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Fake Engine Lubricating Oil: How to Avoid Dealer Hacking?
In Brazil, it is necessary to pay more attention when taking care of the car, since there are countless picks in the retail market. As if the growing number of counterfeit parts on the aftermarket and the adulteration of alcohol and gasoline at gas stations were not enough, the driver now needs to be aware of counterfeit lubricating oil for the engine.
In October of this year, for example, inspection by the National Petroleum Agency (ANP) seized more than 130,000 liters of irregular vehicle lubricating oil, unregistered by the agency, in the State of São Paulo, based on the identification of a producer not authorized by the federal agency.
The lubricant is indispensable in the functioning of the engine, as it protects the internal parts, reducing friction between the moving parts (which are metallic), prevents the formation of rust, the accumulation of dirt and helps with cooling.
And that's why it needs to be exchanged (whether for time or mileage, the deadline may vary according to the manufacturer's recommendation and vehicle use). Because it loses its properties over time, resulting in a malfunction.
Old oil does not fulfill these functions. Neglecting this maintenance can result in consequences such as sludge formation, loss of power and even melting the vehicle's engine.
How to avoid counterfeit oil
During the change, you cannot use any specific oil, it is recommended to follow what the automaker instructs in the owner's manual. Also, the driver should be aware of counterfeits.
But how to avoid fake engine oil? For this, AutoPapo talked to the ANP (National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels of Brazil), which gave some tips to avoid this headache.