VRF00009
Status: Closed
What was the issue?
A Verification Request Form (VRF) was raised concerning a synthetic 5W30 ACEA C3 engine oil which stated on the Product Data Sheet that this product is low SAPS and meets ACEA A3/B4 and ACEA A5/B5. The year was added as a suffix to the ACEA claims as well as an unqualified Porsche claim. The combined claim of ACEA C3 and A3/B4 is technically incorrect as these sequences are incompatible. ACEA C3 and ACEA A3/B5 is possible, but care needs to be taken due to the physical and chemical requirements of these sequences. When making ACEA claims, the year is not to be specified on labels or Product Data Sheets. The Porsche claim was not specified, it was stated that the product meets “Porsche” specifications but did not state the required Porsche specification e.g. C30 and is, therefore misleading. Additionally, there were different specifications listed on the Product Data Sheet (PDS) to those specifications provided on the label. These issues posed a risk to engine integrity.
What action was taken?
The ALA Technical Committee reviewed the ACEA engine oil sequences provided by the ATIEL and ACEA websites. A compatibility matrix is provided on page 2 of the following link:
https://atiel.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Compatible-Claims.pdf
For more information on ACEA oil sequences: https://www.acea.auto/files/2023_ACEA_oil_sequences_light-duty engines.pdf
The Supplier was advised that this product made, was incompatible and incorrect with ACEA claims as well as an incorrect and unsubstantiated Porsche claim, and that different specifications were listed on the PDS and to those provided on the label.
The Supplier was requested to supply Test results for this product. If these were not available, the ALA offered to assist the Supplier by having the product independently tested and work with the Supplier to ensure the specifications claimed were correct.
After numerous phone calls and emails, the Supplier refused to alter the specifications of their product. As a last resort the ALA advised the Suppler that if the specifications were not altered, the ACCC would be informed of the false and misleading claims and this information about their company and product would be publicised.
What was the outcome?
A Consumer Alert was prepared which was to be forwarded to the ACCC, publicised on the ALA website and emailed to members. Prior to the Consumer Alert being issued, a final check of the information contained in the Consumer Alert was undertaken. Part of the review is to check the Supplier Website. The Supplier upgraded their website and their products, this included changing the name of the product and removing the incorrect claims, incompatible claims and misleading specifications.
The product specifications for their synthetic 5W30 C3 product are now correct.
How you can help protect our industry:
The ALA’s Technical Committee relies on industry vigilance to maintain standards. You can:
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- Report concerns – Submit a VRF if you spot questionable claims or specifications
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- Verify your products – Review your own PDSs and labels against current ACEA/OEM requirements
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- Get technical support – Contact ALA’s Technical Committee for guidance on specification compliance
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- Join the ALA – Support the work that protects our industry’s integrity
Visit https://lubeassoc.com.au/ or email info@lubeassoc.com.au to submit a VRF or discuss technical queries.
Together, we ensure Australian lubricants meet the highest standards.
