If you’re looking for Lexus car parts or definite replacements for any luxury model, you will obviously be concerned about the sustained expansion in the counterfeit car parts market. Anybody needing repairs on their vehicle needs to be more attentive than ever to make sure every part on their car is what it claims to be.

The first study to draw awareness to the concern came at the end of the last century. In 1999, Trading Standards initiated a study of the counterfeit car parts industry, which it said increased from $3 million in 1994 to more than $300 billion. It was an incredible rise, sparked in part by the surge in car ownership in emerging countries like India.

This marketplace has grown and evolved quickly. Auto components manufactured from base metals or substandard materials put drivers at risk. Worse still, they increasingly come with logos and have the outward appearance of the genuine article. They often look convincing and, combined with the low price (frequently as much as half that of the manufacturer’s cost), they’re extremely tempting. Even experienced mechanics have been fooled.

So how do you know replacement Lexus car parts are what they claim to be?

The answer is simple for the manufacturers. You should always use a dealer or an approved professional. That way, you can be sure the parts are manufactured to original equipment (OE) standards and will serve you well. If you’re looking for Lexus car parts, for example, the manufacturer will always recommend you only buy the genuine article.

That has apparent profit for them and owners are often cynical that the manufacturer merely finds ways to extract more money from them throughout the car’s life. However, this service does provide a confident level of hope and that can have a considerable impact on the ultimate resale price.

So, if you’re looking for parts for your Lexus, don’t be tempted by bargain prices. Keep in mind, if something looks too good to be true, it probably is. The secret is to investigate, and stick with a supplier you completely trust. It may cost more in the short term, but the benefits will be apparent in the long run.