Look, as I've said time and time again here, I have years of experience with antique and collector cars. And one thing I've learned is that the aftermarket is a real minefield. That's why I want to teach you. How to identify counterfeit parts when restoring a car.
The market is full of counterfeit pieces disguised as originals. And I'm not just talking about those crude attempts at imitation that even a beginner would spot. I'm talking about pieces that could fool even the most trained eyes.
Today I want to tell you how I avoid falling into traps and ensure that every piece I put in my classics is 100% authentic.
The danger and how to identify counterfeit pieces
When we restore a classic, every part has a story. It's not just a piece of metal or plastic; it's part of the car's soul. Putting a fake part on it is like ruining its essence. But how can you avoid being sold a fake disguised as an original? Over the years, I've learned a few tricks that can save you from a major headache.
How to find rare parts for classic cars
1. Do your research before you buy
The first thing is to know the part you need. It's not enough to know the name; you have to research codes, brands, designs, and even the small details that differentiate an original from a copy. There are old catalogs, specialized forums, and enthusiast clubs that can be a gold mine of information.
2. Examine the details with a magnifying glass
Genuine parts have certain finishes, textures, and markings that cheap copies can't replicate. Inscriptions on the metal, the quality of the welds, or even the weight can give you a clue. I once tried to sell a grille for a '67 Mustang that, at first glance, looked legitimate, but when I touched it, I felt the metal was lighter. Upon further investigation, I discovered that the originals were heavier and more robust.
3. Compare with an original
If you have access to an original piece, place it next to the one you're being sold. Observe the differences in materials, colors, and even the fonts of the markings or serial numbers. Many counterfeits fail to notice these details.
4. Buy from trusted sellers
Online marketplaces are full of sellers promising "original" parts at prices that are too good to be true. If you see an original carburetor at a ridiculously low price, be wary. Always check the seller's reputation, read reviews, and, if possible, buy from specialized stores or those with a money-back guarantee.
5. Trust your instinct
If something doesn't fit, there's probably a reason. I remember once I was about to buy a steering wheel for a Chevrolet Bel Air. Everything seemed fine, but something about the texture of the leather didn't quite sit right with me. I decided not to buy it, and a few days later, a friend showed me the difference between an original and a replica. Mine was a cheap copy that would wear out in months.
6. Consult experts
If you have any doubts, consult a specialist in the model you're restoring. There are restorers, mechanics, and collectors who can help you verify a piece's authenticity. A keen, expert eye can save you a lot of money and trouble.
7. Beware of remanufactured parts
Not all "non-genuine" parts are bad. Some remanufactured parts are of excellent quality, even better than the originals. But you have to know how to differentiate them from counterfeits. If a remanufactured part is transparent about its origin and quality, it can be an excellent option.
8. Don't be fooled by appearance alone
Some counterfeit parts are so well made that they're deceiving at first glance. So don't rely on appearance alone. If you have the opportunity, test the part before buying it. A counterfeit carburetor can leak, a fuel pump can fail quickly, and a low-quality spark plug can affect your engine's performance.
Restoring a classic is an art
In this world of classics, haste is the enemy of a good restoration. Identifying fake pieces requires patience, research, and, above all, experience.
But over time, your eye sharpens, your intuition improves, and the pitfalls of the market no longer take you by surprise. So if you're restoring your classic, take the time to learn, compare, and, above all, enjoy the process.
Because in the end, nothing compares to the satisfaction of seeing your car reborn with genuine parts full of history.
Passionate about classic cars for as long as he can remember, Javier Montoro has dedicated his life to the search, restoration, and preservation of true gems on wheels. With years of experience purchasing, restoring, and maintaining vintage vehicles, he shares his knowledge, stories, and lessons learned on this blog.