Marking of motor oils. ACEA engine oil classification system VAG approvals for passenger cars

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.

And a little about the secrets of the Author

My life is not only connected with cars, namely repair and maintenance. But I also have hobbies like all men. My hobby is fishing.

I started a personal blog where I share my experience. I try a lot of things, various methods and ways to increase the catch. If interested, you can read. Nothing more, just my personal experience.

Attention, only TODAY!

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 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. 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.

The choice of oil for your car has always been important for car enthusiasts and iron horse owners who are not indifferent to their car.
In particular, many spears have been broken about the interchangeability of oils of the ILSAC and ACEA standards, the applicability of low-viscosity oils in modern engines and engines of previous generations, the dangers of using such oils under severe operating conditions and forced driving modes. All this can be found and read on the Internet.
In turn, we want to bring to the attention of car enthusiasts several low-viscosity full-ash motor oils from the EUROL line of fully synthetic motor oils of the ACEA A5 / B5 standard.

A few words about the ACEA A5/B5 standard:
This standard was created Association des Constracteuis Europeen des Automobiles (ACEA), the Association of European Automotive Engineers - the largest organization in Europe, consisting of the largest and most reputable car manufacturers in Europe. This association's oil performance requirements are more stringent than other ILSAC and API standards.

Oils of category A5 / B5 are full-ash, with a sulfated ash content of up to 1.6% by weight, with an volatility of up to 13% by weight, with an unregulated content of sulfur and phosphorus. Categories Ax/Bx were created for use in internal combustion engines with external injection (manifold injection) on fuels with a high sulfur content (over 350mg/kg). These oils should have high base numbers of 9-12.
Categories A1 / B1 and A5 / B5 are low-viscosity and are designed to improve the fuel efficiency of internal combustion engines and, as a result, reduce emissions of toxic components and CO2, provide extended drain intervals and emission standards for EURO - 4 and above. These oils are designed for European high-speed and high-load / forced gasoline and low-load diesel ICEs with extended drain intervals.

Such an important parameter as HTHS (High Temperature High Shear) this is the so-called high-temperature viscosity, which indicates the ability of the oil film on friction surfaces to resist rupture under mechanical stress and at high temperature: for oils of the A5 / B5 standard, it lies in the range of 2.9 - 3.5 mPa * s. It should be noted that engine wear begins when the value of this parameter is below 2.6 MPa*s.

The EUROL product line, offered by the official distributor of the brand in Russia, contains three brands of oil corresponding to the ACEA A5 / B5 category: Eurol Fluence FE 5W-30, Eurol Ultrance VA 0W-30, Eurol Fortence 5W-30.

Eurol Fluence FE 5W-30 - midSAPS low ash (0.8), hydrocracked VHVI, base number 7.7, meets API SN, Renault RN 0700, Peugeot/Citroen PSA B71 2290 approvals.

Eurol Ultrance VA 0W-30 is a full ash (1.1), low viscosity, hydrocracked VHVI, base number 9, API SL/CF, Volvo VCC approval 95200377.

Eurol Fortence 5W-30 - Full Ash (1.13), Low Viscosity, Hydrocracked VHVI, BN 9.93, API SL/CF, WSS-M2C-913D (Approved), Ford WSS-M2C-913 A/B/C & 912A, Renault RN 0700.

These oils are suitable for European cars FORD, Volvo, Renault, Peugeot, Citroen, etc. both with modern engines and with engines of previous generations requiring ACEA A5 / B5, A1 / B1 oils.

If we compare ACEA A5 / B5 and ILSAC GF-5 oils, we can note that these oils are largely similar in terms of parameters. But there are differences, such as ash content. ILSAC GF-5 imposes higher requirements for ash content - no more than 1. Moreover, engines of Asian manufacturers can also use full-ash oils. So why not fill your Toyota or KIA with A5 / B5 oil? Can! And many pour and are quite satisfied with the results. But it is important to understand that this oil contains more sulfur and phosphorus in the form of additives and is more likely to deposit deposits in the engine and spoil converters. You should not “run across” on this oil for more than 10,000 km. and shorten the change interval if you like to "crush the sneaker" or are forced to make short trips in winter with long warm-ups.

Another important point regarding low-viscosity oils: there is an opinion that the lower the viscosity, the easier it is for the motor to spin. Dangerous delusion! It is today that engines are specially developed for low-viscosity oils, which provide fuel economy and protect the environment. In your Ford or Renault, such oils may simply not be suitable. The low HTHS of today's low viscosity oils, especially with aggressive driving, can cause rapid engine wear.

Bottom line, if you want to save some fuel and extend your oil change intervals, these oils are for you. But before making a purchase decision, be sure to look at the instructions for the manufacturer's approval of the use of ACEA category A5 / B5 oil.

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:

1. The first includes oils intended for cars, vans, minibuses.
2. The second category includes lubricants that include a catalyst that restores exhaust gases.
3. 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.

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:

1. Viscosity class SAE.
2. Specifications API And ACEA.
3. Tolerances automakers.
4. Barcode.
5. Batch number and production date.
6. 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.).
7. 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.