How To Recognize Fake BMW Parts
When it comes to servicing your BMW, using genuine parts is very important in extending the life of your car and its ability to perform to its best. But there is a problem, and the problem is that the market is filled with counterfeit parts whose quality can affect the performance of your BMW and in some cases, even endanger your life. Recognizing the fake BMW parts can help to prevent one from making unnecessary expenses and being in dangerous situations. Below is a checklist you can use to identify fake BMW parts.
Why Fake Parts Are a Problem
One funny aspect about fake BMW parts is that they are sometimes sold as costly as the originals but they’re not just expensive, they also pose a serious threat to users’ safety. The counterfeit parts are often manufactured using inferior materials and therefore they may not offer the same level of quality and safety as BMW genuine parts.
Utilizing these parts may result in low efficiency, recurrent failures, and at times accidents. Also, it is important to note that fitting fake parts to your BMW will deny you your warrant and further, lower your car’s resale value. This is why it is necessary to be able to recognize and shun these fake parts.
Measures to Follow to Ensure You Do Not Buy Fake BMW Parts
- Buy from Reputable Sources: There is no better way of avoiding fake BMW parts than buying from the right source. This makes BMW dealerships and authorized BMW parts dealers the best places to get replacement parts. Such vendors are more inclined to offer genuine parts and offer warranties on the same. Do not purchase the parts from unknown websites since such outlets are likely to sell fake products.
- Check the Packaging: Original BMW parts are packed well and their packaging is well-labeled and of high quality. The packaging should be of the same color as the official logo of BMW. Make sure that there are no spelling errors in the logo design or any other differences because they are signs of a scam. Every genuine part has a part number which is a number assigned to the part. Check this number in the vehicle’s handbook or from the BMW dealer. Some of the genuine parts have a hologram or security seal that helps in identifying the real product. If the packaging does not have the mentioned features, then it is a counterfeit product.
- Inspect the Part: Once you get the part, it is recommended that you check it for any defects before having it fitted. Original BMW parts are made to high standards and are obtained from high-quality materials. If the part looks or feels cheap, or frail, or if it was constructed poorly, then it is most probably a counterfeit. Counterfeit parts may not have the stamp or engraved mark at all or may have incorrect or very shoddy ones. Original parts have correct measurements and a smooth surface texture. If the part feels slightly off or has burrs, then it is most likely counterfeit.
- Compare Prices: As much as people enjoy the idea of getting a good bargain, cheap products are almost always a sign of low quality. Original parts are expensive due to the quality and long-lasting features that are accorded to them. False parts are usually cheaper than those from authorized dealers and should, therefore, be avoided. It is always advisable to check with other shops to have an estimate of the price of the genuine part.
- Seek Expert Advice: If you doubt the genuineness of the car part you want to purchase, consult an expert. It is advisable to take the part to a certified BMW mechanic or BMW dealership for inspection. They have the knowledge to distinguish fake parts and they can advise on the correct place to buy genuine spare parts.
- Read Reviews and Rating of Seller: When purchasing the parts online, ensure that you look at the rating of the seller. Do not buy from sellers who have many complaints or negative feedback, this may be a sign that they are selling fake parts.
Come To Our BMW Specialists For Original Part Replacements
At Ultimate Bimmer Service, we are focused on delivering high-quality services to BMW owners. If you want to repair or replace any of the components of your BMW car, you are at the right place. Our specialists guarantee that your BMW gets only genuine parts to preserve the car’s efficiency and safety. We are glad to service Carrollton and Dallas, TX drivers. You can reach us at (972) 418-1800 for the best service and original BMW auto parts.