The Dangers Of and How To Avoid Fake Brake Pads

As the cost of living pressures continue to bite, motorists remain keen to slash costs. Yet, try not to be lured into false economies - because the fakers are seeking to profit. Mercedes-Benz reports that 1.9 million counterfeit products were seized in over 650 raids during a period of 12 months. Closer to home, the UK is experiencing more counterfeit and sub-standard appearing on our shores.

Fake brake pads found

Perhaps the most worrying example of this was the DVSA's market surveillance team finding in 2022 that certain brake pads failed to meet the basic EU regulations on quality. (**please link to the following article: https://autotechnician.co.uk/brake-pads-tested-by-dvsa-fail-r90-standards). This means that the ability of an affected car to stop will be compromised, with obvious safety consequences.

Two years after its announcement, GEM can report that the government body is still not elaborating further, but we will provide an update as soon as formal announcements appear.

How do I check parts for my vehicle's braking system are not fake?

Regardless of whether you are a competent DIYer, or if you are paying a garage to do the work, you can take steps to ensure that your car parts meet the mandatory minimum standards. The main advice is to ensure that they comply with the EU regulation R90, by following these five tips:

1. Is the box sealed?

Not only should a brake pad box be unopened, it also should be sealed. Ensure that it has not been opened already. If you find that someone has opened it before you, the box could contain fake brake pads.

2. Check for matching numbers

The e-mark approval number on the box should match those on the pads. E11 90R-02A01234/46789 is a typical e-mark number format. The above picture (from a quality pad manufacturer) is a further example of an e-marked box. Should the markings be missing, you could well be looking at counterfeit brake pads or fake brake pads.

3. Check the included paperwork

Literature should accompany brake pads within the box. The information will include the material code. While deciphering it is beyond most DIYers and even garage technicians, all you need to do is check for its presence. Should it be absent, then the part is non-R90 compliant.

4. Look for contacts

Seek the pad manufacturer's technical support contact information. Should no such details be provided, consider this to be a red flag for counterfeit brake pads.

5. Select wisely

Buying from both a reputable supplier and manufacturer gives you the greatest protection against fake brake pads, and associated parts. While we are not against buying parts from online marketplaces, ask if you can trust the business behind the listing.

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