Addressing Regulations Through Specifications

Why new motor oil specifications are key to addressing government regulations

The new emission and fuel economy regulations are directed at American automobile manufacturers.  The manufacturers are required to adapt engine designs and emissions systems to meet compliance requirements. However, cooperation from the entire industry is vital to efficiently adapting to regulatory changes. When industry segments follow the same specifications and performance standards, such as those outlined in GF-5, the compliance process is less difficult. OEMs, oil marketers and lubricant additive companies all benefit from the resulting efficiencies. In the end, consumers will benefit from the innovations developed through a cooperative process.

Engine Oil Performance Standards

The automotive industry is working in cooperation to develop the GF-5 motor oil specification. It is the American Petroleum Institute (API) that oversees the licensing and certification of engine oils.

The API works with OEMs, oil marketers, additive companies and testing laboratories to establish engine oil service categories and to develop performance requirements and tests for oils within each category.

The API's engine oil labeling system comprises two symbols:

• The API Service Symbol (commonly called the donut) is used for diesel and gasoline engine oils to identify the oil's viscosity grade, service category and energy conserving capabilities. If the oil is not energy conserving the lower section of the symbol is left blank. 
• The API Certification Mark (starburst symbol) tells consumers if an oil meets the most up-to-date requirements for passenger vehicles as outlined in the latest ILSAC specification.  Oils that carry the API Certification Mark are energy conserving and are suitable for all previous model years.  The mark must be displayed on the front of licensed motor oil product packaging.

This standardization system allows consumers to easily select the most appropriate oils for their engines.