VLS Bulletin – June 2026 – Case 010227
VLS 010227 – Silverhook Fuel Efficient PCEO 0W-20
On 17th April 2025 the case was accepted by VLS.
The case concerned alleged non-compliance with the following market standards;
- SAE J300 specifies that the Low Temperature Pumping Viscosity for an SAE 0W-20 grade should be < 60 000 mPa.s at -40°C and that no Yield Stress should be observed. On the sample analysed a Low Temperature Pumping Viscosity of 68400 mPa.s at -40°C was recorded and a Yield Stress <105 g was observed, which does not meet the requirements of the SAE, ACEA, API and OEM specifications claimed for the product.
- ACEA C5 & C6 mandates a phosphorus content of between 0.07 and 0.09%, a level of 0.06% was determined on the sample analysed.
VLS accepted the case and procured a sample of the product for testing. The test results showed that the sample was compliant for Phosphorous content at 789 mg/kg or 0.0789%, but was not compliant for Yield Stress at -40 degrees centigrade measured at <105g, or Apparent Viscosity at -40 degrees centigrade measured at 74,200 m.Pa.s.
In response Silverhook stated that they had amended the formulation prior to the VLS investigation which would bring the product back into compliance and these actions had been agreed with a third party. On the basis of assurances given by the third party that the case had been closed, VLS was content to close the investigation subject to a six-month review in line with its stated process.
On 22nd June 2026 VLS undertook a six-month review of the case in line with its stated process.
VLS undertook a six-month review of the complaint to ensure continued compliance in line with its stated process following Silverhook’s amendment of the formulation. As part of the review, VLS procured and tested a new sample of the product with a batch date following the closure of the initial investigation.
Testing indicated that the Low Temperature Pumping Viscosity is now within specification, and VLS is content to close the case.
David Wright, Company Secretary of VLS said “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.”
June 2026
