​API CK-4 and FA-4 Diesel Oils Readily Available on Anniversary of Engine Oil Categories

January 2018

Since being launched on December 1, 2016, API CK-4 and FA-4 diesel engine oils have become readily available for the trucking, construction and agriculture industries. The American Petroleum Institute has licensed approximately 654 CK-4 and 83 FA-4 oils which ensure that the newest categories of diesel oil for use in on- and off-highway vehicles and equipment are available in the marketplace.

The number of approved oils for both categories from large, medium, and small oil marketers has grown consistently throughout the year. API expects that the licenses for both oils will continue to increase and that FA-4 will see growth as more new engines that require lower viscosity engine oils are placed in service in the coming years.

API CK-4 oils succeeded CJ-4 engine oils and are backward compatible diesel oils. CK-4 provides improved shear stability, oxidation resistance, and aeration control over CJ-4 in the familiar SAE 15W-40 and 10W-30 viscosity grades. Lower viscosity FA-4 oils, which meet the same performance standards as CK-4 oils, have been developed to provide engine manufacturers with a tool that will help them meet more stringent fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions requirements.

API CK-4 and FA-4 oils are available in bulk through diesel oil distributors for trucking, construction and agriculture operations and in packages through retailers. API recommends that shops, fleets and others purchasing diesel engine oils confirm that the oil is licensed for the CK-4 or FA-4 category, which means the maker is warrantying that it meets API standards. Those seeking to verify that an oil is licensed can contact the API directly or look on the API website.

You can visit www.dieseloilmatters.com for more information about the API CK-4 and FA-4 service categories for on- and off-highway vehicles and equipment.