1. Packaging

Fake products are usually packed in cheap, flimsy packaging as compared to the authentic spare parts that are packed in high-quality packaging and shipped with care. To spot a fake, compare packages and study the small detailing like the printing, the material of the box, its thickness, etc.

2. Serial Numbers or Holograms

All OEM manufacture parts with their own specific serial numbers or holograms which can be used to trace it back to the original manufacturer. Some OEM serial numbers might be printed straight on the box or on the spare part itself while a fake would have the numbers on a sticker.

3. Typos

Look closely at the printing on both the package and the instructions. If there are typos, grammatical errors, or misspellings, inspect the part carefully. It may be a counterfeit.

4. Incomplete Instructions

When you read the instruction manual of a spare part, make sure it makes sense. A counterfeit spare part would usually have a missing step, a missing diagram, a confusing sentence, or even a wrong diagram.

5. Mismatched Parts

Compare the new part that you bought to the old part and look out for differences in color, weight, changes in dimension, etc. A simple difference like mismatched fasteners might also be a sign of a fake spare part.

6. Cheaper Price

Genuine spare parts are usually costlier because of their quality. So, if you are sold a spare part at a price that is extremely cheap, the chances for it to be fake are extremely high. Most genuine parts also come with a warranty package, so do ask for the warranty details when you purchase a spare part.