What is Volvo VDS-5?
Volvo VDS-5 is Volvo’s most advanced heavy-duty diesel engine oil approval, developed for use in post-2021 engines such as the fuel-efficient 11-litre and 13-litre models. This specification introduces a significant change in Volvo’s approach to enhancing fuel efficiency and emission reduction. VDS-5 oils feature lower High Temperature High Shear (HTHS) viscosities, ranging between 2.9 and 3.5 cP, which reduces oil film thickness between critical engine components such as bearings and liners. This reduced thickness decreases internal friction, leading to improved energy efficiency, lower CO₂ emissions, and optimised fuel economy.
It should be highlighted that VDS-5 oils are not backwards compatible with older engines that require higher-viscosity lubricants to maintain proper oil pressure and performance. Extensive testing of VDS-5 oils has shown that their thinner films and extended drain intervals place greater demands on engine components, requiring formulations that can deliver robust protection while reducing operational costs.
Key Benefits of VDS-5 Oils:
VDS-5-approved oils, such as TRUCK-GUARD ELITE LS-FE 5W-30, offer fleet operators significant advantages:
- Enhanced fuel efficiency, improving by up to 0.5% compared to 10W-30 oils, translating into lower operational costs.
- Protection for key engine components, including pistons, cylinders, valve trains, and rings, from wear, soot, and deposits.
- Support for extended oil drain intervals, reducing vehicle downtime and maintenance frequency.
- Advanced low-viscosity formulations that contribute to improved total cost of ownership through reduced emissions and optimised performance.
TRUCK-GUARD ELITE LS-FE 5W-30
TRUCK-GUARD ELITE LS-FE 5W-30 is a fully synthetic HDDO formulated specifically to meet the stringent demands of VDS-5-approved ultra-high-performance diesel (UHPD) engines. Designed for the latest emission-compliant commercial vehicles, it delivers exceptional performance even in the most challenging conditions.
This oil’s low HTHS viscosity of approximately 3.1 cP minimises drag on engine components, ensuring energy savings and maximising fuel efficiency. Its superior wear control, thermal stability, and sludge resistance protect engines from high-temperature degradation, ensuring reliability. Furthermore, optimised low-temperature fluidity ensures dependable cold starts, particularly in harsh winter conditions, reducing downtime for fleets operating in colder climates.
Approvals and Specifications:
In addition to its Volvo VDS-5 approval, TRUCK-GUARD ELITE LS-FE 5W-30 meets the rigorous standards of multiple OEMs, including:
- MB Approval 228.61 / Daimler DTFR 15C130
- Renault RLD-5 Approved
- Mack EOS-5 Approved
It also complies with key industry standards, such as ACEA F01, API FA-4, and JASO DH-2. Notably, the ACEA FA-4 specification was introduced in ACEA-24, reflecting advancements in engine oil technology and its alignment with modern engine performance and emission requirements. You can find the full list of specifications, approvals, and recommendations on our product information page: https://rockoil.co.uk/products/truck-guard-elite-ls-fe-5w-30/
Why Choose VDS-5 Approved Oils?
By meeting the demanding standards of the Volvo VDS-5 approval, TRUCK-GUARD ELITE LS-FE 5W-30 represents a step forward in sustainability and operational efficiency. For fleets utilising Volvo’s latest engines, this oil ensures peak performance, reduces maintenance costs, and unlocks the full potential of modern fuel-efficient technologies.
“We supply some of the UK’s largest fleet operators and truck main dealers, who trust us to provide the latest OEM-approved products. The Volvo VDS-5 approval for TRUCK-GUARD ELITE LS-FE 5W-30 highlights our commitment to delivering cutting-edge, high-performance solutions that meet the most stringent OEM warranty standards”
Layth Shaw, Sales Director at Rock Oil
All of Rock Oil’s lubricants are manufactured at our facility in Warrington, ensuring consistent quality and performance in every product. Alongside TRUCK-GUARD ELITE LS-FE 5W-30, we offer an extensive range of oils tailored to meet the needs of both previous and current generations of heavy-duty diesel engines. These include products specifically formulated for engines equipped with advanced aftertreatment systems, such as exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), selective catalytic reduction (SCR), diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC), and diesel particulate filters (DPF). Our comprehensive range ensures that every fleet operator can find the ideal solution to optimise engine performance and reliability.
If your fleet is not yet ready to upgrade to VDS-5-approved oils, our expert team can recommend suitable lubricants tailored to your specific requirements. The cost savings from transitioning to VDS-5, thanks to improved fuel economy and extended drain intervals, can offset the initial investment in newer engines. Contact us today to explore how our VDS-5-approved products and wider lubricant range can transform your commercial fleet.