API releases 23rd edition of engine oil licensing standards
The American Petroleum Institute (API) has officially announced the release of the 23rd edition of API 1509, the governing document for the API Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System (EOLCS). The updated standard integrates the ILSAC GF-7A and GF-7B specifications, ensuring that engine oil marketers meet the latest performance and certification requirements.
The API Lubricants Group approved the revised API 1509 on 4 February 2025, following an internal review of Ballot 6583, which incorporated the ILSAC GF-7A and GF-7B standards into the document. The ballot was closed to further comment as the changes were determined to be editorial corrections.
“API 1509 plays a crucial role in managing the API Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System, providing oil marketers with guidelines on licensing and proper display of the API Engine Oil Quality Marks for consumers. The updated standard assures consumers that API-certified engine oils are the highest quality option for their vehicles,” said Bill O’Ryan, senior manager of API EOLCS/DEF.
The ILSAC GF-7A and GF-7B standards, developed by the International Lubricants Standardization Advisory Committee (ILSAC), outline minimum performance criteria for spark-ignited internal combustion engines (ICE). These include engine sequence and bench tests that assess wear resistance, sludge prevention, fuel efficiency, and low-speed pre-ignition performance.
API standards are developed through an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited process, ensuring technical rigor and industry-wide acceptance. API 1509 provides oil marketers with licensing procedures, API Mark usage guidelines, and compliance enforcement mechanisms to maintain quality and performance standards.
With this update, API continues to reinforce its commitment to engine oil quality, consumer confidence, and regulatory compliance across global markets.
API at F+L Week 2025
API’s role in advancing engine oil performance and sustainability will be further highlighted at F+L Week 2025, taking place on 13-14 March 2025 in Bali, Indonesia. O’Ryan will provide key updates on the latest engine oil standards, such as ILSAC GF-7/API SP Resource Conserving, as well as the future of engine oil performance standards, including PC-12 Diesel Engine Oil Standard to be released in 2027 and the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Standard Development.
F+L Week, which is celebrating its 30th year in 2025, is the leading fuels and lubricants conference in Asia-Pacific, bringing together industry leaders, technical experts, and key stakeholders to discuss the latest advancements in fuel and lubricant technologies, sustainability, and regulatory developments.
Approximately a quarter of API licensees come from the Asia-Pacific region. Indonesia, as the largest and one of the fastest growing economy in Southeast Asia, plays a significant role in the lubricant industry,
