With the rising cost of cars, accessing genuine spare parts has become more challenging. In many cases, it is nearly impossible for ordinary people to distinguish authentic parts from counterfeit ones, and only specialists with experience can identify the differences. If you are also looking for ways to recognize original car parts from fake ones, in this article, we will explore how to detect counterfeit car parts from genuine ones. Stay with us until the end of this article.
How Customers Can Identify Genuine Spare Parts
As a customer, you can use a few simple and quick methods to verify the authenticity of car parts:
- Checking the Authenticity ID of Car Parts
In recent years, the Anti-Smuggling Headquarters has seriously tackled the issue of counterfeit spare parts. In collaboration with the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, they have implemented an Authenticity ID issuance plan for spare parts. Currently, over 55 commonly used spare parts are covered by this ID.
Buying or selling parts without this Authenticity ID is illegal. There are two easy ways to verify authenticity:
- Visit the Comprehensive Trade System website at ntsw.ir.
- Use the USSD code #77774 and enter the product’s authenticity ID to instantly check its validity.
- Verifying Unique Tracking Codes on Spare Parts
Some companies facilitate authenticity verification by placing unique tracking codes on their products. For example, Saipa Yadak and ISACO have respectively provided codes 50001813 and 300031 for customers to verify their spare parts.
This process is also used by foreign brands like Renault. Each Renault spare part carries a 7-character tracking code consisting of 4 uppercase English letters followed by 3 digits. By using this code along with the barcode on the part, you can check authenticity via Renault’s dedicated verification system.
Usually, counterfeit parts either lack proper tracking codes or multiple fake parts share the same code.
Detecting Genuine Spare Parts Using Technology
Technological advancements and the widespread use of smartphones have created new ways to identify genuine spare parts from counterfeit ones. For example, the brand JAC installs a special label on its spare parts to assist customers. This label prominently features the phrase “JAC MOTORS | GENUINE PART” written in both English and Chinese.
The word “JAC” on the packaging is always in red, and beneath it, there is a barcode, production date, part number, and manufacturing location. The most important feature for authenticity verification is the QR code located at the bottom right corner of the label. After peeling off the protective layer over the QR code, you can see a 16-digit digital code. By scanning this code with your smartphone, you can verify the authenticity of the purchased part. If the part has already been checked before, the system will notify you.
Using these methods, you can easily ensure the authenticity of your spare parts and avoid purchasing counterfeit products.
Quality of Spare Part Packaging
One effective way to identify genuine spare parts is by examining the quality of their packaging. Several key factors should be considered, including:
- Packaging color
- Packaging material
- Font, size, and color combination of the printed text
- Placement of texts, logos, and labels
For example, Renault uses dedicated cardboard packaging for its products. Some of these packages have a white background with gray text, while others have a brown background with white text.
All Renault spare part packages feature the phrases “RENAULT GROUP” and “GENUINE PART” in uppercase letters, printed in English and French using a special font. These texts follow a specific pattern on the packaging, making them easy to identify. The image below shows an example of Renault’s dedicated packaging.
Light-Sensitive Labels
Some companies use special labels with unique features to help identify genuine spare parts. These labels are made with inks that change color depending on the light intensity, aiding in authenticity verification.
For example, Renault uses such labels on its product packaging. Part of these labels contains light-sensitive ink. Simply hold the packaging under light and change the angle of the light source. You will notice the ink color shifting between gray and gold. Many counterfeit parts in the market lack these types of labels, making this feature a reliable sign of authenticity.
How Experts Identify Genuine Auto Spare Parts
In this article, we reviewed various methods customers can use to identify genuine spare parts. Besides these, there are also specialized techniques experts use to assess the authenticity of spare parts. For example, mechanics can distinguish original parts from counterfeit ones by carefully examining details such as riveting or welding quality. Additionally, laboratories can analyze the alloy composition of parts to verify their authenticity.
In Conclusion
We discussed different ways to distinguish genuine spare parts from fake ones. Fortunately, with the expanded use of authenticity identification codes for auto parts in recent years, the number of counterfeit products in the market has decreased. Along with the tips mentioned, we recommend purchasing spare parts only from reputable stores that offer warranty services to their customers.
What methods do you use to verify the authenticity of car parts? Share your experiences with us!