U.S. Customs Seizes Counterfeit Auto Filters at Ports

Recent CBP Seizures

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported a significant increase in the interception of counterfeit automotive parts during February 2026. Among the seized items, counterfeit oil and air filters bearing forged logos of major OEM brands accounted for a substantial percentage.

Safety Risks of Counterfeits

Counterfeit filters typically utilize substandard filtration media and weak internal structures. In oil filters, this can lead to bypass valve failure, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. The circulation of these parts poses severe liability risks to independent repair shops.

Supplier Verification Requirements

This crackdown underscores the necessity for rigorous supplier verification. U.S. importers are currently mandated to enhance their due diligence, favoring overseas manufacturers that provide transparent OEM-grade quality control documentation and legitimate white-label manufacturing capabilities.

Sources

• CBP: Intellectual Property Rights Seizures

• AASA: Brand Protection Council