Counterfeit products often look like the original. This makes it difficult to identify possible counterfeits quickly and without detailed product knowledge, it is sometimes virtually impossible. This website illustrates several examples of counterfeit and original products and suggests measures for reducing the risk of unintentionally playing into the hands of product pirates.
Original or counterfeit? Sometimes it's not easy to tell the difference. But the devil lies in the detail and using counterfeit parts can result in considerable safety risks.
The use of counterfeit packaging with BMW Group brands is an infringement of trademark law. Be cautious if parts are offered in original packaging bearing the old BMW design. This can be the first clue that the part is counterfeit. Inferior quality of the packaging can also indicate a counterfeit product.
Worldwide, the BMW Group's Brand Protection team is actively combating product piracy and also training everyone involved in the sales process, such as customs departments and authorities.
If you spot what you suspect to be a counterfeit product, please contact the Brand Protection team. Doing so will protect your own safety, as well as the safety of many other people!
Brand-Protection-Team@bmwgroup.com
Compare the authentic new (left) and old (right) BMW original packaging with any suspected counterfeit. This can be the first clue that the part is counterfeit.
If in doubt, ask a BMW Group partner.
By using the BMW Group's logos or word marks, counterfeiters try to make it look like an original part.
Poor-quality lettering and logos, or different colors and compositions are good reasons to be suspicious.
Counterfeit brake pads may have serious or fatal consequences. Materials used in counterfeit pads may have almost no frictional resistance, poor fitment and braking, and poor component connection.
You risk your life and others using counterfeit parts.
Counterfeit oil filters may leak, have decreased burst pressure and end discs which break off in the hot engine oil.
You risk serious engine damage using counterfeit parts.
The possible consequences of using fake air cleaners;
- increased, premature engine wear-and-tear,
- shorter service intervals,
- increased dust permeability
Why risk your BMW to a counterfeit?
Counterfeit spark plugs may cause;
- Insufficient thermal resistance,
- Poor flammability,
- Inferior quality material
Possible consequences;
Serious engine damage due to poor function.
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