Large batch of fake car parts discovered

Australia’s Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has highlighted the dangers of buying car parts online after it discovered large batches of fake spark plugs being sold as genuine parts. 

Around 60 per cent of spark plugs purchased through dodgy online sellers have been verified as fraudulent parts designed to fool consumers. In all of the above photos, the genuine spark plugs are shown on the left and the counterfeit on the right.

The FCAI warns the illegal parts, which are barely distinguishable to the naked eye against genuine spark plugs, could cause significant damage to an engine.

“The low-quality counterfeits could cost drivers thousands in engine repair costs,” says FCAI chief executive Tony Weber.

"With poor ignition causing poor fuel economy and poor engine start up, the fake spark plugs’ low-grade composition causes them to overheat quickly. Drivers will notice a major drop in engine power, particularly under heavy acceleration or load. If the fake spark plugs continue to overheat, they will melt and cause extreme engine damage.

“The best way to avoid a fake? Make certain your parts are purchased from the authorised dealer network.

“We have experts examining the packaging and spark plugs and even they can barely tell the difference. You won’t know it’s a fake, until it’s too late.”