Recall Of Counterfeit Brake Pads Launched After Toyota Australia Investigation

The recent discovery of counterfeit brake pads imported into Australia, containing potentially deadly asbestos and incorrectly and misleadingly marketed as Toyota genuine parts, has lead to the ACCC announcing a recall.

Following an investigation by Toyota Australia, online parts supplier, Westend Spares, has launched a recall of counterfeit brake pads, marketed as genuine Toyota parts "suitable for use in Hilux and Hiace models", sold between June 2013 and October 2015.

Buyers of the counterfeit brake pads will be contacted by Westend Spares, and provided with a full refund. Buyers will also be asked to dispose of the brake pads immediately, following correct asbestos handling procedures, or return them to the supplier to be destroyed.

Customers who have had their vehicles maintained by authorised Toyota dealers are not affected by the recall, as Toyota-supplied genuine parts do not contain asbestos.

The recall marks the first of its kind to be undertaken for a counterfeit car part.

“We were shocked to find an Australian supplier selling counterfeit brake pads containing asbestos.” Said Toyota Australia’s corporate manager, Wayne Gabriel.

"Not only have Toyota customers unwittingly bought counterfeit brake pads, but their safety has been put at serious risk. 

"We are pleased with the supplier's swift action and we will continue our ongoing work to stamp out counterfeit parts that put customers' safety at risk."

Toyota Australia is also investigating the supply of other counterfeit parts believed to include water pumps, wheel bearings, and spiral cables. Toyota is working with the supplier directly on this matter and hopes to have it resolved in the coming weeks.

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