Each driver should at least approximately know the classification that engine oils have in order to easily determine which lubricant to buy at one time or another. Most often, car owners use all-weather mixtures, since it is very convenient and practical. In Russia, one of the most common is SAE 5W30 oil. It can be used both in frost (from -35° to -25°С) and in warm weather (25–30°С). Like all other lubricants, this fluid can be mineral, semi-synthetic or synthetic. The first of the options has not been produced for a long time, but the other two are widely popular. But how do they differ, and which one is better?
Synthetic oils
Synthetic is the best type of engine oil. However, this is not only due to cost. Thanks to the production technology and composition, the lubricant provides a stable start of the vehicle in any weather, effective protection and economical fuel consumption. The oil is created entirely from artificial components (as opposed to semi-synthetics, which also includes natural elements). This allows the lubricant to be resistant to ignition and combustion, due to which evaporation occurs much more slowly.
The undoubted advantage of the oil is its extended temperature range. Synthetics 5W30 will allow you to start the engine in the most adverse weather conditions.
For example, the average minimum temperature of liquids in this category is -30 ° C, however, Liqui Moly synthetic lubricants with a viscosity of 5W30 are able to start the car even at -35 ° C. The upper thermal point also depends on the manufacturer, while its value usually does not exceed 25 ° C. Otherwise, oils must be marked with a viscosity grade of 5W40.
The advantages of synthetic compounds also include a reliable oil film, which is formed as a result of filling the lubrication system. This important component allows you to protect the rubbing parts of the engine from wear. For the same reason, with synthetics, the car's powertrain is somewhat less noisy, as gliding improves.
The main disadvantage of synthetics is its price. A good 5W30 oil generated entirely from artificial components will cost about 2 times more than semi-synthetics. In addition, a larger amount of soot should be attributed to the minuses, however, this is offset by the presence of active detergent additives in most lubricants, which well remove residues of combustion products.
Each manufacturer uses its own engine production technology, so the same oil may not be suitable for different units. Some concerns produce their own 5W30 synthetic lubrication options, for example, Ford, Volkswagen, Nissan. There are other all-weather lubricants of this class that can suit most cars. The best of them are Castrol Magnatec A1 5W30, Petro-Canada Supreme Synthetic 5W30 and Shell Helix Ultra Extra 5W30.
Semi-synthetic oils
High-quality synthetics are sometimes not available in affordable stores, or there may not be enough money for it. In such cases, it would be preferable to buy a reliable 5W30 semi-synthetic. Such mixtures are created from artificial and natural components. Those oils that are more expensive contain a higher percentage of synthetics (up to 70%). If the price of the consumable is low, then, most likely, the mineral elements in it can take up to 50%.
Semi-synthetic oil is not at all a synonym for low quality. The demand for such mixtures is relatively high, so manufacturers strive to make them no worse than synthetic ones. A serious advantage of this category of lubricants is their improved cleaning properties. Semi-synthetics protect the rubbing parts of the unit much better than completely artificial counterparts, due to which it does not become clogged with residues of combustion products.
The protective properties of 5W30 mixtures are no worse. All moving elements of the engine work stably and without unnecessary noise, which changes the sound background of the internal combustion engine for the better. Of course, wear does not slow down so much, however, reliable protection of parts is provided (naturally, if the mixture itself is of high quality). In addition, good semi-synthetics should evaporate slowly due to the thicker composition, which is also a big plus.
The main disadvantage of motor oils with mineral components is a reduced drain interval.
It is best to top up the mixture at regular intervals, otherwise a depleted lubrication system can take the driver by surprise. In addition, some natural elements are not as mobile and elastic as artificial ones, so the oil film can sometimes be damaged (this can be corrected by topping up with liquid).
What choice to make?
So, synthetic or semi-synthetic? The answer to this question lies in two things: the brand of the car and the car owner's wallet. The first factor concerns those vehicles in which it is best (and sometimes mandatory) to use synthetics. This applies to machines with high-performance multi-valve powertrains, including turbocharged ones, which can only deliver the required power and torque with the right oil in the system.
In addition, the driver's finances also play an important role. If there is no money for a high-quality synthetic fluid, then it is better to take a good semi-synthetic. If the car owner can afford more expensive materials, it is better to purchase reliable synthetics.
Conclusion
Engine oil plays a vital role in engine performance. Without it, the car will not start or run. Therefore, it is extremely important to use reliable lubricants in order to operate the vehicle without problems.
Motor oil is one of the main fluids designed to service vehicles, and in particular internal combustion engines. In order to ensure the reliable operation of the power unit, it is necessary to choose the engine oil wisely.
The markings on the packages with lubricating fluids can help in this matter. Some of them belong to one of the generally accepted classifications of compounds in this category, for example, classification according to the API specification, ACEA, as well as one of the main systems - SAE. Understanding what the markings mean, you can easily choose the right lubricant for a particular car.
The API classification divides all motor oils into several categories by application, for example, for gasoline or diesel engines, or suitable for both. But still, the main system that divides lubricants into classes is SAE.
SAE classification
The main feature by which all motor oils are systematized here is viscosity, as well as temperature conditions. These parameters are largely responsible for the reliable operation of the engine, as well as for its durability.
According to the above feature, in the presented classification, three types of lubricating fluids are distinguished:
- For the summer period;
- For the winter period;
- All-weather or universal.
The first category of motor oils - summer - have an increased level of viscosity, thereby protecting the internal combustion engine from overheating. Since this composition is seasonal, then it needs to be changed at the end of the season - about once every six months for one whose temperature regime corresponds to the natural period.
Summer grease can be effective at positive temperatures, but already at 0 it begins to harden (let alone negative temperatures!), while losing some of its properties, while another part is simply ineffective in cold weather. As a result, it turns out that such a lubricant even negatively affects the operation of the engine.
Winter motor oils are more fluid and less viscous than summer ones. Thanks to these operational parameters, the lubricant quickly penetrates into all corners of the internal combustion engine, thereby protecting its parts from friction. Also, with these properties, the lubricant provides a quick start of the car at low temperatures.
As for changing the lubricant, the situation here is the same as with summer oils: about once every six months, you need to fill in the composition that suits the season. The use of winter motor oils in the summer can lead to negative consequences that will affect the operation of the power unit.
Seasonal lubricants in recent years have been increasingly oppressed by universal, all-season lubricants, since these substances have qualitative characteristics - the temperature regime of efficient operation, viscosity, fluidity - of both winter and summer motor oils. For this reason, they are effective in use at any time of the year, and they need to be changed much less often - once every twelve months or more.
A little about the viscosity of engine oil
First of all, the lubricating fluid is designed to perform the main function: to protect the parts of the internal combustion engine from friction, that is, “dry operation”. In addition, this substance must ensure the tight operation of the cylinders.
Performance characteristics may change during operation of the internal combustion engine under the influence of high temperatures. Depending on the intensity of the power unit, the temperature of the lubricant can reach up to one hundred and fifty degrees Celsius.
It is in order to reliably protect the car engine that you need to carefully choose the lubricant for it, following the manufacturer's recommendations indicated in the service book.
Deciphering engine oil indices
On packages with these lubricants, you can see similar numbers and letters: SAE 30, SAE 0w 30 and other similar ones. Summer oils include those that are marked only with numbers (30, 40); for winter - 0 w, 5 w and others, the letter w means "winter" (eng. winter), and the number is the temperature range in which the lubricant can work. All-weather universal lubricants are labeled both as summer and winter, for example: 0 w 30, 10 w 30, 30 w 40 and others. The numbers indicate certain properties of engine oil.
As for the 5w30 engine oil, it belongs to the category of universal and can be used both in summer and in winter. Deciphering both parts of the marking of this lubricant will allow you to learn more about its characteristics and properties.
The 5w index characterizes the low-temperature properties of the SAE 5w 30 lubricating fluid. The viscosity of the composition allows for a "cold start" of the car at -35 degrees. This figure is obtained as follows: the number in front of the letter “w” is subtracted from 40. The result of this simple calculation is the minimum lubricant temperature at which it is possible to pump the compound through the lubrication system of an internal combustion engine without running dry.
Attention! It should be borne in mind that at -35, starting the engine may not immediately take place, since under the influence of negative temperatures the oil gradually thickens, and it is more and more difficult for the starter to turn it.
The second part, index thirty, indicates that SAE 5w30 lubricating fluid will be effective at summer temperatures of about plus thirty, if the temperature of the engine during its operation is about one hundred and one hundred and fifty degrees. As the ambient temperature rises, the lubrication efficiency will decrease. It is not worth buying a composition with good high-temperature viscosity - it is better to follow the recommendations of the car manufacturer.
Attention! The basis of motor oils in this category may be different, but for cars with high mileage and service life, mineral grease is better suited, and synthetics for new cars.
Some Features
- Most motor oil manufacturers allow their products to be used at temperatures as low as -20, but in many regions the cold is much more severe. When living in such territorial zones, it is better to choose a lubricant that has a high level of viscosity;
- A high level of viscosity is not a guarantee of good engine performance. The manufacturer's recommendations, some characteristics of the power unit, as well as the age and mileage of the car should be taken into account. In general, motor oils with a high viscosity level are recommended for use in sports cars. Too viscous lubricant for cars, for example, of domestic production, will only harm: at best, the engine power will simply decrease, at worst, it will need to be repaired.
How often should the oil be changed?
How often do you need to change the oil in your car?
In order to ensure the efficient operation of the internal combustion engine, it is necessary to change the lubricant approximately every ten thousand kilometers. You should also regularly measure the level of this substance in the engine (at least 2-3 times a month). In cars running on gas, oil clogging does not occur so quickly, so you can change it after twenty thousand kilometers.
Timely detection of a lack of lubricating fluid will avoid problems with the power unit (up to the need for a major overhaul).
Thus, deciphering the markings that are on the packaging of lubricating fluids allows you to learn about the properties of the substance and choose the right tool.
Attention! The decoding of SAE 5w 30 oil and any other is approximate. Specific values depend on many factors, such as the condition of the internal combustion engine, operating temperature conditions, the age and mileage of the car, its general technical condition. The manufacturer's recommendations should also be taken into account.
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One of the main indicators characterizing engine oil is viscosity. Motorists are familiar with the situation in which the engine cannot be started in cold weather. The starter rotates the crankshaft very sluggishly and the lubricant gets stuck in the channels of the power unit. This means that the lubricant has a high viscosity, which is not suitable for operation in the winter season.
In this article, we will consider the main characteristics of motor oils using such popular oils as 5w40 and 5w30 as an example, and at the end we will separately consider how 5w40 oil differs from 5w30 and which one is better to choose.
By seasonality, motor oils are classified as follows:
- summer oil. It has a high viscosity index, therefore it is effective at positive temperatures, but if the thermometer falls below 0 degrees Celsius, it will be difficult to start the engine.
- winter oil. Due to its low viscosity, the lubricant makes it easy to start the power unit even in severe frosts, but it is not effective in summer because it creates an oily film that is unstable at positive temperatures.
- All-weather oil. A universal energy-saving lubricant that does not need to be changed depending on the season, because in summer it acquires a high viscosity, and in winter - low, reliably protecting the engine all year round.
Viscosity is the main indicator on which the quality characteristics of the oil and its cost depend. You should choose the lubricant that harmoniously combines optimal viscosity indicators and additional components that increase the life of the power unit.
Car manufacturers give recommendations on the use of certain types and brands of automotive oils. To find out which lubricant to use in summer or in winter, just read the car's operating instructions. But this rule has an exception. Technology does not stand still, which means that the brands of oils also change, so the data indicated in the instructions for a used car may become outdated. In this case, the lubricant must be selected independently.
SAE oil classification
In lubricant catalogs and in the recommendations of car manufacturers, the abbreviation SAE often appears. This is not a manufacturer's brand, but a specification developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE - Society of Automobile Engineers).
The classification does not prescribe on which vehicles a particular type of lubricant should be used, it only sorts oils according to the degree of viscosity, which depends on temperature:
- summer oils: 20, 30, 40, 50, 60;
- winter oils: 0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W, 25W;
- All season: the name consists of two parts, for example, 5W40.
The letter "W" in the classification indicates the use of lubricants in the winter (Winter). So what does the 5W30 designation indicate? The fact that 5W is a viscosity characteristic in winter, and 30 is a temperature indicator that is optimal for the summer season. It depends on the first part of the specification how easy and painless it is for the power unit to start it up in the cold season. The second part indicates at what highest temperatures the film between the engine parts will maintain a stable structure.
Which oil to choose 5w30 or 5w40
The choice of lubricant made according to the SAE specification largely depends on the temperature of the area where the vehicle is operated. The winter coefficient, for example 5W, determines the lowest temperature at which the engine will operate without failure. For 5W, this is -30 degrees Celsius, depending on the "summer" characteristics. Proper selection of lubricant keeps the power unit from jamming and premature failure. Hardened grease makes it difficult to rotate the crankshaft with a starter. The oil pump is not able to drive the frozen mass through the lubrication channels. The fluidity of the lubricant must be sufficient so that it does not turn into a "jelly". 0W oil has an ideal viscosity indicator for the winter period.
There are subtleties in choosing a summer indicator. Too fluid lubricant will not linger on the mating engine components, which can lead to overheating and premature engine failure. The summer coefficient, for example, 30, indicates the minimum and maximum viscosity of engine oil at operating temperatures of 100-150 degrees Celsius. The higher this number, the higher the viscosity of the oil at high temperatures. More on this below.
Video about the differences between 5w30 and 5w40
The difference between 5W40 oil and 5W30
If we talk about the differences between 5W40 engine oil and 5W30, then first of all it should be noted that they have the same characteristics responsible for starting the engine in the winter. Both oils are classified as 5W, which means that such oil can be used at temperatures down to -30 degrees Celsius. As for the second part of the marking, then you should refer to the SAE oil viscosity table.
As can be seen from this table, the kinematic viscosity of 5w30 at 100 degrees Celsius is in the range of 9.3 - 12.5 mm sq. / s, while 5w40 has a viscosity of 12.5 - 16.3 mm sq. / s. The minimum HTHS viscosity for 5w30 is 2.9, while for 5w40 this parameter can be 2.9 or 3.7.
It is not difficult to notice that at high temperatures, 5W40 oil differs from 5W30 in viscosity. 5W40 oil is more viscous, which means it forms a thicker film on the cylinder walls. On the one hand, this is good, but if the oil is too viscous, there may be problems with its flow. Therefore, in the matter of choosing an oil between 5W40 and 5W30, it is better to trust information from the car manufacturer.
The most popular of all the fuels and lubricants presented is 5w30 synthetic motor oil from the world's leading brands.
The main and main task of lubricants is to protect engine parts from running dry and ensure its normal operation in conditions of complete tightness of the working cylinders. Properly selected engine oil is a guarantee of proper operation of the engine and increases the life of its components.
The fuel and lubricants market is represented by three product categories:
- for cars with petrol engines;
- for diesel units;
- universal, which have physical characteristics that allow them to be used in internal combustion engines and diesel engines.
According to the seasonality of use, lubricating fluids are distinguished:
- winter - 5w, 10w
- summer,
- all season - 0w 30, 5w30
Regardless of the category of lubricant, engine oil has a major parameter of physical properties that determine its effectiveness. This is viscosity (5w30), that is, the ability of the lubricant to maintain fluidity, remaining on the surface of the parts. The protection of parts from friction and wear during the operation of the car depends on this indicator. If the viscosity (5w) does not correspond to the recommended one, then the engine life is reduced. Also of great importance is the second indicator (30) - this is high-temperature viscosity. Its deviations from the recommended one can lead the engine to overhaul faster than it was originally planned. Since in this case the motor runs at high speeds, which can take it out of the range of maximum permissible norms.
When choosing a lubricant, the viscosity index must be taken into account. It should not exceed the parameters recommended by the manufacturer. Otherwise, you will increase the load on the engine, which can lead to serious damage and subsequent costly repairs.
How to make the right choice?
What should you pay attention to when choosing universal fuels and lubricants for your car?
- Viscosity index.
- It depends on him the possibility of starting the engine in winter conditions. The lower this indicator, the easier the engine obeys the ignition signal.
- The degree of coverage of engine parts with lubricating fluid depends on the viscosity in order to prevent their friction and wear, as well as the prevention of chemical and mechanical damage.
- Temperature regime.
- It determines the minimum threshold for the effectiveness of this type of lubricant in the cold season.
- It also sets the temperature range at which the use of an oily fluid guarantees the safe operation of the car when the engine is heated.
This classification of fuels and lubricants in terms of viscosity and temperature conditions was established by the American community of engineers SAE. Compliance of motor oils with this classification is indicated on each package "sae".
Series 5w 30
The most popular of all the fuels and lubricants presented is synthetic motor oil of the 5w30 series. The characteristics of the products of this group meet the stringent requirements for the operation of vehicles in the city and on highways. City mode is different:
- prolonged idling of the engine,
- car idle in traffic jams,
- stable trips over short distances,
- increased dust content in the air.
These factors significantly reduce the life of the motors. Properly selected oil product is the key to long-term operation and technically sound condition of the engine.
Automotive lubricants of the sae 5w30 class are distinguished by a unique formula based on the synthesis of an oil base and an additive package that is characteristic of synthetics providing:
- protection of the engine against friction and wear of parts,
- resistance to oxidative processes during operation in conditions of high humidity and climatic precipitation.
The package of additives may be different. All of them perform only their specific functions. It is a balanced set of additives that makes the oil base suitable for use in any particular type of engine. In each specific type of lubricating fluid, the compliance of the additives must be within the framework of the standards for the quality of motor oils.
It should be noted that changes in the heating temperature of the motor can change the properties of the lubricant components. Depending on the intensity of its work, sae 5w30 class engine oils can heat up to 150 ° C. When choosing engine oil, you must rely on the technical specifications recommended by the car manufacturer. Oil tolerance is not given for a specific brand of car, but directly for the type of engine. Therefore, the brand of oil fluids can be any, but the basic parameters of the lubricant must meet the requirements that the manufacturer of your car puts forward.
Buying synthetic or mineral motor oil with a sae 5w30 rating is a purely personal matter. It depends on the age of the machine, engine characteristics and operating conditions. Some are inclined to believe that cars older than 5 - 7 years are better able to perceive mineral lubricating fluids, as this reduces oil consumption and increases engine life. In this case, it is better to opt for a higher viscosity.
For cars with new generation and foreign-made engines, synthetic motor fluids are recommended for use. Of this series, synthetic motor oils of the sae 5w30 class are in the greatest demand, as they satisfy the climatic conditions and traffic intensity in the urban format.
Lubricant change
The frequency of changing the lubricant in the car depends on the operating conditions, mileage, and the condition of the engine parts. The most optimal option is 10 thousand km. In difficult conditions of use, this period can be reduced to 7 - 8 thousand km. run. With a dual fuel format, for example, "gasoline - gas", the replacement period increases to 15 - 20 thousand km. This is due to the fact that gas fuel is a more environmentally friendly product and has a softer effect on the parts of the unit. It is necessary to control the quality of engine oil in the engine and its quantity once every two weeks. To do this, cars have a special dipstick indicating the minimum and maximum oil levels.
Classification and standards
Engine oils of class sae 5w30 synthetics meet the requirements of environmental friendliness. All representatives of this group not only have SAE, ACEA and API compliance, but are also certified for use in vehicles with valve gasoline and diesel engines from such major manufacturers as: BMW, VOLVO, RENAULT, MAN. In order to obtain manufacturers' approval, all oil products undergo strict control and numerous tests. All declared characteristics must comply with the requirements of manufacturers.
SAE - viscosity classification of lubricants (5w);
ACEA is a European classification for a set of additives and the quality of the final product.
API - American classification of fuels and lubricants by engine type. Shares the purpose of oil for use in gasoline (SJ) and diesel (CF) engines. The absence of this information indicates an obsolete quality class.
Benefits of choosing 5w30 synthetics
Thanks to the technical composition, 5w30 synthetics have the following advantages:
- enhanced protection of the internal parts of the motor from mechanical and chemical effects;
- provide a heavy-duty film coating of engine parts from the inside;
- protective properties against oxidation and corrosion;
- protective functions in relation to the moving parts of the motor from mechanical friction and wear during operation;
- a longer range of time between engine oil changes;
- universal lubricant composition 5w30 allows the use of fluids of this class in different types of power units.
Synthetics sae 5w 30 is a demi-season lubricating fluid, which allows it to be used year-round. There is no need to change the oil in accordance with seasonal changes. At the same time, it does not lose its properties and remains effective for any engines.
Synthetics 5w 30 CF series for diesel engines
Synthetic low-ash engine oil 5w 30 is designed for diesel vehicles and is equipped with a dual exhaust gas purification system. This category meets state standards for the environmental friendliness of lubricating fluids. Recommended for cars with diesel particulate filters, turbocharging and catalytic converters. Conform to the latest requirements of API SN/CF, ACEA C3.
In the production of diesel motor oils 5w 30, modern basic components developed using new nanotechnologies are used. They increase the protective functions and reduce the amount of exhaust emissions. Synthetic additives have a reduced content of sulfur, phosphorus and chlorine bonds.
5w30 engine oils have characteristics recommended for filling in diesel engines with particulate filters and turbines:
- keep the working unit clean;
- provide quick access to engine parts;
- maintain normal operating pressure in the engine at any degree of load;
- guarantee durable lubrication at low and high temperatures;
- reduce fuel consumption;
- reduce the amount of exhaust gases.
Diesel engine oils sae 5w 30 guarantee high vehicle performance and increase the life of gas converters. Automakers allow the use of sae 5w 30 synthetics with the specified properties, which maintains favorable conditions for car maintenance during the warranty period.
Modern lubricants have the ability to reduce fuel consumption. Being a universal lubricant, engine oils are used both in new generation cars and in old models of world automakers. One of the significant indicators in choosing a lubricant is its compliance with all necessary regulations and standards.
The article will consider a test of the well-known ZR magazine, conducted on SAE-5W30 oils, under conditions close to real, namely, on brand new Ford Focus cars that have just been released from the factory.
Test conditions
All 5w-30 oils were tested under the same conditions.
The conditions under which the 5w30 engine oil test was carried out:
- 10,000 km, of which idling - 54 hours,
- 100 hours at 6000 rpm, which included a traffic jam urban cycle, and 45 cold starts.
At what it is worth paying attention to the fact that oil was constantly added to the cars, respectively, this casts doubt on the validity of testing.
Test results
As a result of the experiments, the top three included Castrol, G-Energy and Mobil. The entire table of contenders for the title of the best is formed below.
1. Castrol Magnatec A1 5W-30
Synthetic car oil 5W-30 - Castrol Magnatec A1.
The manufacturer claims increased cleaning of long-acting engine parts, based on molecular construction using Intelligent Molecules technology. The base oil is synthetic. The product is recommended for all types of modern engines.
Test indicators - in terms of waste, Castrol gave not bad results, but among the tested oils it turned out to be average, the iron residue in working out did not much exceed the norm, which indicates good washing abilities only at the beginning, chemical residues. oxidation also exceeded the norm, so it is recommended to change the oil after 10,000 km, for it this is a critical indicator.
2. G-Energy F Synth EC 5W-30
Synthetics by G-Energy F Synth EC.
The manufacturer's claim for ultra-protection, both at low and high temperatures, thanks to a stable protective film. The feature of this oil for increased energy saving was highlighted, which implies the use in Ford supernova engines (recommendations from Ford). The product is suitable for all types of engines and can be used on minibuses, jeeps and all kinds of passenger cars.
Testing - average indicators for viscosity changes, good iron content, normal burnout - average oil from Gazprom, but of Italian origin. G-Energy F Synth EC is not designed for long runs without replacement, its washing reserves are very low.
3. Mobil Super FE Special 5W-30
Synthetic motor oil Mobil Super FE Special.
A loud statement from the manufacturer - what exactly does this engine oil classify as VIP, and guarantees reliable and high-quality protection of the car engine under extreme loads over long distances. The base is a hydrocracking base. Application - supernova engines of passenger cars.
Test indicators - the oil really confirmed its excellent washing properties, but took first place from the end in waste, so it can not be called economical. Further, the test showed a very high iron content at the confluence, which is also not very good and the oil still needs to be changed after 10,000 without experimenting with long distances.
4. Motul 8100 Econergy 5W-30
synthetic oil Motul 8100 Eco-nergy.
Application from the French manufacturer - economical, with excellent washing and protective characteristics, with the presence of an anti-wear effect, good anti-corrosion properties, stop foaming, antioxidant. The manufacturer recommends using oil for all A1 / B1 and A5 / B5 car groups according to ACEA.
Testing - a good oil with all average indicators, with stable average characteristics at medium loads, stable middle class.
5. Shell Helix Ultra Extra 5W-30
Motor synthetics Shell Helix Ultra Extra.
Presentation from the manufacturer - premium synthetic motor oil with excellent washing characteristics and full protection of all car parts. Economical in consumption, can work on any engines at maximum loads with an extended drain interval. It has the eco-friendly characteristic of all Shell products due to its reduced chlorine content. Recognized by Mercedes Benz, VW and BMW. Ideal for modern diesel engines and older powertrains.
Testing - the oil showed the highest performance and fully complied with the declared. The iron content is low, waste is minimal, which confirms its operation without topping up, the acid mining index is not high, the viscosity parameter is stable without cardinal jumps, taking into account temperature changes.
6. THK Magnum Professional F 5W-30
Synthetic engine oil THK Magnum Professional F.
Claim from the manufacturer - a fully synthetic oil with good energy efficiency, focused on cars from Ford, as confirmed by the automaker. Characteristics of work in the stay-in-grade category. It is indicated for use in gasoline engines (and with modifications of turbocharging and direct injection) in passenger cars.
Test results - The oil showed itself very well, became a leader in terms of waste, perfectly preserved engine parts, since the iron content in mining was minimal, the alkaline number also changed within the permissible range (in Russia). An interesting product worth paying attention to, given its low cost, the THK Magnum Professional F will clearly take first place.
7. Total Quartz 9000 Future fuel economy 5W-30
Synthetic oil for cars Total Quartz 9000 Future fuel economy.
All-weather oil with stable characteristics, shown to work in all modes - city, highway, traffic jams. Provides good engine protection by preventing dirt and sludge from entering the engine. Economical, not designed for exceeding replacement distances, maximum 10,000 km.
Test - the oil did not pass the test even at 10,000, it had to be topped up every 4000 km. At the same time, its viscosity turned out to be very low, the oil thickened and formed lumps of soot.
8. ZIC XQ LS 5W-30
synthetic oil ZIC XQ LS.
From the manufacturer - base for ZIC XQ LS YUBASE oil + additive package from Lubrizol, Infinium, Oronite (USA) using VHVI technology. These parameters guarantee low engine oil consumption, perfect engine protection, exceptionally high cleaning performance, extended oil change cycles. Actually, we have already met such parameters when testing the ZIC XQ LS 5W40, then the oil showed itself perfectly and practically took the lead.
Test data - resistant to fading, but does not keep the viscosity too large changes, the iron content in the exhaust is above the norm, which indicates poor-quality engine protection, the base number also exceeded the allowable limits in the change. Why almost two identical products showed such different results is not clear, perhaps the reason is additives - thickeners, the content of which is higher in 5W40.