THE GF6 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.

  • 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.

  • Engine Designs

    GF-6 engine oils have been formulated to support the advances of modern engine design through the improvement of fuel efficiency and wear protection.

  • Environment

    A primary driver for the industry to move toward GF-6 is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while increasing fuel efficiency and wear protection.

  • GF-6 Preparation

    Shaping GF-6 into what it is today meant a lot of discussion with OEMs and chemical manufacturers. Kendall made it a point to be involved every step of the way.

KENDALL GF-6 PRODUCTS

Full Synthetic

Viscosities

0W-16
0W-20
5W-20
5W-30
10W-30

Synthetic Blend

Viscosities

0W-20
5W-20
5W-30
10W-30

Synthetic Blend

Viscosities

5W-20
5W-30
10W-30
10W-40

Synthetic Blend

Viscosities

0W-20
5W-20
5W-30
10W-30
10W-40
20W-50

OIL SUPPLEMENT

COMPARISON OF GF6, GF5/SN PLUS, AND GF4.

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.

Kendall Product Performance GF-6

FAQs

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

ILSAC GF6 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 GF6 is separated into two categories, A and B. ILSAC GF6A is backwards compatible to previous ILSAC GF5 specifications using grades such as SAE 5W30 and 0W20, while ILSAC GF6B showcases the lower viscosity oils such as SAE OW16.

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 GF6 was formulated to show a stepchange improvement in oil robustness and wear protection.

In addition, ILSAC GF6B 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 GF6 and API SP first license date was May 1, 2020.

4. ARE GF-5 OILS STILL BEING PRODUCED?

The ILSAC GF6A specification replaces the ILSAC GF5 specification, represented by the Starburst Certification Trademark. ILSAC GF6A is fully backwards compatible to ILSAC GF5.

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

GF6 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 GF6 oil is required to maintain proper function and fuel economy. If you have an older vehicle, ILSAC GF6 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?

GF6A and GF6B differ only in viscosity grades. ISLAC GF6A is available in SAE viscosity grades 10W30, 5W30, 5W20, and 0W20 while ISLAC GF6B is available in SAE OW16.

For Gasoline Engines GF-6A - GF-6 B

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 5W30 and 5W20 to 0W20 and OW16, 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 GF6 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 GF6 standard.

Questions? Call our Technical Support Hotline, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST at 8774459198

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