When you are selecting oil for your engine, you have to make sure that you choose the right one. Different motor oils are designed for certain engines, conditions, or mechanical issues. Developing the right engine oil is a long process. Part of that process is to meet the required testing and government standards for fuel products. The American Petroleum Institute has been the leading authority on classifying various oils and establishing production standards since the 1940s. The outlined standards dictate how you know which oil to choose.
When you go to the store to buy new oil, you have to check the label to make sure that it is appropriate for your engine. Different viscosity and grades are ranked to differentiate between engine oils. Some oils are even designed to handle specific mechanical issues like oil varnish or contaminant buildup. The standard grades for most motor vehicles are 5W-30 and 10W-30. These specifications come from the API “Service Symbol Donut“, a circular label on every engine oil.
In July of this year, new classifications were issued. The new standards are the result of rigorous testing and new industry developments. They are designed to meet the latest government regulations. Automakers, as part of the International Lubricants Specifications Advisory Committee (ILSAC), requested these changes. New testing will account for fuel economy durability, enhanced oil robustness, and protection against low-speed pre-ignition.
What does this mean for you? The label on the oil you buy may change depending on what is appropriate for your vehicle and engine needs. For the past eight years, automakers have pushed for this new category to give consumers more engine protection. The new categories are GF-6A and GF -6B.
In addition to the previous testing, seven new tests were developed for these categories. GF-6A and GF-6B motor oils will undergo more testing than any other engine oil. It’s an improvement in classifying engine products and one that should increase the lifespan of your engine.
The new certifications aren’t set to hit the market for another year as manufacturers develop their products to meet the testing requirements. The good news is that these standards are in place to help consumers. More testing for your engine oils can mean the difference between buying a new vehicle every five or ten years! Engine technology is changing, and now motor oils will be evolving with it.
Finding the right products for your vehicles is essential. It doesn’t just matter what type of vehicle you have. You also have to consider how you use your vehicle and in what conditions you drive. If you have any concerns about the products you are using in your engines, ask our team.
If you want further peace of mind, enroll in our Chevron LubeWatch Oil Analysis program to test your oil. We will examine your engine oil for viscosity, breakdown, contamination, wear metals, coolants and other issues. Our reports will help you find the right oils and lubricants to protect your engine and prevent maintenance issues. Contact us to learn more today!
About Us:
If you need additional information, please know that the team at Greg’s Petro is here to help. As your lubricants supplier in Bakersfield, Fresno, San Luis Obispo, Santa Clarita or Ventura, California areas, we are available to help answer any questions you might have. Visit us online or give us a call to learn more.