Counterfeit engine oil production uncovered in Latvia

Authorities in Riga previously uncovered an industrial facility producing counterfeit engine oil. During the raid, approximately 140,000 liters of fraudulent oil were seized, which were falsely labeled with major brands including GM (General Motors), Mobil 1, Castrol, and Ford Motorcraft.

Kalvis Bernauts, head of the oil and lubricants group at Inter Cars Latvija, warns that the damage caused by counterfeit or substandard oil can be gradual and may go unnoticed for weeks or months. Such products often use lower-quality base oils and lack the precise balance of additives required for engine protection, such as anti-wear agents, detergents, and dispersants.

Using improper oil can lead to increased engine wear, the buildup of sludge and deposits in oil channels, and incorrect viscosity. This can result in the oil becoming too thin at high temperatures or too thick in cold weather, potentially clogging diesel particulate filters, damaging catalytic converters, and harming turbochargers.