The protection, performance and durability risks of using inadequately validated ‘suitable for use’ engine oils

The lubricant industry, oil marketers and additive companies built robust performance credibility over decades to gain formal approval against industry and OEM specifications. However, a growing number of engine oils are being marketed as ‘suitable for use’ (SFU). For those SFU engine oils, the absence of independent verification or formal approval raises fundamental questions about product capability, consistency and accountability. Robin Scott, Infineum Head of Technology Capabilities, explains how, to ensure sufficient protection and performance is delivered to increasingly sophisticated vehicle architectures, it is important to avoid using engine oils carrying poorly substantiated SFU claims.