VRF00010
Status: Closed
What was the issue?
A Verification Request Form (VRF) was raised regarding an ATF product that claimed to meet both Ford Mercon® SP and Mercon® ULV specifications. This claim raised concerns due to the mutually exclusive nature of these specifications, particularly in terms of viscosity and application compatibility.
Ford explicitly states that Mercon® ULV is not backward compatible and must not be used in transmissions requiring Mercon® SP. These specifications are designed for different transmission systems and have distinct viscosity requirements:
- Mercon® ULV: 4.5 cSt @ 100°C
- Mercon® SP: 5.7 cSt @ 100°C
Additionally, Mercon® ULV is closely aligned with GM Dexron® ULV, which also specifies a viscosity of approximately 4.5 cst. A single formulation meeting both ULV and SP specifications is therefore technically implausible.
The Product Data Sheet (PDS) for the ATF in question includes broad marketing language such as:
- “One product for multiple applications reduces misapplication.”
- “ATF is a highly advanced, low viscosity, full synthetic, multi-vehicle automatic transmission fluid…”
What action was taken?
The ALA Verification Team conducted a thorough investigation, including:
- Reviewing the ATF’s technical specifications against Mercon® SP and ULV requirements.
- Evaluating the PDS and supporting documentation.
- Contacting the manufacturer for clarification on the dual-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 would be updated to reflect compliance with only one specification.
The Mercon® ULV claim was 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
- e 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.
