A Toyota Dealer Counterfeit Product Bulletin identifies counterfeit Toyota brake pads designed to fit every HiLux sold over the past 10 years -- a fleet of more than 400,000 vehicles, and more than 100,000 Hiace delivery vans and commuter buses over the same period.
Toyota is concerned about potential customer safety risks and has been targeting counterfeit parts and sellers.
The counterfeit Toyota brake pads - which have been confirmed to contain asbestos, now known to cause mesothelioma, a cancer of the lungs - are being sold as genuine Toyota parts, but at a fraction of the price. The counterfeit brake pads are offered in visually similar counterfeit Toyota packaging.
The notice warns mechanics to "use caution when examining any vehicles which have been serviced or repaired outside the Toyota dealer network."
The bulletin advises that customers who have only had their vehicle serviced by a Toyota dealer are not at risk. If in doubt about the safety or authenticity of the brake parts, or any part on your Toyota vehicle, consult an authorized Toyota Dealer.
The counterfeit pads have been reported in Australia.
A Toyota Dealer Bulletin warns that thousands of brake pads containing deadly asbestos and designed to fit one of Australia's most popular cars are being sold illegally to buyers unaware they are counterfeit parts.
Sales have been identified in Australia
Could you identify this item as an authentic or counterfeit Toyota part? Counterfeit packaging may look visually very similar to the authentic product to deceive consumers.
Always buy authentic parts from authorized Toyota Dealers.
Could you identify this brake pad as an authentic or counterfeit Toyota product? Your life depends on it.
If you can't, you should buy authentic Toyota parts from authorized Toyota Dealers.
The packaging on the counterfeit product may appear authentic, but the labels are different.
When in doubt, consult an authorized Toyota Dealer.
The quality of the backing plate stamping is different on the counterfeit -- it is too indented, resulting in distortion.
You safety, and the safety of others depends on safe authentic parts.
The edge lip on the genuine pad is smooth, but rough on the counterfeit.
The overall counterfeit pad length may be slightly shorter and may fit loosely in the caliper. The authentic pad will fit firmly in the caliper.
Compare the brake wear indicator. The counterfeit pad has very poor riveting, and a different material than used on the authentic Toyota brake pad.
If in doubt, consult an authorized Toyota Dealer.
Be wary of "Genuine" Toyota Brake Pad sets offered online as shown here for as little as $5.00 / set and quantities up to 100,000.
Please be patient while we obtain more information and better photos from Toyota.
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