A growing concern in car markets around the world is the prevalence of counterfeit auto parts, and Russia is no exception. While the front line of fraud often appears in the guise of misrepresented fluids and suspension components, experts warn that fake oils, antifreezes, and replacement parts can be just as deceptive as their more obvious counterparts. The issue was highlighted by Aleksey Ruzanov, who serves as the technical director for the Fit Service international vehicle services network. He underscored that fake products have infiltrated a wide range of vehicle maintenance supplies, threatening vehicle reliability and safety across the market. This isn’t limited to a single item type; it spans widely used motor oils, coolants, and a growing subset of suspension parts that are crucial for ride quality and control. His observations point to a well-organized pattern in counterfeit production that makes it easier for criminals to mimic legitimate brands and slip dubious goods into the supply chain. (Source: Fit Service)
Data from industry reviews suggests that roughly a quarter of technical fluids and spare parts circulating in the market can be counterfeit. The blend of counterfeit lubricants and cooling agents is particularly problematic because these substances directly interact with engine internals and cooling systems. When fake antifreeze is used, it can crystallize or separate, compromising the cooling circuit and leading to overheating. In practical terms, this means a genuine risk of severe engine damage and costly repairs. Experts emphasize that the appearance of counterfeit fluids often matches legitimate products at first glance, making early detection difficult for the average buyer. This creates a situation where even careful shoppers can inadvertently purchase unsafe items, escalating the risk of mechanical failure. (Source: Fit Service)
Significant challenges arise in verifying product authenticity, especially for consumers who buy parts online. Counterfeiters commonly imitate packaging design or imitate logos to resemble trusted brands, which can mislead buyers who cannot inspect packaging before purchase. The difficulty is compounded when sellers operate through online marketplaces or overseas suppliers where returns or exchanges are not straightforward. Ruzanov advises buyers to demand documentation that confirms authenticity, such as certificates or traceability records, and to be wary of unusually low prices that deviate from standard market rates. He stresses that only legitimate distribution channels and recognized retailers should be trusted for high-frequency maintenance items. For buyers in North America, this caution translates into a practical checklist: seek certified sellers, request product certificates, check batch numbers, and look for reputable warranty terms. The risk of fakes is real, and informed consumers are better protected against costly mistakes and potential safety hazards. (Source: Fit Service)
From a consumer education standpoint, the prevailing message is clear: never assume a part is genuine based on packaging alone, especially when the price seems too good to be true. A simple, but often overlooked, step is to compare the packaging against an official product image from the manufacturer’s website and to confirm that the seller is an authorized distributor. Buyers should also be aware that counterfeit dividers and ball joints, which affect steering and suspension geometry, can lead to abnormal wear or unpredictable handling, increasing the chance of an accident. Similarly, counterfeit motor oils or antifreeze lack proper additives and corrosion inhibitors, which can undermine lubrication and cooling performance. By staying vigilant, vehicle owners can protect their engines, trims, and suspension systems from enduring damage. (Source: Fit Service)