Spare parts for vehicles are growing pricier, but the looming risk is not only cost. Experts warn of a potential deficit across a wide range of job roles in the near future.
Will parallel imports rescue the Russian car sector? Could they be profitable? Sergei Zinoviev examines this in the new issue of Behind the Wheel, outlining how the spare parts market may evolve in the coming months.
He also cautions that parallel imports carry a higher risk of counterfeit or low-quality non-original items, packed in branded packaging that is difficult to distinguish. Consumers should be wary of bulk consumables such as filters, drive belts, oils, suspension components, brake pads and discs, which are especially vulnerable to counterfeit products.
As soon as autumn, many items could reach total scarcity, with experts predicting warehouses emptied of older stock by then.
Interim shortages already touch many items, placing them in high demand. Consider this snapshot: at the end of spring, Gruzdev Analysis surveyed service stations about components perceived as most scarce. The results showed:
- Engine parts – 64% reported scarcity at stations
- Motor oils – 47%
- Spark plugs – 44%
- Filters – 42%
- Electrical equipment – 40%
- Brake systems – 38%
- Shock absorbers – 32%
- Drive belts – 24%
- Suspension and steering – 20%
It is important to note that the survey captured only part of the picture; body parts and glass were not included, yet they were also in short supply during the spring for newer and rarer models. Overall, the trend is clear: the question is how sanctions will shape supply going forward.
And how can buyers shield themselves from low-quality fakes? The September issue of Behind the Wheel covers practical steps to spot counterfeit parts. It is now available!
The latest magazine issues are typically available on marketplaces.
- Domestic production in Russia is accelerating to fill gaps, with plans to involve Lada Izhevsk and a new factory in Moscow.
- Behind the Wheel can be accessed through Odnoklassniki.
The material draws on the article The market for spare parts: shortage and prospects by Sergei Zinoviev. [Citation: Zinoviev, Behind the Wheel, market analysis text with future outlook.]