Engine oils are the lifeblood of modern engines and ensuring their quality is critical for reliability and longevity, but evolving terminology in the marketplace creates confusion and subsequently potential risks to that very quality.

The European lubricant market has seen an emergence of engine oils labelled as "Suitable for Use" (SFU), as well as those carrying formal Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) approvals. This distinction can have significant implications for engine reliability and performance.

The Technical Reality Behind Label Claims

Engine oils marketed as "Suitable for Use" typically claim to meet industry engine oil specifications or OEM standards without formal approval. Terms such as "Recommended For," "Meets Requirements Of," and "Suitable For Use" indicate that whilst the oil marketer may assess their formulation's performance against the set standards, the product has not undergone the formal OEM approval process.

In contrast, OEM-approved engine oils have been tested according to specific manufacturer protocols, which incorporate industry standards plus additional proprietary requirements. These engine oils receive official approval.

The Importance of Testing and OEM Approvals