If you have doubts about what kind of oil you need to fill in the engine, then you should pay attention to our rating for 2018-2019. This top 10 of the best motor oils was compiled according to buyers. Also taken into account perfect ratio price-quality, which often comes to the fore when buying.

The best motor oils 5w30

10 ZIC X9 5W-30

For latest engines with or without turbocharging, it is recommended to purchase ZIC oil X9 5W-30. Here, the content of ash, sulfur and phosphorus is significantly reduced. The engine resource will be significantly extended, and fuel will be spent more economically. Suitable for absolutely all seasons.

Pros:

• Suitable even for turbocharged engines.
• Makes the engine reliable.
• Ideal for use at any time of the year.

Minuses:

• It is advisable to use high-quality gasoline.

9 General Motors Dexos2 Longlife 5W30

Inexpensive synthetic oil General Motors Dexos2 Longlife 5W30 is essential for constant aggressive driving, as well as during periods of difficult operating conditions. All critical elements of the engine are quickly lubricated, there is a visible fuel economy. Even with low temperatures The engine will start right up the first time. A strong oil film appears, which protects especially worn elements.

Pros:

• Very quiet engine compartment.
• Makes the car start in the cold.
• Minimum price.

Minuses:

• The oil needs to be changed frequently.

8 SHELL Helix HX8 Synthetic 5W-30

Motor SHELL oil Helix HX8 Synthetic 5W-30 is fully synthetic, and can also be actively used for gasoline and gas engines. Also, the oil is suitable for diesel engines without filters. It perfectly protects and cleans the most important component of the car. On the surface of the motor will no longer remain harmful deposits. Moreover, friction between parts is significantly reduced, which has a positive effect on fuel economy.

Pros:

• Used in a wide variety of engines.
• Saves fuel by reducing its consumption.
• Makes the motor more durable.

Minuses:

• Lots of fakes.

7 TOTAL Quartz INEO ECS 5W30

TOTAL Quartz INEO ECS 5W30 oil has a low sulfur and phosphorus content, as well as a fairly low sulfate ash content. Thanks to this, exhaust gases are significantly cleaned, and fuel is seriously saved. This oil can be poured into almost any engine - diesel and gasoline.

Pros:

• The motor starts to run quieter.
• Extends engine life.
• Serious fuel economy.

Minuses:

• Rarely found for sale.

6 Lukoil Genesis Claritech 5W-30

Low ash motor oil Lukoil Genesis Claritech 5W-30 is suitable not only for most diesel and gasoline vehicles, but can be used in all seasons. Such oil increases the longevity of the engine, and also improves the functioning of the exhaust aftertreatment system.

Pros:

• The engine starts easily even in winter.
• Virtually no fakes.
• Minimum oil consumption.

Minuses:

• Requires fairly frequent replacement.

5 Idemitsu Zepro Touring 5W-30

Idemitsu Oil Zepro Touring 5W-30 is designed for absolutely any gasoline-powered vehicle. High efficiency in terms of fuel consumption is complemented by amazing viscosity. This synthetic oil is adapted to a variety of temperature conditions, favorably affecting the engine. For its manufacture, the most complex catalytic dewaxing is used.

Pros:

• Really quiet operation motor.
• Suitable for harsh winters.
• Serious fuel savings.

Minuses:

• It can be hard to find for sale.
• Only suitable for gasoline engines.

4 LIQUI MOLY Special Tec AA 5W-30

Need serious defense engine? Then LIQUI MOLY Special Tec AA 5W-30 is a good choice. This synthetic oil reduces fuel consumption and protects against excessive wear thanks to a special formulation. Motor parts are not damaged during operation, and it remains extremely clean. Particular emphasis is placed on cars of American and Asian production, on which active testing was carried out.

Pros:

• Excellent fuel economy.
• The engine stays always clean.
• Oil quickly flows to all parts.

Minuses:

• More suitable for Asian and American brand cars.

3 MOBIL 1 ESP Formula 5W-30

Keep all engine parts as clean as possible with MOBIL 1 synthetic motor oil ESP Formula 5W-30. It is made on the basis of an exclusive formula, which includes technological components. Developed oil for gasoline and diesel engines. Protects the engine and saves fuel.

Pros:

• Leaves the engine clean and durable.
• Significantly saves fuel.
• Allows you to start the car in cold winter.

Minuses:

• Pretty expensive pleasure.

2 Castrol Edge 5W-30

A strong oil film sets Castrol Edge 5W-30 apart from the competition. Oil perfectly withstands even extreme pressure. Titanium FST technology makes the motor much more efficient. There is wear protection, as well as fuel economy.

Pros:

• The car accelerates more dynamically and smoothly.
• The engine runs efficiently.
• Good motor protection.

Minuses:

• The sound of the engine may change.

1 Motul Specific dexos2 5W30

Synthetic engine oil Motul Specific dexos2 5W30 is ideal for 4-stroke diesel and petrol engines. It is suitable for almost all motors. It is also recommended to use it with off-road vehicles or engines with split injection. It's advanced energy saving oil API class SN/FC provides a high level in terms of ecology, making cars emit much less harmful substances to the air.

Pros:

• The highest quality.
• Suitable for a wide variety of motors.
• A careful approach to sustainability.

Minuses:

• Pretty high price.

The best motor oils 5w40

10 TNK Magnum Super 5W-40

TNK Magnum Super 5W-40 appears to be semi-synthetic. The balanced composition qualitatively protects the motor from pollution and other problems. Oil easily "starts" the engine in cold weather. And it can be used with almost all motors.

Pros:

• Protects against overheating and deposits.
• Stability throughout the life of the product.
• The engine is not afraid of any temperature.

Minuses:

• In some cases, it forms a black deposit in the motor.

9 Lukoil Lux synthetic SN/CF 5W-40

If you want to try synthetic oil premium class By affordable price, then you should take a closer look at Lukoil Lux synthetic SN / CF 5W-40. It fully complies with the latest operating standards. The oil is recommended for passenger cars as well as small trucks and vans. Well protects modern engines even in conditions of intensive driving. At the same time, the noise level is noticeably reduced, and deposits cease to form.

Pros:

• The car drives quietly and smoothly.
• There are almost no fakes.
• Suitable for a wide range of motors.

Minuses:

• Not the best quality cans.

8 G-Energy F Synth 5W-40

Really quality oil G-Energy F Synth 5W-40 will improve engine performance not only in cars, but also in trucks and vans. Such oil is poured into a variety of engines (gasoline, diesel, turbocharged units). Its consumption is quite low due to special components. And the details are always clean.

Pros:

• Seriously extends the life of the motor.
• Always clean details.
• Long drain intervals.

Minuses:

• May lose properties over time.

7 ELF Evolution 900 NF 5W-40 4 l

Synthetic lubricant ELF Evolution 900 NF 5W-40 was created for passenger car engines. Such oil can be poured into any diesel and gasoline units, with the exception of diesel particulate filters. Withstands extended drain intervals and effectively cleans all parts. A great option for a variety of climates.

Pros:

• Does not require frequent replacement.
• Suitable for many motors.
• Perfectly cleans all elements.

Minuses:

• Not packaged in the most secure way.

6 TOTAL Quartz 9000 5W40

Quality motor TOTAL oil Quartz 9000 5W40 is suitable even for turbocharged engines. Ideal for direct injection and common rail engines. Due to the highest viscosity index, it withstands a wide variety of temperature conditions. It has increased wear protection and extended drain intervals. Just perfect for passenger cars, making the engine completely clean and tidy.

Pros:

• The highest degree of protection.
• The engine stays completely clean.
• Significant change interval.

Minuses:

• There may be problems with bad fuel.

5 MOBIL Super 3000 X1 5W-40

Truly universal can be called synthetic MOBIL oil Super 3000 X1 5W-40. It makes the engine more reliable, and its service life increases significantly. Suitable for both diesel and gasoline engines. Withstands the widest temperature Range, which again speaks in favor of this oil. If difficult driving conditions are often encountered, then this oil will be an excellent choice.

Pros:

• Good job summer and winter.
• The car always starts on the first try.
• The motor is extremely quiet.

Minuses:

• There are a wide variety of fakes.

4 SHELL Helix Ultra 5W-40

Does a modern engine require care? Pay attention to this - SHELL Helix Ultra 5W-40. This synthetic oil enables diesel and gasoline units open up in a new way. The engine becomes immediately clean, as deposits cease to form. What's more, it's the only oil of its kind endorsed by Ferrari itself. It is able to withstand even a long replacement interval, making the motor as productive as possible.

Pros:

• Oil tends to not burn.
• The motor is incredibly quiet.
• Perfectly lubricates all critical parts.

Minuses:

• There are frequent fakes.
• The price may seem high.

3 Castrol Edge 5W-40

Castrol Edge 5W-40 protects the engine with a durable film from different problems. Titanium compounds are used here, which have incredible durability. This oil has a positive effect on the engine, revealing almost its full potential. No more deposits will spoil the engine, and its smooth operation will be felt while pressing the gas pedal. With this oil, the engine will live a completely new life.

Pros:

• It has a positive effect on acceleration dynamics.
• Unleashes the potential of the motor.
• Reliably protects from pollution.

Minuses:

• Can change the sound of the engine in operation.

2 LIQUI MOLY Molygen New Generation 5W-40

For easy running cars all year round, you can recommend LIQUI MOLY Molygen New Generation 5W-40 oil with high stability. The oil effectively fights deposits, extending the life of the motor. The manufacturer claims that the oil can save up to 4% of fuel. At the same time, the overall life of the engine is noticeably extended.

Pros:

• Smooth and clear work motor.
• It is consumed almost imperceptibly.
• Saves fuel up to 4%.

Minuses:

• Quite a solid cost.

1 Motul 8100 X-clean 5W40

Motul oil 8100 X-clean 5W40 for advanced petrol and diesel engines has Euro 4 and Euro 5 quality standards. This oil will save the engine of a brand new car, leaving it in its original form. In this case, absolute purity will be guaranteed not only of individual elements, but of the entire engine. It can harden only at a temperature of -39 degrees, which allows you to actively use the oil even in cold winters.

Pros:

• Ideal for fairly new engines.
• Effectively cleans the entire engine.
• Really saves fuel.

Minuses:

• Some turbocharged engines consume a lot of oil.

Oils that guarantee the possibility of starting down to minus 35 ° C are entirely synthetic and the most expensive. Today, almost all foreign manufacturers have such. Among domestic ones, we found 0W40 oil in only two - Utech from Yukos and AGA from AJA AvtoMag LLC.

Divide the class into groups

Motor oils are divided not only into classes (by viscosity), but also into groups (by quality level). There are several rating systems. Most famous American classification according to API: oils for gasoline engines are assigned the index SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM - the further the second letter is from the beginning of the alphabet, the higher the oil's ability to withstand loads. European ACEA classification(designations A2, A3, A4). Here than more figure the higher the quality level. For diesel engines, other combinations of letters and numbers are used. It is permissible to fill in the oil that meets or exceeds the quality level required by the vehicle manufacturer. This time we decided to compare only the oils within each group, so there were leaders in each of them.

Physical and chemical properties were tested for the requirements of GOST R 51634-200 and SAE standard j-300 Dec 99, and API group quality compliance with the Sliding Ring device (ZR, 2006, No. 11). According to the “ring” test, points were given: the more there are, the more readily lacquer deposits form on pistons and cylinders. A lot of deposits are bad for a motor, especially a highly forced one.

Viscosity was measured both at 100°C (the oil flow through the calibrated hole per minute was monitored) and at minus 35°C (the shear force in the rubbing pair was determined, that is, dynamic viscosity). If dynamic viscosity more than 6200 MPa.s, the starter is unlikely to turn the crankshaft.

We checked the pour point, at which the oil thickens so much that it no longer drips. For class 0W40, it will, of course, be below minus 35°C. However, at such a low temperature, the motor may not start for another reason, even if it is untwisted.

We looked at the ash content. According to the standard, it should not exceed 1.3% (the less, the better). If the rate is exceeded - wait for the formation of soot.

GOST overboard

Of the 14 purchased samples, two were beyond the requirements of the standards. Tecsint SX oil does not correspond to the declared 0W40 class - in severe frost, the starter most likely will not crank the crankshaft, Excellium went beyond the standard for ash content - 1.48 instead of the permissible 1.3%.

How to choose oil

Having carefully studied the results obtained, we were convinced that no one succeeded in making the best oil in all respects. Therefore, the choice must be approached creatively.

If your car's engine is already worn out, pay attention to the minimum ash content: why pollute? And if the motor is new, it is better to choose an oil with a minimum score in the “varnish formation” column.

Doubt? Then rely on our arrangement, in which we took into account all three parameters (viscosity, ash content, varnish formation) and, having evaluated each in points (from 1 to 5), received a comprehensive assessment. In it, we considered each parameter to be an equal “player”. If any of them seems more important, make an informed choice based on the tables presented.

Doesn't meet standards

1. Agip Tecsint SX

Declared manufacturer - Agip, Spain

Estimated price for 1 liter - 330 rubles.

Probably synthetic; quality group, apparently, SJ, the Russian sticker promises absolutely universal applicability. In fact, everything is quite good, but this is not 0W40!

2 Elf Excellium

Declared manufacturer - T.Lubrifiants, France

Estimated price for 1 liter - 300 rubles.

Oil groups API SJ/CF and ACEA A3/B3. The label promises high technology, the best motor protection. However, the ash content is markedly exceeded.

API SJ/CF Group

6th place

AGA engine synthetic oil

Claimed manufacturer – AJA AvtoMag LLC, Russia

Estimated price for 1 liter - 200 rubles.

Oil groups API SJ/CF and ACEA A3/B3. Performance at +30°C is indicated. And there is also a whole diagram of the frequency of shifts at different levels of waste. The minimum mileage is 21,000 km, and in the new engine - all 30,000 km!

The lowest ash content, excellent frost resistance, low price.

- Lacquer formation is too high - even for the SJ group.

5th place

Liqui Moly Synthoil Energy

The declared manufacturer is Liqui Moly GmbH, Germany

Oil groups API SJ/CF and ACEA A3-98/B3-98. Thanks to the molybdenum additive, it promises to reduce friction losses and, therefore, save fuel. We did not check this, but the promise to protect against deposits was fulfilled honestly!

Very low ash content and excellent for its class detergent properties

– Viscosity at minus 35°С – on the verge of admissible; high price.

4th place

U-tech System

Declared manufacturer – OOO Novokuibyshevsky Plant of Oils and Additives, Russia

Estimated price for 1 liter - 190 rubles.

Oil groups API SJ/CF. The API certificate is indicated - a rarity for domestic oils. Good characteristics could not spoil the limit - a five-year exposure in the store. Unfortunately, a liter package was not found, but a five-liter canister is inexpensive!

Low ash content, moderate varnish formation, very low price.

- There are oils in our test and thinner (in the cold).

3rd place

Neste City Pro

Declared manufacturer - Fortum oil and Gas Oy, Finland

Estimated price for 1 liter - 390 rubles.

Oil groups API SJ/CF and ACEA A3/B3. The description is very modest. It does not promise anything special, but it holds the Finnish brand: the pour point is minus 47 ° C. There is a Volkswagen permit and a sign of voluntary certification in Russia.

Very low ash content, excellent frost resistance.

- Average level of varnish formation, relatively high price.

2nd place

Valvoline Synpower

Declared manufacturer - Valvoline Europe, Holland

Oil groups API SJ / CF and ACEA A3 / B3 / B4. A lot of approvals from leading automakers. All promises are true, the engine will remain clean. To be the first oil, but low temperature viscosity loses to the leader.

Very low varnish formation and ash content.

- I would like to have a lower viscosity at minus 35 ° C.

1st place

Teboil Diamond Plus

Declared manufacturer - Teboil, Finland

Estimated price for 1 liter - 410 rubles.

Oil groups API SJ / CF and ACEA A3 / B3-96. The indication "For all types of modern engines" can be misleading: look at the quality group! As for maintaining cleanliness in the engine - at an average level. But starting in the cold will be the easiest!

Best low temperature properties.

— Fairly high ash content and average level varnish formation.

API SL/CF group

2nd place

Shell Helix Ultra

Oil groups API SL / CF and ACEA A3 / B3 / B4. The reference to the victories of Ferrari in formula 1 is not forgotten. It is told about the special detergents present in the oil. Nevertheless, varnish formation is more likely to match the SJ group. But the ash content is very small.

Very low ash content.

- Medium varnish formation and frost resistance.

1st place
BP Visco 7000

Declared manufacturer - BP Lubricants, UK

Estimated price for 1 liter - 360 rubles.

Oil groups API SL/CF and ACEA A3/B3/B4. As for the unsurpassed engine protection, the manufacturer got excited: the ash content is on the verge of acceptable, varnish formation is average. But you can count on an easy start in cold weather! That's the only reason why it was ahead of Shell.

Good low temperature properties.

- High ash content and medium varnish formation.

API SM/CF group

3rd place

Shell Helix Ultra Extra Polar

Declared manufacturer - oy Shell ab, Finland

Estimated price for 1 liter - 460 rubles.

Oil groups API SM/CF and ACEA A3/B3/B4. Unlike oil without the word Extra, here they really tried to achieve a very low varnish formation. But the pour point is only minus 37 ° C, which lowered the overall rating.

Very low varnish formation.

— Not the best low-temperature qualities.

Declared manufacturer - obviously Castrol, country not specified

Estimated price for 1 liter - 460 rubles.

Oil groups API SM / CF and ACEA A3 / B3 / B4. "Exceeds highest standards”,“ A century of experience”, “The best protection” ... But in fact - varnish formation is above average. With the rest of the parameters - everything is in order.

Very low ash content, good frost resistance

- Strong varnish formation.

1st place

Mobil 1 Arctic

Declared manufacturer - ExxsonMobil, Belgium

Estimated price for 1 liter - 530 rubles.

Oil groups API SM / CF and ACEA A3 / B3 / B4. The tolerances of the leading German manufacturers. The promise of an easy start is true. But the ash content is quite large.

Low varnish formation and good low temperature properties.

- High ash content and high price.

We are not surprised by the vagaries of the weather. But how to help the car adapt to unpredictable weather? In the same Moscow in winter it can be minus thirty-five, and plus five. And in the summer, yes, in the sun - as much as forty! What kind of oil to choose so as not to flinch from the weather forecast, and every winter start would harm the engine as little as possible? There seems to be a recipe: there are cans of 0W-40 oils on the shelves.

Very tempting! Gurus assure: the smaller the first number, the easier it is to start the engine in the cold. But then you remember that modern oil lasts a long time, nursing more than 15 thousand km. I won’t change it just because winter has changed to summer or vice versa! But will the motor like to work in the summer on oil that was selected for the cold winter? Here we will check. So, the expertise of motor oils for extreme climates!

The names of the participants are loud: Motul X-max, Castrol EDGE, Mobil 1 New Life and Liqui Moly Synthoil Energy. All oils are expensive, quality groups are according to API SM, and Mobil 1 is even SN / SM.

EXTREME FOR OIL

What will we check? It is necessary to catch all the parameters that affect the operation of the motor in a terrible cold, and when it's hot around. To do this, we had to modify our method resource tests.

The limiting cold start temperatures will be determined by the pour point and the conditional cranking temperature crankshaft. The latter is indirectly affected by the viscosity index. Comparative costs of starter power during a cold start allow us to estimate the moment of mechanical losses of the engine.

To make the engine start easier, the oil must be less viscous. But after all, both the wear rate and friction losses depend on the viscosity ( ZR, 2008, No. 3). Therefore, it is important to know what the "zeros" will bring at equally extreme positive temperatures: we will artificially raise the temperature of the oil in the sump, specially heating it. To do this, we will cut nozzles washing the pistons into the oil line. Control measurements of temperature showed that it increased by 15 ... 20 °C.

That's not all! Both cold and heat increase the rate of deposit formation. Frost promotes the growth of low-temperature deposits in oil channels, and high temperatures increase the level of contamination of the combustion chamber, including the most dangerous variety - varnishes deposited on the side surfaces of the pistons and on the valve guides. They interfere with the normal operation of the rings and can lead to stuck valves, which is equally unpleasant. We will also check the level of these deposits during a long resource test.

In order to have something to compare the “great” with, the usual semi-synthetics 10W-40 of a weak quality class SJ were allowed to participate in the test. Results - in tables, look and compare. Note that to measure the physicochemical parameters, we took not fresh oils from canisters, and those who have worked for a specified time at the stand.

All tables open in full size on a mouse click.

IN WINTER

All zeros, as expected, showed very good low-temperature properties. But what is interesting: the two main parameters that characterize the starting conditions in cold weather are the pour point and the conditional crankshaft cranking temperature, as it were, in antiphase! See for yourself: the record pour point was found in Castrol EDGE: as much as -52 ° C, but it also has the highest conditional cranking temperature: “only” -25 ° C! And Liqui Moly has the opposite picture: the first indicator is worse than the others, but the second is better. Perhaps the most balanced are Motul 8100 X-max and Mobil 1. And their freezing temperature is not bad: -48 ° С, and the cranking temperature is quite low: -29 ... - 28 ° С. For the middle Russian latitudes and even for the North, this is optimal. By the way, these oils have the highest viscosity index: 190. Well, Motul 8100 X-max also distinguished itself by the lowest power that the starter needed to spin up to starting speed.

We look at the table of low-temperature deposits: they will grow in the winter in the first place. Here, as for any dirt, the principle “soil less - clean clean” works. The amount of contaminants is determined by the composition of the base oil, and the quality of their cleaning is determined by the structure and volume of the additive package. Here the Motul 8100 X-max looks better than others.

IN SUMMER

On the base mineral water, wear in hot conditions turned out to be quite noticeable: the motor obviously had a hard time. The masters worked much better: this is clearly seen in the wear values ​​of the piston rings and bearing shells. The parameters of power and fuel consumption, periodically measured during the tests, also confirmed the observations. The best results were shown by oils with the highest viscosity index - Motul 8100 X-max and Mobil 1. With an equivalent viscosity in cold weather, such oils have a viscosity that is closer to optimal universal high-temperature viscosity, which ensures stable formation of lubricating layers that protect against wear and reduce friction. And the lowest level of high-temperature deposits was shown by Castrol EDGE and the same Motul 8100 X-max.

READY FOR CHALLENGES!

So, we can say that even a new ice age will not prevent us from starting the engine. Unless, of course, synthetics of class 0W-40 are filled there. And there is no need to change it before the summer heat either: with this oil, the engine feels confident even when overheated.

But, of course, the selection good oil- this is only half the battle. Candles, a battery and a reasonable gasket between the steering wheel and the seat should not be forgotten when the season changes.

LEARN MORE

Motul 8100 X-max 100% Synthetic, France

SAE 0W-40, API SM/CF, ILSAC GF-4

Price: 2500 rubles. per canister 5 l

Approvals: approved Ford WSS M2C 937-A

A balanced engine oil that performs equally well at all stages of testing. It showed high protective, energy-saving and low-temperature properties. It has a very high viscosity index. A small amount of low- and high-temperature deposits found during the opening of the engine indicates a high-quality, stable base oil and a good package of additives.

Good protective, low temperature, detergent and energy saving properties.

The price is biting.

Mobil 1 New Life Fully Synthetic

SAE 0W-40, API SM/SN, ACEA A3/B3, A3/B4

Price: 1700 rubles. per canister 4 l

Approvals: approved MB 229.5/229.3, VW 502 00/505 00, BMW LongLife 01, Porsche A40, Lada cars

At a reasonable price we have a quality product. The only one in our group that has officially risen above the API requirements of the SM group. Showed balanced starting properties at low temperatures, good protective properties. But when the engine was opened, the pistons were dirty.

Reasonable price with very decent quality.

We expected more from cleaning power.

Castrol EDGE Fully Synthetic, EU

SAE 0W-40, API SM/CF, ACEA A3/B3, A3/B4

Price: 1750 rubles. per canister 4 l

Approvals: approved MB 229.5/229.3, VW 502 00/505 00, BMW LongLife 01, All Porsche vehicles except Cayenne (V6)

A well-known brand tuned in to a high result, and expectations were justified. The lowest pour point indicates a very good base oil. Pistons after testing were practically clean - another confirmation of quality. At the same time, the price is quite affordable.

The lowest pour point, high cleaning power with a decent level of protective properties.

Energy saving parameters are worse than other oils.

Liqui Moly Synthoil Energy, Germany

SAE 0W-40, API SM/CF, ACEA A3-04/B4-04

Price: 2700 rubles. per canister 5 l

Approvals: MB 229.3, VW 502 00/505 00, BMW LongLife-98, Porsche A40, Ford WSS-M2C937-A

The most expensive. It proved to be quite worthy: the lowest conditional temperature of crankshaft cranking, good energy-saving properties. However, cylinder and ring protection is lower than other oils, possibly due to lower high temperature viscosity. But the lowest rate of aging!

Long service life, good starting properties at low temperatures

Price! And the higher rate of piston ring wear found in the cycle lengthy tests.

QUESTIONS

- For what reasons does a car manufacturer recommend a particular brand of oil for a particular model?

Based on a database of testing a particular oil on their engines. No manufacturer will test all the oils that exist in nature, this makes no sense.

- How justified is the use of proven cool oils in everyday life?

It follows from the test results that the transition from a simple mineral water to such synthetics guarantees a 3 ...

- Is it justified in modern Russian conditions to use seasonal oils of the "winter-summer" type?

Such a division makes sense, say, for commercial vehicles with high mileage, when the oil has time to exhaust its resource during the season and must be replaced. In addition, with frequent replacements and large volumes of refueling, the price of oil becomes an important factor savings. True, today you will not find seasonal oils during the day with fire.

- Why, in the presence of several developed oil quality systems - API, ACEA, etc. - are manufacturers' approvals also required?

This is, in general, the usual conflict of interests between the manufacturer (oiler) and the consumer (engineer). All accepted quality systems - API, ACEA, ILSAC - one way or another contain requirements for the physical and chemical parameters of motor oils. And minders need the oil to conscientiously work in the engine all its life - from shift to shift. Therefore, parameters such as the level of high and low temperature deposits, wear protection and energy saving, compatibility with catalysts, oxidation stability, and the tendency to form sludge are important for them. And this is all purely individual, in different motors the same oil can behave differently. Therefore, automotive companies test oils in their engines and issue tolerances based on the results.

By the way, the approval requirements of automobile companies are much stricter than the requirements that oil manufacturers impose on their products - this is humanly understandable.

WHAT AND HOW WE DEFINED

- Kinematic viscosity- the most important parameter of the oil, which determines its performance and applicability to different types engine. It was determined according to GOST 33–2000 at temperatures of 40 and 100 ºС, as well as at 20 and 150 ºС using the SPbSPU method. Further, the obtained values ​​were approximated for the entire temperature range using special methods.

- Viscosity index- the most important parameter of the viscosity-temperature characteristic (VTX) of engine oil, calculated from the values ​​of kinematic viscosity at different temperatures. It characterizes the degree of "flatness" of the BTX, that is, the difference between the viscosity values ​​​​at low and at high temperatures.

- Conditional crankshaft cranking temperature- the temperature at which the viscosity reaches a value of 5000 cSt, conventionally taken as the crankshaft cranking limit. It is determined by calculation - by interpolation of the measured VTX for low temperature conditions.

- Pour point- the one at which the oil loses its fluidity. Determined according to GOST 20287–91.

- Low temperature deposits- are formed as a result of decomposition, polymerization and oxidation of oil at temperatures of about 90 ... 120 ºС. They were determined by accurately weighing the control weight elements - the oil pump fungus and the oil separator mesh in the valve cover.

- High temperature deposits- are formed during the decomposition of oil in the work area piston group. They were determined similarly to the ELV method using an expert assessment of the amount and color of deposits on the side surface of the piston after long-term tests of a full-scale engine.

- Moment of mechanical losses- characteristic of the level of friction losses in the engine. It was determined by the scrolling method on a stand with a full-scale engine.

- Motor performance of the engine- averaged over the test cycle average power (torque) and specific consumption fuel of a full-scale engine running on the tested engine oil. Determined on the engine stand according to GOST 14846-81.

Today we are going to deviate a little from the usual structure of such ratings - “best mineral / semi-synthetic / synthetic oil”. The reason is simple: a particular engine first of all needs the oil viscosity specified by the manufacturer, and modern engines use low-viscosity lubricants (this is usually a high-temperature viscosity of 30, on many engines it is 20). Discussing anything other than synthetics in this context is silly. No less strange is the division into categories "gasoline / diesel engine oil", given that 90% modern oils are approved for use in both types of engines, it makes sense to discuss purely “diesel” oil in relation to passenger cars only in the segment of oils intended for engines with particulate filters.

Therefore, today we will divide motor oils into categories of their specific application, and not by virtual and not having practical sense parameters:

• Oils with high temperature viscosity 40(5W40 in our ranking) - the best option for engines produced in the 90s - early 2000s. For regions of the Far North, it makes sense to consider 0W40 oils, this can significantly facilitate starting the engine in winter.
• 5 W30 today can be considered universal: this viscosity is also used in budget foreign cars, and in premium car engines.
• 0 W20- low-viscosity motor oils used in a large number of modern engines. Moreover, pouring more viscous oils into them is categorically not recommended: piston rings, which have specially reduced elasticity to reduce mechanical losses, cannot cope with a stronger oil film, oil waste begins to grow.
• High temperature viscosity 50 relevant for owners who operate their cars harshly - it is not without reason that 5W50, 10W60 oils are commonly called "sports".
• 10W40- the standard choice of owners of old cars, as a rule, is budget semi-synthetics of outdated quality classes - SH, SJ.
• Diesel engines with particulate filters should have a minimum oil loss, which should not give a noticeable solid residue (low ash content). This parameter is critical, therefore, in motors similar cars it is allowed to fill in only oils that have the appropriate certification. Overwhelming majority passenger diesel engines of this type, oils with a viscosity of 5W30 are used, and we will consider them.

Engine oil is the same working fluid like the fuel. With the difference that it is not necessary to fill it so often. However, motor oil consumption is in the millions of liters. Manufacturers compete with each other by introducing new products to the market. In principle, all oils are divided into mineral and synthetic. Within the same group, oils have a chemically identical base. Manufacturers add secret, in their opinion, additives and additives to it, changing the properties of oils. Automotive magazines, TV shows, and the manufacturers themselves, regularly conduct tests, trying to determine which oil is better. Note that, first of all, any test checks the compliance of engine oils with the established tolerances before pouring into the engine, and after the specified test time has elapsed. Tests are also carried out to check the working properties of oils without an engine, on special stands. On similar equipment, oils are certified before they go on sale.

New oils from each manufacturer, of course, meet the tolerances, since they are subject to certification. But how quickly their properties will go beyond the tolerance - shows the test. Consider the test results of 16 popular synthetic oils common viscosity 5W30, produced in 2014.

Choose "most best oil"The test cannot, since the buyer will determine this, but it is possible to demonstrate the main features. The following is a list in alphabetical order, indicating the country of manufacture, without assigning points:

• Castrol Edge with Titanium FST – Germany;
• Castrol Magnatec A1 - Germany;
• G-Energy F Synth EC - Russian Federation;
• Lucas Synthetic - UK;
• Mannol Elite - Belgium;
• Mobil 1 Extended Performance - Belgium;
• Motul 8100 Eco-nergy - France;
• Pennzoil Ultra - USA;
• Petro-Canada SUPREME Synthetic – Canada;
• Red Line High Performance - USA;
• Royal Purple High Performance USA;
• Shell Helix Ultra Extra - Finland;
• TNK - Magnum Professional - Russian Federation;
• Total Quartz 9000 Future - France;
• Valvoline SynPower – Holland;
• ZIC XQ LS - Korea.

The test was carried out by the method of laboratory research, and practical motor tests. The test results of all motor oils showed compliance with the tolerances and standards for oils with a viscosity of 5W30 synthetics. However, there are nuances, which we will briefly discuss.

Brief information on the test results

Castrol Edge with Titanium FST - The advantage of this oil is its increased film strength. This quality of engine oils increases the life of engine parts. High results were shown by the polymerization test. Alkaline reserve is normal. Large dependence of characteristics on the difference in ambient temperature. Therefore, it is better to use this oil in a car in temperate latitudes.

Castrol Magnatec A1 - Good performance in the polymerization test, retention given viscosity in any mode. The strength of the film is average according to the test. Excellent resistance to extremely low temperatures. Low score for the burn test. The alkaline reserve is below average, as a result - high residual acidity at the end of life tests. This oil is recommended to be changed more often than usual.

G-Energy F Synth EC - The sample has a very strong film, it holds its characteristics well with temperature fluctuations. High fuel economy ratio compared to other oils. The new oil has low acidity, the level of which has not increased much. A good indicator of waste losses, but still it does not hurt to have a margin for topping up.

Lucas Synthetic- High level protection against scuffing - the strength of the film is high. Low burn. This oil practically does not require topping up, and allows you to increase the replacement interval. The viscosity index does not change at temperatures up to -30. The test showed a small alkaline reserve and poor engine cleaning capabilities. It is better not to use oil in cars with high loads on the engine.

Mannol Elite - not prone to fumes. Due to the durable film provides good protection from engine wear. High protection against oxidative processes minimizes corrosion. But when the temperature conditions of the engine change, the viscosity changes dramatically. Of course, within tolerance - but this fact must be taken into account.

Mobil 1 Extended Performance - Recommended by the manufacturer for turbocharged engines, while the film strength is quite low. The degree of polymerization is high, this test is failed. Alkaline reserve indicators are normal, corrosion protection is at a height. Good cold start performance. When the temperature changes, it practically does not change the viscosity and chemical composition. There is no waste for waste.

Motul 8100 Eco-nergy - A solid average test. As operating temperatures change, so do viscosity characteristics, but far from the limit values. The waste consumption is small, but it will require topping up between replacements. Good value of residual acidity at the end of life tests. In general, the test did not show anything outstanding.

Pennzoil Ultra - Low film strength is offset by a good engine start result at -30 degrees. At high temperatures, the loss of volatile fractions is negligible, the waste will be small. The alkaline reserve is high, one of the best indicators of the test. Enough universal oil for any engines.

Petro-Canada SUPREME Synthetic - Medium film strength. Normal viscosity for winter operation. A fairly large waste, the oil requires topping up already when half the service interval has passed. High degree of polymerization. Decreased by half after passing the life test base number. All scores are below average on the test.

Red Line High Performance - High oil film strength and very good alkaline reserve. With a cold start, the result is weak, it keeps the high temperature better. One of the best results in terms of the degree of waste. Indicators for polymerization are close to the tolerance limit. The scatter of results on different criteria does not allow us to recommend this oil.

Royal Purple High Performance Tests of this oil are heterogeneous. High oil film strength. Good polymerization performance. Heating losses are also low. But the indicators when measuring residual acidity, and a poor result at low temperatures, bring this oil to the bottom of the list.

Shell Helix Ultra - In terms of performance, it is practically the leader of the test. The lowest waste among the tested samples. Good indicator residual acidity, corrosion protection at altitude. A very low metal content in the drained oil after a life test indicates little wear on engine parts. The spread of characteristics with temperature change is small.

THK Magnum Professional - In terms of price / quality, the best indicator of the test. Very low waste, practically does not require topping up. High levels of alkaline reserve. The strength of the film is one of the best in the test, this was confirmed and low level metal content in mining. Oil can be recommended for any engines.

Total Quartz 9000 Future - Good high temperature stability. Acid neutralization is also good. The high strength of the oil film ensures low wear of the motor components. The test showed that the oil does not lose its properties even at temperatures down to -30. Waste is high, when operating in the warm season, it will be necessary to top up regularly.

Valvoline SynPower - This lubricant can also be attributed to the leaders. It performed best in tests such as alkaline reserve, oil film strength, degree of polymerization. Good cleaning properties. Reduces gasoline consumption. Does not lose properties at low temperatures, but has a fairly high mass loss when heated. Suitable for all types of vehicles.

ZIC XQ LS - showed best result to maintain viscosity with temperature changes. A good indicator of acidity at the end of the resource test. The wear of engine parts is high, the level of metal in the used oil is high. In a frenzy - average better than other lubricants.

Thus, after reviewing the brief test results for oils produced in 2014, a motorist will be able to make an independent and informed choice when buying engine oil.