Fighting the fakes with brakes

After establishing that this magazine would tackle the thorny topic of fakery undermining the aftermarket, we were surprised by the mixed responses we received. Some companies were willing to discuss the matter openly. Others were more hesitant, in case we revealed sensitive security information (which is fair enough), but they still trusted us with their insight. Interestingly, some businesses did not wish to discuss the topic, one of whom recommended strongly that we changed our stance entirely.

While AT is not into click-bait sensationalism, this is a delicate topic that we feel should be debated. We appreciate that rising costs are putting pressure on both workshops and motorists but we must not be lured into false economies. Last year, the U.S. Department of Commerce stated that the counterfeit automotive parts industry is worth about $45 billion.

ECE R90 dictates that brake friction components are supplied in sealed boxes

Closer to home, Mercedes-Benz reported that 1.9 million counterfeit products were seized in over 650 raids during 2021. In the UK, we are seeing more fake products appearing, from fuel catalysts to brakes.

What is a fake?

Counterfeit products that pretend to be from a credible company are, probably, the most obvious fakes. It is especially amusing to see logos and designs of well-established companies altered mildly, in the hope that a low price would cloud the buyer's ability to read. An example that springs to mind is a fake BOGE shock absorber, marketed in very similar packaging as 'BOOG'. While we can giggle, we should not forget that the fakers are becoming more sophisticated at copying genuine articles, making them harder to identify at first sight. In any case, many larger companies have the resources to identify and fight the fakers that are trading on their good names and they do so. We should be grateful, however, that such forgeries are relatively rare in the UK but the expansion of global online platforms with temping low prices can make garages vulnerable, especially if fitting customersupplied parts.

Another definition of fakery involves false claims made on the packaging. Very often, these boast of the part complying with certain specifications, when they do not. If the deception was intentional, the question has to be asked about whether the item fails in other technical ways. It could even be dangerous. Alternatively, a false claim might be the result of a genuine error, in which case the organisation involved should be judged on its subsequent willingness to remedy the problem.

The quality debate is also one that gets dragged into discussions about fakes. Very often, OEM suppliers insist on OE quality. Alternative suppliers that do not supply car manufacturers counter that they also offer OE quality. Some businesses argue that they go above OE quality, by offering alternatives that address long-term deficiencies in the original part. Other suppliers offer a range of parts that still meet legislative requirements, but offer superior performance in one area at the expense of performance in another. We think that this topic is interesting and useful to discuss but non-OEM supplied parts should not be considered fakes.

Avoid getting caught out

Despite fake brake friction parts being unusual in the UK, these top five checks should help to keep you protected, in case any slip through the net:

1. Check for matching numbers

When examining the box, look for an e-mark approval number. E11 90R-02A01234/46789 is a typical example. Compare that number with the e-mark on the brake pad. They should match.

2. Check the paperwork

The box should contain literature that states the material code. While it is unlikely that you will be able to decipher it, the DVSA can tell, should you ask it to investigate. Should you find no code, then the part is not compliant with R90.

3. Rely on proven trust, not blind faith

Buy from both a reputable supplier and manufacturer, such as authorised distributors and distribution chains. Selecting brands, with which you are familiar, is not a bad idea. Should you not be familiar with the brand (of which there are many in the UK), see if you recognise the manufacturer behind it.

4. Check the sealing

Brake pad boxes must be sealed and tamperproof. Should you find that the box has been opened already or can be opened and resealed easily, suspect that the product inside is either non-R90 compliant, or a counterfeit.

5. Ask questions

If you cannot find out if the manufacturer complies with R90, contact its technical support team. Be suspicious if no contact details are available...