How many times have you had an issue with your car in the past? Have you ever wondered if the problem was in its engine or some of its parts that were previously installed? Well, when you’re buying a new car or if you are doing some restorations you should know that it is always better to fix up an old-worn part with original & new equipment, and never an affordable fake. Toyota car parts are oftentimes well-done & they can look better than the original part. Keep on reading and discover some helpful tips & tricks that will help you know if your car parts are genuine.
How to tell if your Toyota spare parts are genuine – 2024 Guide
1. Track its serial number on the package
Once your package arrives at your home or your garage make sure that you properly inspect it. Proper & reliable sellers always have a valid batch number that goes along with their shipment. The chosen parts will be checked out & inspected before they are shipped out. In case your Toyota part has been tested, cleaned, and polished + it comes with a new serial number and batch code – you are in safe hands!
2. Check the QR code
Every smartphone nowadays has the option to scan QR codes. If you do not have this make sure that you download the app. If you use the app and scan your code, you will see where it’s been manufactured before. As long as you are redirected to an authorized site and a proper seller, you will be good to go and this will mean that your seller has nothing to hide.
3. Know the differences between OE and OEM
OE stands for Original Equipment, in case you didn’t know. These are genuine spare parts that you can remove from some old and damaged cars and still use in your new vehicle.
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, which approaches your vehicle in a legit way and is sold through a reseller. It is known as a more affordable option among the two. If you plan on purchasing new parts and you are visiting a seller that you’ve never been to before, heads up since they will probably speak in this lingo.
4. Look at the tags
Some tags and stickers are there to cover something that you are not meant to see. You should check all those tags on the package and directly inspect them before you buy a part or even a car. You should look for the RFID code, which practically means the original manufacturer is approving this type of reselling and replacements. This will add so much value & will help you navigate the process with full confidence.
5. Logo use
Every Toyota manufacturer provides OEM parts meant only for your car. This means that you will be able to spot original logos created on all the components of the vehicle. Heads up if you notice any type of plastic covers. The fakes do not undergo any testing and so do not meet the changing market standards, making you fall into the trap of purchasing something 3x cheaper, yet covered in plastic or a sticker.
6. Social networks awareness
Toyota is troubled with the growing counterfeit parts, and oftentimes loads of people can struggle to understand the difference. This is where YouTube can come in handy! People from across the globe will post their opinion & expertise, trying to help out car enthusiasts and future buyers. There are also some fun test videos that show how a car could function (or not) with a certain fake part. Browse online & learn all there’s to it.
7. Accessibility
The other worrying issue and quick way to tell fake parts is the ease of availability, as well as its pricing online. Nowadays, almost anything can be sold or found online, but you should know that some parts are a lot rarer than others. Nearly several clients pay half the charges of genuine products for such faulty ones thinking it is the best deal ever. If you can’t find a certain part at an authorized seller for weeks now, do not purchase it off of a random site that’s giving it for half the price either.
How & why are fake parts dangerous?
As said earlier, fake parts lack the needed quality & sturdiness. In case you end up getting something that is cheap or not original, here’s what could happen:
- Risk of engine failure or even fire – components such as spark plugs, drive belts, or air filters could end up causing a fire hazard to your vehicle.
- Windscreen injuries – the fake screen will break in the shortest amount of time. They will crack under a lot of pressure or when scratched.
- Brake failure – a fake brake pad generally wears out unevenly, leaving you with a risk of brake failure.
- Electrical hazards – fake or counterfeited electrical components can leave your car in flames & hazardous gas.
- Reduced wheel rigidity – you probably know that wheels bear the load of the car? Well, a fake wheel will lose its composure, especially under high loads & when speeding.
Need a bit of help when it comes to your vehicle?
Did you know about any of these tips & tricks on how to tell fake parts from original ones? In case you are still interested in genuine Toyota part items, and you are not too sure where to find them, visit STS-Global.com. STS-Global has more than 95% of the most common genuine Toyota parts available from stock ready to be delivered anywhere in the world by courier, air, truck, or sea freight at short notice. You & your car will be set & well-equipped within a 24-hour time frame, no matter where you might be in the world! Stop worrying, and let your vehicle enjoy pure quality & proper materials.
