Strut spacers for Toyota HiLux seized as fake genuine parts

Counterfeit strut spacers marketed online for the current generation Toyota HiLux have been seized by the Australia Border Force, wearing replica engravings to mimic genuine parts.

The primary issue with the parts is the fake Toyota markings on them, as the marque does not sell strut spacers for the HiLux so they don’t actually exist as genuine offerings.

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Images: Genuine is Best

Strut spacers are plentiful in the 4x4 aftermarket and are used to raise a vehicle's ground clearance. The spacers typically sit on top suspension struts or springs, which places the components further down from the body or chassis of the car for improved off-roading ability.

“These unknown, untested and evidently dangerous parts have no place on Australian roads. The fact they are being marketed with the logos of vehicle brands is cause for tremendous concern," said Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) Chief Executive Tony Weber.

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Toyota Australia also confirmed the parts are unknown to the manufacturer, and as a result have not been tested or approved to either Toyota or Australian industry standards.

News of the fakes was announced on Monday as part of the Genuine is Best initiative, which was set up by the FCAI to catch counterfeit parts just like these. The spacers add to the growing list of dodgy counterfeit parts seized and tested, which includes; replica spark plugs, oil filters which don’t function correctly, wheels prone to cracking and seriously dangerous failures, and even brake pads made from grass clippings.