Smith & Allan has withdrawn its Momentum C3 SWTL 5W-30 engine oil following an investigation by Verification of Lubricant Specifications into product claims linked to a Stellantis engine oil specification. The case forms part of a broader market review launched in 2025 by VLS, an independent body that examines complaints and compliance issues related to lubricant performance claims.
The investigation focused on references to the Stellantis FPW 9.55535/03 specification, which applies to a range of modern vehicles produced by Stellantis. This specification was introduced in 2023–2024 and is associated with engines that use wet timing belt systems, where lubricant compatibility is critical to reducing belt wear, limiting debris formation and maintaining oil system performance.
Stellantis FPW 9.55535/03 is required for certain engines, including the 1.5 liter BlueHDi four-cylinder DV5R diesel engine, the 2 liter, four-cylinder inline Euro 6 DW10F diesel engine and the 2.2 BlueHD 2.2-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged DW12RU diesel engine, as well as 1.2-liter PureTech petrol engines. These powertrains are used across multiple Stellantis brands, including Peugeot, Citroën, DS, Fiat, Vauxhall, Opel and Jeep.
According to VLS, case VLS010244 examined whether the specification claim associated with the Smith & Allan product was supported by appropriate technical evidence, particularly in the absence of widely available market general additive technology aligned with the specification.
In its response to VLS, Smith & Allan stated that the claim had been presented on a “suitable for use” basis rather than as a formally approved product. The company subsequently agreed to pause sales and remove the product from its catalogue while awaiting the availability of formally approved market technology.
VLS confirmed that, based on this response, the case has been closed in line with its procedures, subject to a six-month review period.
Darren Frogson, chairman of VLS, stated that the organisation acknowledged the company’s cooperation and its decision to suspend sales pending further validation. He added that, within the wider investigation into oils referencing the same Stellantis specification, most claims reviewed were supported, while some products had either removed the claim or been withdrawn from sale.