Buying engine oil suitable for a particular car is quite simple, given some of the features of the vehicle (for example, mileage, general technical condition), the climate of the region in which it is operated, as well as the instructions of the manufacturer, since most often the engine produced for any specific types of motor oils.
It is also worth considering the symbols related to some classification systems for motor oils, for example, SAE, API. The marking can be seen on any packaging with lubricating fluid - 0w, SL, A5 / B5. Each classification distinguishes types of lubricants based on their compliance with standards. So API divides oils based on what type of engine they are intended for - gasoline or diesel. Given the markings, you can choose the right engine oil.
General information about the ACEA classification
The combination of letters itself is an abbreviation of the French name of the European Association of Automotive Engineers. This organization is the European counterpart of the Society of Automotive Engineers in the US. Also, the classification itself is a European version of the API motor oil specification.
The acea classification is valid in the latest version, which was adopted in 2004. In this edition, lubricants for passenger car engines running on gasoline and diesel have been combined into one category. But due to the fact that some of the modern motor oils cannot be used in power units manufactured before 2004, most manufacturing companies label their lubricants according to the old 2002 edition.
Each company that advertises its oils and applies symbols related to this classification to packages must conduct product quality tests according to the requirements of EELQMS (this organization was created to establish the compliance of lubricants with this classification - it is she who conducts and registers such examinations).
Engine oil, its specifications and designations
Explanation of symbols
The 2004 edition subdivides engine lubricants into three classes:
- A|B is a category of lubricants intended for use in passenger car engines running on gasoline or diesel fuel. This class includes the previously existing categories A and B (the first - for engines on gasoline, the second - on diesel). Now there are four types of lubricants: A1 / B1, A3 / B3, A3 / B4, ACEA A5 / B5;
- C is a new category that combines lubricants for both diesel and gasoline engines that meet the requirements for environmentally friendly exhaust emissions. Lubricants in this category can be used in engines with particulate filters. By the way, it was the tightening of environmental requirements that influenced the revision of the old classification as amended in 2002. Now there are three types of oils: C1, C2, C3;
- E - a category that combines lubricating fluids for loaded diesel engines of heavy trucks. The oldest category, existing since 1995. Minor changes were made in the new edition - two types of motor oils were added: E6, E7. Also 2 obsolete ones were excluded.
Example: ACEA A5 / B5 - the letter indicates that the lubricant belongs to a particular class, and the number indicates the quality level.
Characteristics of the types of motor oils according to this classification
- A1 - oil with a low viscosity level, at high temperature operation, can reduce fuel consumption. Used only when recommended by the vehicle manufacturer;
- A2 is a lubricant with medium performance characteristics. It is used in engines running on gasoline. The usual frequency of substance replacement;
- A3 - have excellent working properties. They are used as universal seasonal lubricants with low viscosity. Does not require frequent replacement of the substance;
- B1 - the oil has a low viscosity, at high temperature operation it can reduce fuel consumption. Used only when recommended by the vehicle manufacturer;
- B2 - mainly used in diesel engines with indirect injection;
- B3 - mainly used in diesel engines with indirect injection, does not require frequent replacement of the substance, has a low viscosity level, can be used as a universal all-weather lubricant;
- B4 - used in diesel engines with direct injection, if there is a manufacturer's recommendation;
- E1 - are used in diesel engines with and without supercharging with operation not above the average level;
- E2 - used in diesel engines with and without supercharging with a high level of operation;
- E3 - have excellent anti-burn and cleaning properties, protect against wear, do not require frequent changes;
- E4 - used in high-speed diesel engines with a very high level of operation. It has improved properties compared to the previous class.
This classification of motor oils places higher demands on products than the classification of the API specification.
The 2004 edition includes the following engine oil classes:
- A1 / B1 - used in passenger cars with gasoline or diesel engines, allowing the use of low viscosity lubricants that reduce friction. Used according to the manufacturer's recommendation;
- A3 / B3 - have a set of properties that help to reliably protect the engine from wear, corrosion and acidity. It is used in passenger cars running on gasoline or diesel;
- A3 / B4 - have the same properties as the previous class, but are intended for gasoline engines and diesel engines with direct injection;
- A5 / B5 - used in gasoline and diesel engines of passenger cars. A5 / B5 are used on the recommendation of the powertrain manufacturer. A5 / B5 has increased resistance to aging, therefore, it will not be necessary to change the lubricant often;
- C1 - used in gasoline and diesel engines equipped with filter systems. Used according to the manufacturer's recommendation;
- C2 - have the same properties as the previous class. They also help reduce fuel consumption and clean filtration systems;
- C3 - resistant to mechanical stress, have properties similar to the previous class, can increase the service life of filtration systems;
- E6 - used in diesel engines that meet the latest environmental requirements, which means they are used with fuel with a sulfur content of about 0.005%;
- E7 - used in diesel engines that meet the latest environmental requirements, resistant to mechanical stress, protect against wear, incompatible with particulate filters.
Amendments as amended in 2004
- Combining engine oils for engines running on gasoline and diesel into one group (ACEA A5 / B5);
- The emergence of a new class of lubricants - C - for engines with filtration systems (ACEA C3);
- Two new types of E greases have appeared and two have been retired (E6, E7 and E2, E4).
Comparison of this classification and specification of oils according to API
As mentioned above, the API is significantly inferior in the severity of engine oil certification. So, API classes correspond only to early editions of the acea engine oil classification. For example, ACEA A3 -98 corresponds to SJ, but there is no longer an analogue of A3-02. B5 -01 corresponds to the CH-4 class, but B5 -02 does not have a similar oil according to API either.
Thus, we can say that the classification of oils according to the API specification imposes lower requirements on the quality of the product, which means that it significantly loses to this classification.
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Each car owner should be able to decipher the engine oil marking applied to the product packaging, because the key to durable and stable engine operation is the use of high-quality oil that meets all the requirements of the manufacturer. Such serious requirements are imposed by them due to the fact that oils have to work in a wide temperature range and under high pressure.
From this article you will learn:
The engine oil marking contains all the necessary information for the right choice, you just need to be able to decipher it
In order to streamline and simplify the procedure for selecting oil for a particular type of engine according to the required characteristics and tasks assigned to it, a number of international standards have been developed. Global oil manufacturers use the following generally recognized classifications:
- ACEA;
- ILSAC;
- GOST.
Each type of oil labeling has its own history and market share, deciphering the meaning of which allows you to navigate the choice of the necessary lubricating fluid. Basically, we use three types of classification - these are API and ACEA, as well as, of course, GOST.
There are 2 main classes of motor oils, depending on the type of engine: gasoline or diesel, although there is also a universal oil. The intended use is always indicated on the label. Any engine oil consists of a basic composition (), which is its basis, and certain additives. The basis of the lubricating fluid is an oil fraction, which is obtained during oil refining or artificially. Therefore, according to the chemical composition, they are divided into:
- mineral;
- semi-synthetic;
- synthetic.
On the canister, along with other markings, chemical is always indicated. compound.
What can be on the label of an oil canister:
- Viscosity class SAE.
- Specifications API And ACEA.
- Tolerances automakers.
- Barcode.
- Batch number and production date.
- Pseudo-labeling (not a generally recognized standard labeling, but used as a marketing ploy, for example, fully syntetic, HC, with the addition of smart molecules, etc.).
- Special categories of motor oils.
To help you buy exactly the one that will best suit your car engine, we will decipher the most important engine oil markings.
Marking of engine oils according to SAE
The most important characteristic, which is indicated in the marking on the canister - the viscosity coefficient according to the SAE classification - is an international standard that regulates at plus and minus temperatures (boundary value).
In accordance with the SAE standard, oils are designated in the XW-Y format, where X and Y are some numbers. First number- this is a symbol for the minimum temperature at which oil is normally pumped through the channels, and the engine scrolls without difficulty. The letter W means the English word Winter - winter.
Second number conditionally means the minimum and maximum values of the boundary of high-temperature viscosity of the oil when it is heated to operating temperature (+100…+150°С). The higher the value of the number, the thicker it is when heated, and vice versa.
Therefore, oils are necessarily divided into three types depending on the viscosity:
- winter oils, they are more fluid and provide trouble-free engine starting in the cold season. The SAE index of such an oil will contain the letter “W” (for example, 0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, etc.). To understand the limit value, you need to subtract the number 35. In hot weather, such an oil is not able to provide a lubricating film and maintain the desired pressure in the oil system due to the fact that its fluidity is excessive at high temperatures;
- summer oils are used when the average daily temperature is not lower than 0 ° C, since its kinematic viscosity is high enough so that in hot weather the fluidity does not exceed the required value for good lubrication of engine parts. At sub-zero temperatures, starting an engine with such a high viscosity is impossible. Summer brands of oils are designated by a numerical value without letters (for example: 20, 30, 40, and so on; the larger the number, the higher the viscosity). The density of the composition is measured in centistokes at 100 degrees (for example, a value of 20 indicates a boundary density of 8-9 centistokes at an engine temperature of 100 ° C);
- multigrade oils the most popular, since they are able to work both at sub-zero and positive temperatures, the boundary value of which is indicated in the decoding of the SAE indicator. This oil has a dual designation (example: SAE 15W-40).
When choosing an oil viscosity (from those approved for use in your car engine), you need to be guided by the following rule: the greater the mileage / older the engine, the greater the high-temperature viscosity of the oil should be.
Viscosity characteristics are the very first and important element in the classification and labeling of motor oils, but not the only one - choosing oil purely by viscosity is not correct. Always it is necessary to choose the correct relation of properties oil and operating conditions.
Each oil, in addition to viscosity, has a different set of performance properties (detergent, antioxidant properties, anti-wear, susceptibility to various deposits, corrosiveness, and others). They allow you to determine the possible scope of their application.
In the API classification, the main indicators are: engine type, engine operating mode, oil performance properties, application conditions and year of manufacture. The standard provides for the division of oils into two categories:
- Category "S" - shows intended for gasoline engines;
- Category "C" - indicates the purpose for diesel vehicles.
How to decipher the API marking?
As already found out, the API designation can begin with the letter S or C, which will indicate the type of engine that can be filled in, and another letter of the oil class designation, showing the level of performance.
According to this classification, the decoding of the marking of motor oils is carried out as follows:
- abbreviation EC, which is located immediately after the API, stand for energy-saving oils;
- Roman numerals after this abbreviation talking about fuel economy;
- letter S(Service) denotes applications oils for gasoline engines;
- letter C(Commercial) are denoted by ;
- after one of these letters follows performance level indicated by letters from A(lowest level) to N and further (the higher the alphabetical order of the second letter in the designation, the higher the oil class);
- universal oil has letters of both categories through an oblique line (for example: API SL / CF);
- API marking for diesel engines is divided into two-stroke (number 2 at the end) and 4-stroke (number 4).
Those motor oils, which have passed the API/SAE test and meet the requirements of the current quality categories, are indicated on the labels with a round graphic symbol. At the top there is an inscription - "API" (API Service), in the middle is the degree of viscosity according to SAE, as well as a possible degree of energy saving.
When using oil according to its “own” specification, wear and the risk of engine breakdown are reduced, oil “waste” is reduced, fuel consumption is reduced, noise is reduced, engine performance is improved (especially at low temperatures), and the service life of the catalyst and exhaust purification system is increased.
Classifications ACEA, GOST, ILSAC and how to decipher the designation
The ACEA classification was developed by the Association of European Automobile Manufacturers. It indicates the performance properties, purposes and category of engine oil. ACEA classes are also divided into diesel and gasoline.
The latest edition of the standard provides for the division of oils into 3 categories and 12 classes:
- A/B – petrol and diesel engines cars, vans, minibuses (A1/B1-12, A3/B3-12, A3/B4-12, A5/B5-12);
- C – gasoline and diesel engines with catalytic converter exhaust gases (C1-12, C2-12, C3-12, C4-12);
- E – truck diesel engines(E4-12, E6-12, E7-12, E9-12).
In the ACEA designation, in addition to the engine oil class, the year of its entry into force, as well as the edition number (when the technical requirements were updated) are indicated. Domestic oils are also certified according to GOST.
Classification of motor oils according to GOST
According to GOST 17479.1-85, motor oils are divided into:
- kinematic viscosity classes;
- performance groups.
By kinematic viscosity oils are divided into the following classes:
- summer - 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 24;
- winter - 3, 4, 5, 6;
- all-season - 3/8, 4/6, 4/8, 4/10, 5/10, 5/12, 5/14, 6/10, 6/14, 6/16 (the first digit indicates the winter class, the second for summer).
In all listed classes, the larger the numerical value, the greater the viscosity.
By area of application all engine oils are divided into 6 groups - they are designated from the letter "A" to "E".
Index “1” indicates oils intended for gasoline engines, index “2” for diesel engines, and oils without an index indicate its versatility.
Classification of motor oils according to ILSAC
ILSAC is a joint invention of Japan and America, the international committee for standardization and approbation of motor oils has issued five motor oil standards: ILSAC GF-1, ILSAC GF-2, ILSAC GF-3, ILSAC GF-4 and ILSAC GF-5. They are completely similar to API classes, the only difference is that the oils corresponding to the ILSAC classification are energy-saving and all-weather. This classification is best suited for Japanese cars.
Correspondence of ILSAC categories regarding API:
- GF-1(obsolete) - oil quality requirements similar to API SH category; by viscosity SAE 0W-XX, 5W-XX, 10W-XX, where XX-30, 40, 50.60.
- GF-2- meets the requirement API SJ oil quality, and in terms of viscosity SAE 0W-20, 5W-20.
- GF-3- is analogue of API SL category and has been in operation since 2001.
- ILSAC GF-4 and GF-5- respectively analogues SM and SN.
In addition, within the standard ISLAC for Japanese cars with turbocharged diesel engines, separately used JASO DX-1 class. This marking of automotive oils provides for modern car engines with high environmental performance and built-in turbines.
The API and ACEA classifications set out minimum basic requirements that are agreed between oil and additive manufacturers and vehicle manufacturers. Since the designs of engines of different brands differ from each other, the operating conditions of the oil in them are not quite the same. Some major engine manufacturers have developed their own classification system motor oils, so-called permits, which complements the ACEA classification system, with its own test engines and field testing. Engine manufacturers such as VW, Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Renault, BMW, GM, Porsche and Fiat predominantly use their own approvals when selecting engine oils. Specifications are always present in the car's operating instructions, and their numbers are applied to the oil packaging, next to the designation of its performance class.
Let's consider and decipher the most popular and frequently used tolerances present in the designations on cans of motor oils.
VAG approvals for passenger cars
VW 500.00- energy-saving engine oil (SAE 5W-30, 10W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40, etc.), VW 501.01- all-season, designed for use in conventional gasoline engines manufactured before 2000, and VW 502.00 - for turbocharged ones.
Tolerance VW 503.00 provides that this oil is for gasoline engines with a viscosity of SAE 0W-30 and with an extended replacement interval (up to 30 thousand km), and if the exhaust system is with a three-way converter, then oil with a VW 504.00 approval is poured into the engine of such a car.
For Volkswagen, Audi and Skoda cars with diesel engines, a group of oils with tolerances is provided VW 505.00 for TDI engines, produced before 2000; VW 505.01 Recommended for PDE engines with unit injector.
Energy-saving motor oil, viscosity grade 0W-30, approved VW 506.00 has an extended replacement interval (for V6 TDI engines up to 30 thousand km, 4-cylinder TDI up to 50 thousand). Recommended for use in new generation diesel engines (after 2002). For turbocharged engines and a PD-TDI unit injector, it is recommended to fill in oil with a tolerance VW 506.01 having the same extended drain interval.
Approvals for Mercedes passenger cars
The Mercedes-Benz automaker also has its own approvals. For example, engine oil with the designation MB 229.1 Designed for diesel and gasoline engines manufactured since 1997. Tolerance MB 229.31 entered into force later and meets the specifications SAE 0W-, SAE 5W- with additional requirements that limit the content of sulfur and phosphorus. MB 229.5 is an energy-saving oil with an extended service life for both diesel and gasoline engines.
BMW engine oil approvals
BMW Longlife-98 this approval has motor oils intended for pouring into the engine of cars manufactured since 1998. An extended service replacement interval is provided. Conforms to the basic requirements of ACEA A3/B3. For engines manufactured at the end of 2001, it is recommended to use oil with a tolerance BMW Longlife-01. Specification BMW Longlife-01FE provides for the use of motor oil when operating in difficult conditions. BMW Longlife-04 approved for use in modern BMW engines.
Engine oil approvals for Renault
Tolerance Renault RN0700 was introduced in 2007 and meets the basic requirements: ACEA A3/B4 or ACEA A5/B5. Renault RN0710 meets the requirements of ACEA A3/B4, and Renault RN 0720 by ACEA C3 plus optional Renault. Approval RN0720 Designed for use in the latest generation of diesel engines with particulate filters.
Approval for Ford vehicles
SAE 5W-30 approved engine oil Ford WSS-M2C913-A, intended for primary and service replacement. This oil meets ILSAC GF-2, ACEA A1-98 and B1-98 classifications and additional Ford requirements.
Oil with approval Ford M2C913-B intended for initial filling or service replacement in gasoline and diesel engines. Also meets all requirements of ILSAC GF-2 and GF-3, ACEA A1-98 and B1-98.
Tolerance Ford WSS-M2C913-D was introduced in 2012, oils with this tolerance are recommended for all Ford diesel engines, with the exception of Ford Ka TDCi models manufactured before 2009 and engines manufactured between 2000 and 2006. Provides for extended drain intervals and refueling with bio-diesel or high-sulphur fuels.
approved oil Ford WSS-M2C934-A provides for an extended drain interval and is intended for filling in cars with a diesel engine and a diesel particulate filter (DPF). Oil that meets the specification Ford WSS-M2C948-B, based on the ACEA C2 class (for gasoline and diesel engines with catalytic converter). This tolerance requires an oil with a viscosity of 5W-20 and reduced soot formation.
When choosing an oil, you need to remember a few key points - this is the correct choice of the required chemical composition (mineral water, synthetics, semi-synthetics), the viscosity classification parameter, and know the necessary requirements for a set of additives (determined in API and ACEA classifications). Also, the label should contain information for which brands of machines this product is suitable. It is equally important to pay attention to the additional designations of engine oil. For example, the Long Life marking indicates that the oil is suitable for vehicles with extended service intervals. Also, among the features of some compositions, one can single out compatibility with engines that have a turbocharger, an intercooler, cooling of recirculation gases, control of timing phases and valve lift.
ACEA- an association created by the largest European manufacturers (Alfa Romeo, BMW, Citroen, Peugeot, Fiat, Renault, Volkswagen, Daimler Benz, British Leyland, Daf).
It was founded as a result of the merger of CCMC with ATIEL. The CCMC specifications, now superseded by ACEA, classify products as G for gasoline, PD for light and D for heavy duty diesel engines.
ACEA specifications have been developed to improve quality, performance and respect for the environment.
Acceptance of ACEA specifications implies:
- Commissioning of new innovative materials, in comparison with those used at the moment
- Analysis and certification of the quality levels of each formula used
- Manufacturers' commitment not to change approved formulas
- Certification of plants ISO 9001/2
- Manufacturers' agreement with the standards of ATIEL, the organization that, together with the CCMC, defined the methods and parameters of the ACEA certification framework
The tests required by the ACEA specifications are added to the formulated CCMCs and make them more stringent.
The following letters classify engine types:
[A] - gasoline engines
[B] - light diesel engines
[C] - engines with devices to reduce the amount of exhaust
[E] - heavy diesel engines
The numeric categories indicate the various applications associated with the particular class of engines indicated by the letters. The last update of the ACEA specifications took place in February 2002.
It is the engine manufacturer's responsibility to select the correct ACEA category.
Oils belonging to a certain category may also meet the requirements of another, but specific engines must be filled with oil of a certain category and class.
The reference to the year is only for industrial purposes, giving information on the level and quality of the materials used. More recent revisions of the specifications mean that new tests have been carried out or new requirements have been introduced into the category. At the same time, editions remain backward compatible, new ones will always fully maintain the level of old ones, except when a new category is introduced.
Gasoline engines
A1 Gasoline engine oil with low viscosity, friction and high temperature. These oils are not suitable for use in some engines. For more information, see the car's service book. Oils that increase fuel economy are described.
A2 Canceled
A3 Stable oil for use in high performance engines with extended oil drain intervals, where manufacturers also recommend low viscosity oils with a wide temperature range
A4 Not used
A5 Stable oil with constant viscosity, for engines with extended oil change intervals that require oil with low viscosity and high application temperature. May not be suitable for some types of engines, for more information, see the car's service book.
Light diesel engines
B1 Oil for diesel engines of light vehicles that require oil of low viscosity and friction and high operating temperatures. This oil may not be suitable for some types of engines, for more information, see the car's service book.
B2 Canceled
B3 Stable oil for use in high performance diesel engines for light vehicles with extended oil change intervals, where manufacturers also recommend oils with low viscosity and a wide temperature range
B4 Follows B3 specifications but for direct injection engines
B5 Stable oil with constant viscosity, for diesel engines of light vehicles with extended lubrication intervals, which require oil with low viscosity and high application temperature. May not be suitable for some types of engines, for more information, see the car's service book.
Diesel engines with devices to reduce emissions
C1 A stable oil formulated for use in diesel engines equipped with particulate filters that also require a low viscosity, low ash content oil with an HTHS greater than 2.9. These oils extend the life of the particulate filter and support fuel economy. Attention. These oils support the lowest reduced ash requirements and may not be suitable for all engines, for more information, see the car's service book.
C2 A stable oil formulated for use in diesel engines equipped with particulate filters that also require a low ash oil with an HTHS greater than 2.9. These oils extend the life of the particulate filter and support fuel economy. Attention. These oils support the lowest reduced ash requirements and may not be suitable for all engines, for more information, see the car's service book.
C3 Stable oil formulated for use in diesel engines equipped with exhaust particulate filters. These oils extend the life of the particulate filter and support fuel economy. Attention. These oils support the lowest reduced ash requirements and may not be suitable for all engines, for more information, see the car's service book.
C4 A stable oil formulated for use in diesel engines equipped with particulate filters that also require a low ash oil with an HTHS greater than 3.5. These oils extend the life of the particulate filter and support fuel economy. Attention. These oils support the lowest reduced ash requirements and may not be suitable for all engines, for more information, see the car's service book.
Heavy diesel engines
E1 Outdated.
E2 Oil for general use in diesel engines, including supercharged, designed to operate in normal and extreme conditions, with normal oil change intervals.
E3 This category of lubricants provides effective care for cleaning pistons, reducing friction and deposits, as well as increasing lubricant stability. This category is also recommended for engines that meet EURO-I or EURO-II emission requirements under severe operating conditions. Also suitable for extended oil change intervals.
E4 Stable oils that provide effective care for cleaning pistons, reducing friction and deposits, as well as increasing lubrication stability. This category is also recommended for high performance engines meeting EURO-I, EURO-II and EURO-III emission requirements under severe operating conditions such as greatly extended oil change intervals.
E5 Stable oils that provide effective care for piston cleaning. It also provides control of friction and the amount of deposits on the supercharger. The level of carbon control and lubricant stability meets E3 specifications. Recommended for high power motors
E6 Stable oil providing excellent piston cleaning, carbon control and lubrication stability. Recommended for the highest performance EURO I-IV emission engines operating under the most severe conditions such as significantly extended oil change intervals according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Suitable for engines with exhaust gas recirculation system with or without particle filters, as well as for engines equipped with exhaust gas aftertreatment catalysts. E6 specifications are especially recommended for engines equipped with particulate filters and designed for use in combination with low sulfur diesel fuel. Recommendations may vary depending on the engine, so if in doubt, refer to the service book.
E7 Stable oil providing excellent cleaning of pistons and polishing of cylinders. Provides wear reduction, carbon control and lubricant stability. Recommended for the highest performance engines meeting EURO I-IV emissions standards and operating under the most severe conditions, such as significantly extended oil change intervals according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Suitable for engines with exhaust gas recirculation system with or without particle filters, as well as for engines equipped with exhaust gas aftertreatment catalysts. Recommendations may vary depending on the engine, so if in doubt, refer to the service book.
ACEA (Eng. European Automobile Manufacturers Association) is an association of European car manufacturers. This abbreviation refers to the community of automakers from Europe. It includes fifteen firms producing motor oil in large volumes. Nine years ago, the community created a special standard that allows you to divide car oils into subgroups, recalls GOST. SpecificationACEA classifies all oily fluids according to their properties and parameters.
ACEA oils are classified into three categories:
- The first includes oils intended for cars, vans, minibuses.
- The second category includes lubricants that include a catalyst that restores exhaust gases.
- Oils from the third category are used in highly loaded diesel engines.
Class 1
Any class included in the ACEA specification contains four groups of oils. Their marking consists of letters and numbers. The 1st class includes lubricants A1/B1, A3/B3, A3/B4, A5/B5. These oils can be used for gasoline engines, light diesel engines, minibuses.
Tolerance designation on the canister A1/B1 have a long service life. Such consumables are low-viscosity, fluid. You can get acquainted with their characteristics in detail by looking at the operating manual that came with the car.
A3/B3 are intended for pouring into highly accelerated engines. These oils can be used all year round. Automakers claim they don't need to be replaced often.
ACEA A3/B4 are suitable for filling in high-powered internal combustion engines that contain a direct fuel injection system.
A5/B5 can be used in high performance engines to extend drain intervals. Such lubricants are quite fluid, which is why they cannot be poured into certain engines.
Class 2
For highly accelerated engines, including an exhaust gas recovery catalyst, there is a special category in the classification of engine oils according to ACEA. The oils that are included in it are used in internal combustion engines on gasoline / diesel. Lubricants prolong the operating period of soot filters and three-way catalysts.
C1 contain the minimum amount of sulfur and phosphorus compounds, have a low ash content of sulfates. Oils are low-viscosity, intended to reduce fuel costs.
ACEA C3 is similar in its characteristics to C2, but more viscous.
C4 is similar to C1, but more viscous. The content of sulfur, phosphorus elements, ash content of sulfates is minimal.
It must be remembered that ACEA quality tolerances describe rather specialized lubricants that are intended for use in certain motors. However, this does not mean that you need to ignore the recommendations of the automaker. The manufacturer knows best what kind of oil product is required to be poured into his machine.
Class 3
Car oils belonging to this class are marked with the letter E and are poured into highly loaded diesel engines. They cannot be used in petrol/gas engines. In addition to providing parts lubrication, these consumables clean piston assemblies. Usually they are poured into internal combustion engines certified according to Euro-1/2/3/4/5. Also, these lubricants increase the replacement intervals.
E4 make it possible to reduce wear on motor parts. The filler elements contained in them can reduce the formation of soot deposits. In view of this, motor oils can be used in power units not equipped with a soot filter, but equipped with EGR, SCR. In this case, the lubricant provides a reduction in the concentration of nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gases.
E6s are similar to E4s but are intended for use in powertrains that include particulate filters.
E7 polish parts of internal combustion engines. They ensure the smoothness of the piston cylinders. Lubricants are poured into engines that are not equipped with soot filters. Presence/absence of ERG/SCR does not matter.
E8 are used in power units equipped with soot filters. According to their characteristics, these oils are close to E7.
Selection of car oil
When choosing a fresh consumable for a car, it is necessary, first of all, to take into account the recommendations of the car manufacturer. Before filling the car with a car oil that differs from the recommended one, be sure to consult with an employee of the service center. Remember that by pouring the wrong oil into the engine, you give the automaker the right to refuse warranty repairs.
In order not to make a mistake with the choice, you need to understand how oil markings are deciphered. It is not enough to be able to decipher the markings; it is necessary to understand what are the characteristics of a particular oil product. It is possible to get acquainted with the parameters of lubricants by looking at special tables.
The ACEA specification can only be considered as a source of additional information about the type and characteristics of the oil. This standard is designed to make it easier for drivers to choose lubricants. For example, if the lubricant recommended by your automaker is not available in stores, you can find another one that is in the same ACEA class.
An indispensable condition for the smooth functioning of the mechanism of modern cars is the use of high-quality lubricants by their owners. Moreover, all modern oils are different in their viscosity-temperature and operational properties. And this fact must be taken into account when choosing the composition that is best suited for your vehicle.
Variety of oils by viscosity grade
In particular, for the classification of transport oils according to such an indicator as viscosity, today the world-recognized SAE specification is used. It stands for Society of Automotive Engineers. Using the SAE J 300 standard, it is possible to determine the optimal viscosity grade suitable for each of the eleven classes of lubricants combined in this group. These include six winter and five more summer oils. So, compositions marked SAE O-25W (with a progressive increase in the digital value by five divisions, from 0 to 25) are optimally suited for winter use.
When operating a car engine at low temperatures, the oil used in it thickens, which negatively affects its ability to envelop engine parts and contribute to a quick start. And especially to maintain fluidity in such formulations, special additives are used, the amount of which complies with S.A.E. These types of oils are designated by the letter "W", that is, "winter" ("winter"). The numerical value indicated next to it indicates the degree of winter viscosity - the lower this number, the higher the fluidity of the oil if the engine is started when the temperature drops.
And summer oils are indicated by the numbers 20 - 60 (with an increase of 10 divisions). Moreover, the higher the specified number, the more viscous (capable of protecting engine parts from wear) the lubricant composition will be when heated.
There is also a separate line of mono-season oils that are practically independent of temperature effects. Such lubricating compositions are mainly used for small changes in the level of operating temperatures. In addition, these products are suitable for a number of special tasks.
To designate an all-weather group, a combination of values \u200b\u200bused for winter and summer viscosity is used. So, in the composition with the designation S.A.E. 20W 60, 20W characterizes the properties of the composition in winter, and 40 gives the concept of the summer degree of viscosity.
Classification of lubricant compositions according to the main purpose and quality level
Today, the API systems are used to describe these characteristics of motor oils, as well as ACEA, JASO and ILSAC.
Each of these systems requires the most detailed consideration.
This system assumes the use of the API SJ and CE designations. Their decoding is extremely simple: S means oil for engines running on gasoline, and C for diesel fuel. As for the second letter in this designation, it displays the level of performance of the fuel and lubricant composition (the lower it is, the higher the “position” occupied by the letter in the alphabet).
Engine oils that meet the requirements of API SL, SM can be used in cases where the SJ or earlier class is recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
Petrol
API SN - for modern cars with a gasoline engine, the new standard is valid from October 1, 2010 ..
API SM - for gasoline engine, penultimate approval since 2004.
API SL - for cars manufactured after 2000.
API SJ - for cars with a gasoline engine from 1996 of release.
API SH - for cars with a gasoline engine from 1994 of release.
API SG - for cars with a gasoline engine from 1989 of release.
API SF - for cars with a gasoline engine since 1980 of release.
API SE - for cars with a gasoline engine since 1972.
Diesel
API CI-4 (CI-4 PLUS) - a new class for cars with diesel engines introduced in 2002. These engine oils are used in modern diesel engines with various types of injection and supercharging.
API CI-4 more stringent environmental and exhaust emission requirements effective October 1, 2002
API CH-4 engine oils with this approval are designed for high-speed four-stroke diesel engines with stringent emission requirements. Meets the high requirements of American and European diesel engine manufacturers. Specifically for use with fuels with a sulfur content of less than 0.5% sulfur. If necessary, it can be used where fuel with a sulfur content of more than 0.5%.
API CG-4 for 4-stroke diesel engines in buses, trucks and tractors.
API CF-2 (CF-II) for use in two-stroke diesel engines.
API CF-4 for 4-stroke diesel engines since 1990.
API CF (CF-2, CF-4) this category was introduced in 1994 and is intended for diesel engines with port injection, including engines running on fuel with a sulfur content of more than 0.5% by weight. Oils with this tolerance effectively fight piston deposits, as well as wear and corrosion of copper bearings. Replaces API CD approval.
In total, there are three types of classification in the system under consideration:
for transmission;
for engines running on gasoline;
for diesel types of engines.
This method of classifying motor oils allows owners of vehicles of various brands to take into account the requirements of the world's leading automakers for lubricants. This list can include BMW, Daimler-Crysler, Volvo, Rolls-Royce, Ford-Europe, DAF and many other well-known brands.
All standards related to this system can be divided into three groups:
B - engines of passenger cars running on diesel fuel;
E - engines of diesel trucks.
ACEA A1 engine oil for gasoline engines where HTHSRV oils> 3.5 mPa s are allowed. with extended drain intervals, energy saving, high wear protection.
ACEA A2 are multipurpose oils used in most gasoline engines with normal drain intervals.
ACEA A3 multipurpose oils with high performance properties for powerful gasoline engines, year-round use, high loads.
ACEA B3 oil is designed for high performance diesel engines of passenger cars and small commercial vehicles, year-round use, heavy loads.
These compositions are also classified according to their performance characteristics, with a digital designation of individual levels (from 1, etc.). The serial number is followed by the year in which the latest version of the product in question was introduced (2 digits).
This committee for the standardization and subsequent approval of lubricating compounds was created by a specialized Association of Automobile Manufacturers from Japan. Moreover, these figures worked together with representatives of a number of automakers, which include General Motors, Ford, and others.
The specialists working in this committee are mainly engaged in the publication of basic quality standards for oils suitable for gasoline-powered passenger car engines. They are designated GF 1, GF 2, as well as GF 3 (with the prefix "ILSAC" at the beginning), the most recent GF 4, GF 5.
ILSAC GF-1 complies with API SH
ILSAC GF-2 complies with API SJ
ILSAC GF-3 complies with API SL
ILSAC GF-4 complies with API SM
ILSAC GF-5 complies with API SN
When choosing lubricants, a motorist should take into account that manufacturers of modern vehicles can carry out their tests of these products without waiting for the release of new international specifications.
Upon completion of the verification steps developed by a particular company, the best oils receive an “approval” for use in vehicle engines of certain brands:
Engine oil approvals VW/Audi/Seat/Skoda (VAG)
VW 500.00 - All-weather energy-saving engine oil for naturally aspirated gasoline and diesel engines (SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, 10W-40). Compliance with ACEA A3 requirements.
VW 501.01 - Engine oil for use in gasoline and diesel engines with direct injection. ACEA A2 compliance.
VW 502.00 - Engine oil for gasoline engines with direct injection. Compliance with ACEA A3 requirements.
VW 503.00 - Engine oil for gasoline engines manufactured since 05/1999. Service interval has been extended (up to 30 thousand km.). Exceeds 502.00 (HTHS 2.9 MPa/s) requirements.
VW 503.01 - Oil for heavily loaded gasoline engines with extended service intervals, for example, Audi S3, TT (HTHS> 3.5 MPa / s).
VW 504.00 - Oils for gasoline and diesel engines with extended service intervals, including diesel engines with a particulate filter and without additional fuel additives.
VW 505.00 - Oils for diesel engines of passenger cars with and without turbocharging. Basic characteristics meet ACEA B3 requirements.
VW 505.01 - Oils with a viscosity of SAE 5W-40 for diesel engines with a pump - injector (Pumpe - Demse).
VW 506.00 - Engine oils for turbocharged diesel engines after 05/1999. The service interval has been extended (up to 50 thousand km.). ACEA B4 compliant.
VW 506.01 - Engine oil for diesel engines with a pump - injector and an extended service interval. ACEA B4 compliant.
VW 507.00 - Oils for gasoline and diesel engines with an extended service interval, including diesel engines with a particulate filter and without additional fuel additives. Alternative - VW 505.01, VW 506.00, VW 506.01. Exceptions are the R5 TDI (2.5L) and V10 TDI (5L) engines, requiring only VW 506.01.
Daimler Chrysler/Mercedes-Benz engine oil approvals
MB 228.1 - Multigrade SHPD oils approved for Mercedes-Benz diesel engines. Extended oil change interval for turbocharged truck engines (up to 30,000 km), ACEA E2 compliance.
MB 228.3 - All-season SHPD oils for diesel engines of heavy trucks and tractors with and without turbocharging. Extended oil change interval. Depending on the operating conditions (30 - 60 thousand km.), Compliance with the requirements of ACEA E3.
MB 228.31 - Engine oils for diesel engines of commercial trucks, with particulate filters. API CJ-4 compliant + Mercedes Benz tests: MB OM611 and OM441LA.
MB 228.5 - UHPD (Ultra High Performance Diesel) engine oil for heavily loaded diesel engines of commercial trucks that meet Euro 1 and Euro 2 environmental standards, with an extended interval (45 - 90 thousand km), in accordance with the recommendations of the automaker. Compliance with ACEA B2/E4, ACEA E5.
MB 228.51 - All-weather engine oil for heavily loaded diesel engines of commercial trucks that meet Euro 4 requirements, with an extended drain interval (up to 100 thousand). Oils are distinguished by a low content of sulfate ash content, a limited content of phosphorus and sulfur. ACEA E6 compliant.
МВ 226.0/1 - Seasonal/all-weather engine oils for diesel engines of passenger cars without turbocharging. The oil has a short drain interval and meets the requirements of CCMS PD1.
МВ 227.0/1 - Seasonal/all-weather engine oils for diesel engines of old vehicles without turbocharging. Extended drain interval, ACEA E1-96 compliant.
MB 227.5 - The requirements are the same as in sheet 227.1, but these oils can also be used in gasoline engines.
MB 229.1 - Motor oils for passenger cars with diesel and gasoline engines manufactured from 1998 to 2002. This standard exceeds the requirements of ACEA A3/B3.
MB 229.3 - Motor oils for passenger cars with extended drain intervals (up to 30,000 km). Oils are not used in engines with particulate filters, exceed the requirements of ACEA A3 / B4 standards.
MB 229.31 - LA (low ash) oils for engines of cars and vans, with particulate filters. Particularly for W211 E200 CDI, E220 CDI. The minimum content of sulfate ash (up to 0.8%). The approval was introduced on 07.2003. On its basis, in 2004, the ACEA C3 class was developed.
MB 229.5 - Oils for passenger car engines with extended drain intervals that meet increased environmental requirements and exceed the requirements of ACEA A3 / B4 standards. This category of oils provides fuel savings of 2%. Not applicable to engines with diesel particulate filters.
MB 229.51 - Engine oils for modern gasoline and diesel engines with particulate filters. Oils of this approval provide for an extended replacement interval (20 thousand km.) Compliance with ACEA A3 / B4 and C3 requirements. All oils in this category are made on a synthetic or semi-synthetic basis. The permit was introduced in 2005.
BMW engine oil approvals
BMW Longlife-98 - Engine oils for special gasoline engines since 1998. Extended drain interval (up to 15 thousand km.). ACEA A3/B3 compliant.
BMW Longlife-01 - Engine oils for special gasoline engines from 09/2001 with extended oil change intervals. ACEA A3/B3 compliant.
BMW Longlife-01 FE - Gasoline engines manufactured after 2001. Specification for engines in which the use of low-viscosity oils is allowed to save fuel (for example, gasoline engines with Valvetronic).
BMW Longlife-04 - The approval was introduced in 2004 for engine oils approved for use in modern BMW car engines. These oils are recommended for all diesel engines with particulate filters.
Opel engine oil approvals
GM-LL-A-025 - Car oils for gasoline engines of passenger cars. The basic tolerance requirements are in accordance with the ACEA A3 standard.
GM-LL-B-025 - Car oils for diesel engines of passenger cars. Basic approval requirements are in accordance with ACEA B3/B4 standards.
Ford engine oil approvals
WSS-M2C 912A1 - Engine oils for gasoline and diesel engines of passenger cars, except for 1.9TDI-Diesel (Ford Galaxy) and Ford Fiesta 1.4TDCI. The specification is based on ACEA A1/B1 (HTHS viscosity 2.9 mPa/s).
WSS-M2C 913A - Engine oils for gasoline and diesel engines of passenger cars, except for 1.9TDI-Diesel (Ford Galaxy) and Ford Fiesta 1.4TDCI. Specification based on ACEA A1/B1, developed from WSS-M2C 912A1 (HTHS viscosity 2.9 mPa/s).
WSS-M2C 913B - Engine oils for gasoline and diesel engines of passenger cars, including Ford Fiesta 1.4TDCI. The specification is based on ACEA A1/B1 (HTHS viscosity 2.9 mPa/s).
WSS-M2C 913C - Engine oils for gasoline and diesel engines. Updated specification.
WSS-M2C 917A - Engine oils for 1.9 TDI diesel engines (Ford Galaxy). The specification is based on ACEA A3/B3.
Rover engine oil approvals
RES-22.OL G4 - Variable viscosity oils based on CCMC G4 with special group tests for oils modified for reduced friction.
RES-22.OL PD2/D5 - Diesel oils with appropriate CCMC specifications and with special group tests for oils modified for reduced friction.
Porsche engine oil approvals
The Porsche factory periodically publishes information about oils that have been tested and approved for all engines. Tested oils are characterized by extended oil change intervals.
The Porsche A40 standard requires high oil degradation resistance. This specification applies to all Porsche engines, with the exception of the Cayenne V6 and diesel versions (for these engines, oils that meet the Porsche C30 standard are used).
Renault engine oil approvals
RN 0700 - Engine oil for naturally aspirated gasoline engines with increased requirements for compatibility with exhaust gas aftertreatment systems, with the exception of Renault Sport. This standard applies to all Renault diesel vehicles equipped with a 1.5 DCi engine without DPF (diesel particulate filter) up to 100 hp. Service interval up to 20 thousand km or 1 year.
RN 0710 - Engine oil with increased requirements for compatibility with exhaust gas aftertreatment systems for turbocharged gasoline engines including Renault Sport and diesel engines without a particulate filter from the Renault, Dacia, Samsung group. Except 1.5 DCi engines without DPF (diesel particulate filter) up to 100 hp
RN 0720 - Engine oil for diesel engines of the new generation, with turbocharging and particulate filter. ACEA C4 compliant + additional Renault requirements.
FIAT Group engine oil approvals
9.55535-G1 - Oils that guarantee fuel economy and extended service intervals for gasoline engines.
9.55535-D2 - Oils with standard characteristics for diesel engines.
9.55535-H2 - Oils for gasoline engines, have a consistently high viscosity at high temperatures. The basic requirements are in accordance with API SM, ACEA A3-04/B3-04.
9.55535-H3 - Oils for gasoline engines with high performance.
9.55535-M2 - Oils for engines with extended service intervals. Basic requirements comply with ACEA A3-04/B4-04, GM-LL-B-025.
9.55535-N2 - Engine oils with extended service intervals, for both diesel and turbocharged gasoline engines. ACEA A3-04/B4-04 compliant.
9.55535-S1 - Energy-saving oils with extended service intervals for gasoline engines with a three-way catalyst and diesel engines with a particulate filter (DPF). ACEA C2 compliant.
9.55535-S2 - Oils with an extended drain interval for gasoline and diesel engines with a three-way catalyst and a particulate filter. Compliance with requirements: ACEA C3, MB 229.51, API SM/CF.
PSA Peugeot - Citroen engine oil approvals
PSA B71 2290 - Oils for diesel engines with a particulate filter, have a reduced content of sulphated ash, sulfur and phosphorus (MidSAPS / Low SAPS). Euro 5 emissions compliance. General specifications: ACEA C2/C3 + Peugeot - Citroen additional tests.
PSA B71 2294 - General specs: ACEA A3/B4 and C3 + Peugeot - Citroen additional tests.
PSA B71 2295 - Standard for pre-1998 engines. General specifications: ACEA A2/B2.
PSA B71 2296 - General specs: ACEA A3/B4 + Peugeot - Citroen additional tests.
