Here's what I have learned. I decided to call Valvoline and ask a rep what they thought. The rep told me that Max_Life dex/merc meets the SPIII specs. I asked, if I have warranty problem what do i do? The response was that Valvoline stands behind there product, and pending a uoa on the fluid removed to make sure that the fluid was changed, and the problem was in fact the fluid, not defective mechanicals, Valvoline would pick up the tab. He went on to say that Valvoline has won several law suits against KIA denying claims. So that being said, I am going to stick with the KIA SPIII and do drain in refills, until out of warranty,and avoid any problems.