Caltex is getting ready for API SQ GF-7

As automotive technology advances, modern engines are becoming smaller, more powerful, and more efficient. But with these innovations come new demands on engine oils. To keep pace, the industry has introduced a new standard: API SQ—the latest gasoline engine oil category from the American Petroleum Institute (API), effective March 31, 2025.

At Caltex, we’re committed to providing our customers with lubricants that meet and exceed the highest global standards. That’s why we’re excited to announce that we are working on introducing API SQ-certified Havoline® passenger car motor oils which will be upgrades to our new GF-6 line.

Why API SQ? 

API, the petroleum industry’s leading authority on lubricant standards, developed API SQ to build on the strengths of the previous API SP standard. As passenger cars evolve to meet stricter fuel economy and emissions regulations, API SQ oils are specifically designed to protect today’s compact, high-efficiency engines. 

Here’s how API SQ delivers more protection where it matters:

• Enhanced fuel economy: Friction within an engine is a major factor in energy consumption. Advanced lubrication can help reduce friction and protect the engine from the constant onslaught of harmful deposits and wear even in extreme driving conditions.
• LSPI Protection: Low-speed pre-ignition refers to spontaneous, premature combustion that can occur in turbocharged engines, resulting in engine “knocking” and potentially serious damage. API SQ oils are formulated to mitigate this risk.
• Improved engine cleanliness: New engine oils are designed to keep engine components cleaner, which improves engine performance and longevity.
• Increased durability: API SQ oils are intended to provide improved protection against wear, extending the life of critical engine parts such as timing chains.
• Regulatory standards: API SQ lubricants will align with current industry and environmental regulations.
  

What Makes API SQ Different?

API SQ represents significantly enhanced protection features relative to its predecessor, API SP. The certification process entailed updates and improvements to the engine testing sequences used to evaluate lubricant performance, including:

• Sequence IIH, which demonstrates the oil’s ability to resist oxidation and maintain cleanliness in turbocharged and high-performance engines.
• Sequence VH, which measures an oil’s ability to minimize sludge and deposit control during low temperature operation and start-stop driving conditions.
• Sequence VI, which evaluates potential fuel savings an engine oil can deliver.

API SQ oils exceed API SP performance on all these measures. In addition, the new category paves the way for the introduction of ultra-low viscosity oils such as SAE 0W-8 and SAE 0W-12.

API SQ also calls for a maximum sulfated ash content limit of 0.9%, comparable to API SP but lower than previous generations. Sulfated ash in engine oils is the underlying cause of unburned metallic residue typically resulting from engine oil additives. Ash accumulation can clog gasoline particulate filters (GPFs) that are critical to emission controls. A lower ash level means that emission control systems can function properly and have a longer service life, while car owners can avoid costly maintenance to clean or repair GPFs.

The release of API SQ coincides with the introduction of the ILSAC GF-7 standards, developed by the International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee. API and ILSAC standards are generally in close alignment, and that is the case with API SQ and GF-7. API SQ, however, will address ultra-low viscosity grades that are not covered by the GF-7 standard. Both GF-7 and API SQ oils will be backwards compatible for vehicles using GF-6 and API SP oils.

What It Means for You 

• Longer engine life.
• Better fuel economy.
• Lower maintenance costs.
• Reduced emissions.

At Caltex, we’re always working to keep you one step ahead with products that offer advanced protection, trusted performance, and cutting-edge technology.Stay tuned for the launch of our upgraded Havoline® range soon — bringing you the latest in engine protection, only from Caltex.