In today’s market be it in fashion or technology everything that gets produced has a counterfeit version. Similarly, automotive spare part markets are flooded with numerous counterfeit brands that are difficult to differentiate from genuine brands.
In comparison with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and genuine spare part brands, counterfeit parts are more likely to wear out faster as these parts rarely undergo the safety and quality assurance testing mandatory for the OEM.
In some cases, customers may unknowingly fall victim to fake dealers selling counterfeit parts, while others opt for counterfeit brands due to the elevated cost of genuine parts. For those seeking genuine spare parts, how can they effectively distinguish between genuine and counterfeit options?
Table of Contents :
Identifying Fake VS Genuine Parts
Buy from company-authorized retailers
Consumers often stay confused about how distinct the products offered by local retailers and brand-authorized retailers truly are. The best way to avoid the fake parts is to buy from brand suppliers. Although there’s a slight chance that local retailers can make their way to the supply chain, tracing the source of the spare parts can help prevent customers from being misled. Moreover, the chances of getting the most accurate and precise replacement parts are very high when you buy from brand suppliers in comparison to counterfeit brands.
Tata Genuine Parts includes an extended network of distributors and retailers who never falter in providing high-quality spare parts that ensure peak performance of commercial vehicles. They can suggest you better options and support you with various other information.
Examine the packaging
Fake parts usually come in poor packaging. They are found in cheap and fragile boxes that might include wrong spelling and absurd serial numbers. Whereas genuine spare parts are always packed in high-quality packaging and shipped with care. One can compare both and study the small details like the box material and its thickness to spot the difference.
Tata Genuine Parts are boxed with care in firm and sturdy packages. The TGP pack is unique as it carries 5 different marks of identification that differentiate it from other brands. It includes a prominent TATA logo, with valid Distributor code and material details. At the back, you will even get a helpline number that will help you connect directly to the right team concerned.
Mismatched parts
While examining a fake part you may come across a few differences with the old one. It can be the colour, weight, or size of the product. A few of the parts may not fit properly, showcase crooked edges and poor finish. Whereas, genuine parts are manufactured in state-of-the-art factories and with utmost precision. Finding a defect in a brand-new genuine part is very rare.
Tata Genuine Parts are manufactured in specification with Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, hence they are the perfect fit for any OE replacement.
Incomplete Instruction
While reading the instructions behind the pack of spare parts few of them might not make sense, immediately identify the same as a fake part and avoid buying it. Genuine spare part packs will include proper steps, tables even diagrams for a complete explanation of the product. Many spare parts come equipped with a QR code that can be scanned using a smartphone to verify their authenticity, but it is not always the same when it comes to fake parts.
Tata Genuine Parts packs always carry a QR code with all relevant information about the product. The customers can easily trace back the product’s origin or contact the concerned team for support.
In case you identify any of these warning signs, don’t buy the product, there are high chance the product will be fake. Choose only genuine parts and prevent the issues associated with the use of counterfeit spare parts, which could potentially harm your vehicle and cost you extra for maintenance.
