Over the last few years, counterfeit parts have become a growing concern in the UK, posing a significant risk to drivers and passengers alike. These fake components are often easily accessible and can visually appear identical to the genuine ones, but they lack the critical safety and quality standards required for reliable performance.
A new government campaign aims to highlight the dangers of using these parts and the scale and seriousness of the fake vehicle parts industry. The Fake Always Breaks campaign points out that many car and van drivers are often unwittingly purchasing counterfeit items such as tyres, brakes, batteries and even critical safety equipment like airbags. A shocking one in six drivers had bought fake parts in the past 12 months, with many of these only being discovered after the vehicle has been serviced by a professional mechanic.
Because counterfeit parts are not manufactured to the same standards as the original equipment, their performance is dangerously compromised. For example, fake tyres offer less grip, especially in adverse weather, while counterfeit brakes increase stopping distance, and fake airbags could fail to deploy. All of these defects are potentially life-threatening for drivers, passengers and other road users.
Nearly 60% of drivers surveyed admitted to knowingly buying counterfeit car and van parts, citing that their low cost was the primary motivation. However, while they may look identical, their appearance gives no indication of the materials used, or the rigorous testing genuine parts undergo to ensure safety and performance.
In addition to the campaign, police forces across the country are clamping down on the issue. The City of London Police’s Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) recently seized over £30,000 of fake car parts, including key fobs, airbags and brake pedals.
Alongside raising awareness of the issues, Fake Always Breaks is also offering practical advice and support to consumers. If something seems too good to be true, it most probably is. Nearly all reputable manufacturers of genuine car and van parts offer a way to verify authenticity, and if something seems amiss, then it is best to exercise caution and find another part.
Industry leaders, garages, automotive organisations, and manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz are supporting these efforts, and drivers interested in learning more can find more information on the official website.