Kia Borrego Oil and Lubricants

Valvoline High Performance Synthetic Gear Oil is the thermally stabile extreme pressure lubricant that offers outstanding protection for gearboxes and differentials in passenger cars, light trucks, and sport utility vehicles. Combined with high quality synthetic base oils, our formula’s superior additives help reliably safeguard against severe temperatures, shock loads, foaming, scuffing, scouring, corrosion and pitting in high load, high torque and high horsepower conditions. Can be used in conventional and limited slip hypoid differentials where GL-5 is specified as well as non-synchronized manual transmissions that require GL-4. Protect your gears with Valvoline, the #1 gear oil brand.

Product Features:

• HIGH PERFORMANCE EXTREME-PRESSURE ADDITIVES HELP MINIMIZE WEAR in high pressure and high temperature conditions
• EXCEPTIONAL HIGH AND LOW TEMPERATURE PROTECTION can easily handle both winter and summer conditions for dependable coverage and protection year-round
• REDUCES CHATTERING AND PROTECTS GEAR TEETH from oxidation, rust, and wear
• FIGHTS CORROSION AND RUST with emulsifying agents and safeguards against impurities, oxidation and thermal breakdown
• SUPERIOR ADDITIVES help reliably safeguard against severe temperatures, shock loads, foaming, scuffing, scouring, corrosion and pitting in high load, high torque and high horsepower conditions

Valvoline High Performance Synthetic Gear Oil is the thermally stabile extreme pressure lubricant that offers outstanding protection for gearboxes and differentials in passenger cars, light trucks, and sport utility vehicles. Combined with high quality synthetic base oils, our formula’s superior additives help reliably safeguard against severe temperatures, shock loads, foaming, scuffing, scouring, corrosion and pitting in high load, high torque and high horsepower conditions. Can be used in conventional and limited slip hypoid differentials where GL-5 is specified as well as non-synchronized manual transmissions that require GL-4. Protect your gears with Valvoline, the #1 gear oil brand.

Product Features:

• HIGH PERFORMANCE EXTREME-PRESSURE ADDITIVES HELP MINIMIZE WEAR in high pressure and high temperature conditions
• EXCEPTIONAL HIGH AND LOW TEMPERATURE PROTECTION can easily handle both winter and summer conditions for dependable coverage and protection year-round
• REDUCES CHATTERING AND PROTECTS GEAR TEETH from oxidation, rust, and wear
• FIGHTS CORROSION AND RUST with emulsifying agents and safeguards against impurities, oxidation and thermal breakdown
• SUPERIOR ADDITIVES help reliably safeguard against severe temperatures, shock loads, foaming, scuffing, scouring, corrosion and pitting in high load, high torque and high horsepower conditions

FRAM Full Synthetic High Mileage SAE 5W-20 is a full synthetic motor oil blended with high quality synthetic base stocks and and enhanced additives that meet the stringent API: SP, SN, SM, SL, SJ, and ILSAC GF-6A specifications while reducing leaks and oil consumption in worn or higher mileage engines. Formulated with synthetic base stocks, this oil offers increased oxidation inhibition performance as well as increased high and low temperature performance when compared against conventional oils. The FRAM Full Synthetic High Mileage SAE 5W-20 is formulated to help clean out sludge buildup and keep engines running clean and with increased efficiency and power. Specially designed for engines with over 75,000 miles, the FRAM Full Synthetic High Mileage SAE 5W-20 provides the ultimate protection for your higher mileage engine. Specifically formulated for the rigorous environment of gas-direct engine (GDI) and turbo gas-direct engine (TGDI) designs as well as providing increased protection for carbureted or normally fuel injected engines. FRAM Full Synthetic High Mileage SAE 5W-20 contains additive technology designed to prevent low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI). LSPI can lead to pre-mature engine failure and is a major concern of the automotive industry for vehicles employing GDI or TGDI technology. This oil also provides increased wear protection, oxidation and shear stability for higher mileage vehicles over previous oil categories.

Product Features:

• Faster oil flow at start-up
• Fuel efficiency gains over heavier grade oils
• Reduces oil cumsumption
• Excellent sludge and varnish protection
• Slows engine leaks
• Outstanding thermal and oxidation stability
• Lowers oil vaporization and consumption at extreme conditions
• ALWAYS REFER TO YOUR VEHICLES OPERATING MANUAL TO SELECT THE CORRECT GRADE OIL FOR YOUR ENGINE.
• Protection for Advanced Engine Designs: Specifically designed for gas-direct engine (GDI) and turbo gas-direct engine (TGDI) designs, providing increased protection and preventing low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) which can lead to premature engine failure.
• Increased Wear Protection and Stability: Provides increased wear protection, oxidation, and shear stability for higher mileage vehicles, ensuring long-lasting engine performance and reliability.

Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage SAE 0W-20 is a full synthetic motor oil that is uniquely engineered from our revolutionary PurePlus gas-to-liquid technology which is a patented process that converts pure natural gas into a high quality, full synthetic base oil. Because it is made from natural gas, the base oil is 99.5% pure, contains fewer impurities than base oils made from crude oil, and when combined with our advanced additive technology, creates one of the best formulations in our Pennzoil high mileage portfolio. As your car ages, leaks may develop and cause higher oil consumption and oil burn off, potentially causing your engine to need frequent top-offs. Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage motor oil is enhanced with an excellent combination of special conditioning seal agents and additives to help stop leaks from seals and reduce the oil consumption that is typical of older and worn engines. Our full synthetic high mileage motor oil also protects engines from loss of horsepower, offers excellent performance in extreme temperatures, and provides unsurpassed wear protection, and protection against abnormal combustion phenomenon like low-speed pre-ignition observed in modern turbocharged gasoline direct injection (TGDI) engines. Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage SAE 0W-20 is engineered to help keep engines clean by gently lifting deposits and keeping them away from critical moving engine parts In fact, it keeps pistons up to 50% cleaner than the toughest industry standards.

Product Features:

• Designed for for vehicles with over 75,000 miles
• Pennzoil platinum high mileage 0w-20 keeps pistons up to 45% cleaner than the toughest industry standard (based on sequence iiih results)
• No other leading high mileage engine oil provides better protection from friction (based on sequence iva wear test using sae 5w-30)
• Formulated to deliver less oil burn off than high mileage engine oils made from crude oil
• Helps protect engines from loss of horsepower
• Provides faster low-temperature oil flow and protects in extreme heat

Valvoline Daily Protection Motor Oil is specially formulated to exceed industry standards for wear, deposit and sludge protection to help keep engines running like new. Developed with high quality additives and premium base oils, it’s designed to flow easily at cold temperatures, reducing wear at startup and providing added protection against motor oil breakdown in tough conditions. For enhanced fuel efficiency, choose Daily Protection Synthetic Blend 5W-20 or 5W-30. Developed with low-friction technology to support strong fuel economy.

Product Features:

• Extra wear protection designed to help keep automotive engine parts like new
• Added detergents help protect against sludge and deposits
• High quality additives resist motor oil breakdown in tough conditions
• Low-friction formula supports strong fuel efficiency
• Premium formulation flows easily at low temperatures reducing wear at start-up

Castrol® GTX® High Mileage motor oil is the leading consumer high-mileage brand. It’s a synthetic blend motor oil that helps extend the life of your engine by protecting against sludge, wear and burn-off. Castrol GTX High Mileage is also engineered to protect your emission system. One of the leading causes of ‘check engine’ lights coming on in high mileage cars is catalytic converter failure, which can be caused by phosphorous in engine oil. While phosphorous is present in all engine oils for its ability to reduce wear, it is effectively poisonous to catalytic converters. Castrol GTX High Mileage is formulated with Phosphorous Replacement Technology to replace some of the phosphorous with an advanced additive that maintains robust wear protection. When you want to extend the life of your high mileage engine and emission system, there is no better choice than Castrol GTX High Mileage.

Product Features:

• Phosphorus Replacement Technology to help extend the life of the emission system
• Superior dispersancy that fights sludge build up
• Exceptional oil burn-off protection exceeding industry standards (based on API and ACEA volatility specifications)
• Seal conditioners to help reduce leaks
• Advanced additives that minimize engine wear
• Improved fuel economy (in 5W-20, 5W-30 and 10W-30 grades versus industry specifications)
• Meets or exceeds API SP/SN PLUS/SN, ILSAC GF-6 and latest Ford specs
• Synthetic Blend Composition: Combines the benefits of synthetic and conventional oils to provide superior protection against sludge, wear, and burn-off, extending the life of your high mileage engine.
• High Mileage Engine Care: Designed for vehicles with high mileage, offering enhanced protection to keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently.
• Optimal Viscosity: With an SAE oil weight of 5W-20, this motor oil ensures optimal performance and protection in a wide range of temperatures and driving conditions.

FRAM Engine Oil Full Synthetic SAE 5W-20 is a full synthetic motor oil blended with high quality synthetic base stocks and the latest additive technology to meet the stringent API: SP, SN, SM, SL, SJ, GM dexos®1 Gen 2 and ILSAC GF-6A specifications to provide the ultimate protection for your engine. Specifically formulated for the rigorous environment of gas-direct engine (GDI) and turbo gas-direct engine (TGDI) designs as well as providing increased protection for carbureted or normally fuel injected engines. FRAM Engine Oil Full Synthetic SAE 5W-20 contains additive technology designed to prevent low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI). LSPI can lead to pre-mature engine failure and is a major concern of the automotive industry for vehicles employing GDI or TGDI technology. This oil also provides increased wear protection, oxidation and shear stability over previous oil categories. FRAM Engine Oil Full Synthetic SAE 5W-20 and is a fully licensed GM dexos®1 Gen 2 motor oil.

Product Features:

• Faster oil flow at start-up
• Fuel efficiency gains over heavier grade oils
• Excellent sludge and varnish protection
• Outstanding thermal and oxidation stability
• Lowers oil vaporization and consumption at extreme conditions
• ALWAYS REFER TO YOUR VEHICLES OPERATING MANUAL TO SELECT THE CORRECT GRADE OIL FOR YOUR ENGINE.
• Ultimate Engine Protection: FRAM Engine Oil Full Synthetic SAE 5W-20 meets stringent API: SP, SN, SM, SL, SJ, GM dexos«1 Gen 2, and ILSAC GF-6A specifications, ensuring top-tier protection for your engine.
• Advanced Additive Technology: Specifically formulated to prevent low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI), a major concern for vehicles with gas-direct engine (GDI) and turbo gas-direct engine (TGDI) designs, reducing the risk of pre-mature engine failure.
• Enhanced Wear Protection: Provides increased wear protection, oxidation, and shear stability over previous oil categories, extending the life of your engine.
• Versatile Compatibility: Suitable for a variety of engine types, including GDI, TGDI, carbureted, and normally fuel-injected engines, making it a versatile choice for many vehicles.

Pennzoil Platinum full synthetic SAE 5W-20 motor oil is uniquely engineered from our revolutionary PurePlus gas-to-liquid technology, which is a patented process that converts pure natural gas into a high quality, full synthetic base oil. Our high-quality base oil is 99.5% pure, contains fewer impurities than base oils made from crude oil, and when combined with our advanced additive technology, creates one of the best formulations in our Pennzoil portfolio. Pennzoil Platinum full synthetic SAE 5W-20 motor oil is licensed and meets the vehicle warranty requirements of GM’s dexos 1 Gen 2 specifications that are set forth to meet today’s modern engine technologies. This means that our Pennzoil Platinum full synthetic products meet the stringent requirements of leading car manufacturers. Why does this matter? Modern engine technologies have evolved over the years and today’s engine parts have reached an unprecedented level of fine manufacturing tolerances which require a high-quality engine oil to help provide complete engine protection. This includes protection against abnormal combustion phenomenon like low-speed pre-ignition observed in modern turbocharged gasoline direct injection (TGDI) engines. Our Pennzoil Full Synthetic products are engineered for modern engines and offer the following benefits without compromise. Better Fuel Economy. With Pennzoil Platinum full synthetic motor oil, you can drive on average an extra 550 miles vs a dirty engine. Protects Horsepower. Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic motor oil helps protect against loss of power by helping to protect your engine against wear and deposit formation. Unsurpassed Wear Protection. When it comes to protecting the internal parts of your engine from metal-on-metal contact, no other leading synthetic motor oil provides better wear protection than Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic motor oil. Excellent Temperature Performance.

Product Features:

• Provides better fuel economy-drive on average an extra 550 miles per year (versus a dirty engine)
• Pennzoil platinum 0w-20 keeps pistons up to 45% cleaner than the toughest industry standard (based on sequence iiih results)
• No other leading synthetic oil provides better wear protection from friction (based on sequence iva wear test using sae 5w-30)
• Formulated to provide faster low-temperature oil flow and protection in extreme heat
• Helps protect engines from loss of power
• Formulated for modern turbocharged engines-gf-6, api sp/sp-resource conserving and all previous categories

Mobil 1 advanced full synthetic motor oil 5W-20 helps to extend engine life for vehicles of all ages. Mobil 1 advanced synthetic motor oil is designed to deliver outstanding engine protection from the five factors that can damage engines over time and protect critical engine parts for up to 10,000 miles between oil changes (1) . Its uniform synthetic oil molecules reduce friction, helping to prevent deposits and sludge buildup. Mobil 1 helps to keep your engine running at lower temperatures. (2) This technologically advanced motor oil is proven to cool engine temperatures by over 10%. (3) Its formulation provides excellent internal engine heat protection (up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit), and low-temperature protection (to -30 degrees Fahrenheit), supporting quick cold-weather starting and ultra-fast protection. Mobil 1 advanced full synthetic motor oil meets ILSAC GF-6 standards to help provide low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear protection while keeping your engine clean and helping to improve your fuel economy. Mobil 1 advanced full synthetic motor oil 5W-20 also helps control oxidation to prevent oil breakdown and is recommended by ExxonMobil for all types of modern vehicles, including high-performance turbo-charged, and supercharged gasoline and diesel multi-valve fuel-injected engines found in passenger cars, SUVs, light vans, and light trucks. Mobil 1 is America’s leading synthetic motor oil brand at retail¿, recommended by car builders and experienced mechanics, and is the Official Motor Oil of NASCAR®. ( (1) Protects for up to 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. To learn more about the Mobil 1 Limited Warranty, visit Mobil.US. (2) Compared to conventional oil. (3) Based on proprietary engine testing¿results may vary. (4) Source: The NPD Group/Retail Tracking Service/Dollar Sales/PCMO Full Synthetic/52 weeks ending February 25, 2023.)

Product Features:

• Mobil 1 advanced full-synthetic motor oil 5W-20 utilizes Mobil 1’s signature Triple Action Formula to deliver outstanding engine performance, protection, and cleanliness.
• Helps protect critical engine parts for up to 10,000 miles between oil changes,(1) controlling oxidation to prevent oil breakdown and maintaining excellent viscosity
• Meets ILSAC GF-6 standards to help provide low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear protection while keeping your engine clean and helping to improve your fuel economy
• Mobil 1 is specially formulated to help remove sludge and lower engine temperatures
• Provides excellent internal engine heat protection (up to 500 degrees F) and low temperature protection (to -30 degrees F)
• Manufacturer Part Number: 120763
• Extended Engine Life: Mobil 1 advanced full synthetic motor oil 5W-20 helps to extend engine life for vehicles of all ages by providing outstanding protection against the five factors that can damage engines over time.
• Versatile Application: Recommended for all types of modern vehicles, including high-performance turbo-charged, and supercharged gasoline and diesel multi-valve fuel-injected engines found in passenger cars, SUVs, light vans, and light trucks.

Castrol EDGE with Fluid TITANIUM Technology is Castrol’s strongest oil and the natural choice for drivers who want the best combination of sludge protection, wear protection and maximum engine performance. Unlock maximum performance with every drive. Today’s engines are smaller, more powerful and under more pressure than ever before. Castrol EDGE has been engineered to withstand the stress of modern engines and provides 10X better high temperature performance than the latest industry standard. Did you know that friction can waste up to 10% of an engine’s performance? Increased demands placed on the engine to deliver power and fuel efficiency create intense friction between critical engine parts. Castrol EDGE transforms its structure under pressure to keep metal apart and reduce friction for maximum engine performance and delivers 6X better wear protection than required by the latest Sequence IVA test limits.

Product Features:

• 3X Stronger against viscosity breakdown than leading full synthetic (Based on Kurt Orbahn test in 5W-30 grade)
• 10X Better High Temperature performance (As measured in Sequence IIIH engine test vs. API SP test limit)
• 6X Better Wear Protection
• 1.4X Better Sludge Protection (As measured in Sequence VH engine test vs. API SP test limit)
• Advanced Fluid TITANIUM Technology: Castrol EDGE with Fluid TITANIUM Technology transforms its structure under pressure to keep metal parts apart and reduce friction, ensuring maximum engine performance.
• Full Synthetic Composition: As a full synthetic motor oil, Castrol EDGE 5W-20 offers enhanced performance and protection compared to conventional oils.
• Optimal for Modern Engines: Designed to meet the demands of today’s smaller, more powerful engines, ensuring they run smoothly and efficiently under intense conditions.

Pennzoil Ultra PlatinumTM Full Synthetic motor oil is made from natural gas, not crude. It is one of the best full synthetic motor oils in our portfolio. Made for extreme performance, Pennzoil Ultra Platinum outperforms conventional oils in terms of low temperature performance and volatility control. Our full synthetic motor oils are uniquely engineered from our revolutionary PurePlusTM Technology which is a patented process that converts pure natural gas into a high quality, full synthetic base oil. Because it is made from natural gas, the high- quality base oil contains fewer impurities than base oils made from crude oil, and when combined with our advanced additive technology creates one of the best formulations in our Pennzoil portfolio. Pennzoil Ultra Platinum far exceeds the most stringent car manufacturer requirements for cleanliness and protection (based on ILSAC GF-6), and is suitable for all car, SUV, light van, truck gasoline and turbocharged engines; under all driving conditions.

Product Features:

• Full synthetic 5W-20 engine oil made from natural gas, not crude, using Pennzoil’s patented gas-to-liquid PurePlus Technology
• No other leading motor oil provides better wear protection for your engine (Based on Sequence IVA wear test using SAE 5W-30)
• Helps protect engines from loss of power and provides better fuel economy-drive on average an extra 550 miles per year (versus a dirty engine)
• Keeps pistons dramatically cleaner than required by the toughest industry standards (Based on ILSAC GF-6 and Sequence IIIH piston deposit test using SAE 5W-30)
• Delivers unsurpassed sludge protection to help keep high-performance and luxury car engines as close as possible to factory clean (Based on Sequence VH Sludge Test using SAE 5W-20)
• Formulated to provide faster low-temperature oil flow and protection in extreme heat
• Pennzoil is the first motor oil made from natural gas, not crude- PurePlus Technology converts pure natural gas into high-quality, full-synthetic base oil that’s crystal clear and contains fewer impurities than other traditional and synthetic motor oils
• Suitable for all car, SUV, light van, truck gasoline and turbocharged engines; under all driving conditions.
• Extreme Performance: Designed for extreme performance, this motor oil outperforms conventional oils in low temperature performance and volatility control, ensuring superior engine protection and efficiency.
• Advanced Additive Technology: Combined with advanced additive technology, this full synthetic motor oil provides one of the best formulations in the Pennzoil portfolio, ensuring extended engine life and optimal performance under all driving conditions.
• Versatile SAE Oil Weight: With an SAE oil weight of 5W-20, Pennzoil Ultra Platinum Full Synthetic motor oil is ideal for a wide range of vehicles, offering reliable performance and protection in various driving environments.

FRAM Full Synthetic High Mileage SAE 5W-20 is a full synthetic motor oil blended with high quality synthetic base stocks and and enhanced additives that meet the stringent API: SP, SN, SM, SL, SJ, and ILSAC GF-6A specifications while reducing leaks and oil consumption in worn or higher mileage engines. Formulated with synthetic base stocks, this oil offers increased oxidation inhibition performance as well as increased high and low temperature performance when compared against conventional oils. The FRAM Full Synthetic High Mileage SAE 5W-20 is formulated to help clean out sludge buildup and keep engines running clean and with increased efficiency and power. Specially designed for engines with over 75,000 miles, the FRAM Full Synthetic High Mileage SAE 5W-20 provides the ultimate protection for your higher mileage engine. Specifically formulated for the rigorous environment of gas-direct engine (GDI) and turbo gas-direct engine (TGDI) designs as well as providing increased protection for carbureted or normally fuel injected engines. FRAM Full Synthetic High Mileage SAE 5W-20 contains additive technology designed to prevent low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI). LSPI can lead to pre-mature engine failure and is a major concern of the automotive industry for vehicles employing GDI or TGDI technology. This oil also provides increased wear protection, oxidation and shear stability for higher mileage vehicles over previous oil categories.

Product Features:

• Faster oil flow at start-up
• Fuel efficiency gains over heavier grade oils
• Reduces oil cumsumption
• Excellent sludge and varnish protection
• Slows engine leaks
• Outstanding thermal and oxidation stability
• Lowers oil vaporization and consumption at extreme conditions
• ALWAYS REFER TO YOUR VEHICLES OPERATING MANUAL TO SELECT THE CORRECT GRADE OIL FOR YOUR ENGINE.
• Ultimate Protection for High Mileage Engines: Designed for engines with over 75,000 miles, this oil provides the ultimate protection, making it ideal for higher mileage vehicles.
• Advanced LSPI Prevention Technology: Contains additive technology to prevent low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI), a major concern for vehicles with gas-direct injection (GDI) and turbo gas-direct injection (TGDI) engines, helping to prevent premature engine fai

75,000 miles is more than a mile marker. It’s a signal that your engine is ready for greater protection. That’s when you need Valvoline High Mileage with MaxLife Technology Motor Oil. Its exclusive formula is proven to maximize engine life in cars, trucks, and SUVs with over 75,000 miles. Our mixture is specially developed with a unique combination of synthetic and premium conventional oils to protect your high-mileage motor against wear, friction, heat, and deposits – the four major causes of engine breakdown and expensive repairs. Anti-wear additives defend critical engine components, advanced friction-fighting agents reduce heat and abrasion, added detergents clean the inside of your engine, and premium seal conditioners handle aging seals to prevent leaks. It fights sludge, corrosion and rust that can rob your engine of horsepower, fuel efficiency and longevity. From extreme temperatures and cold starts to stop-and-go traffic and frequent short trips, viscosity modifiers make sure the oil flows more easily, coats more completely, and resists thermal breakdown under even the most intense driving conditions. Its unique mixture curbs contaminants to keep high-mileage engines from burning and consuming oil that can foul spark plugs, creating higher emissions and causing your motor to run roughly.

Product Features:

• Maxlife technology prevents engine breakdown with 40% better wear protection than the industry standard
• Refresh aging seals and prevent leaks with seal conditioners
• Reduce sludge, deposits, corrosion, and rust with added detergents – keep motors clean inside
• Enhanced friction performance helps maximize power with advanced friction-fighting agents
• Meets or exceeds all requirements of ilsac gf-6a, api sp, api sn with sn plus, api sn
• MaxLife Technology: The exclusive formula of Valvoline High Mileage with MaxLife Technology Engine Oil is proven to maximize engine life in cars, trucks, and SUVs with over 75,000 miles.

Formulated to meet the specific requirements of Toyota, Lexus, and scion vehicles equipped with conventional (non-CVT) transmissions that require the use of ATF T-IV. Recommended for service-fill in all Toyota, Lexus, and Scion automatic transmissions where ATF T-IV is specified. Fuel economy demands and more sophisticated electronic controls have made automatic transmissions not only more complex, but also unique to each vehicle manufacturer. Long gone are the days of having just a couple choices of automatic transmission fluid type. IDEMITSU is the factory fill Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) supplier to most Asian imports. IDEMITSU application-specific ATF products match the exact friction materials and performance requirements of each different vehicle model for which they are made.

Product Features:

• Excellent resistance to oxidation and thermal breakdown provide long fluid life and extended protection
• Precisely engineered frictional characteristics guarantee smooth shifting and outstanding anti-shudder performance
• Provides superior cleanliness, maintaining the transmission free of sludge and varnish deposits
• Excellent seal compatibility and conditioning reduces risk of fluid leaks due to seal shrinkage, hardening and cracking
• Advanced anti-wear technology provides maximum protection to gears and bearings
• Excellent seal compatibility and conditioning reduces risk of fluid leaks due to seal shrinkage, hardening and cracking