM members in SA supply parts and sub-assemblies used for vehicle assembly by OEMs and for distribution as Original Equipment Service (OES) parts. The latter are approved parts supplied via the OEM to its domestic dealer networks and independent repair shops in the OEM branded box.