The best motor oils for 2021. How to choose, our rating of popular oils

Oil selection parameters

The best lubricant will be the one that meets the car manufacturer's recommendations. Such information can be found in the technical documentation for the vehicle. The main parameters include the following: quality class, viscosity index and composition.

Oil quality

All motor oils are classified according to API classification. The parameter was developed and introduced by the American Institute of Quality. Has a letter designation. The first letter indicates the engine type, namely:

• S – for gasoline engines;
• C – for diesel.

There are oils that are suitable for all types of engines, then both letters in the marking are indicated through a fraction.

The second symbol is the degree of performance characteristics. Here, the further the letter is in the alphabet, the better the quality of the lubricant. Today's best brands with the designation: CF for diesel and SN for gasoline.

Sometimes the oil is not API certified. Then there will be no letter markings on the label.

Oil viscosity

This indicator indicates the ability of oil to linger on parts and components of the car in the form of an oil film without losing its fluidity. Has SAE classification. The parameter is indicated on the canister with a number next to the letter W.

The first digit indicates the minimum permissible engine starting temperature. For example, 5W30 - subtract 30 from 5, we get -25°C. This means you can start the car at a temperature not lower than -25 degrees.

The second number indicates the maximum and minimum viscosity of the lubricant in the operating temperature range. There are oils with two markings at once, in which case a lower indicator applies to a new engine, and a higher one for a used engine.

Oil composition

Oils are divided into three main types depending on their composition. This includes:

1. Mineral - lubricant is obtained by distilling fuel oil. In rare cases, they are made from industrial agricultural crops. This oil is inexpensive, but it is not particularly high quality. For example, they can evaporate. But there are also positive aspects - efficient and stable work.
2. Semi-synthetic - the basis of the composition is mineral oils (usually 50 - 70%) with the addition of synthetic additives. Their cost is lower than synthetic ones, and at the same time they have better technical characteristics in comparison with mineral compounds. Works well in temperate climates without sudden temperature changes.
3. Synthetic - obtain lubricant by primary oil refining. Considered the best oils. They have good fluidity and do not lose properties when exposed to external factors. They have a wide range of operating temperatures. They are among the most expensive, but at the same time they provide reliable operation in conditions of even very low temperatures.

In addition to the above, the label may indicate other parameters that depend on the manufacturer. Sometimes specific car brands for which the lubricant is developed are noted. Although this does not guarantee that the fluid meets the automaker's standards. It is still recommended to focus on the technical parameters of the oil.

Synthetic or mineral water?

Many equipment owners are sincerely mistaken in believing that synthetic lubricants are definitely better than semi-synthetic and especially mineral ones. Meanwhile, each manufacturer goes its own way, using different know-how.

Some people pay special attention to the purification of base petroleum products, on the basis of which the final composition is made. Others focus on the manufacture and addition of synthetic additives that increase and stabilize the characteristics of the base.

There is no evidence that any of the recipes used have significant benefits. Moreover, the technological solutions advertised by some companies are quite dubious. They are a kind of marketing ploy. As for the real benefit...

Molybdenum disulfide added to some lubricants actually creates a strong protective film on the surface of parts and reduces friction.

But at high concentrations, it causes an increased soot content in combustion products. This adversely affects the service life of particulate filters.

Too little sulfur, touted in some cases as a special achievement, is no better than too much sulfur. Yes, excess sulfur causes early ignition of the lubricant and contributes to the appearance of severe pollution in the exhaust. But this same substance forms a strong oxide film on the parts of the cylinder-piston group, protecting the materials from destruction.

Everything should be in moderation. Compositions with balanced characteristics have the best performance characteristics. If the product meets the standard specified in the technical specification, then it does not matter whether it is synthetic or mineral water.

Replacement on time

You should not unconditionally believe statements that certain lubricants have extended replacement intervals. Lubricants may hold up, but what about the filter elements that separate contaminants dissolved in the lubricant? After all, their resource is also limited. If so, then it is wiser to follow the replacement recommendations given in the vehicle’s operating instructions.

What to rely on when choosing oil

The main task that oil performs in an engine is to lubricate its moving parts. To effectively reduce friction, the fluid must be selected correctly. It is also important to fill it in sufficient volume.

Choosing oil based on seasonality

Motor oils are divided into three categories depending on the time of year of use:

• Summer - characterized by high viscosity to ensure normal operation at high temperatures. Most often they have a synthetic or semi-synthetic composition.
• Winter - have a lower viscosity and increased fluidity compared to summer. Mostly synthetic product.
• All-season - work over a wide range of temperatures with the same viscosity and fluidity.

Oils of the latter category are considered universal and are more popular, displacing other lubricants.

Selection of oil for a gasoline engine

It is important to take into account the characteristics of the engine and the climate zone. In warm conditions, it is more convenient to use mineral compounds; for the middle zone and closer to the northern part - semi-synthetic and synthetic lubricants.

Selection of oil for a diesel engine

The specifics of engine operation should be taken into account. In order for the car to last for a long time, it is very important to control and fill only high-quality fluids. Since the fuel does not burn completely in it, more detergent and dispersant additives are needed. They keep soot in suspension and prevent carbon deposits from forming on pistons and cylinders.

According to the API classification, the oil should not be below CD, and according to ACEA - not less than B1. If a turbocharged engine manufactured in 1990 or later is installed, the required lubricant class is CE and B2 and higher. In addition, do not forget about the car manufacturer’s recommendations for viscosity.

Which motor oil manufacturers do automobile concerns cooperate with?

When buying a new car, especially one under warranty, few people think of selecting technical fluids on their own when the time comes to replace them. It is much easier, based on the recommendations of the car manufacturer, to purchase engine oil recommended by the manufacturer or trust the employees of a licensed service station.

Despite some financial losses, this eliminates the unnecessary hassle of searching for analogues and allows you to be confident that the car’s maintenance was carried out properly.

However, you should know that all recommended engine oil is produced in the same factories as other products on the market.

Who makes the motor oil recommended by the manufacturer?

Some examples of cooperation between automakers and engine oil manufacturers:

• Nissan branded oil, namely Nissan 5w-40, is produced at the factories of the Total-Elf concern. Direct analogues of this oil are TOTAL Quartz 9000 5w-40 and ELF Evolution 900 NF 5w40 fluids.
• The manufacturer openly recommends ELF products to owners of Renault cars (Renault-Nissan concern).
• The branded Volkswagen VW Original LL-III 5w30 oil poured into car engines is actually Castrol EDGE Professional LL3 5W-30.
• Ford and Jaguar Land Rover factories use Castrol, Shell and BP oils for their engines. For example, an analogue of Ford Formula F 5W-30 is Castrol SLX Professional Longtec A5 5W-30.
• The PEUGEOT concern cooperates with TOTAL.
• Mercedes-Benz (on the Russian market) uses oil produced by Lukoil and Gazpromneft plants.
• Oil is produced for Mazda by Total.
• Volvo recommends using Liqui Moly oil (previously they actively collaborated with Castrol).
• The KIA manufacturer openly declares that the Total lubricant is best suited for the engines installed on its cars according to specification.

Some automobile concerns try to keep information about the manufacturer of their motor oil as secret as possible. For example, the Toyota concern does not advertise those with whom it cooperates in this direction.

Important! From time to time, automakers, for various reasons (most often for economic reasons), change suppliers of motor oil.

In any case, no matter what product the car owner chooses - be it the original oil recommended by the manufacturer or an analogue, the main thing is that it reliably protects the rubbing parts of the power unit for the prescribed period. The durability of the engine directly depends on the correct choice of brand.

The best 5W40 synthetic motor oils

Lubricants marked 5B40 are very popular due to their versatility. Shows excellent performance both in severe frosts and in summer heat. It contains anti-corrosion, anti-acid and detergent additives. The oil works equally well when driving around the city and on highways.

SHELL Helix HX8 Synthetic 5W-40

The lubricant is excellent for engines running on gasoline, diesel and gas. They have approvals from well-known automakers such as Fiat, BMW, Renault, Ferrari, etc.

The oil has a fully synthetic composition, protects the engine and its components well from premature wear and increases service life. Suitable for all lubrication periods. Due to the low consumption, it needs to be added much less frequently. Freezing temperature -50 °C.

Advantages:

• API approvals;
• suitable for use in city traffic jams;
• oil works even at -35 °C;
• a large set of additives;
• natural base.

On the downside, sometimes there is increased consumption at high driving speeds.

Takayama 5W-40 API SN/CF

The brand's oil is distributed in metal canisters for ease of storage and transportation. The energy-efficient lubricant is compatible with heavily loaded diesel and gasoline engines. Pour point -40 °C.

A well-thought-out composition prevents the formation of sediments inside the engine, and also minimizes friction of components and parts. Complies with international environmental protection standards. The liquid is all-season. Can be used in new engines and with high mileage.

Advantages:

• convenient container;
• a large set of additives;
• reduces engine noise;
• oil prevents the formation of soot;
• certified product.

There is only one minus - sometimes it is difficult to find on store shelves.

LUKOIL Genesis Armortech 5W-40

It is an inexpensive but high-quality synthetic oil, recommended for use in diesel and gasoline power plants. The production uses new DuraMax® technology. The lubricant is an all-season lubricant, therefore completely universal. Freezing point -41 °C.

Recommended for use by the most famous car manufacturers, such as Mercedes, Renault, Skoda, BMW, Porsche, etc. Suitable for cars compatible with API SN, ACEA A3/B3, A3/B4 standards.

Advantages:

• a large set of useful additives;
• the oil works well under increased loads;
• ensures reliable starting at low temperatures;
• compatible with Russian fuel.

The main disadvantage is the presence of a large number of counterfeit goods.

The best semi-synthetic oils 10W40

Oils marked 10B40 are semi-synthetic. They are produced by combining a mineral base with synthetic additives that provide the desired performance characteristics. More often used in engines with high mileage. The products are very popular among car owners and are of the all-season type.

G-Energy expert G

Designed to improve the performance and power of engines with a mileage of 100 thousand km or more. Thanks to the use of innovative technologies, the oil film provides reliable protection of the engine and rubbing parts throughout the entire period of operation of the fluid.

Advantages:

• ensures reliable engine tightness;
• the composition of the oil meets environmental requirements;
• reliable starting at low temperatures;
• stable operation in engines with high mileage.

Among the shortcomings, the small number of vehicle permits should be noted. In addition, it is used only on worn-out engines.

Zic X5

A widely known product among car owners of foreign cars, especially those made in Korea. Lubricant is purchased by automakers such as Hyundai and Kia. Oil is consumed very economically, so topping up will not be required during its operation. To avoid purchasing a surrogate product, you should carefully inspect the canister upon purchase. The quality of the plastic should be good and the text should be easy to read.

Advantages:

• anti-acid composition of the oil;
• stable operation under high loads;
• the oil is suitable for any season;
• excellent cleaning properties.

The only downside is the presence of a large number of fakes.

Sintec Super 10W-40

Excellent lubricant for high mileage engines. The composition contains a large number of useful additives that improve the technical characteristics of the liquid. They prevent oil leaks, provide an anti-corrosion coating, and restore the performance characteristics of old parts.

Advantages:

• all-season;
• a large number of additives;
• stable engine starting even in severe frosts;
• protection against soot.

Of the minuses, it is worth mentioning that at the end of the operational period, a dark coating may appear.

The best 5W30 motor oils

5W30 brand oils are the most popular among synthetic oils. Perfect for driving in city traffic jams and for high-speed travel on highways. However, this does not apply to lubricants from all manufacturers, so it is important to know which one to choose.

The viscosity indicator is considered universal - the oil can be poured into premium and budget cars. Below are the most popular 5W30 lubricants.

Lukoil Genesis Claritech 5W-30

Lukoil motor oil is excellent for gasoline and diesel engines. Can be used at any time of the year, as it is all-season. Extends the life of the motor and its parts. Provides better functioning of the exhaust gas after-treatment system.

Advantages:

• stable start-up at sub-zero temperatures;
• no fakes;
• relatively low cost of oil;
• small expense.

There is only one minus, it is a short service life.

LIQUI MOLY Special Tec AA 5W-30

Thanks to innovative technologies, the use of this oil reduces fuel consumption and protects parts from premature wear. Anti-corrosion and anti-acid additives prevent the destruction of metal, and the detergent additive prevents the formation of carbon deposits on the pistons and in the cylinder. Excellent for American and Asian-built cars, on which it was most often tested.

Advantages:

• saving fuel consumption;
• oil keeps the engine clean;
• sufficient fluidity ensures quick access of lubricant to parts.

The main disadvantage is that it is suitable mainly for Korean, Japanese and American cars.

MOBIL 1 ESP Formula 5W-30

Mobile oil is well suited for all types of engines and is all-season. A set of additives ensures the cleanliness of all systems and their reliable operation. Protects the engine well and reduces fuel consumption.

Advantages:

• oil extends engine life;
• economical consumption;
• stable start in cold weather.

The main disadvantage is the high cost of the product.

Rating of the best motor oils

10+. ZIC XQ LS 5W-30 4 l

This is a completely synthetic composition of very high quality. The production process used the most modern Low Saps technology, which ensures low sulfur, ash and phosphorus content. It can be used in gasoline and diesel engines equipped with a turbocharging system.

The oil is all-season and works well even in the most extreme temperature conditions. It extends the life of the motor and various types of filters aimed at reducing the emission of harmful substances into the environment. In the engine itself during operation there will be almost no soot and various types of deposits. The oil is acceptable for use in engines that comply with the Euro-IV standard, where a lot of attention is paid to the amount of emissions into the atmosphere.

Advantages:

• Low price;
• Retains its performance qualities for a long time;
• Holds high and low temperatures well.

Flaws:

• Only the highest quality gasoline should be poured into the engine with this oil;
• You can’t find it in every store; you often come across fake compounds.

ZIC XQ LS 5W-30 4 l

GENERAL MOTORS Dexos2 Longlife 5W30 4 l

This is a synthetic oil that can be used at ambient temperatures down to -25 degrees, since when the engine starts, the oil pump must quickly deliver the composition to all rubbing elements of the mechanism. If this does not happen, friction and wear rates increase. In the summer, the oil retains its qualities at temperatures up to +50 degrees, due to which the engine does not jam during long periods of inactivity, for example, in a traffic jam, or if the cooling system is not operating correctly.

This composition is intended for use in cars of most domestic and foreign brands, even if the gasoline was filled with low-quality gasoline. The cost of the oil is quite high, but its consumption is much less compared to other formulations, and you won’t have to add it too often. With the help of such oil, it is possible to achieve certain fuel savings; it extends the service life of various filters - oil and air. During operation, there are no air bubbles or foam in the oil. The manufacturer allows the use of the composition as a hydraulic fluid.

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Advantages:

• Not too viscous liquid;
• It perfectly cleans the engine of various types of contaminants.

Flaws:

• In some motors it causes severe vibration;
• It needs to be changed every 7500 km.
• There are a lot of fake compounds on the market.

GENERAL MOTORS Dexos2 Longlife 5W30 4 l

SHELL Helix HX8 Synthetic 5W-30 4 l

It is produced on the basis of active cleaning technology, due to which the engine will be quickly cleaned of any contaminants, including traces of corrosion. An engine with this oil begins to operate more stable, stops sneezing, and is much quieter. The composition is very economical, consumption is minimal. In winter, the car starts quickly.

It darkens much more slowly compared to other oils. It resists well the so-called shear loads, maintaining the viscosity level at an acceptable level throughout its service life. This oil is perfect for gasoline or diesel engines, if the latter do not have a particulate filter. According to the characteristics stated by the manufacturer, the engine is protected about 30% better with this oil.

Advantages:

• Well suited for any engines;
• Low consumption during operation;
• Reasonable cost;
• High quality;
• Wide temperature range.

Flaws:

• The composition contains additives that after a while begin to produce fumes;
• Low wear protection;
• Old engines have quite high consumption.

SHELL Helix HX8 Synthetic 5W-30 4 l

TOTAL Quartz INEO ECS 5W30 4 l

This is the latest composition with a low content of sulfated ash, phosphorus and sulfur. Can be used for most engines of foreign and domestic manufacturers. With its help, you can ensure high fuel economy, as well as optimize the functioning of all systems responsible for the amount of emissions of harmful substances into the atmosphere.

The composition is perfect for gasoline and diesel engines, but in the first case it is advisable to study the vehicle’s operating manual in detail. The oil is perfectly used in rather difficult conditions and is an all-season liquid. It maintains engine performance well, extends the life of particulate filters, preventing them from clogging ahead of time.

Additives with a metal content are minimal compared to other similar products. On average, during operation it is possible to save about 3.5% of fuel. The composition contains detergent additives that prevent the formation of various types of deposits in the engine.

Advantages:

• Retains good fluidity in severe frosts;
• The engine runs comfortably - does not knock, does not sneeze;
• Additionally, it cleans the engine of corrosion and other deposits.

Flaws:

• There is no protection against counterfeiting;
• Not found on sale too often;
• High price.

TOTAL Quartz INEO ECS 5W30 4 l

Lukoil Genesis Claritech 5W-30 4 l

This is an all-season composition, developed specifically for Russian climatic conditions. The oil was created using modern technology and can be used in trucks and cars, including those engines with particulate filters.

The oil contains virtually no ash, which extends the life of the filter. It contains detergent additives that not only clean the engine, but also ensure a quieter engine operation. Used oil is light in color and has virtually no sediment.

Advantages:

• Allows you to easily start the engine even at extremely low temperatures;
• Has high anti-corrosion and antioxidant properties;
• They protect the engine well from wear and tear both in urban conditions and on the highway, and even in conditions of a dirt road or complete off-road conditions;
• The composition is perfectly compatible with exhaust gas after-treatment systems installed in the car;
• It has low consumption.

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Flaws:

• High price;
• Needs frequent replacement;
• Fake compounds are common.

Lukoil Genesis Claritech 5W-30 4 l

Mobil 1 5W-50

This synthetic product will be an excellent replacement for mineral oil in fairly old engines. It contains unique cleaning additives that can restore normal engine performance and remove slag, soot and carbon deposits from it. Thanks to these additives, this oil can withstand low temperatures perfectly. It minimizes the negative impact of low-quality fuel on the engine, practically does not evaporate, and can easily withstand overloads and extreme conditions.

This oil is well suited for passenger cars equipped with a gasoline or diesel engine; it can also be used in engines of European, American and Japanese brands. The composition can withstand temperatures down to -35 degrees below zero. When used in older cars, you should be as careful as possible - this composition may begin to clean the engine too actively, as a result of which carbon deposits will quickly clog all filters and valves and lead to the need to replace them.

Advantages:

• Oil quickly lubricates all engine elements;
• During the entire period of operation it will maintain the required viscosity;
• Removes all contaminants well;
• During the period from replacement to replacement it very rarely requires topping up;
• Saves fuel;
• Withstands low and high temperatures well.

Flaws:

• High cost - the most expensive composition in the entire ranking of the best motor oils.

Mobil 1 5W-50

LIQUI MOLY MoS2 Leichtlauf 15W-40

The only mineral oil presented in this rating. We decided to place it in such a high place due to its high performance characteristics - this product is perfect for both heavily used cars and cars with average mileage, especially if they are used in extreme conditions.

In the oil production process, the highest quality components were used that have excellent protective properties. It also contains additives and a special lubricant - molybdenum disulfide, which ensures high performance even under critical loads.

Advantages:

• Perfectly protects all moving engine parts from rapid wear;
• Oil is supplied in sufficient volume to all necessary elements;
• Has high cleansing properties;
• Can be used in engine designs equipped with turbines, catalysts and compressors.

Flaws:

• It is prohibited to use in engines with mileage less than 100 thousand;
• Do not use together with other oils.

LIQUI MOLY MoS2 Leichtlauf 15W-40

Castrol EDGE 5W-30

This synthetic compound is best suited for fairly low temperatures. The oil is manufactured on the basis of modern Titanium FST technology, which makes it possible to give the oil film additional strength due to the presence of additives containing titanium. This production technique creates an additional shock-absorbing layer.

The oil is approved for use in engines running on gasoline or diesel fuel.

Advantages:

• Ensures high efficiency of the motor over a long service period;
• Does not allow deposits to form;
• Increases engine response when pressing the gas pedal;
• Due to this oil, the engine can operate under extreme load conditions for quite a long time;
• Increases the efficiency of any motor;
• Works well over a wide temperature range.

Flaws:

• In engines with a mileage of more than 200 thousand kilometers, it does not remove carbon deposits well;
• When purchasing from an unauthorized dealer, you may end up with a fake.

Castrol EDGE 5W-30

3.Motul Specific DEXOS2 5w30

This is a fully synthetic energy-saving oil, which is created specifically for modern cars that meet key international safety requirements, in particular the Euro 4 standard. It minimizes the total volume of emissions harmful to the environment, reliably lubricates all moving elements, and can significantly reduce fuel consumption ( when warming up by about 8-10%, and while driving up to 5%). This composition combines well with any type of fuel - natural or liquefied gas, gasoline, diesel, biodiesel, etc.

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Before purchasing directly, you should carefully study the vehicle's operating manual, as there may be a prohibition on use there. The additives do not contain sulfated ash, which quickly clogs the fuel and air filters.

Advantages:

• Very high quality;
• The oil can withstand both high and fairly low temperatures;
• The manufacturer declares compatibility with any type of fuel;
• Highest lubrication characteristics.

Flaws:

• The oil is not suitable for all engines.

Checking GM Dexos2 5W-30 oil for freezing

Motul Specific DEXOS2 5w30

2. ELF Evolution 700 STI 10W40

It is manufactured on the basis of modern developments Pure Plus and Active Cleansing. This allows you to quickly and efficiently clean the engine from various contaminants without clogging the filters. As a result, it is possible to achieve an excellent effect - the motor remains as clean as it was immediately after assembly. All moving elements are reliably protected from aging and wear, which makes the engine service life very long.

The viscosity indicator remains at the same level throughout the entire range of declared temperatures. A car with such oil starts up instantly, due to which it becomes more economical - it consumes less both fuel and the oil itself. The composition is significantly more effective than all other synthetic oils presented in this rating; even in the most severe conditions it will retain its cleaning properties well.

Advantages:

• Extending the service life of the engine;
• Protects the motor from corrosion and wear;
• Can be used even in extreme conditions;
• Significant fuel savings;
• Does not require topping up between replacements;
• It can be used in any engines;
• Large temperature range;
• Easily allows you to start the engine at low temperatures;
• Well protects the engine from oxidation.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Elf Evolution 700 sti 10W40 Jak czysty jest olej silnikowy? Test temperature 100°C

ELF Evolution 700 STI 10W40

POLYMERIUM / POLYMERIUM XPRO1

The winner of most amateur and professional tests for oil quality is POLYMERIUM: evaporation, freezing, friction. Fully synthetic with the addition of ester base oils and a powerful Afton/Infineum additive package (England). Suitable for any engines and temperature conditions. There are two types: XPRO1 (cheaper) and XPRO2 race (more expensive). Differences in the amount of esters, PAOs and additive package.

According to numerous reviews, POLYMERIUM oils do not burn, do not coke, the engine runs much quieter, there are many cases of reduced fuel consumption, and excellent cleaning properties. Oil professionals and repairmen recommend this oil as one of the best for European, Asian and American cars, and improvement in performance of domestic brands is also noted.

You can buy the best motor oil with the Polymerium rating here!

Advantages:

• The best price for a similar composition;
• Suitable for any engines;
• Doesn't burn out;
• Good cleaning properties;
• Powerful anti-wear and protective additive package;
• Synthetic base with esters;
• No fakes. Protection against counterfeiting through one-time codes;
• Based on independent tests: the best motor oil in the world.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Motor oil POLYMERIUM / POLYMERIUM XPRO1

The best 0W20 motor oils

Superfluid motor oils are designed for use in engines with reduced operating clearances. They first appeared in 2005 for the Asian automobile industry. Low-viscosity lubricants are increasingly being used by Japanese automotive manufacturers.

Most 0W-20 fluids have a viscosity index above 200. Kinematic viscosity at 100 degrees is 5.6.

IDEMITSU 0W-20 SN/GF-5

Relatively inexpensive low-viscosity oil from Japanese manufacturers. Has API, SN, ACEA approvals. Freezing temperature -44 °C. A fairly good lubricant that meets all quality standards and ensures reliable operation of the engine and all its systems. It is used very economically and quickly gets to the nodes.

Advantages:

• low cost of the product;
• the oil contains organic molybdenum;
• provides good protection for rubbing parts;
• does not lose properties throughout the entire period of operation;
• stable engine starting at low temperatures.

One of the disadvantages is only suitable for some Japanese and Korean cars.

ZIC Zero 0W-20

A product with an excellent price/quality ratio. Fully synthetic composition with a small addition of PAO and innovative additives based on ionic liquid. Suitable for replacement on modern gasoline engines with direct injection. Has API, SN Plus, ACEA approvals. Freezing temperature -42 °C.

Advantages:

• many permissions;
• liquid ion technology;
• organic molybdenum in the composition;
• high-quality additive package;
• stable operation under heavy loads;
• reduces fuel consumption.

At this cost and performance characteristics there are no disadvantages.

G-Energy Far East 0W-20

Synthetic oil belongs to the energy-saving category. Available for gasoline engines from Japanese and Korean automakers. Has API, SN, ACEA approvals. Therefore it is suitable for most modern engines. Freezing temperature -48 °C.

Advantages:

• adapted to Russian operating conditions;
• has molybdenum;
• the oil shows good performance at low temperatures;
• good additive package;
• reduces engine noise.

No deficiencies were found in the oil.

The best 5W50 motor oils

5B50 is a synthetic seal designed to protect rubbing engine parts from premature wear. Their main advantage is maintaining sufficient viscosity in the temperature range from -30 to +50 °C. They are not in particular demand among Russian car owners due to their high cost and the presence of a large number of fakes.

An excellent choice for sports cars that are subject to heavy loads and high operating temperatures. For such engines, a special oil with SAE classification is required.

MOBIL 1 5W-50

Fully synthetic oil from an American manufacturer. It features high performance characteristics. It has a good set of additives that protect the engine from corrosion, friction of parts and elevated temperatures.

When used on older engines, the oil shows an excellent cleaning and restoring effect. The composition does not change during the entire service life of the liquid. The mileage declared by the manufacturer is about 15 thousand km.

Advantages:

• complex of active additives;
• excellent price/quality ratio;
• good cleaning properties;
• long service life;
• excellent protection of rubbing parts.

Among the disadvantages, we can note the considerable cost, but the high quality of the product completely compensates for the disadvantage.

LIQUI MOLY Synthoil High Tech 5W-50

Excellent all-season oil from a German manufacturer. Has a huge number of approvals ACEA A3, ACEA B4, API CF, API SM. It is poured into cars produced from the assembly line in Germany.

When used on engines with high mileage, it is cleaned and restored. The freezing point of the liquid is -39 °C. The lubricant is changed after a mileage of 12 thousand km. However, experts recommend replacing in portions every 10 thousand to avoid complete depletion of the additives.

Advantages:

• price/quality at the highest level;
• quite long service life;
• stable engine starting even in severe frosts;
• An excellent choice for a worn out engine.

No deficiencies were identified in the oil.

Ravenol Racing Rally Synto RRS SAE 5W-50

Fully synthetic composition from a German manufacturer. The additive package ensures good performance on forced turbocharged engines. The development of the composition was carried out in close cooperation with the Ford Corporation.

Can be used in most gasoline-powered vehicles. The lubricant has a long service life - up to 15,000 km.

Advantages:

• huge working period;
• stable operation under heavy loads;
• a large package of supplements;
• reliable protection of rubbing parts.

The only downside is the high cost of the product.

The best engine oils for diesel engines with particulate filters

Diesel engines require not only a constant presence of fuel in the system, but also a special oil composition. It should provide good lubrication of friction elements, reducing friction and pressure in the system, increase trouble-free operation and protect against wear. Therefore, it is important to know which motor oils meet the requirements of diesel engines.

IDEMITSU Zepro Euro Spec 5W-40

Synthetic oil from Japanese manufacturers. It has standard quality, perfectly lubricates engine parts, and shows stable viscosity even at low temperatures. Also pleasing is the complete absence of fakes. An excellent choice for a forced engine with turbines.

The additive package not only protects the engine from corrosion and wear, but also has a good effect on the condition of the particulate filter. During operation, there was a lack of carbon deposits, as well as an improvement in the dynamic properties of the motor.

Advantages:

• works in frosts down to -50 °C;
• high quality of goods;
• no fakes;
• good additive package;
• Excellent performance on turbodiesels.

The only disadvantage noted is the high cost.

SHELL Helix HX7 5W-30

Premium oil with low cost from an American manufacturer. Meets European quality standards and is widely known throughout the world. The additive package ensures sufficient fluidity at sub-zero temperatures and reduces engine noise.

Advantages:

• all-season;
• a large set of additives;
• oil prevents the formation of soot and deposits;
• ensures reliable starting in cold weather;
• relatively low cost.

Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting the high fluidity of the liquid and a large number of counterfeit goods.

Mannol Diesel TDI 5W-30

Fully synthetic composition from a famous German brand. Recommended by experts for diesel Volkswagens, Mercedes and BMWs. It has high fluid permeability even during a cold start.

Meets all quality standards. Thanks to the additives, it received cleaning and anti-corrosion properties. An excellent choice for cars with a particulate filter.

Advantages:

• high quality;
• convenient container;
• the oil is used in cars with a particulate filter;
• stable start-up in severe frosts;
• compliance with all quality standards.

Among the shortcomings, the high cost of the product is noted. In addition, it is only suitable for passenger vehicles.

Permissible limits

It should be understood that too low a viscosity often causes leaks and a decrease in operating pressure in the lubrication system of the power unit. Excessive viscosity places additional loads on engine components and assemblies, reducing their service life. To avoid damage, do not go beyond the limits specified by the manufacturer in the operating instructions.

It is important that the oil fully meets the required standards. A discrepancy of even one letter or number can cause failure of expensive parts. There are many options:

• If a pressure turbine is installed on the machine, then it is necessary to use a lubricant designed for use in turbocharged engines. Failure to comply with this condition will result in a sharp increase in oil consumption and a reduction in the service life of the turbocharger.
• On models equipped with particulate filters, lubricants with a relatively low content of sulfur and other impurities should be used. The soot formed during their combustion quickly clogs the expensive filter and renders it inoperable.
• In low-speed power units produced several decades ago, even those in excellent condition, it is unacceptable to use a product with characteristics adapted for high-speed modern engines. This will lead to a drop in pressure in the lubrication system, leaks in oil seals and seals.

And so on literally every point. So let’s repeat it again: don’t be too lazy to complete a complete decoding of the engine oil classification.