What OEM approvals say about the quality of oils
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) approvals are official approvals from vehicle or machine manufacturers for certain engine oils, transmission oils or hydraulic oils. An oil with OEM approval has been tested according to strict test procedures and meets the specific requirements of the manufacturer – both in terms of performance, material compatibility and long-term use.
Relevance in the industry
In the lubricant industry, OEM approvals are a key quality feature. For customers looking for maximum safety and compatibility, they are a decisive reason to buy. They not only provide security when choosing the right oil, but also protect against loss of warranty on new vehicles or machines. Especially for premium and high-performance oils, manufacturer approvals such as MB 229.51, VW 504 00/507 00 or BMW Longlife-04 are an indispensable sales argument.
What is the difference between a standard and an OEM approval?
Standards such as ACEA, API or ILSAC define basic requirements for oils. OEM approvals go beyond this – they are manufacturer-specific tests that also take into account materials, maintenance intervals and thermal stress.
Are OEM approvals required by law?
No, but they are often a prerequisite for maintaining the vehicle manufacturer’s warranty. If you use an oil without the appropriate approval, you risk losing your warranty claims in the event of damage.
How can I tell if an oil has OEM approval?
The approval is clearly stated on the label or in the technical data sheet, e.g: “Complies with VW 504 00 / 507 00” or “MB approval 229.51”. It is important that not only the standard is fulfilled, but that there is an actual approval – this means that the oil has been tested and approved by the manufacturer.
This website uses cookies to provide our services. For more information, please see our legal notice.
