How To Check If a Brunswick Motor Is Real

Brunswick is a well-known and respected name in the marine industry, and their outboard motors are highly sought after for their reliability and performance. However, with the increasing popularity of Brunswick motors, there has also been a rise in counterfeit products. This can be a major problem for boat owners, as counterfeit motors can be dangerous and unreliable.

If you’re considering buying a Brunswick motor, it’s important to take steps to ensure that it’s genuine. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about how to check if a Brunswick motor is real.

How can I tell if my Brunswick outboard motor is real?

It’s important to be able to determine if your outboard motor is authentic, especially if you’re purchasing one used. Here are some key steps you can take:

• Check the serial number: Every genuine Brunswick outboard motor has a unique serial number that is etched into the motor. You can find this number on a plate on the motor’s cowling.
• Compare the serial number: Once you’ve located the serial number, you can check it against the Brunswick database to see if it is valid. You can do this by calling Brunswick customer service or by visiting their website.
• Inspect the motor: Look for any signs of poor quality or workmanship. This could include misaligned parts, uneven paint, or missing decals.
• Ask for proof of purchase: If you are buying a used motor, ask the seller for proof of purchase. This could be a sales receipt or a bill of sale.
• Verify the dealer: Check the seller’s credentials to confirm they are an authorized Brunswick dealer.
• Consider a professional inspection: If you are still unsure about the authenticity of a motor, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a certified marine mechanic.

By following these steps, you can increase the chances of buying a genuine Brunswick outboard motor.

Where can I find the serial number on my Brunswick outboard motor?

The serial number on your Brunswick outboard motor is typically located on a plate attached to the cowling. The cowling is the protective cover that surrounds the engine. To locate the serial number:

• Open the cowling: The cowling usually opens by releasing two latches located on either side of the motor.
• Locate the serial number plate: Look for a small plate on the cowling, often near the top or bottom.
• Read the serial number: The serial number will be etched into the plate, and it will typically be a combination of letters and numbers.
• Record the serial number: Once you have found the serial number, it’s a good idea to record it in a safe place, such as a notebook or your phone.

If you’re having trouble finding the serial number plate, you can consult your owner’s manual or contact Brunswick customer service for assistance.

What are some of the signs of a fake Brunswick outboard motor?

Counterfeit Brunswick outboard motors are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but there are still some key signs that you can look for to spot a fake.

• Poor quality construction: Counterfeit motors often have poor quality construction, with misaligned parts, uneven paint, or missing decals.
• Incorrect markings: Look for any misspelled words or incorrect logos on the motor.
• Suspiciously low price: If the price of a Brunswick outboard motor seems too good to be true, it probably is. Counterfeit motors are often sold at significantly lower prices than genuine motors.
• Missing documentation: Counterfeit motors may be missing documentation, such as an owner’s manual or a bill of sale.
• Difficulty contacting the seller: If you are having trouble contacting the seller or if they seem evasive, this could be a red flag.

If you see any of these signs, it’s best to avoid buying the motor. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to marine equipment.

What are some common Brunswick outboard motor models that are often counterfeited?

While any Brunswick outboard motor can be counterfeited, some models are more popular than others.

• Mercury Outboard Motors: This is the most common brand of outboard motor produced by Brunswick, so counterfeiters often target them.
• MerCruiser Sterndrive Motors: MerCruiser is a popular brand of sterndrive engines produced by Brunswick, and counterfeiters often target these engines.
• Other Brunswick Brands: Other Brunswick brands, such as Mariner, Force, and Evinrude, are also susceptible to counterfeiting.

If you are buying any of these models, it is especially important to take extra precautions to ensure that it is genuine.

Is it legal to buy a counterfeit Brunswick outboard motor?

It is generally illegal to buy a counterfeit Brunswick outboard motor. Counterfeiting is a form of intellectual property theft, and it can carry significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

Moreover, buying a counterfeit motor can be dangerous. Counterfeit motors are often made with substandard materials and components, and they may not meet safety standards. This can lead to mechanical failures, engine fires, or even accidents.

How can I report a counterfeit Brunswick outboard motor?

If you suspect that you have purchased a counterfeit Brunswick outboard motor, you can report it to the following organizations:

• Brunswick Corporation: You can report counterfeit motors directly to Brunswick Corporation through their website or by contacting their customer service line.
• US Customs and Border Protection (CBP): You can report counterfeit goods to the CBP by calling their hotline or by submitting a report online.
• The National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center (IPR Center): You can report counterfeiting to the IPR Center by visiting their website or by calling their hotline.

By reporting counterfeit motors, you can help to protect consumers and prevent the sale of dangerous products.

What are some tips for buying a genuine Brunswick outboard motor?

Here are some tips for buying a genuine Brunswick outboard motor:

• Buy from a reputable dealer: Purchase your motor from a reputable Brunswick dealer.
• Ask for proof of purchase: Request a bill of sale or a sales receipt to confirm the origin of the motor.
• Inspect the motor thoroughly: Before you buy the motor, inspect it carefully for any signs of counterfeiting.
• Don’t be afraid to walk away: If you’re not comfortable with the seller or if something seems off, walk away. There are plenty of other reputable sellers out there.

By following these tips, you can increase the chances of buying a genuine Brunswick outboard motor.

What is the difference between a genuine Brunswick outboard motor and a counterfeit one?

It’s important to be able to distinguish a genuine Brunswick outboard motor from a counterfeit one. Here’s a table comparing the characteristics of both:

Characteristic	Genuine Brunswick Outboard Motor	Counterfeit Brunswick Outboard Motor
Serial number	Unique and valid in Brunswick’s database	May be missing or invalid
Construction quality	High-quality construction with precise parts and finishes	Poor quality construction with misaligned parts, uneven paint, or missing decals
Markings and logos	Accurate and legible markings and logos	Incorrect or misspelled markings and logos
Price	Consistent with market value	Suspiciously low price
Documentation	Complete documentation, including owner’s manual and bill of sale	Missing or incomplete documentation
Seller	Reputable dealer with good customer service	Evasiveness or difficulty contacting the seller

This table can help you identify potential counterfeit motors and avoid buying them.

FAQ

What is a Brunswick outboard motor?

Brunswick is a leading manufacturer of marine products, including outboard motors. Their brands are well-known for their quality, performance, and reliability.

Why are counterfeit Brunswick outboard motors a problem?

Counterfeit motors are dangerous and unreliable. They are often made with substandard materials and components, and they may not meet safety standards.

How do I check if a Brunswick outboard motor is genuine?

Check the serial number, compare it to the Brunswick database, and inspect the motor for signs of poor quality or workmanship.

What should I do if I suspect I have bought a counterfeit Brunswick outboard motor?

Report it to Brunswick Corporation, US Customs and Border Protection, or The National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center.

Are there any resources available to help me identify counterfeit Brunswick outboard motors?

Yes, Brunswick Corporation has a website and a customer service line dedicated to reporting counterfeit products.

How can I prevent being scammed when buying a used Brunswick outboard motor?

Buy from a reputable dealer, ask for proof of purchase, inspect the motor carefully, and don’t be afraid to walk away if something seems off.

Is it illegal to sell a counterfeit Brunswick outboard motor?

Yes, selling counterfeit products is illegal in most countries.