Fake car parts kill - industry warns against counterfeit parts

In a presentation made on behalf of the Middle East's Automotive Brand Protection Coalition by Ford's George Goddu, he spoke of the importance of eliminating counterfeit parts in the automotive industry. "Competitive parts exist worldwide but at varying levels of quality, price and value."

He said that the fake parts industry is estimated to be worth US $12Billion worldwide each year, with US$150-200 million sold in the GCC countries alone. "Counterfeit parts are sold at 50-85% of genuine pricing but deliver at 20-30% of the value (performance, wear, system integration)," he explained.

Fake parts can cause serious damage to cars, their drivers and passengers. "Fake oil filters can cause sudden engine failure and performance, probably in traffic, thus causing major accidents."

Fake Alloy wheels can shatter, anti roll bars can bend on impact, engine hoods which do not crumple and penetrate the passenger compartment causing a guillotine effect.

He urged consumers to only purchase parts from authorised outlets and demand genuine parts. If sold counterfeit parts, consumers should report them to the police. Goddu called for tough legislation against counterfeiting to be enacted and enforced.

Rigorous testing undertaken in accordance with the guidelines issued by authorities like Dubai Police is one way in which defective parts can be spotted. Mr Ayas Bin Hendi, Manager of the Tasjeel Vehicle Testing and Registration centres in Dubai, gave a presentation on vehicle inspection and registration service, now privatised and enhanced with Tasjeel, which apparently conform to the toughest guidelines laid down in the Gulf area.

Tasjeel started offering vehicle inspections in 1999 and has qualified and experienced inspectors from Dubai police. Utilising mainly German equipment, Tasjeel tests vehicles according to the parameters set by Dubai Police and their own procedures. They can test and register light and heavy vehicles.

Speaking on behalf of the organisers of Automechanika, Michael Dehn of Epoc Messe Frankfurt, said "a total of five seminars will be presented during the four days of the show. The Academy is part of the Automechanika Shows worldwide, all organised by Messe Frankfurt."

"Automechanika Academy is the focal point and forum of the industry, which provides a platform for professionals and market leaders to exchange their views and update the knowledge of exhibitors and visitors alike. It is an additional reason for people to come to the show," Dehn added.

"The academy can introduce new technologies and new developments in regulations related to safety in spare parts, body shop practices and the use of equipment in garages. We target both the top management as well as engineers and mechanics."