The automotive and lubricant industry has been preparing for the newest ILSAC oil standard, ILSAC GF-7. This new standard, developed by the International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC) and the American Petroleum Institute (API), is designed to meet higher fuel economy standards and advanced engine technology. In one of our previous blogs, we shared more about the development process for this new oil category and what it’s meant to do. You can read that blog here.

This month, the GF-7 oil is eligible for implementation, which means that GF-7 products will soon be on the market. As the industry prepares for this shift, we wanted to share some insights on what you can expect from GF-7 oils and how to prepare for when they hit the market.

What is ILSAC GF-7?
First, a quick overview of this new category. The ILSAC, which sets oil standards in conjunction with the API, developed this new category to meet the needs of modern engines, particularly for 2026 models and beyond. Newer vehicle models are shifting to smaller, more efficient engines operating under higher pressures and temperatures. Vehicles must also meet stricter fuel economy standards in the coming years, as the EPA aims for a 26% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2026 (Engine Builder). Here are a few ways that GF-7 categories will meet these challenges.

  • Improved fuel economy: GF-7 oils must meet Sequence VIE/VIF, standardized engine testing. These tests evaluate the oil’s performance by running it through a General Motors 3.6L V6 engine and testing for speed, load and temperature conditions to measure its efficiency with the oil. The Sequence VIE/VIF tests are one of the highest standards for efficiency and measuring fuel economy.
  • Protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI): Newer turbocharged engines are prone to LSPI. Since the engines are so hot and under so much pressure, the turbocharger pushes the fuel through the engine faster, mixing it with the air before reaching the spark plug. This process, known as LSPI, can lead to engine damage over time and is characterized by engine knocking. Most new vehicles recommend using engine oils that help prevent LSPI events to reduce engine damage. GF-7 oils need a new level of testing, known as the Aged Oil LSPI Prevention Test, to ensure they offer extended protection against LSPI.
  • Increased piston deposit protection: In turbocharged engines, piston deposits form as the oil and additives burn up too quickly, forming ash deposits that don’t get flushed out of the engine and lead to knocking. Most new vehicles with turbochargers recommend using synthetic low-ash oils to reduce deposit build-up. The GF-7 category oils will offer enhanced deposit protection to keep the engine running. By meeting higher cleanliness testing, the Sequence IIIH Piston Cleanliness limit, GF-7 oils will be the optimal choice for reducing piston deposits.
  • Reducing timing chain wear: Like piston deposits, timing chain wear is typical in modern engines due to the higher temperatures and pressure. GF-7 oils will offer increased protection to reduce damage to timing chains by meeting the Sequence X Chain Wear testing standard.
  • Reduced ash for easier filtering: To help cut back on CO2 emissions, GF-7 oils will have a maximum sulfated ash limit of 0.9% (Engine Builder). This lower limit reduces ash buildup in engines, which plugs up particulate filters designed to reduce emissions.
  • Better cold start viscosity: GF-7 oils will operate better in cold start conditions due to their viscosity, which enhances oil flow.

These benefits of GF-7 oils will be critical for extending engine life in vehicles, especially newer models. GF-7 oils will also be backward compatible with older vehicle models, which will be a welcome addition for vehicle owners, mechanics, and shop owners looking for high-performing, low-ash oil to extend engine life and improve fuel efficiency.

Should you make the switch to GF-7 oils?
As new GF-7 products hit the market soon, business owners, mechanics, fleet managers, and quick-lube shops must decide whether to switch to these new oils. As a fuel and lubricant supplier, we can help you make this decision.

Some of the benefits you may see when you add GF-7 oils to your lubricant program include:

  • Extended drain intervals and reduced engine maintenance: All of the engine protection benefits of GF-7 oils will positively impact your maintenance budget. You’ll likely be able to extend drain intervals for specific vehicles, reduce how often you change filters, and face fewer engine maintenance issues over time.
  • Improved fuel economy: The most significant benefit you will likely see is improved fuel economy. As prices continue to rise, more business owners are looking for ways to reduce their fuel budget, and GF-7 oils may be key to finding better fuel efficiency.
  • Meeting emission targets: If your industry faces stricter emissions targets or your business is determined to do more to reduce your carbon footprint, GF-7 oils will be a welcome addition to your lubricant program.

How will your customers benefit from GF-7 oils?
Your customers may not be aware of the upcoming GF-7 launch or how it could impact their vehicle. Auto shops, mechanics, and quick lube shops can benefit by educating their customers on the benefits of GF-7 oils for their engines. GF-7 oils will be the optimal choice for fuel economy and engine protection for newer vehicle owners with turbocharged engines. When mechanics advise their customers to switch to GF-7 products, it will help them save money on fuel costs and overall maintenance. Recommendations that benefit customers will inspire increased brand loyalty and trust in the business, too!

We’re here to help you navigate the transition to GF-7
As the industry moves toward more efficient and sustainable automotive solutions, GF-7 oils are just the beginning. The next-generation GF-8 standard is being studied as oil technology continues to evolve to meet the needs of modern engines and emission standards. We’re constantly learning more about these changes and working to help you make the business choices. As a Chevron lubricants supplier, we’re excited to see the rollout of their GF-7 product lines. As these products become available, we’ll help you manage the transition from GF-6 oils to GF-7 and answer any questions about the process.