What’s the difference between an oil approval, a recommendation, and a specification?
In this Inside the Brands episode, CRP Automotive’s Mark Malone explains how these terms are often misunderstood and why they are not interchangeable when selecting engine or transmission fluids.
Many technicians assume that if a fluid lists a specification on the label, it’s automatically approved for the application. That’s not always the case. In this video, we break down the key differences between:
- OEM approvals
- Manufacturer recommendations
- Industry specifications such as API and ACEA
Using Pentosin Super Performance III SAE 5W-30 as an example, Mark explains what it means when a fluid carries official OEM approvals from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, including the extensive testing and validation required to earn those approvals.
The video also covers how Tier 1 suppliers, such as transmission manufacturers, may issue approvals instead of the vehicle OEM, especially for prefilled “wet” transmissions. You’ll also learn why some fluids are legitimately recommended for certain applications even without a formal OEM approval, and how specifications differ from approvals altogether.
This episode is designed to help technicians:
- Understand oil labeling language
- Avoid incorrect fluid selection
- Make informed decisions when OE approvals matter
If you work with modern engine or transmission fluids, this clarification is critical.