The Russian auto parts market has been swept by a wave of counterfeits. As reported by "Gazeta.Ru", over the past four years, the number of fakes has increased several times, and counterfeits have reached high-tech components. Counterfeit manufacturers, previously specializing in consumables, are now faking headlights, steering racks, and high-pressure fuel pumps.
The main reason is the collapse of supplies of original parts from European brands, which have fallen by approximately 10 times. Parallel imports, intended to compensate for the shortage, have unleashed counterfeit suppliers.
According to the Union of Auto Services, the share of fakes in the segment of motor oils and technical fluids reaches 30–50%. Filters, spark plugs, brake pads and discs, suspension and steering parts are also at risk.
Counterfeit engine parts are the most dangerous: oil seals, valve stem seals, pistons, and gaskets can disable the entire unit. The situation is exacerbated by the simplified procedure for confirming product safety: importers massively use manufacturer certificates to which they actually have no access.
The National Automobile Union has already appealed to Rosakkreditatsiya, pointing out fake declarations for Shell, Castrol, Mobil, and Total brands, which have officially ceased operations in Russia.