When you buy a lubricant, you may see phrases such as “Suitable for use’ or ‘compatible with...’. Sounds good, right? The problem is that it doesn't mean the same thing as ‘approved by the original equipment manufacturer’ (OEM). And this difference can be the difference between an engine that lasts for years and one that ends up in the repair shop prematurely.
At FUCHS Spain, we help you make informed decisions to find the right comprehensive lubrication solution for your needs. In the following article, we will look at the differences between these two classifications and why choosing the right engine oil goes beyond that.
Difference between ‘recommended for use’ and ‘approved by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM)’
What is the difference?
- Recommended for use: this is oil that, according to the lubricant manufacturer itself, meets certain technical characteristics similar to those required by an OEM. What is the difference? This statement has not necessarily undergone an official verification process by the engine or vehicle manufacturer.
- Approved by the original manufacturer (OEM): this means that the engine manufacturer has thoroughly tested it and certified that it meets or exceeds its technical and performance requirements. It is not just a claim; it is an external guarantee.
The key difference between the two concepts
- Recommended for use: self-declaration by the lubricant manufacturer.
- OEM approval: official certification by the engine manufacturer based on actual testing.
How are OEM approvals granted?
Obtaining an OEM certificate is not a simple process. Lubrication solutions must undergo exhaustive testing for wear, thermal resistance, seal compatibility, internal cleanliness, and performance under extreme conditions. In addition, testing can take months and is conducted on actual engines, not just in laboratories.
Some of the tests included are as follows:
Viscosity index
- Oxidation stability
- Deposit formation
- Wear protection
Only after all tests have been passed is approval and certification granted.
How to detect non-approved oil?
Firstly, we must pay attention to the technical specifications:
- If the label says ‘Complies’ or “Meets”, this is not the same as ‘Approved’. OEMs publish specifications (e.g. VW 504.00, MB 229.51, etc.) that a lubricant must meet.
- Check the official product data sheet.
- Check the vehicle manufacturer's website to confirm.
Real situations that could happen:
- An oil may say ‘Complies with ACEA C3’ and ‘Recommended for BMW LL-04’, but that does not mean that BMW has officially approved it. This confusion is common in workshops and among end users.
Risks of using products that are only ‘recommended for use’
Recent research conducted by Lubrizol has highlighted the potential dangers of recommended lubricants. In a comparative test, a recommended oil that was marketed as complying with VW 50400/50700 specifications failed after only 23 hours of operation. In contrast, the equivalent product approved by the original manufacturer successfully completed the full 96-hour test, with significantly less deposit build-up and superior protection.
Potential problems with ‘recommended for use’ products:
- Increased internal wear
- Sludge build-up
- Cold start problems
- Excessive oil consumption
In many cases, if the engine fails and the manufacturer discovers that you have used an unapproved lubricant, they may void the warranty. Even if the oil was ‘recommended,’ the lack of official approval works against you. In contrast, an OEM-approved oil maintains engine efficiency, protects moving parts, and helps keep fuel consumption under control.
At FUCHS, we take our responsibility very seriously. Our engine oils are not only formulated to meet demanding international standards, but many of them are also officially approved by original equipment manufacturers. These approvals are the result of rigorous and repeated testing, both in-house and at independent facilities, to ensure that our lubricants deliver the protection and reliability that modern engines require. In this way, we actively support a transparent and reliable market where end users can have confidence in the products they choose.
Information for making informed decisions
So, what can we do to ensure we are using the right oil?
Always consult your vehicle manual and use lubricants that exactly match the specifications recommended by the original manufacturer.
FUCHS is proud to offer a complete range of lubricants approved by original equipment manufacturers, developed in close collaboration with vehicle manufacturers and backed by solid technical validation.
If you own a vehicle, always ask about OEM approval. If you work in a workshop, protect your customers (and your reputation) by choosing certified lubricants.
✔️ Check the vehicle manual.
✔️ Confirm OEM specifications.
✔️ Check approvals on the technical data sheet.
✔️ Avoid confusing ‘recommended’ with ‘approved’.
Need more advice?
By choosing FUCHS oils approved by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), you are not only protecting your engine, but also investing in proven quality, proven performance and long-term reliability. In a market where misleading claims still exist, that guarantee can make all the difference.
If you would like further advice or information on how to choose the best lubricants for your vehicle, please contact our team of experts using the enquiry form below.
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