EXHIBIT 23.1



               CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

We have issued our report dated March 8, 2002, accompanying the consolidated
financial statements and schedule of The Coast Distribution System, Inc. and
Subsidiaries (the Company) included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 2001. We hereby consent to the incorporation by
reference of said report in the Company's Registration Statements on Forms S-8
(File Nos. 33-15322, 33-64582, 33-86072, 333-52876, 333-55941 and
333-55933).

/s/ Grant Thornton LLP
San Jose, California
March 8, 2002