In some cases, a genuine part ordered using the correct code may exhibit differences in dimensions or connection ports.
Auto repair shops across Russia confront a shifting reality, as the massive presence of Chinese models significantly alters maintenance and repair requirements. From popular brands like Geely, Changan, and Chery to newer entries such as Avatr, Deepal, and Hongqi, mechanics are called upon to handle not only routine mechanical faults, but also complex electronic systems requiring specialized software. According to research by the newspaper Delovoy Peterburg, St. Petersburg repair shops have now acquired substantial experience in maintaining Chinese vehicles. However, certain challenges continue to cause delays and additional costs.
Unbelievable but true: A genuine spare part may not fit the car
One of the most paradoxical issues described by industry professionals involves spare part selection. Nikita Rodionov, technical director of the international repair chain Fit Service, explains that even searching by vehicle identification number (VIN) does not always guarantee the correct selection. In some cases, a genuine part ordered using the correct code may exhibit differences in dimensions or connection ports. This forces technicians to perform additional checks and comparisons with already installed components. For rare body parts, waiting times can stretch for several months.
Six months for a spare part - The case exposing the problem
Automotive expert Denis Gavrilov, creator of AutoRun SPb, notes that the greatest difficulties center primarily on brands that entered the Russian market in previous years and subsequently departed. In some of these instances, spare part delivery times reached up to six months. A case in point involves a industry professional reporting that a workshop had been waiting since summer for the delivery of a windshield for a Hongqi vehicle. Similar difficulties emerged regarding Geely parking sensors, with availability issues persisting for roughly three months. These remain, however, specific cases rather than a generalized picture across all Chinese automobiles.
"Smartphone on wheels": Electronics prove a greater challenge than mechanicals
Yulia Trushkova, service director at the Rolf Group, characterizes modern Chinese cars as smart smartphones on wheels. This specific comparison captures the heavy reliance of new vehicles on electronic control units, sensors, and software systems. Almas Gandzhiev, marketing lead at ZetAuto, points out that traditional mechanical components, such as suspension and chassis, typically do not create severe difficulties. Conversely, the largest problems emerge in diagnosing and repairing electronic control units, as well as in their programming. The lack of comprehensive technical documentation and access to specialized diagnostic tools can turn a seemingly simple repair into a complex procedure.
Not all are problematic - What happens with established Chinese brands
Despite the friction, experts clarify that the situation is not identical across all manufacturers. Car makers maintaining a strong presence in the Russian market now possess better-organized spare parts networks and technical support structures. According to Yulia Trushkova, central warehouses of official distributors and dealers for popular Chinese brands maintain inventory fulfillment levels ranging between 80% and 90%.
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