Counterfeit Auto Parts: A Global Epidemic

Recent concerns about US port control have centered on the possibility of US ports being used as a conduit for terrorists to attack the United States. What many people do not realize is that only about 5% of all containers that pass through our port system have their contents inspected by the authorities. That means 95% of containers never receive a visual inspection, although many are scanned electronically. Still, it is with the naked eye that can detect and determine if something in a container is not quite right. When it comes to auto parts, a visual inspection is necessary; Unfortunately, a lot of fake pieces get through. 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 is an industry … that is, the counterfeit auto parts “business”. Every year, billions of dollars in 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. Among the pieces that are frequently counterfeited are:

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 detect a fake car part? A visual inspection of the product is very important. Look at the piece and feel it. If it looks or looks different from the part you are replacing, then that can be a sure sign that it is a fake. Also, check the packaging carefully – oddly shaped or oddly fitting packaging, mismatched logos, typos, anything out of the ordinary should be a red flag.

If you believe a part is counterfeit, please contact the retailer and let them know that you suspect they sold you a counterfeit part. Do not accuse the retailer of knowingly doing something wrong; Any decent retailer will quickly remedy the situation, as it is their reputation that is at stake.

No, you cannot guarantee that you will never buy a counterfeit auto part, but you can certainly narrow down the chances. Only deal with reputable retailers, and when shopping online, avoid buying from foreign suppliers. Not only can auto parts wholesalers save you money, but they also reduce the risk that you will get something that is not genuine. How is that? Because wholesalers buy everything directly from the manufacturer. No middle man standing in the way of raising prices or potentially trying to pass off genuine auto parts that are actually fake.

The counterfeit auto parts industry is booming, but you can do your part to reduce its impact. Be aware of what you are buying and only buy your auto parts from reputable dealers who stand behind everything they sell.