What Is ILSAC GF-7A?
Short answer: ILSAC GF-7A is the newest ILSAC gasoline engine-oil standard, the successor to GF-6A and the companion to API SQ. It covers standard viscosity grades (e.g., 0W-20, 5W-30) and raises requirements for fuel economy, LSPI protection, timing-chain wear, deposit control, and emission-system protection. The low-viscosity subset (e.g., 0W-16) is covered by GF-7B.
How GF-7A fits
ILSAC standards advance with engine technology: GF-5 → GF-6A/GF-6B → GF-7A/GF-7B. GF-7A is the mainstream-grade standard; oils meeting GF-7A also meet API SQ.
GF-7A vs GF-7B vs GF-6A
- GF-7A: standard viscosity grades; mainstream passenger-car oils.
- GF-7B: low-viscosity grades (e.g., 0W-16) for maximum fuel economy; not interchangeable with GF-7A where the engine requires a heavier grade.
- GF-6A → GF-7A: GF-7A raises protection and efficiency requirements; GF-7A is generally backward compatible with GF-6A/GF-5 applications when the correct grade is used.
The "Starburst/Shield" symbol
Oils that meet ILSAC standards may display the API Certification Mark (the "Starburst"/Shield) on the front label, signaling they meet the current resource-conserving standard.
Ultra1Plus GF-7A oils
- API SQ + ILSAC GF-7A: API SQ / GF-7A oils
- Full synthetic motor oil: Full synthetic motor oil
- All motor oil: Shop all motor oil
Need a GF-7A oil in your grade? Check the product page or contact our team.
Frequently asked questions
What is ILSAC GF-7A?
ILSAC GF-7A is the newest gasoline engine-oil standard for standard viscosity grades, companion to API SQ, with improved fuel economy, LSPI, chain-wear, deposit, and emission-system protection. The low-viscosity subset is GF-7B.
What is the difference between GF-7A and GF-7B?
GF-7A covers standard grades (e.g., 0W-20, 5W-30); GF-7B covers low-viscosity grades (e.g., 0W-16) for fuel economy. Use the grade your engine specifies.
Is GF-7A backward compatible with GF-6A?
Generally yes, when the correct viscosity grade is used. GF-7A meets or exceeds GF-6A requirements.
Does GF-7A mean the same as API SQ?
They're companion standards. Oils meeting ILSAC GF-7A also meet API SQ.