GF-6 Introduction
The GF-6 specification is the most significant change to the passenger car motor oil category in more than a decade. Learn what that means for you.
THE GF‑6 STANDARD
GF‑6 was developed through our joint effort with the American Petroleum Institute (API), Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and additive companies. It’s been tested and optimized for use in modern and legacy engines. These new specifications impact both installers and consumers. Kendall has developed a series of educational videos and information on this page to provide insight into the new formulations and why they are necessary. The result? Our most advanced motor oil ever.
KENDALL GF-6 PRODUCTS
OIL SUPPLEMENT
COMPARISON OF GF‑6, GF‑5/SN PLUS, AND GF‑4.
With the GF-6 standard comes a couple of new designations and looks. ILSAC GF-6A standard recognizes approved oils that meet the API SP standard and meet the fuel economy specifications. Certification for 0W-20, 5W-20, 5W-30, and 10W-30 oils are indicated by the traditional starburst. While the 0W-16 also meets ILSAC GF-6 and API SP, it will have the certification mark for GF-6B. Heavier grades like 10W-40 and 10W-50 are certified to the API SP standard only and do not carry an ILSAC certification mark.
FAQs
1. WHAT IS GF-6 PASSENGER CAR AUTOMOTIVE SPECIFICATION?
ILSAC GF‑6 and API SP are automotive specifications 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 is separated into two categories, A and B. ILSAC GF‑6A is backwards compatible to previous ILSAC GF‑5 specifications using grades such as SAE 5W‑30 and 0W‑20, while ILSAC GF‑6B showcases the lower viscosity oils such as SAE OW‑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 was to make engineering changes to vehicle hardware. These vehicle modifications put additional stress on oils, so ILSAC GF‑6 was formulated to show a step‑change improvement in oil robustness and wear protection.
In addition, ILSAC GF‑6B offers lower viscosity oils designed to provide additional fuel economy benefits and ultimately reduces emissions.
3. WHEN WAS THE GF-6 PRODUCTS LINE LAUNCHED?
The ILSAC GF‑6 and API SP first license date was May 1, 2020.
4. ARE GF-5 OILS STILL BEING PRODUCED?
The ILSAC GF‑6A specification replaces the ILSAC GF‑5 specification, represented by the Starburst Certification Trademark. ILSAC GF‑6A is fully backwards compatible to ILSAC GF‑5.
5. HOW DOES THIS AFFECT MY DAY TO DAY BUSINESS? [INSTALLERS]
GF‑6 oils are required to maintain warranty coverage for new vehicles.
6. HOW DOES THIS AFFECT MY VEHICLE? [CONSUMERS]
If you have a newer vehicle, ILSAC GF‑6 oil is required to maintain proper function and fuel economy. If you have an older vehicle, ILSAC GF‑6 oil provides additional protection for your vehicle. Make sure to look for the ILSAC Starburst to ensure you’re receiving oil that provides the proper level of protection for your vehicle.
7. WHAT ARE THE KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN GF-6A AND GF-6B?
GF‑6A and GF‑6B differ only in viscosity grades. ISLAC GF‑6A is available in SAE viscosity grades 10W‑30, 5W‑30, 5W‑20, and 0W‑20 while ISLAC GF‑6B is available in SAE OW‑16.
8. DO LOWER EMISSION VEHICLES AND OILS AFFECT HOW LUBE SHOPS NEED TO SERVICE VEHICLES?
Lube shop owners need to hold additional oils. As OEM recommendations shift from 5W‑30 and 5W‑20 to 0W‑20 and OW‑16, lube shops are expected to carry all the necessary viscosity grades.
9. WHAT HAS KENDALL MOTOR OIL DONE TO PREPARE FOR THE UPDATE?
Kendall Motor Oil was very involved in the development of ILSAC GF‑6 and API SP through our joint development work the OEMs and our participation in API committees. We worked hard to develop technologies to meet and exceed the GF‑6 standard.
