Specifications

What are Specifications?

Lubricant specifications can be be either a manufacturer requirement, industry specification or a combination of both.

Manufacturers (OEMs) advise the lubricants and coolants they prefer to use with particular vehicles. This can be based upon engine type, size, market, performance standards, servicing intervals, environment, climate and other variables. Generally they test different specifications and provide a recommendation and alternatives to the vehicle owner that will sustain optimum performance, economy and durability of their product.

Some manufacturers will set their own standards that may be based on an industry standard or better or changed to suit a particular application. Examples of these are OEM approvals where the manufacturer (OEM) approves products that meet its testing criterea and specification levels. Examples of this would be GM Dexos 1 or Dexos 2, Ford M2C913-D, MB-229.5 or BMW LL-01. These are manufacturer specifications that differ from the standard industry specification.

The industry also sets its own standards for engine oils, gear oils, greases, coolants, brake fluids, transmision fluids etc. Examples of these cold be API SP/CF, ACEA A3/B4, ACEA C2, JASO MA, ILSAC GF-6A, NLGI 2, DOT 4, etc. These are many and varied and can date back to the earliest forms of motoring. Groups such as API (American Petroleum Industry) and ACEA (Association des Constructeurs Européens d'Automobiles) are at the forefront of specification technology and set many of the adopted industry standards.

Using products that meet the manufacturer's specifications or approvals is important in maintaining the durability and performance of the vehicle as well as not voiding warranty requirements.