Oil grade question

[Mark R]

My vehicle manufacturer specifies an ILSAC GF4 oil.

It's difficult to get this type of oil with this certification here. How significant would it be if I were to use an API SN or an ACEA C2 or A1 oil? I understand that some modern oils are GF5 rated, and that GF5 is backwards compatible with GF4, but these are even more difficult to find than GF4.

My understanding is that ACEA A1 is a high SAPS specification, which may compromise the catalytic converter, and that C2 is a low SAPS specification which uses the minimum possible level of anti-wear additives in order to maximize cat life. However, I don't really have any idea of how significant such a mismatch would be.

 

[Kelvrick]

Where are you located?

I think the biggest difference is the energy conservation standards. So any API SM that isn't too heavy will probably fit it. As far as I know, mobile 1 5w30, chevron 7500 and chevron 5000 met it without any formulation change.

Here is some reading on it.
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/5...9-gf-4-based-oil-vs-gf-3-what-difference.html

 

[Raizinman]

It is not ususual for dealerships, and warranty companies to run oil samples of your car should there be a major engine failure. Should they find improper oil, they would likely deny warranty coverage on the engine. Oil is actually a very cheap commodity. Walmart has Mobil 1 for around $27, and there are other places you can acquire good engine oil on the cheaper side. There should be no excuse for using a lesser grade oil than what the manufacturer calls for.

 

[bruceb]

In just about all cases, if you run the spec in the manual or a later spec, you will be fine. Most later specs are meant to work with anything before them as well as the spec printed on them.

 

[Jimzz]

GF-4 is a old Motor oil spec, currently its GF-5. As long as it is SM or SN rated (most oils in the last 5+ years meet this) you will be fine.

Just make sure to use the right weight. i.e. like 5w30 etc...

 

[LTC8K6]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor_oil#ILSAC