Genuine parts

3 February 2022

As a self-confessed rev head, I am no stranger to a mechanic's workshop. And if I’ve learnt one thing over the years it’s this: when it comes to getting the right parts – whether for prized two-wheelers or the bigger, four-wheel babies – it's important to be aware of what's out there and stick to your guns.

Broadly, there are three categories of vehicle parts – genuine, aftermarket, and counterfeit.

Let’s start with the no-go zone first. Disreputable companies make counterfeit parts look like genuine, or aftermarket parts. They usually sell them online, and at ‘unbelievable’ prices. 

Dodgy operators make counterfeit parts to deceive. So, it's difficult to tell the difference from the real thing. They usually look pretty good and come in branded packaging, often stating ‘genuine part’.

Only buy vehicle parts from trusted sources. Usually, that means from the manufacturer, a well-known retailer, or your mechanic. 

Putting a part on your vehicle that isn’t fit-for-purpose can be dangerous and may void your warranty... I think you know where I'm going with this – it's just a really bad idea.

Reputable companies openly make aftermarket parts to compete with ‘genuine parts’. 

They are usually fit-for-purpose, can meet or even improve upon a manufacturers’ item, and should meet Australian standards if purchased through a trusted retailer. 

They can be an excellent alternative and should be cheaper than ‘genuine parts’.

Vehicle manufacturers endorse ‘genuine parts’. But they almost certainly will not manufacture them – neither Ford nor Ferrari actually make door handles, wing mirrors, or wheels.

So, why are they genuine? 

Manufacturers incorporate genuine parts into their vehicle engineering packages from new. They test and validate parts to work with complete systems, not simply in isolation.

Selling counterfeit parts is illegal and, in some cases, could have deadly consequences.

Motorists are often willing to pay more for genuine parts – whether new or recycled – if their supplier explains the case. Safety is paramount. So, if in doubt, it’s best to use genuine parts.

See ya on the road, folks!

Words: VACC ambassador Shane Jacobson.

Want to hear more from Shane? Catch him – along with co-hosts Greg Rust and VACC CEO, Geoff Gwilym – on THE GRILLE podcast each month. There'll be auto news and views, industry insights and trends, special guests, and plenty of laughs along the way. Visit: thegrillepodcast.com.au