ACEA 2021

The ACEA Oil Sequences define the minimum quality level for engine lubricants used in service fill in gasoline engines, light duty diesel engines and heavy duty diesel engines. 

The 2021 update was introduced to ensure the light duty engine lubricants used in service fill fulfil the demands of increasingly advanced developments in engine and after treatment system technology. The update represents a significant advance in performance levels and highlights the ongoing development challenges facing passenger car manufacturers and the complexity of vehicle hardware. The introduction of new tests and categories brings a focus on the prevention of phenomenon such as Low Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI), Turbocharger deposits and increased fuel efficiency.

ACEA 2021 came into effect 1st May 2021 and will be mandatory for all new claims from 1st May 2022. Oil marketers may still make claims against the previous ACEA 2016 edition of the oil sequences until 1st May 2023. After this date, all formulations making a performance claim must do so to the requirements of the 2021 edition. 

ACEA 2021 sees the removal of ACEA A3/B3 and ACEA C1 and the introduction of two new categories, ACEA A7/B7 and ACEA C6. The continued trend towards hotter operating, Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection (TGDI) engines and the challenges presented by these developments have led to the inclusion of the LSPI testing into both new categories and represents a significant step in the development of the new ACEA 2021 specification.

ACEA A7/B7 a new low HTHS oil category which brings an increased focus to Turbocharger deposits, influenced by the increased commonality of their use on vehicles globally. 

ACEA C6 is a new low HTHS oil category designed for increased focus on improving fuel economy in vehicles with all types of modern aftertreatment system.

For a deeper dive into specifications, see the Lubrizol Ready Reference Guide, the industry's go-to resource for understanding fuel and lubricant performance principles and requirements. 

The heavy duty engine ACEA 2022 sequences can be found here.