Nearly Half of API Engine Oil Samples Fail to Meet Standards, Reveals Audit

At the ALIA Annual Meeting in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Dennis Bachelder, a senior engineer with the American Petroleum Institute (API), disclosed alarming statistics from the API After Market Audit Program (AMAP). Despite API's stringent audit processes, nearly half of the engine oil samples tested fell short of compliance with API's Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System (EOLCS) standards. This revelation raises concerns about product quality and consumer trust in a market that spans over 63 countries.

API's Proactive Measures and Challenges

API's AMAP initiative plays a critical role in ensuring that the engine oils available in the market adhere to established standards. With over 27,000 products licensed globally, the AMAP collects and analyzes over 1,000 samples annually. The recent findings revealed that 46% of these samples exhibited issues ranging from minor additive element reporting discrepancies to more concerning viscosity and NOACK volatility inconsistencies. Bachelder emphasized that while some non-conformities were minor, the prevalence of "questionable additives" in 15% of the samples indicated a divergence from the original chemical fingerprints established during licensing.

API has been proactive in addressing these non-compliance issues, working closely with manufacturers to enhance their quality assurance programs. Despite these efforts, challenges persist, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, where instances of licensing trademark misuse and counterfeiting were highlighted. Bachelder reassured that API remains committed to enforcing standards and protecting consumer interests. Additionally, he noted the strong uptake of API's newest engine oil standards, API SP and ILSAC GF-6, which were introduced to cater to the evolving needs of modern engine technology.

GF-6 Standard: A Leap Forward

The International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee's (ILSAC) GF-6 specification represents a significant advancement in engine oil performance. Designed to meet the demands of newer engine designs and environmental standards, GF-6 oils deliver improvements in wear protection, fuel economy, and emissions system compatibility. Divided into GF-6A and GF-6B categories, these specifications cater to a broad range of engine types, with GF-6B specifically formulated for engines requiring lower-viscosity oils. The introduction of GF-6 standards underscores the industry's commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.

This revelation at the ALIA Annual Meeting serves as a wake-up call for the industry, highlighting the need for continuous improvement in quality control and adherence to standards. As API and manufacturers strive to address these challenges, consumers are reminded of the importance of selecting products that are not only compliant with current standards but also aligned with the technological advancements and environmental considerations of modern engine designs.