VRF00011
Status: Closed
What was the issue?
A Verification Request Form (VRF) was raised regarding an ATF product that claimed to meet multiple specifications, including Ford Mercon® LV, Mercon® SP, Dexron® VI, Aisin AW-1, and Toyota WS. The concern centred on the product’s stated viscosity of 7.0 cSt @100°C, which exceeds the upper viscosity limits for several of these specifications.
The specifications in question typically require lower viscosity fluids:
- Mercon® LV/SP: <6.0 cSt @ 100°C
- Dexron® VI: 5.8–5.9 cSt @ 100°C
- Aisin AW-1 / Toyota WS: 5.3–5.8 cSt @ 100°C
The Product Data Sheet (PDS) for the ATF in question also includes broad marketing language such as:
- “ATF uses the latest Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid technology that is suitable for most manufacturer requirements such as Allison C-4, Mercon® V, JASO 1-A, ATF+4 and many others.”
This raised concerns about the generalisation and potential misapplication, particularly in modern transmissions that require low-viscosity fluids for proper operation and fuel efficiency.
What action was Taken?
The ALA Verification Team conducted a thorough investigation, including:
- Reviewing the ATF’s technical specifications against Mercon® LV, Mercon® SP, and other listed requirements.
- Evaluating the PDS and supporting documentation.
- Contacting the manufacturer for clarification on the multi-specification claim.
What was the outcome?
The ALA Verification Team engaged with the supplier to discuss the incompatibility of the claims and emphasised the importance of accurate and specification-specific labelling.
The supplier acknowledged the issue and confirmed that the PDS had been updated to reflect compliance with only one specification.
The conflicting claims were removed, and the revised PDS was provided via email. The updated documentation was reviewed by the ALA Technical Committee, and the case was subsequently closed.
How you can help protect our industry:
The ALA’s Technical Committee relies on industry vigilance to maintain standards. You can:
- Report concerns – Submit a VRF if you spot questionable claims or specifications
- Verify your products – Review your own PDSs and labels against current ACEA/OEM requirements
- Get technical support – Contact ALA’s Technical Committee for guidance on specification compliance
- 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.
