If you are unfamiliar with what makes aftermarket accessories different from the genuine article, then you may not be able to recognize a counterfeit performance car accessory when you see it. Counterfeits exist in every conceivable market, and discount car accessories are no exception.

This is not a new problem. Since the 1980's, criminals have been selling fraudulent high performance car accessories at a cheaper price. The dangers go beyond loss of revenue to the automotive industry. The lower price may save a few bucks in your pocketbook in an automotive world where gas prices are ballooning out of control. It's understandable but dwell on this: most of these discount car accessories and parts sacrifice quality and safety with more inexpensive and less strong materials.

Counterfeiters are clever people. They can create aftermarket auto accessories realistic enough to fool you. At least long enough for it to be too late to do anything about. Several years ago, CBS Evening News ran a report on very crucial aftermarket automotive accessories: counterfeit brake pads. These pads were made of compressed grass clippings and wood chips, useless as brake pads. When you need to stop fast in an emergency situation, grass isn't going to cut it. When it comes to purchasing performance automotive accessories, stick with a brand name you know and trust.

How can the average consumer protect against aftermarket automotive accessory fraud? Here are some tips:

If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. Seeing a popular brand of an auto body kit you've been eyeing for half price may not be for real. Many counterfeiters have started to counter this tactic by lowering the price just enough to avoid suspicion. Do your research. Don't settle with finding the item in one place. Shop around to see what the average price is for the accessory and make an educated decision based on what you've observed..

Take a look at the package. At first glance, the package may look legitimate but closer inspection may reveal some flaws that could be signs of the part being fraudulent.

Visit trusted stores or well-recommended shops. Stick to places you or someone you know trusts. This doesn't insinuate that every small shop is deliberately being crooked by selling you discount car accessories; sometimes they are fooled just as much as you can be. Going to distributors you've had good service with reduces risk as distributors often buy from the same manufacturer that has never steered them wrong.

Contact the manufacturer directly. If you're still unsure, the manufacturer can often verify if the performance car accessory is real. Most major companies have anti-fraudulent protocols to prove the authenticity of an accessory. Sometimes this is as simple as a code engraved on the part.

Recognizing counterfeit aftermarket automotive accessories is a skill worth taking the time to learn. Not only will you save wasting your money, but you might save a life as well - your own and those you love. Protect yourself, and report fraud to the manufacturers the moment you discover you have a counterfeit. Makers of discount car accessories often have a toll-free number or website to report fraud.