When you are in need of a replacement part for your Mercedes Benz vehicle, you have the option to purchase it online. While this can be a perfectly legitimate solution, you will also need to be wary of counterfeit products. Mercedes Benz reportedly took down 130,000 counterfeit product listings and physically seized millions more in 2020 alone. So, how do you know what to look for? Read our article to help you successfully purchase your Mercedes Benz parts online, with no surprises.
Why Are Counterfeit Parts Bad?
Aside from being illegal, counterfeit car parts can have other negative consequences:
Compromised Safety
Counterfeit parts may be dangerous, especially if they are part of the vehicle’s safety systems (i.e. brakes). While product forgeries may be a convincing imitation, this does not indicate that the part will perform optimally or even at all.
Even seemingly cosmetic parts can have unknown safety consequences. Mercedes reported on a case study when the owner of the vehicle replaced the standard factory grille with another purchased online. The grille was counterfeit and ultimately prevented the hood from latching properly. While driving, the hood suddenly popped open and smashed the windshield.
Voided Warranty
Using anything other than genuine parts for your Mercedes Benz may void the warranty, meaning you will be financially responsible for any repairs.
Furthermore, forged parts may compromise other systems in the vehicle, resulting in costly and premature repairs or replacements.
Environmental and Humanitarian Hazards
Counterfeiters produce these parts cheaply and en masse with no regard for environmental standards or humane working conditions. When purchasing Mercedes parts online, you may unwittingly be supporting unethical labor practices. Furthermore, the research and design gone into purposefully reducing Mercedes Benz vehicle’s carbon footprint can be negated by a forged part.
Counterfeit vs Aftermarket Parts
Aftermarket parts are legitimate car parts that are designed to fit more than one vehicle. Unlike counterfeit products, they are not marketed as brand-specific and not intended to deceive. They are often cheaper than genuine parts, which makes them enticing to buyers. Keep in mind, however, that using aftermarket parts may also void the warranty on your vehicle and actually cost more long term, since they may not last as long as brand-specific parts.
How to Avoid Counterfeit Mercedes Parts Online
Most online purchases of counterfeit parts are not intentional. The makers of these parts can be quite convincing, reassuring customers of their products’ authenticity with bogus photos and descriptions. So how can you avoid accidentally buying a forged Mercedes part online? Here are a few tips:
Look for Brand Specialty
If an online store is offering parts for an inordinately large number of different brands, this is a red flag for potential counterfeit items. Look for sites that specialize in a few brands.
Be Wary of Ultra-Low Prices
If a price for a part is far, far below the nearest competitor, it is likely a counterfeit. While a legitimate site may be offering a deal on certain parts, it should be within reason. Just remember that, if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
There’s No Such Thing as an “Exclusive” Part
Many of these products seized by Mercedes in the last few years are parts the brand itself does not even make. Mercedes Benz does not gatekeep essential parts. If a shop is advertising a “one of a kind” or “exclusive part,” it is more than likely a fake.
Look at Site Ratings
Ratings can provide an indication of both the quality of an online store’s products and the company’s professionalism in dealing with complaints. Look for overall positive ratings and compassionate, competent responses to negative reviews.
Use an Authorized Dealer
The best way to avoid accidentally purchasing counterfeit Mercedes parts online is to go through an authorized dealer. Most dealerships have an online store with listings bearing the label “OEM.” This designation stands for “Original Equipment Manufacturer,” and it is a solid indication that you are purchasing genuine parts.
Buy Genuine Mercedes Parts Online
Mercedes Benz of Littleton has a full online inventory of genuine, OEM parts for your luxury vehicle. If you have any questions about the price or authenticity of a specific product, or you need assistance in finding and installing your part, call or stop by our dealership today.
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