Fake Brake Pads: How to Spot Counterfeit Parts

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.

Counterfeit brake pads are a particular concern because they can look remarkably similar to genuine products while failing to meet the required safety and performance standards. The problem is not simply that motorists may be buying an inferior product: poorly manufactured brake pads can directly affect a vehicle's ability to stop safely.

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.

Counterfeit brake pads found on the UK market

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. This means that the ability of an affected car to stop will be compromised, with obvious safety consequences.

Four years after its announcement, GEM can report that the government body has still not elaborated further without any official update since 2023.

How can you tell if brake pads are 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. Check that the packaging is 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. Verify the E-mark approval 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. Look for the required documentation

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. Check the manufacturer's contact details

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. Buy from reputable suppliers

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.

FAQ

Are counterfeit brake pads illegal?

Counterfeit products are not legitimate replacement parts and their sale can involve breaches of intellectual property, consumer protection and product safety requirements. Replacement brake linings are also subject to specific safety and approval requirements in the UK.

For motorists, the key consideration is not simply whether a product is advertised as genuine but whether it is an appropriately approved component for the vehicle. If you suspect that you have been supplied counterfeit brake pads, stop using the parts and contact the seller or a qualified garage for advice.

How can I check if my brake pads are genuine?

Start by checking the packaging, approval markings, part numbers and manufacturer information. The numbers and markings should be consistent between the packaging and the brake pads.

Where the manufacturer provides an authentication service, use it. Some manufacturers use security labels, QR codes or other verification systems to help customers confirm that their products are genuine.

If you remain unsure, do not fit the parts simply because they look correct. Contact the manufacturer or ask a reputable garage or parts supplier to verify them.

Can fake brake pads fail an MOT?

Yes, a vehicle fitted with poor-quality or incorrectly fitted brake pads can fail an MOT if the brakes have a relevant defect.

The MOT inspection specifically covers brake linings and pads. For example, pads worn down to the wear indicator are classed as a major defect, while pads worn below 1.5mm are classed as dangerous. Contaminated or incorrectly mounted pads can also result in a failure.

However, an MOT is not a guarantee that every brake pad is genuine. Counterfeit parts can potentially pass an inspection if they have not developed an identifiable defect at the time of the test. Genuine, appropriately approved components from a reputable supplier therefore remain an important part of good brake safety.

For more information about preparing your vehicle, see our advice on how to avoid a breakdown.

Brake safety starts with the right parts

Choosing genuine, correctly approved brake pads is an important part of responsible car maintenance. Saving a few pounds on an unknown product is unlikely to be worthwhile if it compromises braking performance or causes premature damage elsewhere in the braking system.

When buying replacement parts, check the packaging, approval markings, identification numbers and supplier. If anything looks suspicious, ask questions before fitting the parts.

Good brake safety is about more than simply replacing worn components. It means making sure the parts fitted to your vehicle are suitable, correctly installed and capable of providing predictable performance when you need to stop.

For further advice, see our breakdown cover and wider motoring guidance.

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