Upgrading The Current Industry Standard For Engine Oils From GF-5 to GF-6 -- What Does It Mean?

In May of 2020 the International Lubricant Specification Advisory Committee (ILSAC) will begin licensed sales of GF-6 motor oils. The new GF-6 standard replaces the old GF-5 standard which has been in effect since 2010.

So what does this mean for the driving public and average consumer? The new GF-6 standard was developed to meet the demands of new modern day engines. With the increased federal requirements for higher fuel economy, vehicle manufacturers have made engines smaller. When combined with the stressful demands of gasoline direct injection, turbocharging, variable valve timing, and hybrid gas/electric engines, most of the current GF-5 standard motor oils simply are not up to the task.

The new GF-6 standard was developed to address the above concerns by providing small high output engines protection from low speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear while offering increased fuel economy. Additionally, the new standard provides better piston cleanliness, emission durability, sludge protection and oxidative stability.