Originally published on Counterman.com

A significant shift in the evolution of engine lubricants is just a few months away. Scheduled to become the new standard on March 31, 2025, ILSAC GF-7 represents the latest evolution in gasoline-fueled passenger car motor oil specifications.

GF-7 stands for the seventh generation of motor oil specifications set by the International Lubricant Specification Advisory Committee (ILSAC). This committee is a collaboration of key automotive industry players, including Ford, General Motors, Stellantis, and the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA).

“This standard specifies the minimum performance requirements and chemical and physical properties for engine oils used in spark-ignited internal combustion engines,” said Padu Sreenivas, product manager PCMO, Lubrizol. “GF-7 will help deliver fuel economy benefits to OEMs and consumers, improved low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) protection with the addition of aged LSPI testing, and improved piston deposit cleanliness, along with other significant performance changes.”

Sreenivas says the upgrade in performance is primarily focused on fuel economy. This change is in direct response to increasing pressure to meet stringent fuel economy regulations. As vehicles become more fuel-efficient, consumers will benefit from reduced fuel costs and a lower environmental impact. GF-7 aims to support the automotive industry’s push toward meeting Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, which will become stricter for model year 2026 vehicles.

The inclusion of aged LSPI testing in GF-7 represents a crucial advancement. LSPI has become a significant concern with modern engines, particularly those with turbocharging and direct fuel injection. By offering better protection against LSPI, GF-7 helps safeguard engine performance and longevity.

The updated standards for piston cleanliness also lead to improved engine performance and longer engine life. This means better overall engine health, which translates into cost savings and convenience for vehicle owners.

The improved balance between enhanced fuel economy, piston deposit performance and LSPI protection supports consumers holding their cars longer, enhancing convenience, and reducing maintenance and operating costs.

GF-7 also includes a new sulfated ash requirement (limited to 0.90%) to facilitate the adoption of Gasoline Particulate Filters (GPFs), which are essential for meeting updated emission regulations.

“GF-7 is different from previous specifications not only from a performance standpoint, but also time. Previous ILSAC categories for gasoline-fueled passenger car motor oils have taken a significant number of years to develop and implement. To accelerate from the original proposal of 2028 first license to March 31, 2025, first license is an incredible feat that will enable OEMs to meet the changing requirements."

The transition does pose some challenges. Implementing the new GF-7 specifications involves complex testing and adjustments to meet the updated performance criteria. Suppliers and manufacturers must align their products with these new standards, which may require substantial investment and changes in production processes. Sreenivas says Lubrizol has invested considerable resources to ensure a smooth shift to the new standard by the March 31, 2025, licensing date.

As the transition approaches, stakeholders across the supply chain will need to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by this new standard.

Are you prepared for GF-7? Learn about Lubrizol’s Specification Readiness Program, designed to help our customers best position themselves for success at first license.

The Transition to ILSAC GF-7 Lubricant