DVSA warns drivers will 'pay price' after mistake which was 'accidental'

The DVSA has warned motorists, road users and drivers will "pay the price” by accidentally purchasing fake parts for their vehicles. Fake parts could “cost lives” with components likely made from “inferior materials”, it has been warned ahead of Christmas.

Posting on X, the DVSA said: “If the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. Buy fake car parts and you’ll pay the price later. Remember, #FakeAlwaysBreaks and counterfeits can cost lives. Find out how to spot and avoid fakes.”

The DVSA said: "Fake or sub-standard vehicle parts are often cheap-looking imitations, but it can sometimes be hard to tell the difference between a fake and genuine product. Such fake parts are usually made from inferior materials and are not safety-tested, increasing the risk of failure. This can have serious consequences to drivers, passengers, and other road users.

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"This guidance has been developed in partnership with the motor industry to help you avoid fake parts and report counterfeit sellers. It also provides tactics that you can employ to shop safely and ways to report counterfeit parts."

It said: "It can be difficult for consumers to identify fake car parts, including commonly counterfeited components like brake pads and discs, spark plugs and filters. In this market where technology is constantly improving vehicles, particularly the safety aspects, criminals use advanced techniques to make the parts and packaging look genuine. Just looking at the part might not be enough to identify a fake part but remember, fake always breaks so be vigilant when replacing automative components."

It went on and also said: "Report to Trading standards website using your postcode. Some local authorities may redirect you to the Citizens Advice reporting system." It signed off by saying: "If you wish to remain anonymous report to Crimestoppers online or call 0800 702 2020."