1. WHAT IS GF-6 PASSENGER CAR AUTOMOTIVE SPECIFICATION?

ILSAC GF-6 and API SP is a new automotive oil specification being developed by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and members of the American Petroleum Institute (API). These oil specifications represent the next iteration of improved oil specifications designed to meet the demands of modern engine technology. Unlike previous iterations, ILSAC GF-6 will be separated into two categories, A and B. ILSAC GF-6A will be backwards compatible to previous ILSAC GF specifications using grades such as 5W-30 and 0W-20, while ILSAC GF-6B will showcase the introduction of lower viscosity oils such as 0W-16.

2. WHAT IS DRIVING THIS CATEGORY UPDATE?

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are responding to increased demands from government regulators and the market for increased fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and improved engine performance and durability. The primary pathway to meet these demands is to make engineering changes to vehicle hardware. These vehicle modifications put additional stress on oils so ILSAC GF-6 will show a step-change improvement in oil robustness and wear protection.

In addition, ILSAC GF-6B will introduce lower viscosity oils designed to provide additional fuel economy benefits and ultimately reduced emissions.

3. WHAT IS THE TIMING FOR LAUNCH OF GF-6 PRODUCTS?

ILSAC GF-6 and API SP first license date is May 1, 2020.

4. WILL GF-5 OILS STILL BE PRODUCED?

ILSAC GF-6A specification will replace the current ILSAC GF-5 specification, represented by the Starburst Certification Trademark. ILSAC GF-6A will be fully backwards compatible to ILSAC GF-5. A designation mark for ILSAC GF-6B is still under development but will be specific to low viscosity fluids.

5. HOW WILL THIS AFFECT MY DAY TO DAY BUSINESS? [INSTALLERS]

Installers should be aware of the first license date and actively ensure their lubricant suppliers will deliver ILSAC GF-6 API SP oils shortly after first license date. These updated oils will be required to maintain warranty coverage for new vehicles.

6. HOW WILL THIS AFFECT MY VEHICLE? [CONSUMERS]

If you have a new vehicle ILSAC GF-6 products will be required to maintain proper function and fuel economy. If you have an older vehicle ILSAC GF-6 products will provide additional protection for your vehicle. Consumers should continue to look for the ILSAC Starburst to ensure they are receiving oil that will provide the proper level of protection for their vehicles.

7. WHAT ARE THE KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ILSAC GF-6A AND GF-6B?

GF-6A and GF-6B differ only on viscosity grades. ILSAC GF-6A will this have SAE viscosity grades 10W-30, 5W-30, 5W-20, and 0W-20 while ILSAC GF-6B will have SAE 0W-16.

8. WILL LOWER EMISSION VEHICLES AND OILS AFFECT HOW LUBE SHOPS NEED TO SERVICE VEHICLES?

Lube shop owners will need to prepare to hold additional oils. As OEM recommendations shift from 5W-30 and 5W-20 to 0W-20 and 0W-16 lube shops will be expected to carry all the necessary viscosity grades.

9. WHAT IS PHILLIPS 66 DOING TO PREPARE FOR THE UPDATE?

Phillips 66 Lubricants is very involved in the development of ILSAC GF-6 and API SP through our joint development work with OEMs and our participation in API. Phillips 66^® Lubricants is working hard to develop advanced lubrication technologies and prepare for implementation at first license date.