On August 16, 2022, ILSAC submitted a formal request for an updated engine oil specification to the API Lubricants Group and the Automotive Oil Advisory Panel (AOAP).

Replacing its predecessor, GF-6, the new category aims to help original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) meet increasingly strict fuel economy targets expected to be enforced in the near future. This includes the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Year 2027.

Another key driver of the category update is to build on the protection offered by GF-6 against the occurrence known as LSPI. GF-7 will focus, in particular, on protection against LSPI not just for fresh oil after an oil change but also for aging oil to confirm it is still protecting the engine throughout the entire oil usage interval. For more information on LSPI, please see our other article on the topic: How is low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) effecting the development of ILSAC GF-7.

Originally proposed to be introduced in 2028, it was decided to advance the introduction of ILSAC GF-7 to bring earlier value to the automotive sector, and act as a stepping stone between the requirements of GF-6 and the major category updates expected to come with the development of GF-8 (2028).

First available use of GF-7 licensed products is March 31, 2025.

As with the introduction of GF-6 in May 2020, there will be a 12-month crossover period when GF-7 comes into licensing, where both GF-6 and GF-7 will be available. During this period, customers can overturn inventory of the previous category in preparation to transition to GF-7.

Once this 12-month period is over (March 31, 2026), GF-6 and products associated with this category will become obsolete.

ILSAC GF-7 builds upon the benefits already offered by GF-6, providing improved performance, fuel economy, and greater oxidation and piston deposit control. As previously outlined, a key driver in the development of GF-7 improves protection against LSPI, particularly in aged oil during oil drain periods.

Other benefits include enhanced timing chain wear protection, seal compatibility, oil gelation and added protection for hybrid engines.

Over time, ILSAC specifications have evolved to improve various aspects of the engine oil and its performance in today’s engines. The spider diagram below shows the evolution of the specifications from GF-1, starting in 1990, to the latest GF-7 improvements. Some aspects such as fuel economy benefits have continued to improve over time while others, like LSPI, were recently introduced due to emerging challenges with new engine technology.

Yes. Like ILSAC GF-6, GF-7 maintains backwards compatibility.

As with GF-6, GF-7 has two sub-categories: GF-7A and GF-7B.

The two categories are determined by oil viscosity grade. GF-7A is specific to SAE 0W-30, 5W-30, 10W-30, 0W-20 and 5W-20 grades.

GF-7B is specific to SAE 0W-16.

While GF-7 maintains a number of the tests required in the GF-6 specification, some tests were updated or replaced including:

• Additions to the Sequence IX engine test. The Sequence IX test was incorporated into ILSAC GF-6 to screen engine oils for LSPI performance. ILSAC GF-7 includes an in-use (used oil) portion of testing to demonstrate protection throughout the oil drain interval.
• Improved fuel economy testing requirements. The existing fuel economy testing requirements are likely to see an approximate 10% increase for SAE XW-20 and SAE XW-30 grade oils and an approximate 5% increase for SAE 0W-16 grade oils.
• A new oil gelation test has been introduced to address vehicle storage issues.
• Additional elastomer compatibility testing.
• Addition of a sulphated ash limit.
• A reduced MRV limit (to measure pumpability).

With ILSAC GF-7 finalized, Petro-Canada Lubricants has launched SUPREME products that meet GF-7 where applicable and API SQ. We continue to work with all customers for a seamless transition.

For customers, the shift from ILSAC GF-6 to GF-7 will be seamless, with noticeable differences likely only detectable by mechanics over extended periods of use. Please speak to your Account Manager or Customer Support Specialist to ensure your transition process works for your business. For sales reps and distributors, please refer to LUB4458 (for Canada, Latin America, EMEA and APAC) and LUB4459 for more information on the new product names and SKUs.

It's also always crucial to consult with both your OEM and your lubricant technical service advisor before making any changes to your lubricants and greases. Our experts can provide industry insight on the development of the GF-7 specification as well as tailored advice on what you should be doing to be sure you are using the right products for your applications.