The UAE is known for its vast highways and high-end vehicles. Tyres are critical for ensuring optimal performance and safety while driving in this area. Despite strict regulations, counterfeit tyres have been introduced in the market.
They pose a severe threat to vehicle safety. These fake products often mimic genuine ones, but their subpar quality can lead to accidents and reduced performance. When buying tyres in the UAE, it’s essential to know how to differentiate genuine products from fake ones.
How to Identify Fake Tyres
There are some key things you can check to identify counterfeit products.
Inspect the Manufacturer’s Markings
Genuine tyres come with specific markings, such as the brand logo, tyre size, manufacturing date, and other certifications. Fake tyres have poorly printed, misspelled, or incomplete markings.
Check the Manufacturing Date
Every tyre has a four-digit code that indicates the week and year of manufacture. For example, “2223” means the tyre was made in the 22nd week of 2023. Fake tyres may lack this code or have an altered one. Avoid tyres older than five years, as they degrade over time.
Inspect the Tyre Tread and Sidewalls
Genuine tyres have uniform tread patterns and smooth sidewalls. Fake ones often have uneven patterns or rough edges. Moreover, counterfeit products may have insufficient or uneven tread depth, which leads to poor grip.
How to Ensure You Are Buying Original Tyres?
Buy from Authorized Dealers
Authorized dealers guarantee genuine products. They offer warranties, professional services, and official invoices. You should check the manufacturer’s website to locate authorized sellers in the UAE. Avoid purchasing tyres from street vendors or unverified online sources.
Use Tyre Authentication Tools
Many manufacturers provide digital tools, apps, or websites to verify tyre authenticity. These tools let you scan barcodes or input serial numbers to confirm the tyre is genuine. You can use them, especially when unsure about a purchase to avoid counterfeit products.
Inspect Tyres Before Installation
Take your time to thoroughly inspect the tyres before they are installed. You can check for consistent tread patterns, clear manufacturer markings, and intact safety certifications. Make sure the tyre matches the specifications listed in your vehicle manual. Any visible defects, irregularities, or mismatched details are red flags.
Research Trusted Brands
You should stick to reputable brands like Michelin, Dunlop, Continental, or Goodyear. Researching these brands and their features will help you recognize the differences between real and fake products. You should also familiarize yourself with their authorized distribution channels in your region.
Avoid Suspiciously Low Prices
Genuine tyres are priced higher due to their superior materials, manufacturing standards, and safety certifications. You can compare prices across multiple authorized dealers to get a sense of the standard pricing. Avoid any offers that seem unusually low as they may either include hidden conditions or low-grade products.
Now, you are all set to buy original tyres for your products. All you need to do is to adopt the aforementioned practices. Make sure you don’t opt for counterfeit ones as it will risk your safety while driving.
