The branded parts supplied by automotive manufacturers for maintenance and repairs carrying their own brands and through their own distribution channels are referred to as 'genuine parts'. Whereas, parts for maintenance and repairs that are certified under the JAPA's "Automotive Parts Recommendation System" and considered to be of the same or better quality as genuine parts are called 'JAPA Recommended Parts'. These "recommended parts" carry auto parts manufacturer brands and are supplied to aftermarket worldwide (i.e. not just in Japan) through the network of JAPA member companies.

Forty years later in 2012 the JAPA undertook a review and reform of the system and established the following standards for 'JAPA Recommended Parts' to enable ordinary consumers to choose the parts they require without hesitation and in full confidence.

JAPA recommends reliable and excellent quality parts in the after-market that are deemed to be suitable and meet the requirements stipulated above from among the wide range of maintenance and repair parts available. That is to say that JAPA recommends authorized products that satisfy the testing and standards requirements of national and public organizations, leading private sector organizations, automotive manufacturers, and auto parts manufacturers, etc.

JAPA will continue to make every effort to promote the diffusion of 'JAPA Recommended Parts' in both manufacturing and distribution so as to make an even greater contribution to the good of all consumers.