According to estimates by the German Anti-Counterfeiting Association, approximately 5–7% of global trade volume is made up of fake goods, piracy and counterfeiting. This is having a major impact in the global automotive aftermarket and OE component supplier MAHLE continues to consistently campaign on this issue.

MAHLE is actively fighting against these illegal acts and strongly support the market in the identification of fake goods. Its engine parts, turbocharger and thermostat packaging for example, is equipped with intricate Tec Identify labels, which offer a high degree of protection against counterfeiting and the option of online verification.

MAHLE products often fulfil safety-related functions in vehicles. If cheap, poor-quality replicas are used in their place, they can lead to anything from serious engine damage to life-threatening situations for the passengers such as fire hazards due to leaking fuel filters of low-grade production.

MAHLE stresses that anyone who deals with counterfeit products make themselves liable and ignorance does not protect against legal ramifications. For example, the law requires that factors check their goods before they are brought into circulation, particularly when evidence of a potential illegal replica comes to light.

The handling of low-grade products can also have far-reaching effects on the workshop, particularly when an accident or breakdown occurs following the replacement of a part and it is not possible to claim consequential damages under the warranty from the original parts manufacturer. MAHLE advises workshops to only purchase goods from trustworthy wholesalers and investigate bargain offers particularly thoroughly.

As well as strict security in development and production, MAHLE is also constantly monitoring the market for fake products will make test purchases from suspect wholesalers, including at international trade shows. It also works closely with customs authorities and  equips packaging with a variety of security features.

Every occurrence of piracy or counterfeiting discovered by MAHLE is prosecuted. The company employs a zero-tolerance policy against manufacturers of fake goods. The legal measures that can be taken range from cease-and-desist declarations and confiscation of the goods to criminal complaints with large claims for damages.

If a case of piracy or counterfeiting is suspected, or if workshops have any questions on this subject, MAHLE has a special anti-counterfeit response service. Simply send an email to: anti-counterfeit@mahle.com and company specialists will reply.