Pertamina Lubricants Warns Against Counterfeit Oil, Advises on Authenticity Checks

The circulation of counterfeit engine oil has become a significant issue for the lubricant industry. Consumers are being urged not to be swayed solely by low prices and to ensure they purchase products through official channels. PT Pertamina Lubricants has established a network of thousands of official outlets across Indonesia to guarantee customers receive products that meet required standards.

Corporate Secretary of PT Pertamina Lubricants, Rika Gresia Wahyudi, stated that the company currently operates nearly 7,500 official outlets nationwide. She emphasised that the company continuously urges consumers to buy from these official outlets. Packaging is a key element consumers should inspect when purchasing lubricants, as genuine products carry specific identification features.

Consumers are also advised not to make price their only consideration when choosing engine oil. A significantly cheaper price does not automatically mean the product is a better choice. Rika noted that every bottle has an identity, and counterfeit oil typically lacks these identifiers, making it possible to spot fakes. In addition to packaging identity, consumers can check the QR code and serial number on the product. These details are part of the packaging identity that should be verified before the oil is used in a vehicle. Using oil that does not meet specifications can potentially cause damage to the vehicle, as lubricants are designed with specific requirements for engines and components.

Rika also addressed the changing landscape of vehicle electrification, which is altering the demand for lubricants. While electric vehicles do not use engine oil like internal combustion engine cars, they still contain components that require specific lubricant products.