Buying a New Car? Don’t Ignore These Checks to Ensure Your Accessories Are Genuine

Many car buyers focus on features and mileage but overlook accessories during delivery. Experts say a few simple checks can help you avoid counterfeit products and future warranty disputes.

By Vidhi Lalla 

Pune: Buying a new car is an exciting milestone, but amid the excitement, many customers forget to inspect the accessories installed by the dealership. While most buyers carefully evaluate the engine, safety features and fuel efficiency, accessories are often accepted without verification. Industry experts say this can sometimes result in customers receiving aftermarket or counterfeit products instead of genuine manufacturer-approved accessories.

Original accessories are designed specifically for a vehicle model, ensuring better fit, durability and safety. Counterfeit products, on the other hand, may compromise performance and may not be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. Taking a few minutes to inspect these components before accepting delivery can help avoid problems later.

One of the easiest ways to identify genuine accessories is by checking their packaging. Original products usually display the manufacturer’s logo, part number, manufacturing details, barcode or QR code, and other identification marks clearly. Poor-quality printing, spelling mistakes, damaged packaging or missing product information should raise suspicion. If a QR code is available, scanning it can help verify the product details.

Buyers should also insist on a separate GST invoice for accessories wherever applicable. The invoice should clearly mention the accessory name and its corresponding part number. This number can be matched with the manufacturer’s official catalogue, website or verified through an authorised service centre to confirm authenticity.

Warranty is another important indicator. Genuine accessories supplied by vehicle manufacturers generally come with an official warranty. Customers should ask the dealer whether each accessory is covered under the company’s warranty and collect the warranty card or related documents. These records become useful if replacement or repair is required later.

Experts also recommend carefully checking the fit and finish of every installed accessory before taking delivery. Genuine accessories are manufactured according to the exact specifications of the vehicle and fit perfectly without gaps, loose edges or alignment issues. Inferior or fake products may appear lightweight, use lower-grade plastic, have uneven colours or poor finishing, and may not fit properly.

If a dealer claims that an accessory is original, buyers can request written confirmation or ask for supporting documentation. In case of any doubt, the accessory can also be inspected at an authorised service centre before accepting delivery.

Documents worth collecting before delivery

Apart from the vehicle documents, buyers should also collect:

• GST invoice mentioning the accessory name and part number.
• Warranty card for each applicable accessory.
• Installation guide or user manual, if provided.
• Authenticity certificate or supporting documents, wherever available.

Why genuine accessories matter

Using genuine accessories is not just about appearance. Manufacturer-approved products are tested for compatibility with the vehicle and meet quality and safety standards. Counterfeit accessories may affect electrical systems, reduce durability, impact vehicle performance and even create safety risks in some cases. They can also complicate warranty claims if they cause damage to the vehicle.

Automobile experts advise buyers to purchase additional accessories only from authorised dealerships or manufacturer-approved outlets. Keeping all purchase records safely can help resolve warranty or service-related disputes in the future.

FAQs

1. How can I check if my car accessories are genuine?
Check the packaging, brand logo, part number, QR code or barcode, GST invoice, warranty details and overall fit and finish. You can also verify the part number through the manufacturer’s official website or an authorised service centre.

2. Do genuine car accessories come with a warranty?
Yes. Most manufacturer-approved accessories are covered by an official warranty. Always ask for the warranty card and retain all supporting documents.

3. Should I buy accessories only from authorised dealers?
Yes. Purchasing from authorised dealerships or manufacturer-approved outlets reduces the risk of counterfeit products and ensures proper billing, warranty coverage and after-sales support.