Airbag Knockoffs: Doesn't effect us, but scroll to the bottom

[T1T2GRE]

Yikes!

See story off HOMEPAGE

I wasn't sure how to get this posted on the other forums (E90, etc.).

[Slats]

At least counterfeit airbags are airbags.

Just Google "fake airbags" to see what some shady rebuilders will do to save money (and up their profit) in rebuilding a wrecked car.

[MusclesCoupe]

Nothing in that list states E82 E81 E88 E87
E90 post is all over it
http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=756993

BMW
2007-2011 X5, E70, E60, E61
2008-2010 5-Series, 528i, 535i
2004-2007 5-Series. 525i, 530, 535, E60, E61
2007-2011 E90, E91, Not listed E92, E93
2007-2011 X5, E70
2004-2007 525i, 530, 535
2011-2012 X3

[T1T2GRE]

Originally Posted by PSIm

Nothing in that list states E82 E81 E88 E87
E90 post is all over it
http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=756993

I know - I was just posting it because I was flabbergasted and...I thought there may be some folks here who have multiple rides. Crazy that something bogus could make its way into the "real" supply chain.

[Amnizu]

Its not just airbags. Pretty much every body part that is manufactured outside of plants owned by the OEMs is sold down market to body shops through a wholesale channel. For example, bumper covers, fenders, and bumper support beams on most American and Japanese cars. The OEM and non OEM products in most cases roll off the exact same production line. One will get stamped OEM, the other will be sold as a non OEM bumper cover. This is standard practice in the auto repair industry and the insurance industry to save costs. Also, there are copycat manufactures in the market now that produce their parts in Chinese factories like described in this article. In general body shops hate these parts because they do not fit right and have a higher rate or rework, but cut rate insurers will insist on using them to save costs.

Don't believe me? Read your insurance policy if it does not directly specify that all OEM parts will be used to repair your car then pretty much bet that any repair work done to your BMW will include non-OEM parts. I have a rider on my Liberty Mutual policy to ensure OEM parts are used. Even that does not guarantee it, you have to be positive you go to an upstanding shop to get your repair work done.

[T1T2GRE]

That's crazy. I mean, I know the supply chain will be *somewhat* contaminated, but if I want OEM, I want OEM, not a knockoff. However, I've had some good luck with some parts for older vehicles (i.e. my old E30). I've had non-OEM hoods that were of decent quality for low price.

Can always got to the stealership and get "original" parts.