VLS Bulletin – October 2019 – VLS010152
VLS 010152 – GSF Car Parts Ltd, Vetech 5W-30 SSL PRO Universal Performance Multi-Fleet ILSAC Standard Service Oil
On 9th November 2017 the case was reported to VLS.
The complaint concerned an alleged inconsistency in the Technical Data Sheet, that the product claimed to be produced from Group 2 and Group 3 base stocks, that the formulation was suitable for applications requiring VW 504/507, VW 502/505, MB 229.51, WSS-M2C913-A,B,C and Dexos 2 and that there were no formulations capable of achieving all of these specifications. The complaint also alleged that the formulation was also claimed to be suitable for applications requiring BMW, that the product claimed VW 504/507 when operating on standard service intervals although VW 504/507 specifications do not include standard service intervals. The product viscometrics it was also claimed would not meet the High Temp/ High Shear (HTHS) compliancy.
VLS reviewed and upheld the complaint as it was not aware of any formulation based on only Group II and Group III base stocks that was capable of meeting the demands of the VW 504/507 specification. The sulphated ash level quoted on the datasheet of 0.79% was outside the requirements for VW 502.00/505.00 and thus VLS recommended that this product’s suitability for applications requiring this specification should be withdrawn. VLS was also unaware of any formulation that met MB 229.51 in addition to Dexos 2 and Ford WSS M2C913-C, so we asked the Named Party to provide details of the technical assessment that underpins these claims by way of a simple letter from the additive company providing the technology. The product also claimed to be suitable for BMW applications, however there are numerous different BMW specifications and we asked them to make it clear which are met by this product.
In response to the complaint the Named Party’s technology provider provided a letter supporting the claim that the product was suitable for use in VW 504.00/507.00, BMW LL-04, GM Dexos 2, Porsche C30, MB 229.51 and Ford 913 A/B applications. It was also confirmed that the product’s technology was approved/licensed by API for SN plus and meets SN applications.
In line with our stated process, VLS undertook a six month review of the case. Our review found that the amended data sheets and labels that were created as a result of this investigation in December 2018, were still in place. Consequently VLS concluded that the product is still in compliance at the six month review stage, the complaint has been fully met, and the case can be closed.
David Wright, Company Secretary – VLS (UK) Ltd says “We want to ensure we have the highest standards in Europe for lubricant manufacture, blending and marketing, and we want a ‘level playing field’ for all participants, so that we protect the interests of the consumer and other end users.
In the Verification of Lubricant Specifications (UK) Ltd, we have set our course for stronger industry self-regulation by working positively towards more open and transparent competition that benefits all lubricant organisations. By working with the sector to resolve non compliant products in an independent and impartial manner, we can support companies to compete on a more equitable basis in a highly competitive marketplace.”
October 2019
