Shell Rimula CK-4 FAQs
With the launch of the new API CK-4 category, there are bound to be questions… Here are the answers to the most common ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the new CK-4 category launched?
Why was the new CK-4 category launched?
Today’s engines need a new generation of high-performing diesel engine oils to help deliver improved fuel efficiency without any compromise in engine protection.
The CJ-4 diesel engine oil category was developed almost a decade ago (2006), and some of the engine tests required to qualify an oil are no longer available or no longer relevant to next-generation engines.
When was the new category launched?
When was the new category launched?
The American Petroleum Institute (API) began issuing licenses for the new category on December 1, 2016. Shell Lubricants were the first to announce the launch of CK-4 compliant heavy-duty diesel engine oils, in July 2016.
Does the new API CK-4 category set stricter targets for fuel economy, compared to CJ-4?
Does the new API CK-4 category set stricter targets for fuel economy, compared to CJ-4?
Currently, there is no target for fuel economy in API CK-4 or in the category API CJ-4. The new CK-4 standard is designed to be backward compatible to all current vehicles. There is a separate heavy duty diesel engine oil, API category designed for more fuel efficient engine oils – in North America this is the API FA-4. ACEA is currently developing a category to align with API FA-4, set to launch in 2018.
Are the new CK-4 engine oils compatible with older engines as well as modern ones?
Are the new CK-4 engine oils compatible with older engines as well as modern ones?
The new API CK-4 category is designed to meet the needs of current and next-generation engines. CK-4 oils replace CJ-4 oils, and are “backwards compatible” to all current vehicles.
How do Shell Rimula R4 L (CK-4) and Shell Rimula R5 LE (CK-4) differ?
How do Shell Rimula R4 L (CK-4) and Shell Rimula R5 LE (CK-4) differ?
Both products are designed to meet the new API CK-4 standard, but Shell Rimula R5 LE is a more advanced formulation. Both products are suitable for use in on- and off-highway equipment with Euro6 engines and older and meet the latest US and European OEM requirements for more modern engines that require oils meeting ACEA E9.
Are there any issues around mixing the new and old formulations?
Are there any issues around mixing the new and old formulations?
There are no miscibility concerns with the old and new products. Ideally customers would draw down their tanks so that no more than 10% of previous product remains as the full benefits of the new products will be diminished if mixed with previous product. This is also a good opportunity to clean a tank and do any necessary maintenance.
Does Shell Rimula Ultra meet CK-4 standards?
Does Shell Rimula Ultra meet CK-4 standards?
Our technical specialists are currently working on upgrading the formulation of Shell Rimula Ultra to meet the new CK-4 standards. More information will be shared in the near future.
