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Adulterations and Counterfeits Are Advancing in the Lubricants Sector, Increasing Risks of Serious Failures, Warranty Loss, and Even Total Engine Breakdown
About 20% of lubricants sold in Brazil are counterfeit or adulterated, according to a survey by the Legal Fuel Institute (ICL).
This data is concerning not only due to the direct impact on engine operation and durability but also because of the economic losses and safety risks.
Adulterated or Counterfeit Oils Lead to Risks
The warning was given by specialist Marcelo Martini, in an article distributed to the press. According to him, the presence of adulterated or counterfeit oils in the market undermines the entire confidence in the production chain.
“The counterfeiting of lubricants undermines trust in the production chain and exposes consumers to risks that are difficult to reverse,” he stated in the text.
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How Counterfeiting of Lubricants Occurs
In the article, Martini explains that fraud occurs in two main ways:
“In adulteration, the legitimate product is diluted with solvents, water, or other substances that alter its original characteristics. In total counterfeiting, packaging, labels, and designs of well-known brands are copied, but the content does not match the original in any way.”
In both cases, the consumer does not receive a product formulated with adequate additives and base oils.
“What reaches the engine, therefore, is a product incapable of providing the necessary protection,” he warned.
Damage to the Engine and the Automotive Sector
The consequences of fraud can be severe.
“An engine that receives a counterfeit oil no longer benefits from friction reduction, temperature control, and protection against wear of metal parts,” Martini highlighted.
According to him, this can lead to increased fuel consumption, recurring failures, overheating, and even total engine loss. Pistons, connecting rods, and crankshafts are among the most affected components. Additionally, the formation of sludge and clogging of oil galleries compromise circulation and cooling.
The problem goes beyond the end consumer:
“When a counterfeit product circulates in the market, not only is the driver harmed – the entire production and commercialization network of lubricants sees its image compromised.”
Warning Signs: How to Identify Counterfeit Lubricants Before Damage Occurs
Martini emphasizes that combating counterfeiting requires integrated action from all sector players.
“Prices significantly below the average, tampered packaging, absence of the ANP seal, or noticeable alterations in the color and viscosity of the oil should be seen as warning signs.”
He also reminds that by opting for products of dubious origin, consumers can incur much higher expenses in the future.
“There are no shortcuts in the lubricant market. Engine repairs, loss of factory warranty, and vehicle devaluation are recurring consequences.”
On the companies’ side, innovation is essential:
“Differentiated seals, traceability systems, and technologies applied to packaging have already proven effective in reducing the margin of action for counterfeiters.”
Workshops and distributors also play a decisive role:
“Negligence in this process compromises customer safety, generates direct losses, and may also result in administrative and legal sanctions.”
A Strategic Sector at Risk
For the specialist, fraud directly affects a vital sector for the economy and for the country’s mobility.
“Only with this integration will it be possible to reduce the space for fraud and protect not only engines but also the very trust in a strategic sector for mobility and the economy of the country.”
And you, have you checked the origin of the oil you put in your car?
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