API: American Petroleum Institute - performance standards are indicated with the abbreviation API SJ or API CE :

* the first letter designates the type of engine (S = gasoline and C = diesel),
* the second letter designates the performance level (for gasoline engines, etc.).

Lubricants must successfully complete four tests to achieve API performance levels; these tests take into account :

* the rise in the temperature of engine oils in service ;
* the lengthening of the period between oil changes recommended by manufacturers ;
* efforts to achieve engine performance ;
* increasingly stringent environmental protection standards ;