Know the consequences of using “illegal” products and how to find real lubricants and not be deceived
Lubricating oil entered the list of fake products that are spreading across the Brazilian market. About 30% of all counterfeit products in the country are concentrated in automotive vehicle engine items, according to the Brazilian Association to Combat Counterfeiting (ABCF).
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The manufacture of lubricants may seem simple, but their composition involves mixing base oils with additives – substances that improve the characteristics of base oils, or give them new characteristics, which are responsible for creating a layer of protection for engine parts.
Loss of using a fake lubricating oil in the engine, can weigh more than BRL 20 thousand
The counterfeit product, although it has similarities such as coloring, does not contain the essential additives for the proper functioning and performance of the engine. The loss of using a fake lubricating oil can weigh more than R$20 in the consumer's pocket.
Denilson Barbosa, quality coordinator at YPF Brasil, one of the largest companies oil and gas producers in Latin America , explains that fake lubricating oil can not only generate financial losses with the damage of parts, but also pose a risk to the lives of vehicle users. “A counterfeit lubricant wears out parts of the vehicle's engine that can even be broken. For example, a break in the pistons and the engine block can occur at any time right after using the fake product, putting the driver and passengers at risk, either due to a fire or an accident", comments Denilson.
The composition of the lubricant in Brazil is determined by the National Petroleum Agency, in conjunction with other international agencies.
Be careful when changing engine oil
In order not to run the risk of using a counterfeit lubricant, some simple measures can help, such as: on the packaging, the consumer needs to check the manufacturing date and batch of the product, on the seal and on the lid, as well as the seal and the manufacturer's mark .
It is important to be wary of prices well below the average of those practiced on the market, in addition to not being in a hurry to change the lubricant, nor the choice of the best oil for the engine.
“In order not to run risks, the consumer can search the CNPJ of the distribution company that is on the back of the package. If you have doubts regarding which oil to use, it is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines so that you do not buy a counterfeit lubricant, and use the one that generates better functioning for your car", concludes Denilson.
