HS Code for Motor Oil / Engine Oil / Automotive Lubricant: 2710.19.81

Classification Notes

Motor oil (engine oil for cars, trucks, motorcycles, marine) with conventional, synthetic, or semi-synthetic base stock is classified under 2710.19.81 when it contains 70%+ petroleum base oil. Full synthetic oils (Mobil 1, Castrol Edge, Shell Helix Ultra, Pennzoil Platinum) derived from Group III or IV base stocks still fall in 2710.19 if petroleum-derived. 100% synthetic PAO (poly-alpha-olefin) oils where the petroleum content is <70% may shift to 3403.19 (lubricating preparations with less than 70% petroleum). Gear oil, transmission fluid (ATF), power steering fluid, and differential fluid are all 2710.19 if petroleum-majority. 2-stroke engine oil is 2710.19. Bio-based motor oils (ester-based, GTL synthetic) may be 3403.19 instead of 2710.19. Brake fluid is NOT 2710.19 — it is 3819.00 (hydraulic brake fluids and other prepared liquids for hydraulic transmission). Coolant / antifreeze (ethylene glycol based) is 3820.00. Windshield washer fluid is 3402.90 (cleaning preparations) or 3820 depending on formulation. Motor oil excise taxes, environmental fees, and hazmat transport requirements apply separately — the HS code does not affect these. API / ACEA / ILSAC specification compliance is required for OEM warranty but does not affect tariff. EU REACH registration applies to the additive package. US has special tariff treatment for petroleum under 9902 at times.