239 Technical data
Other grade classifications:API and ACEA designations can also be found on the packag-
ing alongside the GM designations GM-LL-A 025 and
GM-LL-B 025. Oil for gasoline engines classified in accordance
with API standards (American Petroleum Institute) can include
SH (since 1993), SJ (since 1996) and SL (from 2001) classes.
SL class oils fulfil the most stringent requirements. These grade
classes are most often combined with the corresponding class-
es for diesel engines. The class designations for diesel engines
begin with the letter "C" (Commercial). For example, a grade
combination suitable for both types of engine could be API SJ/
CF or SL/CF.
Under ACEA nomenclature, oils are divided into Class A for
petrol engines and Class B for diesel engines. There is a further
class for heavy diesel engines. Each class is divided into
three or four (diesel) grades where grades 2 and 3 (diesel: 4)
normally encompass products comprising semi and fully-
synthetic components.
In the same way as in the API system, gasoline and diesel en-
gine specifications are combined for products that can be used
in both types of engine. For example, a grade designation could
be ACEA A2/B2 or ACEA A3/B3-B4.
Viscosity:
The viscosity of oil is classified according to the SAE standard
(SAE: Society of Automobile Engineers). Nowadays, multigrade
oils are always used in cars. The properties of these oils facili-
tate starting the car in cold weather but mean that the oil is also
sufficiently viscous to coat all moving parts under all operating
conditions.
Multigrade oils are graded with two viscosities, e.g. 0W-30,
where the 0W meets certain viscosity requirements at –22°F (–
30°C), while the 30 fulfils requirements at a temperature of
212°F (100°C).
The approved gasoline engine oil, GM-LL-A 025, has a vis-
cosity of SAE 0W-30.
Oil capacity, including filter (oil change) __ 6.3 qts. (6.0 l)
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