The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has warned motorists over fake engine oils that have flooded the market.
Unscrupulous marketers are allegedly working in cahoots with mechanics, dealers and even manufacturers to circulate the adultered oil in the market.
The fake lubricants affect the performance of cars and can also cause overheating and explosions.
Impurities inside the fake oils thus reduce the car's life span.
"These products are made of poor-quality ingredients and danger to engines and engine parts.
"They can cause technical defects which can bring risks of accidents and machine breakdowns and increased cost of operation," the government agency stated.
According to data from ACA, the government loses Ksh2.1 billion in revenue every year, thus affecting the country’s revenue performance.
It urged the Energy Petroleum and Regulatory Authority (EPRA) to regulate the sale of engine oils and fuel.
How to Identify Fake Engine Oil
Motorists have been advised to check that the pilfer rings on the cap of every lubricant they buy are intact.
They can further confirm by checking if the pail's batch number matches the batch number of the carton.
Motorists can also tell if engine oil is legit by checking its colour, which is usually golden and transparent, free of impurities, sediments and suspended matters of all kinds.
Fake oil also has a pungent smell, which is usually suffocating.
Counterfeit oils are usually heavier than the reals ones due to impurities.
Motorists can also identify fake oil by feeling the lubricant which is usually not smooth due to impurities.
