EMKA Paper 1/2025

PREMIUM OILS

Strong Arguments for Specialist Retailers to Sensitise Customers to Quality

Germans, in comparison to other Europeans, tend to invest heavily in their kitchen equipment– yet they are also pioneers of discount stores and low-cost food products. Why should it be any different when it comes to vehicles? “Do you have anything cheaper?” – a question automotive retailers hear almost daily. It’s true: in a price comparison, budget oils from hardware stores or online platforms often seem more appealing than premium products. What’s often overlooked, however, are the long-term consequences – on the engine, the emissions control system, and perhaps most importantly, the trust between customer and dealer. What may appear to be a bargain at first glance can, in the medium and long run, turn into costly damage for everyone involved.

As a manufacturer of premium-quality products, it’s important to us to equip our partners in specialist retail with both technical expertise and concrete selling points for high-quality products. The result? Stronger customer loyalty – and higher profit margins.

Warranty Matters: OEM Approvals Are Key

Generic claims like “meets specification XY” or “comparable to…” are common on low-cost motor oils. However, these statements are not legally or technically binding. They merely reflect the manufacturer’s opinion that certain requirements are met – without any official endorsement by the manufacturer.

In contrast, EMKA products such as Supersint MB-V 0W20 or Supersint LL FE SAE 0W20 carry official OEM approvals – such as Mercedes-Benz 229.72, VW 508 00/509 00, BMW Longlife-04, and many more. These approvals confirm suitability for specific engines and safeguard the vehicle owner’s warranty claims.

More Than Just Oil - Modern Formulations Offer Extra Performance and Protection

Budget oils typically use low-cost base oils and minimal additive packages that only meet basic standards. Such products are not designed for modern engine technologies like downsizing, hybrid systems, or start-stop operations. Our oils, enhanced with advanced additives, prevent turbocharger deposits, optimize friction, and offer LSPI protection – crucial for many small to mid-range car engines. These carefully developed additives play a key role in preventing engine damage.

The Long-Term Advantage - Only Premium Oils Support Extended Oil Change Intervals

If a customer wants to change oil only once a year, the oil must be able to handle that. Budget oils may suffice short-term, but under thermal stress, they often lose viscosity stability and oxidation resistance quickly. Especially in modern engines with Longlife Service and Intervals of up to 30,000 km, cheap oils may fail long before it’s time for the next change. Products like Supersint LL-12 FE 0W30 or Multi Superpower C-3 5W30 are specifically engineered by EMKA to guarantee high stability and cleaning performance over extended service intervals.

Performance all the way – that’s what counts. Or does price alone ultimately decide? Those who save in the wrong place may face serious consequences – for example, a damaged diesel particle filter. And when the repair bill lands, even a small saving on oil feels like a bad decision. The simple truth: Those who use the right oil have fewer problems, drive more efficiently over time – and keep their engine running longer. Not because the label says “Premium”—but because the oil truly performs..

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