Heritage

1866

Unable to find any healing powers in crude oil, Dr. John Ellis changes course and develops a petroleum lubricant for steam engines running at high temperatures.

With no more gummed valves, corroded cylinders, leaky seals or animal-based engine lubricants to contend with, the nation grows full steam ahead.

1920

When the Model T is mass-produced with a side-valve 4-cylinder engine, only one motor oil is recommended to keep them all running.

In fact, each car has a plaque mounted on the dash panel that reads: THIS CAR IS FILLED WITH VALVOLINE LIGHT MOTOR OIL. WE RECOMMEND ITS USE. NO OTHER OIL SHOULD BE USED IN THIS CAR.

1939

Valvoline™ develops a single grade oil, called X-18, that eliminates the need for 18 other specific car lubricants.

1945

Leading up to the end of WWII, Valvoline™ is widely used to lubricate allied vehicles. If it’s good enough for an army fleet, you can use it in your family car.

1954

With the economy in high gear, hot rods all the rage and people driving more often, automakers shift to the powerful overhead valve v8 engine.

Valvoline™ responds with its all-climate oil, so people don’t have to switch oils for each season.

1965

With America’s obsession with the speed and power of muscle cars, Valvoline™ introduces an oil specifically designed for racing, now called VR1.

1978

As more drivers hit the road, they get more comfortable in their own garages.

Valvoline™ gives these DIY mechanics a hand by putting oil change instructions on its labels.

1985

Overhead cams and electronic fuel injection systems start appearing in many cars, making them more reliable and their engines longer lasting.

1985

Valvoline™ responds to the “Do-It-For-Me” consumer demands by entering the quick-lube business with the purchase of the Rapid Oil Change chain. The name was changed to Valvoline Instant Oil Change® in 1987.

1996

To withstand increasingly hotter engine temperatures, Valvoline™ introduces DuraBlend™, its first synthetic blend motor oil.

2000

In response to the aging population of cars from the 80s and 90s, Valvoline™ develops MaxLife™, which helps to restore lost horsepower in cars with over 75,000 miles.

2007

Valvoline Instant Oil ChangeSM helps even more cars stay on the road and opens its 500th location.

2011

As oil prices rise, horsepower doesn’t fall – thanks to hotter-running, turbocharged, downsized engines.

To help reduce environmental impact, Valvoline introduces NextGen™, with 50% re-refined oil.

2014

Valvoline™ teams up with Hendrick Motorsports.

2015

Valvoline™ launches the new Pro-V™ Racing line of oils and lubricants. This new formula utilizes the same technology and professional expertise behind our professional race teams.