A campaign by the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) to raise awareness about the risks posed by counterfeit car parts is being supported by the Intendepent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). This comes as various seizures of counterfeit car parts and accessories have occurred in the UK in the past two years, which is adding to the growing problem worldwide.

The IPO’s campaign aims to highlight the problem and the dangers of using, knowingly or unknowingly, counterfeit car parts. Counterfeit car parts can affect both OEM and aftermarket businesses alike, as counterfeiters are growing more savvy in making the parts look identical to genuine ones.

Although parts might look the same, they are unlikely to perform to the same standards an, in many cases, the counterfeits are produced using dangerous and substandard materials that have not been properly tested, warned IAAF chief executive, Wendy Williamson.

“Safety is of paramount importance in our sector; in brakes for example, braking distances can be significantly increased and with lighting, dazzle and glare can be an issue. Counterfeit parts are putting motorists’ lives at risk. It is important, now more than ever, that suppliers, distributors and garages are aware of the origin of the parts they are using,” said Wendy.

Moreover, the campaign also extends to consumers and the care they should take when buying car parts, particularly the risks associated with parts being bought online to fit themselves or purchasing to then ask garages to fit them.

Top tips are available on the IPO’s website www.ipo.gov.uk, which gives guidance to consumers to help them make the right choice.