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GERMAN GOLD FAQ

General information about German Gold

German Gold is an international brand for premium lubricants, 100% “Made in Germany,” headquartered in 28359 Bremen, Germany.

The company operates according to the highest quality and environmental standards and is certified under ISO 14001, ISO 9001, and ISO 17025. Modern production and filling facilities ensure consistently high product quality and enable high-capacity output.

Thanks to a large inventory, efficient logistics, and short decision-making processes, the company can respond flexibly to market demands. Customers benefit from many years of experience, competitive pricing, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction.

The product range includes:

  • Hybrid engines
  • Passenger cars
  • Trucks
  • Two-wheelers
  • Outboard engines
  • Transmission oils (MTF)
  • Transmission oils (ATF)
  • Agricultural products
  • Hydraulic fluids
  • Brake fluids
  • Coolants
  • Additives
  • Care products

It stands for the highest quality standards, advanced technology, and reliable performance—certified according to ISO standards. In addition, all our products are manufactured exclusively in Germany.

High-performance lubricants “Made in Germany”
Production and laboratory facilities at German Gold are ISO-certified.
State-of-the-art, high-quality additive packages and base oils.
A comprehensive product range for all requirements.

The following product features are designed to protect German Gold products:

  • Tamper-proof hologram label on every bottle to ensure product authenticity
  • German Gold logo embossing on our motor oil bottles

Here are some reasons why German Gold products are so popular with customers worldwide:

  • Reliable quality – protects engines even under high stress
  • Easy product selection – clear structure and easy-to-read labels
  • Fewer complaints – satisfied customers and smooth workshop operations
  • Compatible with modern and older engines – wide viscosity range
  • Low oil consumption – less topping up, cleaner engines
  • Extended oil change intervals – reduced downtime, higher efficiency
  • Easy for customers to understand – builds trust through transparency
  • Proven internationally – successful in workshops worldwide
  • Developed to German standards – perfectly suited for vehicles with German OEM specifications

Application Compatibility

Yes, German Gold offers products for gasoline, diesel, and hybrid engines, as well as for industrial applications, hydraulics, and even marine use.

This means that German Gold products cover all common areas of application.

> Visit our product overview

Use the German Gold Oil Finder to quickly find the right oil for your vehicle: German Gold Oilfinder

Yes, for example, the ENGINE POWER 5W-40 ELITE has an official approval from Mercedes-Benz. Additional approvals from BMW, VW, and Audi are currently in preparation.

German Gold motor oils are compatible with all well-known brands, such as:

Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Porsche, Fiat, Citroën, Peugeot, Renault, Honda, Toyota, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Volvo, Piaggio, Caterpillar, Land Rover, Deutz, and many more.

Distribution & Partnerships

German Gold products are now available in over 40 countries worldwide.

Here is a list of countries (as of 2026):

Albania, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Colombia, Chile, China, Ecuador, Egypt, France, Ghana, Guatemala, Hong Kong, India, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Mali, North Macedonia, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, Paraguay, Oman, Qatar, Sudan, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan


Visit our Partnersite

On our partner page, you can find all exclusive dealers in your country::

> Our Partners

Become our partner – more than just distribution

Join the German Gold family and benefit from a strong, equal partnership. We are looking for exclusive distribution partners in new regions and countries who share our passion for quality and innovation.

Our premium lubricants, proudly made in Germany, combine top-tier quality with outstanding design and are equipped with holograms to protect against counterfeiting. Thanks to state-of-the-art production methods and the latest additive packages, we provide the ideal foundation for shared growth and success.

As our partner, you will enjoy exclusive distribution rights, excellent customer service, and comprehensive marketing support. Let’s shape the future together and expand into new markets!

Interested?

Feel free to contact our Head of Sales:

Henrik Buhrdorf
COO / Vertriebsleiter

E-Mail: [email protected]
Phone: +49 (0) 421 – 22 300 950

General Questions About Engine Oil

There are three main types of engine oil, which differ in their composition and performance:

Synthetic:

  • Fully chemically engineered for optimal performance.
  • Offers high temperature resistance, long service life, and is ideal for modern engines.


Semi-Synthetic:

  • A blend of synthetic and mineral oil.
  • Provides a good balance between cost and performance, with better properties than mineral oil.

Mineral:

  • Derived from refined crude oil.
  • Cost-effective and suitable for older engines with lower performance requirements.

The SAE classification (Society of Automotive Engineers) describes the viscosity of engine oil—how thick or thin it is at different temperatures.

  • 5W refers to the oil’s flow properties at low temperatures (winter). The lower the number before the “W,” the better the oil flows in cold conditions.
  • 30 indicates the viscosity at operating temperature. Higher numbers mean the oil remains thicker at higher temperatures.

Example: SAE 5W-30 is a multi-grade oil that flows well in cold conditions and remains stable at high temperatures—making it ideal for many modern vehicles.

  • Viscosity describes how easily or thickly the oil flows at certain temperatures. It is indicated by the SAE classification.
  • Oil type refers to the chemical composition of the oil: synthetic, semi-synthetic, or mineral.

Both properties are crucial for engine performance and protection.

The right engine oil depends on your vehicle type, engine, and the manufacturer’s specifications. Here’s how to find the correct oil:

  • Check the manual: The owner’s manual lists the recommended viscosity and specifications.
  • Review the oil packaging: Look for approvals such as “VW 504 00” or “BMW Longlife-04.”
  • Ask a workshop or the manufacturer: Experts can recommend the right oil for your vehicle.
  • Use the German Gold Finder Search directly by vehicle type or via key number.

Application & Compatibility

Yes, in general you can change your engine oil yourself—provided you have the necessary tools, technical knowledge, and a suitable workspace. Important points to consider:

  • The vehicle must be securely lifted and supported.
  • Used oil must be disposed of properly (e.g., at a designated collection point).
  • The oil filter should also be replaced.

If you are unsure, it is recommended to have the oil change done by a professional workshop.

The oil change interval depends on the vehicle type, engine, and the oil used. General guidelines:

  • Every 15.000–30.000 km or
  • Once a year, whichever comes first.


Modern vehicles using long-life oils may have longer intervals. It’s best to follow the recommendations in the owner’s manual or service booklet.

Using an unsuitable engine oil can have serious consequences:

  • Increased engine wear due to insufficient lubrication
  • Loss of manufacturer warranty
  • More deposits and reduced engine performance

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended viscosity and specifications (e.g., SAE 5W-30, ACEA, API).

Our engine oils are suitable for a wide range of car brands and models. They meet international standards and manufacturer specifications. However:

  • Please check before purchasing whether the oil has the required approval for your vehicle manufacturer.
  • If you have any questions, contact your local German Gold dealer to find the right product.
  • Use our online Oil Finder for quick and easy selection.
  • Dieselmotoren often require oils with special additives for soot control and turbocharger protection.
  • Benzinmotoren have different requirements in terms of temperature behavior and engine cleanliness.


However, many modern oils are suitable for both engine types (so-called “universal oils”). The exact specifications can be found on the label or in the technical data sheet.

Environment & Sustainability

Our engine oils are formulated to deliver maximum performance with the lowest possible environmental impact. However:

  • Conventional engine oil is not biodegradable, as it is based on mineral or synthetic base oils.
  • We do offer more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as low-SAPS oils with reduced levels of sulfur, phosphorus, and sulfated ash—ideal for modern exhaust aftertreatment systems.
  • Some specialized products for industrial applications may be biodegradable, but they are generally not suitable for passenger car engines.

Used oil is hazardous waste and must never be disposed of in household waste, drains, or on the ground. Proper disposal options include:

  • Taking it to a local recycling or waste collection center, or
  • Returning it to the retailer, who is legally required (in Germany) to accept used oil in the same quantity as the purchased fresh oil

Tip: Keep the original container—you can use it to safely store and transport the used oil.

Yes, sustainability is important to us:

  • Our oil containers are partly made from recycled plastic and are fully recyclable.
  • We continuously work to reduce material usage and make our packaging more environmentally friendly.
  • Our shipping and storage processes are also designed to conserve resources and reduce CO₂ emissions.
 
 

Quality & Certifications

Our engine oils meet a wide range of international and manufacturer-specific standards:

  • API (American Petroleum Institute): Classifies oils based on performance and application, e.g., API SN, SP for gasoline engines or API CK-4 for diesel engines.
  • ACEA (Association des Constructeurs Européens d’Automobiles): European standards for engine oil quality, e.g., ACEA C3 for modern gasoline and diesel engines with exhaust aftertreatment systems.
  • OEM approvals: Our products carry approvals from leading vehicle manufacturers, such as:
    • VW 504 00 / 507 00
    • VW 508 00 / 509 00
    • Mercedes-Benz MB 229.5


These approvals ensure that the oil meets the specific requirements of each manufacturer.

Our quality assurance follows strict German and international standards:

  • Laboratory analysis: Each oil undergoes extensive testing in certified laboratories, including viscosity, oxidation stability, contaminant handling capacity, and cold-temperature performance.
  • DIN and ISO standards: Our production follows quality management systems such as ISO 9001 and environmental standards like ISO 14001.
  • Regular audits: Independent testing institutes and OEMs carry out routine inspections and evaluations.
  • Made in Germany: German Gold oils are exclusively developed and filled in Germany, with a strong focus on precision and reliability.

OEM stands for “Original Equipment Manufacturer,” meaning the vehicle manufacturer. An OEM approval means:

  • The oil has been tested and officially approved by the manufacturer.
  • It meets all technical requirements for specific engine models.
  • Using an approved oil is often necessary to maintain the warranty and ensure optimal engine protection.

In short: An OEM approval is a quality seal that gives you confidence that the oil is perfectly suited to your vehicle.

Produktinformationen und Bestellung

Where can I purchase your engine oil as a dealer?

Are you interested in German Gold products?

If you are a distributor and would like to sell German Gold products in your country, please note that we operate exclusively on a B2B basis as a manufacturer and wholesaler.

Feel free to contact our Head of Sales:

Henrik Buhrdorf
COO / Vertriebsleiter

Email: [email protected]
Phone: +49 (0) 421 – 22 300 950

Unopened engine oil typically has a shelf life of at least 3 to 5 years, provided it is stored in a cool, dry place away from direct light. Once opened, we recommend:

  • Using the oil within 12 months
  • Keeping the container tightly sealed at all times
  • Checking for changes in smell, color, or consistency—if anything seems unusual, do not use the oil

The label contains important information about the oil’s quality and suitability:

  • SAE classification (e.g., 5W-30): Indicates the viscosity at cold and operating temperatures.
  • API/ACEA standards: International quality standards for gasoline and diesel engines.
  • OEM approvals: Manufacturer approvals such as VW 504 00, BMW LL-04, or MB 229.51.
  • Low-SAPS / HC synthesis / fully synthetic: Information about the composition and environmental characteristics.
  • Application: Specifies whether the oil is suitable for diesel, gasoline, hybrid engines, or specific vehicle models.

In short: An OEM approval is a quality seal that ensures the oil is perfectly suited to your vehicle.

Technical Support

If you’re not sure which oil is suitable for your vehicle, we recommend:

  • Checking the owner’s manual or service booklet
  • Having your vehicle identification number (VIN) ready—this allows the exact oil to be determined
  • Using our online Oil Finder
  • Contacting a local German Gold dealer for assistance

Yes! We offer a convenient online Oil Finder, and you can also receive personal advice from your local German Gold dealer:

German Gold Online Oil Finder
Simply enter your vehicle details (make, model, year), and we will show you the right oil.

Go to the Online Oil Finder

Personal oil advice
Alternatively, you can get individual assistance from a local German Gold dealer.

Of course! Our technical customer service team is happy to assist you:

We are glad to help you with questions about specifications, approvals, or oil changes.

  • Personal assistance
    You can also get support from your local German Gold dealer.

    Our Partners

 

GERMAN GOLD
Handelsgesellschaft mbH

Fahrenheitstr. 11 (Haus III)
28359 Bremen
Germany

Contact us
Phone: +49 (0) 421 – 22 300 950
Fax: +49 (0) 421 – 22 300 925

E-Mail: [email protected]
Or use our contact form

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