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By Counterman
March 31, 2025, marked a milestone in engine oil development—the first license date for the
link hidden, please login to view. While that might sound like just another specification in a long line of upgrades, for professional parts counter pros selling to independent repair shops, it’s a moment that carries real-world impact. Understanding what’s new—and how to help shop owners explain it to their customers—could be the difference between a routine oil sale and a value-driven recommendation. First, What Is GF-7?
GF-7 builds on the progress of the GF-6 specification introduced in 2020. Like its predecessor, GF-7 is split into two categories: GF-7A for most modern gasoline engines and GF-7B for low-viscosity formulations like 0W-16, commonly used in vehicles from Japanese OEMs like Toyota. The key takeaway? GF-7 oils are fully backward compatible. If a customer’s vehicle previously called for GF-6, GF-5, or even GF-4, a GF-7A product can safely be used. For 0W-16 applications, GF-7B covers those needs—just make sure the shop isn’t using a 0W-16 oil in an engine not designed for it.
“When they developed the GF categories almost 30-plus years ago, the idea was that it’s an evergreen category, so they’re all backward compatible,” Dr. Michael Warholic, global technology director,
link hidden, please login to view. “The caveat is that GF-7B category. Some engines don’t like thin oil because they’re just not made to operate that way. You have to be careful about misapplication. “The OEMs identified that and developed a shield icon with 0W-16 label to make it easy to identify it versus 0W-20 or heavier oil,” he said.
How to Identify GF-7 on the Shelf
Paying attention to the API designation and symbols on the bottle is key. Counter pros should be looking for the API “donut” and the Starburst or Shield symbols:
• The Starburst still signals general GF-category oils (GF-7A).
• A Shield symbol identifies 0W-16 oils under the GF-7B track.
• Look for API donut to know it’s GF-7.
“It boils down to: if you see the Starburst, it’s a qualified GF oil. If you see the donut on the back, it has the API credentials on it,” Warholic explained.
There’s a one-year transition period where GF-6 oils will still be in circulation, but by March 2026, GF-7 will be the standard.
“Model Year 2026 is when we expect the OEMs will start to notice GF-7 oils in the owner’s manual,” added Karl Kocher, director of light duty product strategy, Valvoline.
Why Should Your Shop Customers Care?
Not all oils are created equal, and consumers are becoming more selective. GF-7 brings improvements in durability, fuel economy, wear protection and emissions performance. This includes:
• Deposit control: GF-7 increases limits on piston cleanliness to limit deposits, helping prevent buildup that can lead to costly repairs like ring sticking.
• Wear resistance: Chain wear limits are tighter to protect timing systems and avoid check-engine lights.
• Cold start protection: Improved low-temp viscosity performance means oil flows better when the engine is most vulnerable—at startup.
• LSPI protection over time: GF-7 includes a new test for aged oil’s ability to resist Low-Speed Pre-Ignition, protecting direct-injected turbo engines long after the oil change.
• Ash limit: For the first time, GF-7 introduces an ash cap to help reduce emissions—a nod to the increasing regulatory pressure on internal combustion engines.
Selling the Upgrade
In addition to standard GF-7 products, some oil suppliers are offering “above and beyond” formulations. Valvoline’s Restore & Protect, for example, is a fully synthetic motor oil that aims at both older, high-mileage vehicles (restore) and new vehicles (protect). While the oil sports a proprietary formulation, Valvoline has noted two proprietary technologies–Active Clean, which removes deposits, and Liqui-Shield, which prevents deposit formation.
“The active technology behind the Restore and Protect products is the same in our GF-6 and our GF-7 products,” Warholic confirmed. “For GF-7, it’s built on a slightly different platform to meet the requirements. The Restore and Protect technology is above and beyond even the deposit performance required for GF-7. It exceeds that performance and does something that no other oil does or that’s actually required by GF-7. It is our own proprietary technology.”
That’s especially valuable in older engines that were exposed to less advanced oils under earlier standards like GF-4 or GF-5. With Restore and Protect, your shop customers can offer a tiered service—a standard GF-7 oil for maintenance, or R&P for vehicles showing signs of engine wear or for customers wanting the best protection available.
Bottom Line for Counter Pros
• Understand the labeling: Starburst = GF-7A; Shield = GF-7B; look for API SQ on the donut.
• Ask about the vehicle: Year, model, and what oil is currently being used.
• Explain backward compatibility: GF-7 oils replace earlier categories in most cases.
• Be proactive: As model year 2026 approaches, shops will need help identifying the right oils—GF-7A or GF-7B—and transitioning their inventory.
GF-7 isn’t just a new acronym—it’s the new baseline. The counter pros who get ahead of it now will be the ones their shop customers rely on tomorrow.
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By Counterman
Purolator announced the launch of its 20K Premium Oil Filter. Designed for high-performance driving conditions, the 20K Premium Oil Filter provides superior engine protection for up to 20,000 miles and is geared toward drivers who demand reliability and durability alongside affordability, Purolator said.
A news release announcing the product explained that the
link hidden, please login to view is engineered with high-density, synthetic blend media that captures more than 99% of dirt and contaminants. Purolator added that it is optimized for vehicles that experience frequent towing, off-roading, and stop-and-go traffic. Additional features include a silicone anti-drainback valve to prevent dry starts, a PuroSEAL gasket for superior leak protection, and a PuroSTEEL casing that withstands extreme pressure. “We are thrilled to introduce the Purolator 20K Premium Oil Filter exclusively at Walmart,” said Daryl Benton, vice president of sales and marketing for the automotive aftermarket with MANN+HUMMEL. “The Purolator 20K represents the next level of filtration technology, delivering long-lasting performance and durability for today’s most demanding drivers.”
Customers can find the Purolator 20K Premium Oil Filter exclusively on Walmart.com, or in select Walmart stores nationwide.
A Dynamic Kickoff
The Purolator 20K Premium Oil Filter was officially unveiled at Purolator’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Attendees, including automotive media, influencers and industry professionals, witnessed firsthand how the Purolator 20K Premium Oil Filter (and all Purolator filters) is tested and manufactured to the highest standards,
link hidden, please login to view said. Interactive experiences allowed guests to explore the technology behind the Purolator 20K. Education and perspective came in the form of a panel discussion and production tour led by industry experts who played crucial roles in developing and bringing to market the Purolator 20K. Subject matter experts included Purolator’s lead product engineer and Walmart automotive merchants. “Purolator’s commitment to innovation and quality aligns perfectly with Walmart’s mission to provide customers with great products at an incredible value,” said Scott Bayles, vice president of merchandise – automotive, Walmart US. “The Purolator 20K Premium Oil Filter is a game-changer for drivers looking for long-lasting performance, and we’re proud to offer it only at Walmart.”
Purolator added that the Purolator 20K and Purolator air filtration will be used on more than 1,000 horsepower Formula Drift cars driven by Odi Bakchis, Dan Burkett, Rome Charpentier and Ryan Tureck for the 2025 season. Those drivers also attended the launch event and challenged guests to a special drift driving experience.
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By Counterman
Automotive Parts Associates (APA) announced it recently wrapped up an action-packed weekend in Las Vegas, where winners of the Vegas Adrenaline Adventure Weekend promotion “experienced high-octane thrills and unforgettable moments.” From Feb. 28 to March 2, 10 winners and their guests enjoyed an all-expense-paid trip featuring off-road driving, machine gun shooting, Topgolf, plus $500!
APA said the winners also got to enjoy a Friday night dinner sponsored by FCS. “A special shoutout to FCS for sponsoring a fantastic Friday night dinner, adding to the excitement of the weekend,” APA said.
The promotion, which was open to
link hidden, please login to viewshareholders’ and TruStar members’ customers from September 15 through October 31, awarded entries for every $200 purchased from sponsoring suppliers. In addition to the grand prize trip, 10 second-place winners received a $250 gift card and salespeople earned a $100 gift card for each winner. Following are quotes from participants sharing their appreciation for the experience:
“Thank you very much for the great and memorable trip and your kind hospitality. We do appreciate it. I was glad to meet a lot of shop owners and great people and also exchange great information. We had a great time.” “Both of my sons thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Thanks for putting that together. It was a trip they may never take again together!” “Gail and I would like to say thank you to APA for a great weekend away, we really enjoyed ourselves!” “It was an unforgettable weekend,” said Jan Larson, director of marketing for APA. “What started as a group of strangers on Friday quickly turned into a close-knit group by Sunday, exchanging contact information and sharing stories like lifelong friends. I always encourage our shareholders and TruStar members to take advantage of these promotions. Participation is easy and can have a meaningful impact on employee morale. These events drive engagement, boost sales, and create lasting memories—don’t let your customers miss out on these incredible opportunities!”
APA said it hosts two promotions annually, one in spring and one in fall. Up next is the 2025 Tanks For The Memories Sweepstakes, where ten winners will receive an all-expense-paid trip to drive real tanks at Drive A Tank in Kasota, MN.
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By Counterman
Lucas Oil has announced the latest addition to its vehicle performance product lineup: Lucas Emissions Clear. The company said this fuel and exhaust system cleaner addresses the need for effective solutions to reduce vehicle emissions and improve catalytic converter performance, helping vehicle owners meet strict emissions regulations.
In a news release announcing the product, the company explained that Lucas Emissions Clear Fuel and Exhaust System Cleaner targets the entire fuel delivery system, removing harmful deposits that contribute to excessive exhaust emissions. By reducing particulate matter before it reaches the catalytic converter, the product helps extend its lifespan, optimizes combustion and improves emissions catalyst effectiveness. Formulated for easy integration into routine vehicle maintenance or pre-emissions testing, Lucas Emissions Clear is a one-tank treatment that provides emissions control, promotes cleaner air quality and is compatible with any gasoline engine, the company said.
“A cleaner engine means a more efficient, more reliable car, and Lucas Emissions Clear delivers exactly that for drivers,” said
link hidden, please login to view CEO Morgan Lucas. “We take pride in helping our customers save money on repairs and maintenance. Cleaner emissions not only contribute to a healthier environment, but also extend the lifespan of exhaust systems, providing long-term financial benefits for drivers and helping to meet more stringent regulations. With this product, we are making it easier and more affordable to maintain optimal performance and compliance with emissions standards.” Designed for environmentally conscious vehicle owners, fleet managers, automotive enthusiasts and drivers seeking improved fuel efficiency and performance, Lucas Oil said its Emissions Clear can cut harmful pollutants by up to 90% while delivering up to 5% improvement in fuel economy.
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