Settlement Dilutes Oil Additive Claims

Ashland Inc. settled Federal Trade Commission charges that it misled consumers with ads touting the protection provided by the company’s Valvoline TM8 engine treatment. The Russell, Ky.-based company agreed to limit advertising claims about the oil additive’s ability to reduce engine-part wear. The settlement does not include a fine or an admission of wrongdoing. In July, Quaker State Corp. settled similar FTC charges in connection with the Slick 50 engine treatment, the nation’s top-selling brand. Quaker State agreed to provide at least $10 million in rebates, coupons or other incentives to consumers who bought the product.