The common assumption that manufacturer parts are always more expensive than alternative sourced components needs to be challenged, according to Mark Griffiths, dealer principal at Blackburn-based Renault Trucks dealership JDS.
Griffiths said this is often not the case, adding that operators might be surprised if they have a conversation with him about part prices. He said: “We recently had a discussion with a large fleet that was sourcing its own brake pads on the basis of cost, but we demonstrated that genuine Renault ones also came with the wear sensors and were cheaper overall.”
JDS only fits genuine manufacturers’ parts to its own vehicles, something Griffiths said is important as vehicles get more complicated and operators increasingly shift to dealer or manufacturer repair and maintenance contracts. “With non-genuine parts you run the risk of not knowing their build quality and longevity,” he added.
“Many of our customers will stipulate the use of genuine parts to ensure a nationwide warranty and consequential damage cover. Where the vehicle is still under warranty it is vital that only genuine parts are used, as using alternatives could potentially invalidate it.”
