How to Identify A Fake or Replica Tire?

Nov 11, 2019 Car Tyres Tips & Tricks PitStopArabia

There was a time when people had to stop by different stores and shops to learn about a particular product in detail. Like when it comes to tires, people always had to discuss it with a professional or a trusted friend to educate themselves about a fake tyre and a real tyre etc. However, now, things are different from what they used to be.

Now is the time when the internet has all the information one could need, and this is the best thing that technology has given to us. All the data is now just a click away, and if you ever want to know what is essential for your car and what can improve its performance, you can search the web easily.

However, you have tonnes of information available. Separating the credible sources of information from the non-credible ones can take a little bit of effort. Speaking of vehicles, today we are here to talk about one of the most critical parts of a car, and that is the tire. We will discuss how you can identify a fake tyre and how can you make sure that you are buying the real and the right one for your car.

The tires had defects and safety issues and were banned from being sold inside the UAE. But the culprits found a way and started selling them inside the UAE. It shows that even the UAE is not safe from fake products. But the police were able to catch the culprits before any mishap.

Recognizing A Fake/ Replica Tyre, Things You Need to Do?

Fake Vs Replica tire

Tyre Inspection and Examination

The fake tire manufacturers usually try to copy the original tires. But it is not possible, and they cannot copy each tiny bit detail of a tire. That is what you need to focus on. If you pay attention, you will be able to find out the mistakes like the misspellings of the brand name and other such things.

Reputable Source

On the other hand, if you are purchasing a tire online, head to only a reliable website for buying the tyres. There are various brands which do not sell directly in a country. Instead, they rely on retailers, certified seller, or any similar sources. Do not make a fool out of yourself by purchasing a brand's tire from a questionable website just because it is offering you a 5 or 10% discount.

The Specifications

Specifications, most importantly, the tread depth is an essential factor to consider if you want to buy an original tire. If the tread depth is not too deep, know that there is something wrong with the tire. It is either fake or used because an original tire comes with an adequate amount of tread depth.

Documents

You can quickly identify a fake dealer. How? If the dealer is not providing you with any paperwork after you have purchased the tires, the chances are that the tyres are faulty. A reputable and professional tire manufacturer will always provide ownership documents and warranty cards etc. along with a user manual. A fake dealer would never invest in such paperwork, and they will try to sell the tires without them.

Missing Details

In previous articles, we have talked in detail about the various markings on the sidewall. Educate yourself with those markings before purchasing the tyres. Why? The chances are quite high that the fake tyre sellers miss such crucial details. Also, a real dealer would know about the markings on the sidewall.

Ask the dealer what the markings mean to remove any doubt. A reputable seller always knows about the products they are selling and of its qualities. If you feel the seller is unable to answer any of the questions satisfactorily, you may be about to buy a fake or replica tire.

Colour

Genuine tyres are always black! We have talked about this in detail already. However, a fake tyre may not have the blackish colour all real tyres have. Therefore, if the colour of the tyres is a little off, do not buy them. Ask the dealer for a reason about their unusual colour. The chances are that he will give a confusing or non-convincing answer.

Rough Them Up

Before buying the tyres, using a little force and kick the tyres. If the rubber caves in or the tyre is slightly damaged, the dealer is selling fake tyres. Real tyres are made to withstand the weight of the vehicle and the passengers inside. They do not suffer damage from a few light kicks. However, do not use excessive force or hit the tyres with an object!

Location

Another point to consider when recognizing a fake or replica tire is to inspect specific locations on the tire where signs of counterfeiting may be present. These locations include:

  • Tread pattern: Check the tread pattern of the tire for any inconsistencies or irregularities. Genuine tires have a uniform and consistent tread pattern, while fake ones may have variations.

  • Sidewall markings: Inspect the sidewall markings for any misspellings, errors, or differences in the font or size of the letters. Genuine tires have accurate and consistent markings, while fake ones may have errors.

  • Brand logos: Look for any differences in the design or shape of the brand logos. Genuine tires have consistent and recognizable logos, while fake ones may have variations.

  • Size and load rating information: Compare the size and load rating information with the manufacturer's specifications to ensure that it matches the genuine product. Fake tires may have incorrect or inconsistent information.

  • Unique features or markings: Check for any unique features or markings that are specific to the manufacturer or model of the tire. Genuine tires often have these unique features, while fake ones lack them.By inspecting these specific locations on the tire, you can identify any signs of counterfeiting and avoid purchasing a fake or replica tire.

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Final Thoughts

These are some of the best ways to identify fake tyre. To avoid all this confusion, buy tires from a reputable dealer, and that is it. The internet is full of online reviews, and you can always compare different dealers in terms of price and quality.

So, use the internet for the maximum benefit and then make a final purchase decision after doing all the homework. We assure you that you will not regret your buying decision if you adhere to these guidelines. Buying fake tyres can lead to avoidable accidents. Therefore, protect yourself, your loved ones, and others on the road.

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