What is Low SAPS engine oil?

Low SAPS oils are oils with low contents of sulphate ash (SA), phosphorus (P) and sulphur (S). Another term for Low SAPS is „low ash“ due to the low tendency to ash formation. The engine oils contain low-emission additives and are mainly used in vehicles with diesel particulate filters (DPF) and three-way catalytic converters (TWC). When sulphur and phosphorus are burned in large quantities, the residues clog the fine pores of the filters or the lamellas of the catalytic converters. Phosphorus and sulphur neutralise the surfaces of the catalytic converters and prevent exhaust detoxification.

Due to the low ash-forming content and the reduction of the catalyst poisons sulphur and phosphorus, the engine oils guarantee a longer service life and efficiency of the exhaust gas purification systems and lower pollutant emissions.

ACEA Class C1 - C6 specifications for diesel vehicles set limits for the sulphate ash content of lubricants. This must not exceed 0.5% (Low SAPS for ACEA C1 & C4) or 0.8% (Mid SAPS for ACEA C2, C3, C5 & C6).