Nearly $300k In Counterfeit Auto Parts From China By Philadelphia CBP

CBP officers seized about $300,000 in counterfeit automotive parts from China. [Photo courtesy CBP]

PHILADELPHIA – Distracted drivers aren’t the only vehicle threats on our nation’s highways. Count the proliferation of counterfeit vehicle parts as potential safety hazards too.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in Philadelphia seized a counterfeit Chinese cache of vehicle parts on July 14 that were destined to an address in Feasterville-Trevose, Pa.

CBP officers in Philadelphia seized nearly $300,000 in counterfeit automotive parts from China on July 14, 2021.

The shipment arrived on June 4 and consisted of 5,657 pieces that included vehicle door locks, hinges, powered mirrors, steering wheel switches, headlights and taillights, grills, rear bumpers, and paint kits. CBP officers suspected the auto parts to be counterfeit and detained them.

Officers consulted with CBP’s automotive experts at the agency’s Centers of Excellence and Expertise who worked with trademark holders and confirmed on July 7 that the automotive parts were counterfeit. Officers completed the seizure on July 14. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price of the automotive parts is $295,052.

“Unscrupulous repair shops and greedy internet vendors that value profits over safety place motorists in severe peril,” said Keith Fleming, CBP’s Acting Director of Field Operations in Baltimore. “Customs and Border Protection officers will continue to intercept counterfeited or pirated goods because we want consumers to be confident in knowing that the products that they purchase are safe for themselves and their families.”