A mechanic has warned of the serious dangers of buying counterfeit vehicle parts online. Paul Jones, owner of PC Automotive in Lincoln, highlighted the risks associated with fitting faulty or untested parts, particularly airbags, which could have catastrophic consequences.
Mr. Jones emphasised the importance of purchasing genuine parts from reputable sources to ensure safety and reliability. He stated that he refuses to fit parts brought in by customers due to the potential safety risks.
The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has launched a campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of counterfeit parts, which include airbags, brake pads, wheels, and batteries. The IPO warns that these counterfeit parts may not meet safety standards and pose significant risks to drivers and passengers.
Miles Rees, Deputy Director of Enforcement at the IPO, stressed the importance of being wary of significantly cheaper prices, as they often indicate counterfeit goods. He also highlighted the link between the sale of counterfeit goods and organised crime.
Manufacturers are also experiencing the negative impact of counterfeiting. Dan Rack, director of Drury Precision Engineering, a Lincolnshire-based manufacturer of motorcycle parts, stated that counterfeit versions of their products often appear online within months of their release. He emphasised the significant financial and reputational damage caused by counterfeiters.
The IPO campaign aims to educate consumers about the risks of buying counterfeit parts and encourage them to purchase genuine parts from reputable suppliers.
Source: BBC News
