Posts Tagged auto supply
The Hazards of Counterfeit Automobile Parts
When purchasing automobile parts, you are making the assumption that the parts are original. Unfortunately, the growth of counterfeit auto parts is harming the auto supply industry, the overall U.S. economy, and puts drivers and passengers in extreme danger. What can be done about the problem? Consumer awareness! Let’s explore the effect of fake car parts on American life.
What exactly is a fake part? Is it an inferior branded item or something completely different? Counterfeiters are ‘wise’ in that they do not create and market a low cost alternative brand, instead they copy well known existing brands. The Jeep parts you purchase may come in a package that is nearly identical to the one marketed by DaimlerChrysler, but only the package is the same: the product you are purchasing is of an inferior quality [not equaling manufacturer specifications] that can damage your car. Reports about counterfeit brake pads have circulated for years; deaths attributed to accidents involving fake parts have been recorded.
According to the Department of Commerce, the US economy loses approximately $200 billion a year from the counterfeiting of trademarked consumer products and as many as 210,000 jobs have been lost. Worldwide, it is estimated that as much as 9% of the global economy is based on trafficked counterfeit goods, many of these items being auto parts. In Germany, fake VW parts as well as counterfeit BMW parts have surfaced compromising the quality and safety of the two brands.
So, what products are especially prone to being copied? Unfortunately, virtually everything. The following, are some of the items reported by the original equipment manufacturers to be frequent targets of counterfeiting and the “ingredients” they contain:
Brake pads containing sawdust
Fire extinguishers filled with flour
Transmission fluid laced with dyed oil
Filter stuffed with rags
Here are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing new auto parts:
To avoid purchasing counterfeit products only shop with a reputable supplier; e.g. authentic VW parts as well as manfacturer made BMW parts will be sold by recognized online providers. If a part somehow manages to find its way into the inventory of a respected auto parts supplier, you can return or an exchange the item.
The price of an item on eBay or at the flea market is probably “too good to be true” for a reason. Counterfeiters use flea markets extensively to market their wares while eBay and some other auction sites are notorious for passing inferior products.
Examine the packaging and check for incorrect spelling. Ford auto filters have appeared on auto supplier shelves with the words “Food” substituted for Ford and “Motograft” for Motorcraft.
The trafficking of counterfeit auto parts will likely be a long term problem, so you – the consumer – can play an important part by shopping wisely and examining the part before you install it on your vehicle. The safety of you and your loved ones can be compromised without exercising diligence.
Related posts
Automotive Care Alternators, Batteries, and Fuses
Your car’s electrical system runs because of several essential components including: a battery, fuses, and an alternator. When any one of these components fail, your car won’t run or it will perform poorly. Unfortunately, it isn’t always apparent which part is giving you the trouble. We’ll examine each component, discuss its unique characteristics, and outline simple maintenance options to help you make the proper diagnosis.
1. Alternators. Car alternator problems are usually noticed when you realize the juice to your headlights has been reduced. No longer can you see hundreds of feet in front of you, instead the light barely makes it past the front bumper. Check the wires leading to the alternator and make sure that they are secure and free of corrosion. Examine your alternator belt for cracks as well as for tension. If your headlights are still dim, then it is likely your alternator will have to be replaced. Don’t put it off as the alternator can drain your battery.
2. Batteries. If your car won’t start, your battery may be to blame. Most cars come equipped with sealed, maintenance free batteries. Still, “maintenance free” isn’t an entirely correct designation as corrosion can build up on the terminals causing an otherwise fine working battery to fail. Remove the cables, clean with a wire brush, and reattach the cables. Apply lubricant to each terminal to limit future corrosion. If your car’s battery is not “maintenance free” add distilled water to each cell as needed. Use a good set of jumper cables to get your car started. If the car still won’t start the battery is either completely shot or the starter or solenoid [relay] are not working. Battery life varies depending on what type of battery is in your car and usage; consider replacing your battery every 3-5 years before problems arise.
3. Fuses. Your dash lights may be working, while your left rear blinker has failed. If that is the case, it is likely your electrical problems are with the fuses. You can pull off the fuse panel [usually located under the dashboard] and check to see which fuse has burned out. Today’s cars use transparent blade style fuses that are rectangular in shape. Observe each fuse and see if the internal wire has burned out. You can find the fuse fast if the auto manufacturer has labeled each one by circuit. If not, you will have to determine by a process of elimination which fuse has failed and replace it.
Batteries and fuses are widely available at auto supply stores and most will carry a selection of alternators too. If you find prices for your Ford alternator or BMW alternator are too high, you can save plenty of money on original equipment manufactured parts with some of the reputable online providers. Shop with those retailers who have the widest selection of inventory, the best prices, and the most favorable shipping and return policies.
Related posts