API SQ succeeds the previous API SP category as the most recent standard for gasoline engine oils. It took effect on March 31, 2025, and establishes performance standards for passenger vehicle oils.
Meanwhile, ILSAC GF-7, divided into GF-7A and GF-7B, defines the minimum performance standards for gasoline engine oils in passenger vehicles, including efficiency, wear protection, and control of internal deposits.
To inquire about the availability and prices of certified products, please contact the American Petroleum team at (787) 794-1985 or by email at info@americanpetroleumpr.com.
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 Is API SQ?
In the API service categories, the letter S identifies oils intended for gasoline engines. The second letter identifies the category within this classification. API SQ is the most recent category and succeeds API SP.
API SQ incorporates updated requirements for protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) with both new oil and oil that has aged from use.
API describes SQ as a category designed to provide protection against LSPI with both fresh and aged oil, improve timing chain protection, and control deposits, sludge, and varnish.
Identifying Symbols on the Container
The symbols on the container help identify key aspects of the oil:
- API Donut: Shows the service category, such as API SQ, and the SAE viscosity grade.
- API Starburst: Identifies oils that meet ILSAC GF-7A.
- API Shield: Identifies SAE 0W-16 oils that meet ILSAC GF-7B.
Before selecting an oil, always check the recommended viscosity and category in the vehicle’s owner’s manual.
API SQ vs. API SP: what changed?
| Feature | API SP (prev.) | API SQ/GF-7 (new) | ILSAC Equivalent |
| LSPI Protection | Protects against LSPI in turbocharged engines according to SP specifications | Updated protection against LSPI with new and aged oil | GF-6A/GF-6B → GF-7A/GF-7B |
| Fuel Economy | Meets fuel economy requirements according to GF-6 Resource Conserving | Improved fuel efficiency in accordance with GF-7 Resource Conserving | GF-6A/GF-6B → GF-7A/GF-7B |
| Timing chain protection | Protects the timing chain in modern engines | Enhanced protection for high-load motors | — |
| Oxidation control | Meets SP standards | Meets API SQ standards; no verifiable overall difference compared to SP | — |
| Backward compatible | Compatible with engines that required earlier categories | Compatible with engines that required SP; replaces SP where applicable | — |
API SQ/GF-7 benefits: what you actually get
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.
API SQ oils available at American Petroleum
Some products in American Petroleum’s portfolio meet API SQ and/or ILSAC GF-7 certifications, including specific oil lines from Petro-Canada and Phillips 66. Certified products and viscosities may vary, so it is important to confirm availability internally before placing orders.
To inquire about products, viscosities, and availability, please contact the American Petroleum team at (787) 794-1985 or via email at info@americanpetroleumpr.com. The team can help you select the most suitable option based on the specifications of your vehicle or fleet.
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.