Government warning as one in six are buying fake aftermarket car parts

Motorists are being warned about the dangers of buying fake aftermarket parts through a new government campaign launched today.

It comes after a survey commissioned by the government’s Intellectual Property Office (IPO) found that one in six respondents said they have purchased a counterfeit part in the past 12 months. Research has estimated that vehicle counterfeit parts imported to the UK were worth almost £1 billion each year.

Many of the most commonly purchased fake car parts in the UK pose significant safety concerns if faulty, including car batteries (bought by 25% of motorists who admit to buying counterfeit parts), tyres/wheels (23%) and windscreen wipers (19%). Worryingly, 14% of motorists who have purchased fake car parts bought counterfeit airbags, while over a tenth (12%) bought fake brake pads or discs.

Although many purchases are being made unknowingly, almost three fifths (58%) of motorists who have bought cheap parts said they did so knowing the part was fake.

Earlier this year, Amazon’s Counterfeit Crimes Unit and BMW Group won a joint civil lawsuit against four Spanish fraudsters who attempted to sell counterfeit BMW parts and accessories in the UK.

Miles Rees, IPO deputy director of enforcement, said: “Fake car parts are illegal to sell and are very dangerous for motorists and other road users. While they may look the same, they are often made from inferior materials and are not safety tested. This increases the risk of failure and can lead to life-changing or life-ending consequences – a risk not worth taking.

“As we enter the darker, colder, icier months, driving can become more hazardous. This is why it is now more important than ever to highlight the dangers of fakes to motorists and help make every journey as safe as it can be. Our ‘Fake Always Breaks’ campaign aims to arm drivers with the information they need to spot a fake, avoid the risks and report sellers.”

Stuart James, chief executive officer at the Independent Garage Association (IGA): “We are pleased to support the IPO’s campaign that aims to raise awareness of the severe safety risks that counterfeit vehicle parts pose to all road users.”

“Garages should ensure that they avoid using customer supplied parts and fit parts from trusted suppliers and reputable vehicle parts distributors. This practice not only enhances the safety of vehicles but also reassures customers that all components meet the required specifications.”

“We actively encourage any garage that identifies counterfeit parts to report them through the various channels highlighted in the IPO advice. Together, we can combat this issue and contribute to safer roads for all.”