Michigan Tells Car Owners to Use High Quality Motor Oil

SOUTHFIELD, MI--Sept. 17, 2013: Industry leaders across the state are commending Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) for an alert highlighting the importance of using high-quality motor oil products in Michigan cars and trucks.

Schuette and MDARD drew praise for the September 12 consumer alert, designed to teach and educate consumers about motor oil, a critical component of every vehicle's engine.

"This is an industry moment for all of us," said Lena Epstein Koretzky, co-owner and general manager of marketing for the Southfield-based Vesco Oil Corporation. "Drawing attention to this issue helps to eliminate fraud and ensures that Michigan consumers across the state know exactly what they are putting into their vehicles. We strongly support the state's attention to this matter and encourage their continued work on this important topic."

RISKS CONSUMERS SHOULD BE AWARE OF

Labeling – Avoid buying off-the-shelf motor oil that does not display the following:

The name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor. The viscosity grade classification of the oil, preceded by the letters "SAE". And before buying, first check your owner's manual so you know the proper viscosity grade classification for your vehicle to look for on the label. Though not required, many motor oil labels will display the American Petroleum Institute's (API) Service Symbol "Donut" and Certification Mark "Starburst"; labeling marks often recommended by vehicle manufacturers.

Appearance – New motor oil should be clear (see through) and not cloudy. New motor oil should be free flowing, and should not have any sediment

Cost – If an oil change costs substantially less than most other competitors, there is usually a reason.

Oil Change Facilities

The brand advertised on the sign or marquee may not be the oil being used. Confirm the brand of oil and the number of quarts included in the cost of your oil change. If a shop charges different prices for oil changes, the low price displayed on the sign or marquee may include fewer quarts than your vehicle requires or a lower cost brand of oil than the one advertised. Specifically ask the facility what brand of oil they use and have them record that on your receipt. After getting your oil changed, double check the oil level when you return home.