What is API SQ / Overview of the New Standard

A big change is happening in the lubricant industry—one that will shape the future of how engines are protected. At the end of March, the new API SQ standard was introduced. More than just an upgrade to API SP, it’s a major step forward in lubricant technology. API SQ brings stronger engine performance, better fuel efficiency, and stricter environmental compliance. But what does this mean for vehicle owners and lubricant distributors? 

And how can both prepare to take advantage of these changes? Let’s take a closer look at the API SQ standard and see how this “performance revolution” is set to transform the lubricant world.

API SQ Performance Requirements

Engines today are not the same as older ones. They’re smaller, more powerful, and built to save fuel and reduce harmful emissions. Because of this, modern engines need better oils that meet new standards—like API SQ.

Here’s what API SQ oils are designed to do:

• Better fuel economy: Engines lose energy because of friction. API SQ oils reduce friction, so your engine uses less fuel and runs more efficiently.
• LSPI protection: In turbocharged engines, fuel can sometimes ignite too early (called Low-Speed Pre-Ignition or LSPI). This causes “knocking” and can damage the engine. API SQ oils help prevent this.
• Cleaner engines: These oils keep engine parts free from sludge and deposits, so your engine stays clean and performs well for longer.
• Stronger durability: API SQ oils protect critical parts like timing chains from wear and tear, helping your engine last longer.
• Meets regulations: They are made to follow the latest industry and environmental standards.

In short, API SQ oils are built for modern gasoline engines—giving them better protection, efficiency, and long life.

What’s New and Different in API SQ Oils?

API SQ is the next step forward after API SP, offering better engine protection and performance. To earn this certification, the oils go through updated engine tests, such as:

• Sequence IIH: Checks how oil handles high heat, thickness changes, and deposits.
• Sequence VH: Measures how well oil prevents sludge and deposits at low temperatures.
• Sequence VI: Tests how much the oil improves fuel economy.

API SQ oils perform better than API SP in all these tests. Another big update is the use of ultra-low viscosity oils like SAE 0W-8 and SAE 0W-12. These oils flow easily, giving modern engines the right protection while boosting efficiency.

API SQ also sets a sulfated ash limit of 0.9% (same as API SP, but lower than older oils). Why does this matter? Too much ash comes from oil additives and can clog gasoline particulate filters (GPFs). These filters are important for controlling emissions. By keeping ash levels low, API SQ oils:

• Help emission systems work properly
• Reduce harmful emissions
• Cut down on expensive repairs for clogged filters

At the same time, API SQ arrives with ILSAC GF-7 standards. Both are closely linked, but API SQ covers ultra-low viscosity oils that GF-7 does not. The good news? Both API SQ and GF-7 oils work in cars that previously used API SP or GF-6 oils.

Why Drivers Benefit from API SQ

For everyday car owners, API SQ oils mean:

• Smoother performance and better protection from engine wear
• Cleaner engines with fewer deposits
• Better fuel economy
• Longer-lasting emission systems
• Lower maintenance costs over time

Simply put, API SQ oils are built to help your engine last longer, run cleaner, and save you money at the pump.

Impact on Vehicle Owners and Distributors

Benefits for Vehicle Owners

If you use oils that meet the new API SQ standard, you’ll notice some big advantages:

• Stronger engine protection: These oils keep your engine safe from wear and help it last longer.
• Fuel savings: Better fuel economy means spending less money at the pump.
• Eco-friendly performance: API SQ oils follow stricter emission rules, so your car runs cleaner and produces fewer harmful gases.

Challenges and Opportunities for Distributors

For distributors, API SQ brings both learning and growth:

• Product knowledge: Distributors need to understand the new standard well so they can guide customers with confidence.
• Market advantage: As drivers shift toward high-performance and eco-friendly oils, there’s a chance to grow sales by offering the right products.

Strategies to Handle the API SQ Transition

For Vehicle Owners

• Check the label: Always look for the API SQ mark on the oil pack to make sure it meets the latest standard.
• Do regular maintenance: Keep an eye on your oil levels and change your oil on time to protect your engine.

For Distributors

• Work with suppliers: Stay updated on new product changes and technical details from oil manufacturers.
• Get proper training: Join workshops or learning sessions to fully understand API SQ oils, so you can guide customers better.
• Follow market trends: Keep track of new rules and customer needs to stock the right oils at the right time.

What Does This Mean for Automotive Professionals?

The new API SQ standards bring important changes for auto repair shops, oil change centers, and dealerships. Here’s how professionals can prepare:

• Plan your inventory: Make sure to stock API SQ oils, including newer low-viscosity grades like 0W-16 and below.
• Train your technicians: Your team should understand the new standards and their benefits so they can give customers the right advice.
• Update service guides: Always recommend the correct oil for each vehicle, especially newer models. This keeps warranties valid and engines running smoothly.
• Educate customers: Take time to explain the benefits of API SQ and ILSAC GF-7 oils. When customers know why these oils matter, they’ll trust your service more.

API’s Official Definition and Scope

According to API, the new API SQ category comes with strict requirements to protect modern engines:

• Sequence X LSPI Test: Measures how well oil prevents low-speed pre-ignition (a type of early engine knock).
• High-Temp High-Shear (HTHS) Viscosity ≥ 2.9 mPa·s: Make sure the oil film stays strong when the engine is under heavy load.
• Oxidation Stability: Stops the oil from breaking down at high heat (150 °C).
• Deposit Control: Reduces harmful buildup on pistons and turbochargers.
• Sulfated Ash ≤ 0.90%: Protects gasoline particulate filters (GPFs) and keeps engines clean.
• Fuel Economy: Matches ILSAC GF-7 standards to help save fuel.

These rules show API’s goal: reduce emissions, boost fuel efficiency, and extend the life of high-performance engines.

Why API SQ?

API, the top authority in lubricant standards, created API SQ as the next step after API SP. Modern cars are built with smaller, more efficient engines to meet strict fuel economy and emissions rules. These engines need oils that can handle tougher conditions—this is where API SQ comes in.

Here’s how API SQ oils protect your engine:

• Better fuel economy: By reducing friction, API SQ oils help your engine use less fuel while also fighting deposits and wear, even under tough driving conditions.
• LSPI protection: In turbocharged engines, fuel can ignite too early (called Low-Speed Pre-Ignition), causing knocking and damage. API SQ oils are specially made to prevent this.
• Cleaner engines: They keep engine parts free from sludge and deposits, which improves performance and extends engine life.
• More durability: API SQ oils protect against wear, helping critical parts like timing chains last longer.
• Meets regulations: These oils are designed to match the latest industry and environmental standards.

In short, API SQ gives today’s advanced engines the protection, efficiency, and durability they need.

What Makes API SQ Different?

API SQ is the next step forward after API SP, offering stronger protection and better performance for modern engines. To achieve this, the certification process uses updated engine tests, including:

• Sequence IIH: Shows how well the oil resists oxidation and keeps turbocharged or high-performance engines clean.
• Sequence VH: Measures how effectively the oil controls sludge and deposits, especially in stop-and-go driving or cold starts.
• Sequence VI: Tests how much fuel savings the oil can provide.

API SQ oils perform better than API SP in all these areas. They also allow the use of ultra-low viscosity oils like SAE 0W-8 and SAE 0W-12, designed for today’s advanced engines.

Another key update is the sulfated ash limit of 0.9%. Too much ash (from oil additives) can clog gasoline particulate filters (GPFs), which are important for emission control. By keeping ash levels lower, API SQ oils help these systems work properly, last longer, and reduce costly repairs.

API SQ also launches alongside the new ILSAC GF-7 standards. While both are closely aligned, API SQ covers ultra-low viscosity grades not included in GF-7. The good news: both API SQ and GF-7 oils are backwards compatible with cars that used API SP or GF-6 oils.

What It Means for You

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

At Fubex Lubricants, we’re committed to bringing you oils that meet the latest API SQ standards—offering advanced protection, trusted performance, and long-lasting reliability for your engine.

Final Takeaways

The API SQ standard is more than just a technical upgrade—it marks a major shift in the lubricant industry. By focusing on stronger engine protection, better fuel efficiency, and sustainability, it sets a new benchmark for performance. For vehicle owners, it brings safer engines, lower fuel costs, and cleaner driving. 

For distributors, it opens the door to new opportunities in a market that’s quickly moving toward advanced, eco-friendly oils. To thrive in this new era, staying informed and proactive will be the key, as API SQ is shaping the future of how engines are protected and maintained.

FAQs

Q1: What is API SQ?

API SQ is the latest upgrade after API SP, designed for modern engines. Unlike API SP, it also includes ultra-low viscosity oils like SAE 0W-8 and SAE 0W-12. These oils reduce friction inside the engine, helping save fuel while still giving strong protection to engine parts.

Q2: What is the difference between API SP and API SQ?

API SQ is an upgrade over API SP, offering better overall performance. It also introduces ultra-low viscosity oils like SAE 0W-8 and SAE 0W-12, which improve fuel efficiency while protecting modern engines. In addition, API SQ keeps the sulfated ash limit at 0.9%, helping reduce buildup and keeping emission systems cleaner compared to older oil standards.