At American Petroleum, we know that the quality of a lubricant is crucial to the performance of your vehicle. That’s why we want to share with you one of the most recent and relevant innovations in the automotive industry: API SQ/GF-7 certification, the new international standard for passenger car engine oils.
Who is the American Petroleum Institute?
The American Petroleum Institute (API) is the leading organization in the development of technical standards for the petroleum, gas, and lubrication industry. With over 100 years of experience, the API sets standards that guarantee safety, efficiency, and performance in energy and automotive products.
Its certifications are recognized globally as a seal of trust, both by engine manufacturers and consumers looking for products of proven quality.
What does API certification mean?
An API certification ensures that a lubricating oil has undergone rigorous laboratory and field testing, verified by engine manufacturers and industry specialists. This means that the product meets high standards of protection, performance, and durability.
For you, it means peace of mind: by choosing a certified oil, you ensure that your engine is protected against wear and tear and can maintain its performance even under demanding driving conditions.
Why is it important to use certified oils?
Using API-certified oils is not only a technical recommendation, but also a smart investment in the life of your vehicle. These oils offer:
- Protection against premature wear.
- Greater fuel economy.
- Less sludge and deposit buildup.
- Reduced risk of failure in high-tech engines.
Relying on API certification ensures a product that meets the highest international standards.
The new API SQ/GF-7 certification
API recently introduced the API SQ/GF-7 category, designed for the most modern passenger car motor oils (PCMO). This specification was developed in conjunction with ILSAC (International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee), an international body that collaborates in the standardization of lubricants for gasoline engines.
The acronyms used in this certification have an important meaning:
- API. American Petroleum Institute, responsible for developing the standards.
- SQ. The most recent category of gasoline engine oils, replacing the previous “SP” category, with higher protection requirements.
- GF-7. Seventh generation of international standards for gasoline-fueled engine oils, focused on improving efficiency and durability.
Among the main benefits of the new API SQ/GF-7 certification are:
- Reduced engine wear thanks to advanced formulations.
- Greater internal cleanliness, with better control of deposits and sludge.
- Optimized fuel consumption, improving mileage.
- Protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI), common in modern turbocharged engines.
- Reliable performance in a variety of driving conditions, from city traffic to long highway trips.
In addition, the API has updated its Motor Oil Guide 2025 to include the marks that identify these products: the star (Starburst) for GF-7A and the shield (Shield) for GF-7B, making it easier for consumers to recognize certified oils on the market.
Coming soon to American Petroleum: AQL with API SQ/GF-7
At American Petroleum, we are committed to always offering the highest quality oils that meet current market needs. That’s why our AQL line of oils will soon be available with API SQ/GF-7 certification, providing you with a superior level of protection, efficiency, and reliability for your engine.
Stay tuned: we will share more details about availability and inventory shortly. With American Petroleum, you will always have access to lubricants that meet the highest international standards.
Sources:
- American Petroleum Institute. Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System (EOLCS): Motor Oil Guide 2025. API, 2025, www.api.org/products-and-services/engine-oil/eolcs-categories-and-classifications.
- American Petroleum Institute. Certification Directories and Updates. API, 2025, www.api.org/products-and-services/engine-oil.