2023-09-20 17:26:37
A regular oil change is a small maintenance job that helps keep your engine in top shape for many miles. It’s an extra cost, on top of gas and insurance, but as a wise man once said, prevention is cheaper than cure.
Today we break down the best motor oil for your specific driving needs, from high mileage to budget-friendly.
1. Best oil for most cars: Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil
With increased protection and longevity, I believe most everyday vehicles will perform better using a brand of synthetic oil like Mobil 1, especially those with high-performance engines.
There are many fans of this product, and so are automotive retailers, dealers and car manufacturers. Its popularity almost guarantees that you can find Mobil 1 wherever motor oil is sold.
If you need a more exciting reason to choose Mobil 1 synthetic motor oil, know that it happens to be the factory oil of choice for high-performance vehicles like the Porsche 911, Nissan GT-R, and Chevrolet Corvette.
2. Best synthetic oil on a budget: AmazonBasics Full Synthetic Motor Oil
If you like the idea of synthetic oil, but aren’t tied to a specific brand of oil, AmazonBasics Full Synthetic Motor Oil is recommended.
From rechargeable batteries to iPhone cables, Amazon’s own brand has it all. Their products are often comparable to category leaders at a lower cost, and their synthetic motor oil continues that tradition.
Whichever way you look at it, AmazonBasics motor oil is excellent value for money. At the time of this writing, you can get five quarters for $25.
It’s hard to find a better deal on a quality synthetic oil, but chances are the oil isn’t available at your local dealership, auto shop, or other service centers.
There is some criticism regarding the packaging, which due to its design makes it difficult to pour specific amounts of oil. If that’s a problem, you can also buy the oil in individual liters.
3. Best High Mileage Oil: Valvoline High Mileage Max Life
Although there is no consensus on what constitutes a high mileage vehicle, there are many oils designed specifically for engines with more than 75,000 miles.
Valvoline High Mileage Max Life is a synthetic blend with added detergents that help keep engines clean and remove more sludge and deposits than standard oil.
Older vehicles are more susceptible to oil leaks as engine gaskets degrade over time. Synthetic blend oils like Valvoline High Mileage Max Life are formulated with gasket conditioners, which can help stop and prevent oil leaks.
Not all high-mileage vehicles need specialized oil, but a conditioner might help if yours constantly leaks oil.
Many satisfied users switched following experiencing problems such as oil leaks, smoke and burns, which this oil has helped minimize or eliminate. Although this oil should not be expected to be a panacea, older vehicles may find this high mileage oil worth a try.
4. Best conventional oil: Valvoline Daily Protection
If you have a car that doesn’t get used much or whose manufacturer specifically recommends conventional motor oil, Valvoline Daily Protection is a proven product at a reasonable price.
If you’re considering having your oil changed by a technician, you can also get Valvoline Daily Protection at one of more than 1,100 Valvoline oil change stations. Their drive-thru service takes just 15 minutes, and you can often get a coupon through their website.
It is affordable and if you change it at regular intervals, your car will run perfectly. And with its wide availability, it’s a great option if you need an oil change in a pinch.
5. Best oil for classic and vintage vehicles: Valvoline VR1 Racing Oil
Engine manufacturing has come a long way over the years. Today’s engines are marvels of engineering in terms of power and efficiency. However, many enthusiasts are still attracted to vintage vehicles for their character and charm.
Older cars, such as classic muscle cars or vintage European and Japanese automobiles, often use pushrods and flat tappet camshafts. Due to the design of these older engines, it is essential to use an oil such as Valvoline VR1 Racing Oil with a higher zinc content (also called ZDDP) to prevent premature wear of vital engine components.
Valvoline VR1 is the preferred choice of many classic car owners. Available in 10w30 and 20w50, VR1 is formulated with unique anti-wear properties that will keep your classic car engine running and performing like a champ for many years to come.
How often should you change the oil?
In the past, conventional wisdom suggested changing the oil every 5,000 km. However, both cars and oils have come a long way since then.
In most cases, you can comfortably drive between 5,000 and 7,500 miles between oil changes. Synthetic oil can help you go even further, lasting 10,000 to 20,000 miles.
Every engine application is different, so it is best to consult your owner’s manual or dealer service center for the recommended oil change intervals for your specific vehicle.
To really know when the oil needs to be changed, it is recommended that you monitor it personally. Newer vehicles are equipped with an oil monitoring system, but you can always do it the old fashioned way by checking the engine dipstick.
New oil is light amber in color and darkens over time. Inspect it every thousand miles up to the recommended change interval. You’ll soon know what shade of dark brown or black means it’s time to change your oil.
Before buying
Always consult your owner’s manual to find out what type of oil you should use in your car. That includes knowing the grade, which is often expressed in numbers like 10W-30. You’ll also want to know if your vehicle requires synthetic oil, which is not uncommon among high-performance and luxury vehicles.
You should also know that oil filters are almost as important as the oil itself, as they help prevent foreign debris from damaging the engine. An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) oil filter, which has been thoroughly tested for your vehicle, is recommended.
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