Fake Engine Oil Scandal: Thai Police Seize Over 32,000 Counterfeit Products in Major Warehouse Raid

A bargain-priced bottle of engine oil might seem like a great deal, but it could end up costing far more than expected. That warning has become even more relevant following a major enforcement operation in Thailand that uncovered one of the country’s largest counterfeit automotive product warehouses.

On 28 July 2026, officers from Thailand’s Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) under the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), together with the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) and representatives of trademark owners, raided a hidden warehouse in Min Buri, Bangkok. Authorities arrested individuals connected to the operation and seized 32,477 counterfeit products believed to be intended for sale through online platforms at prices well below market value.

Among the counterfeit automotive brands allegedly found were LIQUI MOLY, Mercedes-Benz, Shell, Castrol, and Nissan Genuine CVT Fluid NS-3. The warehouse also contained counterfeit consumer products, including Nutrilite protein supplements, LLMITO Matcha, LANOS mouthwash, and INZEN and Phraphai Aroma air fresheners. Investigators stated that the operation was linked to goods imported from China before being distributed throughout Thailand via e-commerce channels.

Counterfeit engine oil is far more than a trademark infringement issue. Modern lubricants are formulated with carefully balanced base oils and additive packages to minimise friction, control heat, prevent sludge formation and protect critical engine components. Poor-quality counterfeit oils may not meet these standards, potentially leading to accelerated engine wear, overheating, sludge build-up and shortened engine life. Likewise, counterfeit CVT fluid can cause transmission shudder, belt or chain slippage and costly gearbox damage because CVTs require highly specialised friction characteristics.

The case also highlights the growing challenge of online marketplaces. Counterfeit products are becoming increasingly convincing, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish genuine products from fake ones based on packaging alone. Buying from authorised dealers or official online stores remains the safest way to ensure product authenticity.

For companies like X-1R, product quality and authenticity are taken seriously. Genuine X-1R products are manufactured exclusively in the USA, under strict quality control standards and supplied through authorised distribution networks across Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, and many other international markets. Every genuine product is designed to deliver the performance and protection customers expect, while maintaining the high standards that have built X-1R’s reputation globally. As counterfeit automotive products continue to emerge across the region, choosing genuine products from trusted sources remains one of the best ways to protect both your vehicle and your investment.