The dilemma is that if I put these parts on the RD 200 I will have to paint the bike as well along with the RD 125.

BHPian SnS_12 recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Parts Shopping

Since I have been on a part shopping spree for the Daytona and RZ I decided it’s the right time to buy and fix some missing parts for the RD 200 as well. Since, the 200 was not in the best of shape when I got it a lot of parts were missing, damaged or from other bikes. With a list of parts I needed I sat down surfing Ebay over the past few weeks and got almost most of the stuff I was looking for.

Here is a list of parts that I have ordered for the RD 200 and RD 125:

a) Used clutch cover for the RD 200 as the one on the bike came damaged at the kick mounting when I got it

b) OE new Right side panel for the RD 200 as the one on the bike currently is from the RD 350.

c) OE new Oil tank for the RD 200 as the one on the bike is from the RD 350.

d) Used main stand with centre pin and spring for the RD 200 as the original one was missing on the bike and is currently using a RX main stand

e) OE mufflers for the RD 200 as we had made a set since the bike only had the silencers when I bought it.

f) Used speedometer set with mounting bracket for the RD 200. The bike had the OE meters with bracket but were nit working and I am currently using the RD 125 meters which are also not functioning properly. Further, I had bought a OE new set along with a extra tachometer a decade which I will still keep as a backup for now.

g) New OE only speedometer for the RD 125 along with a new mounting bracket. I have a new set which I had bought a decade ago as well.

Now, the dilemma is that if I put these parts on the RD 200 I will have to paint the bike as well along with the RD 125.

Some pictures of the parts…

Used clutch cover for the 200. Will need some cleaning, followed by sand blasting and painting or powder coating

Has the oil pump and tachometer cable gear.

New right side panel for the 200

New oil tank for the 200. Oil cap and mounting rubbers I am getting from Yambits

Used main stand for the 200 with centre pin and spring

Used complete working meter set with mounting bracket for the 200

New mufflers for the 200

New speedometer only for the 125

The back is chrome though and the bike originally had a black set

New meter mounting bracket for the 125. Damping rubbers I am ordering from Yambits

New meter set for the 200 with an extra tachometer. Was a good investment looking at the prices now

New black meter set for the 125 which will go on the bike. Again a good investment as getting a new set in black is proving very difficult

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Thinking it will help keep costs low, as I frequently travel to the USA.

BHPian tejas.sati recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Hi Motor Lovers,

I recently bought a pre loved 2014 - Volvo XC 60 - D5 AWD R Design.

To keep the cost of spare parts low I am thinking of buying parts from the US as I travel frequently.

What are the views about the community on this?

Also, how can I get OEM catalog for my car?

Please advise and help

Here's what BHPian Jeroen replied:

I buy parts for my Jeep Cherokee and occasionally my Alfa Spider on Rockauto.

https://www.rockauto.com/

Even with the shipping and import it works out cheaper than buying parts here in the Netherlands. A couple of times I had the parts shipped to friends and family in the USA who brought it to the Netherlands during a visit to us.

As you will see Rockauto has quite a detailed catalogued of cars and parts to chose from. But it tends to cater for American cars or rather cars made for the USA market.

So be aware of anyndifference between your Indian and US variants.

Good luck

Jeroen

Here's what BHPian ssjr0498 replied:

I've been buying parts from the US and bringing them down for a long long time now. What you need to be careful while buying from the US is
1. LHD vs RHD
2. Not all sellers are reliable, hence stick to sellers like FCP Euro, Real street etc..
3. Please keep the bills with yourself and not in the packages when returning and most importantly
4. Never try to bring a "USED" automotive part by declaring it as a used automotive part. The boys at the entry will not take it happily and you'll have to shell some more "gandhi's"! So in case you have to bring one, please mention it as some agricultural farm equipment or parts for R&D purposes.

Cheers
Shrey

Here's what BHPian bhardwhu replied:

I have been doing the same for my super bike but my consideration is OEM products and quick delivery. In India, I am required to wait for some parts and those are the ones I buy from US. Regular consumables are available in India. Hope that helps for your car parts as well.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The last batch of parts has arrived from Korea. I'd also ordered some small parts for a friend, and his Ssangyong Rexton.

BHPian ads295 recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Thorough check of the AC system reveals a leak in the condenser

After the condenser was pressurised, a small leak was observed. A condenser leak from the fins usually spells doom for the unit since welding will further ruin the fins - pretty much irreparable. However our leak was on the inlet/outlet pipe, so it's been repaired. I'm ordering a backup unit from the scrap dealer just to play it safe, but I doubt this particular repair will have issues going forward.

Leaking condenser

Fixed with a spot weld

Last batch of parts arrives from Korea

I paid a lot of charges for the courier this time owing to the non-standard package size due to the spoiler.

This has the spoiler, steering ball joints, axle boot kit, and so on.

I'd also ordered some small parts such as oil seals, gaskets, and bolts for a friend, and his Ssangyong Rexton.

The car now has a face, thanks to the front headlights being installed, and the fog lamp covers replaced with the correct ones. The hood ornament looks good, too.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

If you are a Mitsubishi car owner, I have high hopes from you. Are you able to source verifiable OEM/Mitsubishi parts ? Please share your experience and contact details of the parts dealer.

BHPian HJ13 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Hi BHPians,

Thanks for helping me decide if I should purchase the vehicle. (Should I buy a Used Mitsubishi Pajero Sport with only 18k on the odo?). I need your help again, this time for identifying and sourcing genuine parts for this vehicle.

As Mitsubishi does not run any service center in my state (Gujarat), I explored various options to source parts.

The first service after purchase was in a garage owned by an ex Mitsubishi Authorized Service foreman. I saw Mitsubishi parts for the first time and was satisfied by the writing on the box. I don’t remember the markings/writings on the part itself. They charged me as follows:

• Oil Filter - Rs. 1200
• Fuel Filter - Rs. 1500
• Air Filter - Rs. 1300

During the second service, I purchased parts myself from a local shop. The AC cabin filter had Mitsubishi written on it along with the part number. Oil filter was just having the part number. I do not remember the price for each part, but the charges were high. For example,

AC Cabin Filter - Rs. 1850

For the recent service, I tried some other options.

I purchased some parts from a shop at Kashmiri Gate, Delhi over the phone. The owner was very helpful. When I insisted on a fuel filter with the manufacturer's name on it, he advised me to purchase Toyota Innova fuel filter locally because it is a direct fit for Pajero. I purchased weather strips for rear doors and he advised me to apply a particular oil (later I found that it is a silicon oil/spray) on front door strips so that they last long. Prices were low.

• Oil Filter - Rs. 600 (named A in this post), Rs 850 (named D in this post)
• Fuel Filter - Rs. 350
• Air Filter - Rs 750
• AC Cabin Filter - Rs. 650

I also tried online options (Here are some examples - mechkartz, Parts Drive India, JDS services, MotorCare, etc)

Prices were reasonable.

• Oil Filter - Rs. 750 (named B in this post), Rs 1200 (named C in this post)
• Fuel Filter - Rs. 750
• Air Filter - Rs 800

Now comes the main discussion point. How can I make sure the parts I purchased are genuine quality parts ? This is important especially for parts like oil filters. Here are some videos on Youtube that I watched. 

• The importance of quality oil filter.
• One way of making the filter, and another way.

 As you can see, the difference is in material used, precision and sophistication in workmanship and quality control. Making as per the required specification (bypass valve opening pressure, flow rate and filtration, etc) vs reverse engineering.

Here is the comparison of the four oil filters (named A, B, C and D) I purchased. I do not know if they are genuine (acceptable oil filtering and flow rates), or are counterfeit (will damage the engine if used). However if you inspect them closely, you can differentiate.

Note: I installed oil filter 'C' and forgot to take photos of it. Sorry for that. However photos of box of C are present.

Oil filter (Part no - 1230A186)

The box:

They are almost identical except some markings,

shape of flaps (C has long flaps with smooth rounded ends)

some spelling mistakes (on A)

and the presence of instructions in Thai language (missing on A).

The casing of filter:

Note the typos on A and D (etancheite is the correct spell)

Look at the yellow/pink dot(s) on B, C and D which may be related to quality check. No such dot on A.

Looks like some unique identification code different for each filter manufactured. 'C' has it (check the image of C above), however no such code anywhere on 'D'.

The seal which prevents leaking of oil during high pressure (high RPMs) and high temperature (after removing the seals from A and B, I thought I should not do it as it may not get re-fitted properly. So I have not removed them from C and D. I shall do it once the filter is used) :

And as I removed the seal, the welding marks appeared:

Let's look inside now.

The glue and bypass valve:

Close look of the bypass valve:

The inside casing and filtration media:

Note the size of the holes, pattern and density of the filtration media inside. The vertical strip you see in 'B' and 'D' is where the insider cylinder with holes joins. Filter 'C' was having black welding marks instead of this strip.

Weight:

B (730 gm) > D (611 gm) > A (550 gm)

If we think about efficiency, less is better, however, if we think about the material used, more weight may indicate good quality.

Company name and logo:

As you can see, all filters have company name on the box.

Only one filter - 'D' has company name and logo on the filter itself.

Also note that the orientation of writings/instructions on filter 'D' is opposite to all other filters. This orientation is incorrect for a mechanic who wants to read the instructions during installation. However when it is on table, the orientation is correct for reading.

The price:

A - Rs. 600, B - Rs 750, C- Rs 1200, D - Rs 850

My opinion:

'A' is of the lowest quality. I will not use it.

The quality of box of 'C' is the best. However the quality of oil filter itself is important.

I found a little difference in 'B', 'C' and 'D', they all are almost equal if I consider filtration media, rubber seal, casing, etc. The inner cylinder was joined using welding in 'C' which I did not like (photograph not available). 'B and 'D' joins the inner cylinder by pressing the ends and forming a strip, which I liked.

'D' is the only one having company name and logo but the spelling mistakes on it makes me believe that it is not manufactured by the company. 'B' (and probably 'C' too) is not having any spelling mistakes.

So my opinion is: B = C > D > A

Questions I have:

• Which among these filters are OEM part and meets the required specification ?
• Why 'A', 'B' and 'C' do not have their manufacturer’s name, manufacturing date, etc. on them. Where are they manufactured ? By which company ?
• If you are a Mitsubishi car owner, I have high hopes from you. Are you able to source verifiable OEM/Mitsubishi parts ? Please share your experience and contact details of the parts dealer.
• If you are a Mitsubishi parts supplier, please light up this area and help us keep our cars as reliable as they were meant to be when manufactured.
• If you represent Mitsubishi, thanks for making such a good SUV, but why you left your customers struggling like this for parts ? Isn't there a law forcing you to make the parts available for 10 or so years after discontinuing the product ?

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Service centres refused to sell parts outside of their workshops, and online retailers either lacked stock or charged exorbitant prices exceeding the MRP.

BHPian pandu1564 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Dear TeamBHPians,

Last year, I gave my 2014 KTM 390 Duke, affectionately nicknamed "Mirinda," a complete engine rebuild to ensure its mechanical soundness. However, acquiring spare parts proved to be a major hurdle. Service centers refused to sell parts outside of their workshops, and online retailers either lacked stock or charged exorbitant prices exceeding the MRP.

To overcome this challenge, I adopted a resourceful approach. With the KTM 390 Duke parts catalogue on one hand and the Bajaj Spare Parts app on the other, I identified parts readily available from Bajaj that were compatible with my Duke. For the KTM-specific parts, I endured lengthy waiting periods to place orders.

My experience begs the question: What can be done to improve the accessibility of KTM spare parts? Is there a potential business opportunity in streamlining the supply chain and offering competitive pricing, especially considering the long wait times I faced? Perhaps, a representative from Bajaj could shed light on the possibility of KTM establishing authorized spare parts outlets similar to Bajaj's extensive network across India.

Cheers!

Here's what BHPian SunnyBoi had to say about the matter:

This is unfortunate. I've been to about 5 different KTM service centers around Bangalore and Mysore and I have never been denied parts. I buy most of my parts off the counter.

Yes, this issue is very rampant. Someone online is selling an adjustable clutch lever which sells brand new for an MRP of Rs 360 and asking Rs 1100 for a refurbished one.

You can also check 99RPM for Bajaj parts online - however, the shipping costs are very expensive, especially when you have 10x 10g parts and they want 300+rs for it.

Since you already have the spares catalogue, part numbers starting with JG and JL are common between Bajaj and KTM, so there is a good chance of getting the same parts from Bajaj themselves. Part numbers starting with JY are KTM exclusive.

You can also check the MRP of all Bajaj/KTM parts through OEMShip. They maintain their price list in EUR so multiply by 110 to get the INR value. Some parts are priced 3x or 10x, for example, bolts for the rotors are 10x. This is because they come in a pack of 10.

Here's what BHPian saikishor had to say about the matter:

There is nothing that can be done unless strict consumer protection laws are enforced. When a customer is ready to pay but the company is not willing to provide the required good, I don't know what to say except for pure atrocity. That too for a popular model like Duke. Spare part availability is one major reason why I wouldn't outright recommend a new KTM to anyone. I had suffered from parts shortage when I crashed my friend's RC200 BS4, and finally ended up procuring parts from the black market by paying 3x the price.

Even if KTM wants to create an artificial part shortage, they are the losers here as black market guys are happily reaping profits.

TLDR: nothing can be done until strict consumer protection acts are introduced.

Here's what BHPian VijayAnand1 had to say about the matter:

Sadly, what was once benign had now turned out to be malignant. The issue is compounded by showroom folks taking matters into their own hands primarily owing to getting better margins - a job outside is a job lost and hence they sinisterly use this side of the loophole to hoodwink every guy looking for a spare.

Where I live, they did deny selling me even an O ring stating the manager doesn't allow counter sale. (this is after travelling 80 kms one way to the showroom). Been a while since I've started to source here. This is where Bangalore folks come into play, KTM Kadubeesnahali and especially BTM layout and the sales guy at the BTM spares counter went above and beyond to source my requirements as the part I had asked for was out of stock at the showroom. I was asked to wait for an hour -- meanwhile, they sent a guy to a parts warehouse and after an hour plus of waiting, an Activa came fully loaded with parts.

Was simply astounding, to say the least, was in the service bay talking to the folks and pretty much everyone was polite and helpful. Since then, I've got hold of a couple of great guys in BLR who help me with the spares availability especially old gen and I get it couriered.

Regarding JG, JL, JY.. KTMs and Bajaj have a mix of all, JG JL and JY, they're all independent yet mutually exclusive. There isn't one catalogue that lists everything as JY JG or JL. It's a jungle out there.

Our laws are lopsided, to say the least, and simply put - cash is king, and the customer is bakra.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

I wanted to buy the old Himalayan accessory handlebar for my Dominar.

BHPian sole_rider recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I wanted to buy the old Himalayan accessory handlebar for my Dominar. I had it on my previous Himalayan and I didn't remove the handlebar when I sold the bike. That was one of my blunders I had done in my life.

Now coming back to the topic of RE not selling the parts, I first went to Avahan motors, Kalyan nagar for the handlebar since this is the closest to my place. Also I had a very pleasant experience when I went there for the new Himalayan test ride a few days ago. They didn't have the accessory handlebar in stock in their showroom and I was told to visit their service center at Horamavu(near to Kalyani Nexa). The guy at the parts section told me they don't have it and I should go back to the showroom. I knew this is not going to end up well.

Come the next day, I was at their service center again. Now instead of going to the parts section I asked an SA about it. He advised me to go to company store at BTM.

I was at the company srore the next day. And I bought the accessory handlebar from the showroom. I was happy for two things - 1. I got the handlebar. 2 - it has threaded boses at either ends instead of just holes. So now I can put in normal bar end weights instead of paying 1200 for RE's fancy bar ends.

So for these bar end weights I went to their service center/spare parts section in the next building. Unfortunately it was at 2:00 in the noon. So I decided to visit their clumsy looking parts section till their lunch break is over. I patiently waited outside. Then finally at 2:40 someone showed up. I asked them if they have the bar ends and the handlebar grips in stock. They confirmed it is in stock. He then asked me if my bike is in the service center. To which I answered no. Then he dropped the shocker - he cannot sell parts over the counter. RE had advised them to stop selling parts over the counter. So shocked to hear this, I called the RE customer care tollfree number. The lady who answered the call confirmed this. I asked her then what is the use of all these DIY videos on the YouTube on RE's channel if they can't sell parts over the counter to a customer. It's her reply to this question is what surprised me the most. She said I can order parts online. Till this moment I didn't have any idea such a website existed. I said ok, thank you for your assistance, hung up the call thanked the rude person at the counter and left the scene embarrassed a little.

I wanted to confirm this. So I went back to the showroom and met the same who sold the handlebar to me. He said it's true sir, they can't sell parts outside. It is based on a new directive from RE. He also told that I can get parts from other service centers except company stores.

So the next day I went to Accelerate motors at Kengeri. Here, one lady who was sitting at the reception of the service centre came to the parts section and searched for the parts. Unsurprisingly the handlebar grips and bar end weights were not there. I was told to go their Rajarajeswari outlet for the parts. I didn't waste any time. After about 45 minutes, I was at their service center. The person at the spare parts counter said they have all the items in stock. I was relieved. Then he asked me whether I have brought my bike to the SC? To which I replied no, I was planning to install it by myself. He said sorry sir, we can't sell parts outside. He also advised me that I shouldn't have wasted all my time going to different RE service centers instead I should have directly gone to their genuine parts distributor - Fixwell motors at JC road. I thanked him and left the scene. I was at Fixwell motors by 5:45pm. I aksed about the parts, the lady brought everything to the counter. I wanted to buy the allen bolts also. She brought that as well. Not only I got everything from the shop, she gave me 30 rupees discount also.

I don't know where this goes. When I had the Himalayan I could get everything from all the service centers in Eranakulam. Though most of the times I was at their parts distributor - JR Sons.

I despise manufacturerers who don't sell parts over the counter to the customers who wanted to do some maintenance on their bikes. I see this as a denial of the customer's right to repair.

PS: I have not written any emails to RE yet to get it confirmed. Other than what I got it over the call from someone at their customer care. This why I used the term 'allegedly' in the subject. Anyone who has contacts at RE can get it confirmed.

Here's what BHPian niel.jericho had to say on the matter:

sole_rider, I too had a similar experience with the company store a few weeks ago, as I have detailed here (Royal Enfield Continental GT 535 : Ownership Review (32,000 km and 9 years)) . My final outcome was a little different though. If you are firm and stand your ground, they will change their tune and sell it to you. God knows why the Royal Enfield company SVC (of all the places!) makes life so difficult for customers.

Here's what BHPian kaushalswarup had to say on the matter:

Fixwell motors are the official distributors for parts of RE.

The guy who owns & runs it, Avinash, is a biker as well and a nice chap.

There are many ASCs that get their parts from Fixwell itself, as these guys are the distributors and get parts directly from RE.

It’s funny to see that ASCs aren’t willing to sell parts. I think it’s their way of trying to reduce customers getting their bikes serviced outside/DIY.

A few emails from irritated/concerned customers should hopefully make RE take the right steps.

Here's what BHPian setaniket had to say on the matter:

This likely would be aberration, none of the service centres in Delhi/NCR refuse to sell spares OTC as long as there is stock. Figuring out stock position is a pain, I had to write email to RE customer service with INT part numbers to help to figure out service centre having stock.

Interestingly, took Inty for service on 26/12, the lady handling appointments requested to call her directly for placing orders for spares. The service advisor was happy to take orders for OTC sale of alloys.

Here's what BHPian ostrish had to say on the matter:

I don’t know if it’s a matter of policy but have always faced the same issue.

Went to buy a Himalayan windshield. They refused to sell it to me OTC, said they would be willing to sell it to me only if the ASC installed it. I agreed.

Of course a few minutes later the ASC folks realised I have an INT650 and they couldn’t install the windshield. Told them to either figure it out or sell me the damn windshield, at which point they sold it to me.

Could have just saved me all these gymnastics and sold it in the first place.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The only parts which would require a visit to a dealership are security-related items

Mercedes-Benz has decided to allow third-party stores to sell OEM spare parts in India. This would enable FNGs to procure genuine spares without a hassle. Besides, customers would not have to run to authorized service centres for minor repairs and fixes.

Santosh Iyer, Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz India, said that the company will be allowing the retailing of parts to anyone, even FNGs. To streamline the process of procuring OEM parts, the carmaker is in the process of establishing a distribution network.

Soon, most Mercedes-Benz genuine spare parts will be available at your nearest retailer or FNG. That being said, the only parts which would require a visit to a dealership are security-related items like spare keys and some security modules.

It's a welcome move by Mercedes-Benz India, as it would improve the availability of spares and also reduce the time required to procure parts.

Thanks to BHPian ajmat for sharing this information with other enthusiasts!

I finally wanted to get rid of the rattle and requested the SA to order a new steering column

BHPian abaliga recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Background:

I have been getting our 14 year old i10 serviced at an FNG which is run by someone who used to work at a Hyundai dealership, he now runs a multi brand service center with some of his former colleagues from the dealership and is able to procure OEM parts for most manufacturers for repairs, he is very transparent in terms of the parts he uses for servicing and does not use non OEM parts unless it is very hard to procure OEM ones.

Issue:

Our i10 has a steering rack/column rattle since the 1st month of ownership (known issue for 1st gen i10/i20) , service advisor knows me from the warranty days of the car, the same one who now runs the FNG, I had reported the rattle multiple times during the course of ownership starting from the first year when the vehicle was under warranty and every time it was fixed by the dealership it reappeared within a week or two, when I pointed out the recurrence he told me that they are not allowed to order replacement parts for certain category of known issues and as per the company service bulletin they are supposed to suppress the rattle by using some insulation pads which turned out to be a temporary work around, we somehow endured this problem throughout the 14.5 year ownership of our i10.

Finding:

I finally wanted to get rid of the rattle and requested the SA to order a new column (costs about 30k), he wanted me to share the VIN to get the replacement part and when I started a candid discussion to understand what parts are being considered for replacement and the respective prices, he revealed that Hyundai has a separate parts catalogue for under warranty vs out of warranty replacements where the part quality is significantly better on the paid ones

This was a shocking revelation to me and is something that I find down right unethical, has anyone else on the forum come across this practice of varying part quality for warranty vs paid repairs by other OEMs?

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

All the parts we bought & replaced in our erstwhile C220 CDI lasted more than the factory part or the warranty replacement part. Many times, what we bought from outside lasted twice the km. It was quite telling as to the kind of cost-cutting OEMs do.

Here's what BHPian Ghost131100 had to say on the matter:

This would actually answer a question of mine. A few years back, my i10 had a clutch problem. The car would stall or jerk at 1st gear and then run relatively smoothly from 2nd gear onwards. The clutch was supposed to have been changed but the issue never really went away.

A few months ago, the car, now being out of warranty started having the same issue again but this time with a vengeance. We changed the clutch and viola, the issue was gone and hasn’t come back since. So the theory where out of warranty parts are better than warranty parts does make sense.

Here's what BHPian Turbanator had to say on the matter:

Most of the manufacturers (OEM/ Tier-1 suppliers) will have only one type of Quality, but there can be multiple variants depending on the specification. There are no "A" or "B" qualities usually.

There can be two scenarios that I can think of, a different spec or brand used at the time of build of the car or warranty and a better spec. or another brand for parts. Usually, spare parts bring good margins to the companies, so they will not like to lose that sales. Whereas in car, it's the brand and model that sells. No one chooses a car based on what's fitted inside and usually, manufacturer's warranty is 2-3 Years.

So, as an example, an Exide battery that Maruti gives is for Rs 3868; only part number is mentioned, with no specifications that I can see, just - built to exclusive OE specifications. Maruti should have a 12-month warranty on such parts. But, If I use Exide Battery Finder, it shows a different part, costs Rs 4146 and mentions a 48-month warranty. So, in this case, it can be due to a higher capacity battery that Exide is giving in aftermarket as against something different to Maruti. Or, even the brand can be other as I mentioned before.

Similarly, for Clutch plates for K10; Maruti may be using a different brand in the car at the time of production and, for replacement, another brand. As we can see, some cheaper options from LUK at Bodomo, so unlike a battery, Maruti is asking for higher rates than the market. It can be due to a different brand or it's also possible Maruti charges a premium on some spare, which are usually replaced in the workshops mostly, even if aftermarket premium brands (LUK is one of the better brands) are cheap.

Here's what BHPian greenhorn had to say on the matter:

I recall reading from gannu and leoshashi's threads that there will be multiple equivalent suppliers for the same part, and even though in theory they both meet manufacturing quality standards, in practice and price there is a big difference. For maruti you have SGP and mgp parts, for VW you have the 6RF parts that are made in India vs the global equivalents that most team bhpians seem to prefer. Stellantis recently launched a "value" line of their own parts compared to mopar My own experience, tata had a recon parts catalog for major mechanical components which used the same numbers but were rebuilt and were offered to end consumers for a while as a cheaper option and were the only option for insurance/extended warranty repairs because it was written into the policy wordings.

Plenty of tier 1 vendors doing it, or at least more or less what the op is worried about

Here's what BHPian androdev had to say on the matter:

I find it hard to believe such a practice exists. Let's first understand some terminology.

Genuine parts: Automaker branded - what goes into your car at the factory, passed QC of the automaker. Expensive to due to automaker margin.

OE parts: Same as above, without the automaker brand. Sold with vendor branding directly. These are excess quantity produced above what's need to supply the automaker - importantly passed QC of the automaker. Except for the packaging+logo, there is no difference between genuine and OE parts. Limited availability.

OEM parts: Parts made by the same vendor who supplied parts to the automaker or has license to manufacture these parts (has access to the complete technical spec of the part) - who may or may not be the current supplier. Likely to meet the specifications but no obligation of passing QC of the automaker. Quality depends on the reputation of the brand.

Aftermarket parts: 3rd party suppliers with no connection to the automaker.

These suppliers can have multiple factories in different countries and the parts may come from any factory.

Dealers are only allowed to use genuine parts. Period. The only "tweaking" they can do is that use locally sourced parts for warranty jobs and imported parts for paid jobs to have higher profit margins. The difference in quality maybe a coincidence - the primary motivation could be to keep the profit margins high (local vs imported, repair vs replace, child-part vs entire part).

In the case of Hyundai, it's unlikely that factory assembly line uses a more expensive part compared to a warranty repair job. They are both likely to be locally supplied parts - cheaper. When it comes to the paid jobs, the dealer might use more expensive imported parts or parts from a different high-cost supplier - never based on quality - but more to do with profit margins and supply chain constraints. At the end of the day, the dealer has to use only genuine parts.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Checked for filters manufactured in different months, but every batch seems to have similar issue of plastic moulding has seeped over sizeable sections of paper element

BHPian vaasu recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Has anyone noticed recent dip in quality of MGP air filters?

I have been trying to source OEM air filter for Ritz Petrol for quite some time now. Checked for filters manufactured in different months, but every batch seems to have similar issue - plastic moulding has seeped over sizeable sections of paper element, leaving reduced air filtration area. Wondering how these could pass MGP quality checks!

Below is the filter manufactured in Dec 2022.:

Below is the filter manufactured in Oct 2022:

Have tried multiple sources - Boodmo, local Maruti workshops, but all have the same issue.

Also, it does not definitely appear to be one off bad batches having this issue.

Here's what BHPian audioholic had to say on the matter:

I have always heard of Japanese companies being brutal with suppliers when it comes to part quality. This includes even the two wheeler manufacturer Honda Motorcycles. And thats what keeps them so consistent in quality in reliability. But this is a nasty surprise. Maruti Suzuki might be losing its Japanese influence and increasingly becoming an Indian company like Tata or Mahindra. Who is the supplier any markings on the filter?

And if I see it right, these moulding extrusions are on the clean side of the air filter which is towards the intake. If thats really the case its horrible since if these bits come loose it can get sucked into the intake manifold and even get lodged in the throttle body which is a hazard. Better switch to a Non OE brand if multiple parts have the same issue.

Here's what BHPian bobbyblr had to say on the matter:

This engine air filter looks similar to my Alto's.

I had purchased VALEO air filter part number 585997 in 2019 and found that the rubber gasket thickness was less it was vibrating inside the air filter box. So I removed the rubber gasket from the old Maruti Suzuki air filter and used it on the Valeo part.

Later in 2021, I bought the Maruti Suzuki air filter part number 13780M79F00 and found no issues.

May be slightly off-topic, I had purchased H4 halogen bulb from boodmo of Maruti Suzuki part number 09471M12090.

Following were the quality issues I had observed in one of the bulb:

• Text in printing was big & blur
• Gap was less from the base to the glass
• Anti-glare was covering the required light output

I prepared a presentation & had sent the same to Maruti Suzuki by email but I did not get any response from them.

Later I got H4 halogen bulbs of Osram make.

One of my mechanics had told me that the last 2 digits of the part numbers in Maruti Suzuki represent the actual manufacturer of the part.

Here's what BHPian vigsom had to say on the matter:

Although not as bad as reported by you, I've noticed poor quality in a then expensive MGP air filter that I got for a 2010 sx4. This was sometime in 2015. It cost some 400 bucks which was about double of what an aftermarket Purolator air filter cost. I compared both, and there seemed to be no difference in the fit n finish, but decided to go with MGP as it was a genuine part. The issue that I noticed with the MGP filter was that white strands could be seen on the inlet side. Just 10,000kms later, we found that the filter had got clogged rather badly even under clean driving conditions, and then changed it with a Purolator.

Here's what BHPian PratikPatel had to say on the matter:

I would not be surprised to find out that to save on cost Maruti has opted to source these filters from a 2nd tier or even a 3rd tier component manufacturer. While not impossible, it is very unlikely that a reputed 1st tier OEM supplier would supply such poor quality components. The problem is one of incorrect parameters and settings of the injection moulding machine and/or very poor or worn out moulding dies. These types of problems are something very unlikely to persist over multiple batches with a 1st tier OEM supplier.

Here's what BHPian CzechItaliaMoto had to say on the matter:

It seems like this goes down to the factory level. Maruti in general isn't known for the best build quality, but usually their engines and their parts are fairly reliable and last a long time. My guess is that there has been a defect in making the plastic during polymerization, and due to no proper QC in place for these smaller parts, they have been overlooked. I also think that the plastic may have melted(indicator of inconsistent build)due to various physical conditions.

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Our Nano doesn't have such any specific problem but from what I heard, even air filters , brakes and other regular maintenance spares are also not available with any service center.

BHPian Altrozed recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

We have a Nano XT 2015 make with very less running. We regularly get it serviced once an year at Tata Service centers only(Hyderabad). We have now observed that the service centers have an unofficial understanding among themselves of not to take Nanos for any sort servicing as the spares aren't being manufactured at the Pune plant.

We have literally begged them to take the car for service as we usually don't get it at garages and prefer authorized service centers only. They have taken a signature that we don't make any noise if the spares aren't available in due course of servicing and would take the car back without the spare being replaced. Our Nano doesn't has such any specific problem but from what I heard, even air filters , brakes and other regular maintenance spares are also not available with any service center.

Also, the bigger problem is that the Nano doesn't share much spare parts with any other Tata Car and an out of production car causes much more inconvenience .

Did any other existing Nano owners in twin cities faced this problem ? If yes, please advise how and where to get the car serviced ?

We don't have any plans to get the Nano sold off and would retain it as long as it can run.

Here's what BHPian Varun560061 had to say on the matter:

I too have observed the same for the Nano XTA and Zest XMA. Since zest shares parts with its newer siblings somehow they're managing it. But as you said when it comes to Nano parts availability is very difficult.

Service managers are indeed discouraging taking up older cars into TASS due to parts and difficult in nature to repair. All the new cars are easier to repair compared to the older ones.

Here's what BHPian aravind.anand had to say on the matter:

That is weird. Aren't automobile manufacturers supposed to ensure supply of spares for 15 years after the production comes to a halt? Nano might have sold in small numbers, but that is not the customer's fault. There is no excuse for taking signature in a very dubious consent form.

The service centre is taking customers for a ride. Can we escalate to some Tata Motors officials to bring it to their notice?

Here's what BHPian Reinhard had to say on the matter:

I hope this is not for real across the country & isolated to some SCs that aren't keen for some reasons (maybe rush of new cars, low margins on Nano service relatively etc). Here in Pune at least - I see countless Nanos, Indicas, Vistas, Zests, Old Safaris, Hexas & Sumos - at service centers regularly. Nobody has blocked them, nor has a customer cried foul about such practice yet.

I hope this is resolved properly & Tata hasn't actually left its loyal customers fending for themselves. Remember - it already took people swimming against the current, to make the decision to buy a Nano to begin with.

Here's what BHPian ajitsingh208 had to say on the matter:

This is true, I have a TATA Safari Dicor 2.2 2012. I am facing issues in sourcing parts. Most parts have gone NLS in the system.

For eg. The Power Window switches, the cabin lights, A/c switch , Oil separator etc all have to be sourced from outside.

I had spoken to the TATA CRM and I was told that there is no official policy to support parts for 15 years. Usually it is only a couple of years after a model gets discontinued and that too is on goodwill basis.

This is sad, as the car is running fine but I am dreading the time when a major repair is needed and I will not be able to procure the part as some are no longer available on Boodmo as well now.

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