Original Equipment (OE), another name for genuine spare parts, is the parts that came with the car when it was made. Most of the time, these spare parts are the safest choice. Because they are made for that particular car model and come with a warranty from the manufacturer. The only bad thing is that these parts tend to be the most expensive.

How to identify Fake Spare Parts?

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and aftermarket companies make spare parts for cars. These spare parts meet the safety and quality standards of the automotive industry. On the other hand, fake parts may look and feel the same as real ones. But the biggest difference is in the materials used to make them.

Since most of these parts are much cheaper than the original ones. They do not meet the safety standards set by the industry to lower the cost of production. This puts more drivers in danger.

Packaging

Most fake products come in cheap, flimsy packaging, while real spare parts are usually packed in high-quality packaging and shipped carefully. Compare packages and look at small details like the printing, the box’s material, its thickness, etc., to find a fake.

Serial Number Or Holograms

All parts made by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) have their serial numbers. Also have holograms that can be used to track back to the company that made them. Some OEM serial numbers might be printed on the box or the spare part itself. While the numbers on a fake would be on a sticker.

QR Codes

Most spare parts have a QR code that can be scanned with a smartphone to ensure they are real. Each spare part has its QR code, which also helps keep track of the product.

RFID Tags

High-value OEM/OES parts come with an RFID tag that lets the manufacturer track them. RFID tags can be very helpful. The maker can check to see whether the parts customers get are real.

Price is lower

Genuine spare parts are more expensive because of how well they work. So, if you buy a spare part for a very low price, there is a very high chance that it is a fake. Most real parts also come with a warranty, so when you buy a spare part, ask about the warranty.

Work With Trusted Ones

You get spare parts from a mechanic or repair shop, always buy from a well-known company. They have a good name to protect and wouldn’t give you fake parts to do that. You can take your car to an authorised service centre or check their website for a list of places that sell genuine spare parts. You can also find mechanics licenced to sell genuine or OEM parts, so you don’t have to worry about your car being fixed with fake parts.

Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to spot a genuine replacement component from a counterfeit one. Because counterfeits are often engineered to look identical to the real thing. You might be saving money by buying cheap fake spare parts. The truth is that you would spend more money on repairs and replacements, which can also be dangerous.