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20 December 2019

Buying parts online could be a false economy

The internet is so convenient for shopping around and finding the best price on any given article. But when it comes to purchasing vehicle parts, it’s buyer beware.

It may seem like a good idea to buy what you need online, then go to your mechanic and ask them to fit it. You might save some money, right?

I can’t blame you for thinking so, but there are some things to keep in mind.

Research from Incopro states that 60 percent of online search results connect consumers with sellers of counterfeit products, which includes car parts purchased online and brought into Australia.

There are plenty of honest sellers online, but lots of dishonest ones too.

Can you tell the difference?

Asking a mechanic to fit a part to your vehicle that you cannot verify puts them in a tricky position – and my advice to mechanics in that position is: Don’t do it.

But guess what? In the end it is you, the consumer, that is liable if things go wrong.

The best course of action is to buy only from trusted sources – and that usually means from the manufacturer, a well-known retailer, or your mechanic. If buying online, you’ll have to pay freight and duty, so it’s unlikely you will find genuine parts at much of a discount.

It’s best to leave it to those who know.

Putting a part on your vehicle that isn’t fit for purpose can be very dangerous and may void your warranty.

Just don’t risk it.

 

 

Words: VACC CEO, Geoff Gwilym. As featured in the Herald Sun 20 December 2019.

Share your thoughts! E: ceo@vacc.com.au

 

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