Frequently Asked Questions
Who participates in this program?
Motor Oil Matters is designed for everyone—motor oil marketers, distributors, installers and consumers. API will introduce licensing programs for distributors and installers in 2012. If you're a distributor or an installer, register today and we will keep you informed about how you can get licensed.
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Can I join Motor Oil Matters?
If you distribute or install motor oils meeting API engine oil performance standards then yes, you are probably eligible to be a Motor Oil Matters licensee. To be considered for licensing, click here and enter your contact information.
If you don't distribute or install API-quality oil, you can still benefit from Motor Oil Matters. Register for more info here, and thank you for your interest in Motor Oil Matters!
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Who started this program?
Shell started Motor Oil Matters in 2009 and in 2011 transferred the program to the American Petroleum Institute so that all distributors and installers of quality motor oils could take part.
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What happens after I register for Motor Oil Matters?
If you are a motor oil distributor you'll receive a confirmation email thanking you for your registration. In the next few months you'll be contacted by an official Motor Oil Matters auditor, who will visit your business and verify that it meets all program qualifications.
If you are an installer you’ll also receive a confirmation email, and then in the next few months we’ll invite you to register your location(s).
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What are the qualifications for being a licensed distributor?
Here's what our auditors will be looking for on their visits:
- Are your chain of custody documents and your retain samples in order?
- Are you able to clearly identify the motor oil you distribute, including brand names, viscosity grades, API service categories, API license status and information that ensures traceability to product performance?
- Do you order product by requesting the information above, and have you documented each order in writing?
- Do your Bill of Lading and other documents meet purchase order requirements?
- Are you keeping clear records of product deliveries from oil marketers for at least six months?
- Are copies of your drop tickets to installers available?
- Are your invoices to installers clearly labeled?
- Are you keeping clear records of product deliveries to installers for at least six months?
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What happens if I don't meet these qualifications?
Unfortunately, you won't be able to join the Motor Oil Matters program or call yourself a licensed distributor of engine oil.
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Why should I become a Licensed Distributor?
Here are just a few benefits of becoming a Motor Oil Matters Licensed Distributor:
- You’ll show installers and consumers that you’re committed to delivering quality motor oil
- You’ll help level the playing field by preventing inaccurate claims about engine oils
- You’ll be able to advertise yourself as a Motor Oil Matters Licensed Distributor —something that will differentiate you from other distributors in your area
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I was part of Shell's Motor Oil Matters program. Do I need to register again?
Yes. Since this is a new, expanded program—and since API has updated the requirements for licensing—all installers, even if they were part of Shell's Motor Oil Matters program, must re-register. Please re-register today!
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Is this a mandatory program?
No, this program is completely voluntary. But without registering, you won't be able to identify yourself as a licensed distributor—and this extra level of prestige is something installers will look for when they choose their distributors.
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A local business is calling themselves licensed distributors, but I think they're breaking the program's rules. What can I do to stop this?
API takes violation of the program seriously. If you know of businesses that call themselves licensed distributors but don't meet Motor Oil Matters requirements, contact us here. A program auditor will investigate and identify any issues.
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I have more questions about Motor Oil Matters. Where can I ask them?
If you have a question that hasn't been answered, contact us here and we'll try our best to answer.
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