Do you remember the metal slides you played on as a kid? They were great unless your shirt happened to roll up on the way down, resulting in a nasty screeching noise from the skin peeling off your body.
It may sound silly, but that’s a great representation of what motor oil does for your car’s engine. Had the slide been wet, you would have flown down with a smile on your face and one less childhood injury.
Now, imagine if the slide was coated with grease instead of water! What a ride!
Starting to get the picture we’re trying to paint, here? A wet slide is like conventional oil, while a greased slide is like synthetic.
Conventional motor oil serves its purpose, of course, but synthetic is an upgrade in almost every applicable aspect. In this post, we take a closer look at why this is so, review seven brands of synthetic oil, and provide all the info you need to choose the best option for your vehicle.
Quick Links to Our Top Recommendations
- Mobil 1 5W-30 Extended Performance Full Synthetic Motor Oil
- Stable viscosity in varying temperatures and protects your engine for up to 15,000 miles between changes.
- Valvoline SynPower 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
- Reduces deposit buildups to keep your engine clean and provides superior performance under all operating conditions.
- Castrol 03124 EDGE 0W-20 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil
- This advanced formula is ideal for those who like to push their vehicles to the max.
- Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic Motor Oil
- Designed to keep pistons up to 50 percent cleaner than industry standards and significantly improves fuel economy.
- Rotella T6 Synthetic Diesel Motor Oil
- The best option for diesel-powered vehicles of most sizes, from classic cars to heavy-duty pickups and tractors.
- Royal Purple 36530-6PK HPS 5W-30
- Offers advanced protection ability for both modified and performance engines.
- Liqui Moly 2041 Premium 5W-40
- Works well year-round and for both diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles.
Note: Clicking the above links will take you to further information, current prices and customer reviews on Amazon.
Contents (Jump to Topic)
- 1 Quick Links to Our Top Recommendations
- 2 Best Synthetic Motor Oil – Reviews of Our Top 7 Recommendations for 2023
- 2.1 Mobil 1 5W-30 Extended Performance Full Synthetic Motor Oil
- 2.2 Valvoline SynPower 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
- 2.3 Castrol 03124 EDGE 0W-20 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil
- 2.4 Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-20
- 2.5 Rotella T6 Synthetic Diesel Oil 5W-40
- 2.6 Royal Purple 36530-6PK HPS 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil
- 2.7 Liqui Moly 2041 Premium 5W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil
- 3 What Is Synthetic Oil?
- 4 What Is The Difference Between Conventional And Synthetic?
- 5 How Does Synthetic Oil Work?
- 6 Why Should You Use A Synthetic Oil Over A Traditional One?
- 7 Is There Any Reason I Shouldn’t Use Synthetic Oil?
- 8 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Buy One
- 9 Wrapping It Up
Best Synthetic Motor Oil – Reviews of Our Top 7 Recommendations for 2023
Let’s jump right in with a detailed look at seven synthetic motor oils available on the market today.
Mobil 1 5W-30 Extended Performance Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Founded in 1974 and previously known as Mobiloil, Mobil 1 is part of the ExxonMobil umbrella of brands, and the 5W-30 extended-performance synthetic engine oil is formulated to work just as well as the other products in the company’s lineup.
This product is a great choice, owing mostly to its excellent oxidation and thermal stability properties. It’s engineered to offer quick cold-weather startup, top-notch protection, and enhanced engine service life.
It’s a great choice for cars, vans, and trucks, and features a uniquely designed synthetic blend that provides high levels of performance, engine protection, and cleaning power – even during extended change periods.
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- 5-quart size.
- 5W-30 viscosity.
- Extended performance
- Protects your engine for up to 15,000 miles between changes
- Meets or exceeds the requirements of Ford WSS-M2C929-A and Honda HTO-06
What We Like
- Superior control of oil breakdown for stable viscosity.
- Excellent choice for cold temperature startup, and offers great protection for your engine.
- It features low-temperature capabilities, and is compatible with engine seals.
- Mobil 1 5W-30 provides protection for 15,000 miles before your next oil change.
- Helps prevent sludge and deposit accumulations for long engine life.
- Great engine and wear protection under most operating conditions.
- Can be used after using conventional motor oil and synthetic blends.
What We Don’t Like
- May need oil change before 15,000 miles.
- Does not have the DEXOS rating.
Summary
Overall, this is a great choice for both old and new vehicles. It offers quick protection and boosts engine longevity.
For something that works brilliantly at low temperatures, you can count on the 5W-30 extended performance motor oil from Mobil 1.
To find out more about this product, click here.
Valvoline SynPower 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Valvoline is a sub-brand of the Ashland Global Specialty Chemicals Inc., an all-American company founded in 1924. The company is regarded as an esteemed worldwide supplier of premium automotive lubricants, such as the SynPower 5W-30.
SynPower 5W-30 is especially formulated to offer excellent high-temperature protection under moderate and severe driving conditions, and enhances overall fuel efficiency. Speaking of performance, this product works well for all naturally aspirated engines, including turbocharged and supercharged vehicles.
Added to this, this product can be used for both petrol and diesel engines of delivery vans, campers, minibusses, and passenger vehicles. It’s also suited for extensive drain change intervals for direct injected diesel engines, and modern engines with catalytic converters.
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- 5-quart size.
- 5W-30 viscosity grade.
- ACEA A3/B4, API: SL/CF, MB-229.3, GM LL-A-025, LL-B-025 performance levels.
- Suitable for direct injected diesel engines (Volkswagen DID test).
- Recommended for use where Fiat 9.55535.G1 is specified.
What We Like
- Blend of premium quality base oils and additives to ensure superior performance under all operating conditions.
- Keeps the engine clean by reducing deposit buildup.
- Provides optimal lubrication almost instantly after switching on the engine.
- Designed to meet the stringent standards of reputable automobile manufacturers.
What We Don’t Like
- Is a little thick
- Despite the “easy pour” claim, you might find you need a funnel to pour it without spills.
Summary
If you’re looking for something that offers performance that is truly hard to beat, the SynPower 5W-30 by Valvoline is a great choice.
It’s designed for most types of vehicles and is suitable for both diesel and petrol vehicles, making it a great option if you have several vehicles that run on different fuels.
Click here to learn more about this product.
Castrol 03124 EDGE 0W-20 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Founded in 1889, Castrol is a leading British manufacturer of automotive and industrial lubricants, including a wide range of greases, oils, and other products used.
This product features fluid titanium technology for top-notch engine performance, and works great under intense pressure. The 0W-20 rating allows it to flow easily in winter temperatures and transforms into a 20W once the engine reaches normal temperature.
Castrol Edge is a lineup of products that feature an advanced formulation of full synthetic 0W-20, making it a great choice for those who like to push their vehicles to the max.
It meets the test requirements of several car manufacturers, including Chrysler and Ford, and greatly reduces metal-to-metal contact across a spectrum of different driving speeds.
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- Product meets or exceeds many industry standards, including ILSAC GF-5, API SN PLUS /SN/SM/SL, GM dexos1® Gen 2.
- Fluid TITANIUM technology.
- 30 percent improvement in film strength.
- Reduces friction.
- 10 times stronger against high-temperature thickening.
- Six times stronger against wear, compared to industry benchmark.
- Improved fuel economy.
What We Like
- Built for drivers who demand maximum performance.
- Patented fluid titanium technology for reduced friction and enhanced performance.
- Improves film strength by 30 percent.
- Lowers fuel consumption.
- Meets test requirements of several car manufacturers, including GM.
- Offers protection for the entire oil drain interval regardless of the level of pressure.
What We Don’t Like
- The container lacks a view-level window.
- Does not perform the best in some friction and anti-wear tests.
Summary
This product is designed to provide optimal performance in just about any kind of weather and pressure – you can thank its fluid titanium technology for that.
It provides protection for the entire drain interval, reduces engine deposit formulation, and is manufacturer-recommended for use with Bosch oil filters.
To learn more about this product, click here.
Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-20
Pennzoil is an American company that was founded in 1913 and is headquartered in Los Angeles. Apart from selling gas, the company’s product lineup includes a wide range of high-performance car care products, such as the Platinum full synthetic motor oil.
It features patented PurePlus technology and a proprietary gas-to-liquid process, which converts natural gas into a high-quality oil. It contains little or no impurities generally found in crude oil and is formulated with top-performing additives for enhanced all-around performance.
The Pennzoil 5W-20 is designed to keep pistons up to 50 percent cleaner than industry standards and any other leading motor oils. It offers complete protection, has been redesigned for turbocharged engines in newer cars, and significantly improves fuel economy.
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- 5W-20 viscosity.
- 5 quart.
- Patented PurePlusTM
- Greater fuel efficiency.
- Protects horsepower.
- (Arguably) unbeatable wear protection.
- Exceeds many industry requirements, including API SN PLUS, ILSAC GN-5.
What We Like
- Features a revolutionary gas-to-liquid process.
- Crystal clear with few impurities for better engine protection.
- Cleaner pistons and a cleaner engine for reduced wear and better service life.
- Maximizes fuel economy.
- Safeguards against the effects of low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) in the latest turbocharged engines.
What We Don’t Like
- May be unsuitable for older engines.
- No clear fluid level marker to indicate quart level.
Summary
For engine oils that will tremendously help your vehicle perform well, look no further than this product.
It not only boosts overall fuel economy but also protects your engine against wear of the engine components, all while keeping the pistons 50 percent cleaner.
Check your engine’s compatibility before using it on older vehicles, though, as this might not always be a suitable option if you’ve got a veteran ride.
Get to know more about this product by clicking here.
Rotella T6 Synthetic Diesel Oil 5W-40
Royal Dutch Shell plc, commonly referred to as Shell, is the parent company of Rotella and has its roots in the Netherlands. The company is renowned for its expansive portfolio of products that range from petroleum and gas to petrochemicals and lubricants, such as this option.
This is a triple-protection-plus synthetic blend that includes 100% synthetic base oils combined with advanced additive technology. This results in superior engine protection and service life. In terms of fuel economy, the Rotella T6 scores high with 1.5% improved fuel efficiency.
It’s infused with advanced multi-functional dispersant additives, which when combined with synthetic base oils protects against the harmful effects of dirt, soot, and other contaminants.
Furthermore, it offers excellent stability, which allows it to withstand loss in viscosity while maintaining optimal engine pressure. It’s designed for diesel-powered vehicles of most sizes, from classic cars and heavy-duty diesel pickups to tractors or any other vehicles compatible with SAE 5W-40.
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- 1 gallon.
- 5W-40 viscosity.
- Triple-protection-plus formula.
- Suitable for diesel engine vehicles.
- Engineered to control turbocharger deposits.
- Excellent extreme high/low temperature protection.
- Better fuel economy.
What We Like
- Offers a high level of protection against harmful engine wear.
- The advanced multi-functional dispersant additives help protect against various contaminants.
- Compatible with exhaust emission control systems.
- Resists heat breakdown for top-notch performance between service intervals.
What We Don’t like
- Only designed for use with diesel engines using SAE 5W-40.
Summary
This option is specially formulated to deliver high levels of performance for diesel engines. It can withstand breakdown and features a triple-protection formula for long engine service life.
It can’t be used in vehicles running on gasoline, although some suggest that it can safely be used in motorcycles. If you’re an interested biker, perhaps this is something you’d like to check out!
Click here to learn more about this product.
Royal Purple 36530-6PK HPS 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil
Royal Purple is an all-American manufacturer of superior-quality lubricants for industrial, marine, motorcycle, racing, and automotive use.
This product is a top choice for consumers due to its advanced protection ability for both modified and performance engines. In addition, it provides optimal cold flow compared to conventional oil and cheap, low-quality synthetics.
It performs remarkably well at higher temperatures, making it ideal for long drives and challenging driving conditions. This product prevents engine sludge, which results in optimal efficiency as your vehicle gets older, and provides increased engine output by minimizing drag and parasitic loss.
It also enhances fuel economy by reducing internal engine friction, and features advanced and proprietary Synerlec technology for industry-leading film strength.
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- Pack of 6 1-quart bottles.
- HPS 5W-30 viscosity.
- Synerlec technology.
- For diesel and gasoline engines.
- Maximum wear protection.
- Improved performance.
- Increases engine life and fuel economy.
- Advanced protection.
- Maximum corrosion protection.
What We Like
- Includes a high concentration of zinc and phosphorus wear-proof additive blends.
- Backed by Synerlec technology for excellent performance.
- Increased viscosity for increased pressure, providing excellent seal properties between the cylinder wall and piston ring to maximize power.
- Protects valve trains that are fitted with rollers or flat tappet camshafts and need increased protection due to higher lift/ high ramp rates.
- Excellent corrosion protection.
What We Don’t Like
- May not offer the same performance for engines that are not in good mechanical order.
- Shouldn’t be used on vehicles still under manufacturer’s warranty.
- Only available in 1-quart or 5-gallon sizes.
Summary
This product is a great choice for anyone looking to up the performance quotient on diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles. It also offers unique performance advantages for most types of vehicles out there.
For more information on how this can boost your car’s performance, click here.
Liqui Moly 2041 Premium 5W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil
Liqui Moly is a German-based company that exclusively manufactures additives, lubricants, and oils. The company was founded over 60 years ago, and offers a broad lineup of superior performance products, such as this one.
This product is designed to offer rapid delivery at low temperatures and engine longevity owing to its increased level of protection against wear. Furthermore, this energy-conserving and fully synthetic option provides quick lubrication after engine start.
This option by Liqui Moly is an ideal fit for both gas and diesel engines, even those with multi-valve configurations, and is a preferred choice for extended oil change intervals.
Manufacturers Specs and Features
- Fully synthetic
- 5W-40 viscosity
- 5 liters (5.28 US quarts)
- For diesel and gasoline engines.
- Total deposit prevention.
- High film strength.
- Reduces friction and wear.
- Increased fuel economy.
- Rapid penetration.
What We Like
- Formula offers long engine life and reduces fuel consumption.
- Works well for both diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles, and even those equipped with variable cam and timing configurations.
- Serves as a dependable lubricant all year round, as well as a great engine cleaner.
- Integrated pouring spout works well, unlike many other products.
What We Don’t Like
- Not the best option for hot temperatures.
Summary
This product can be used for both a diesel engine and a gasoline engine, in all seasons, and is the recommended choice of many vehicle owners and several reputable car makers.
It works well in high-performance vehicles, reducing friction and prolonging the engine’s life. You might want to reconsider if you’re purchasing something to use for extra-hot temperatures, though.
Click to find out more about how this option can boost your engine performance.
What Is Synthetic Oil?
Synthetic engine oil is the kind that has been manufactured in a lab or other facility, and so much so that it can no longer be called conventional.
Motor oil is broken down into five different Groups by the American Petroleum Institute (API). This rating system shows each type’s base, which tells the consumer where on the spectrum of conventional versus synthetic it falls.
Synthetic oils fall into Groups IV and V, and are no longer mineral oil based.
What Is The Difference Between Conventional And Synthetic?
The largest difference between conventional and synthetic oils is their base.
Conventional oils are made directly from mineral-based crude oil, while synthetics have been molecular-altered to the point of creating an entirely new, lab-formulated, synthetic base.
Can you mix synthetic oil with regular oil? The short answer is it’s possible, but you should follow the link at the start of this sentence for full details 🙂
How Does Synthetic Oil Work?
This isn’t just an alternative to conventional ones.
Part of its makeup includes a variety of additives that provide many benefits beyond what conventional oil can provide.
Some of the most common additives are as follows and help synthetic oil work the way it does.
Detergents: Detergents maintain a clean environment within the engine. The majority of synthetic oils have some kind of detergent additive.
Antioxidants: One of the disadvantages of regular oil is that it can break down quickly in extreme conditions. Antioxidants prevent that breakdown, which is generally why synthetics last longer between change periods.
Corrosion Inhibitors: These additives prevent corrosion by coating the interior parts of your engine while lubricating them.
Dispersants: Dispersants prevent the clotting of carbon and sludge buildup within your engine.
Anti-Wear Agents: Anti-wear agents are like corrosion inhibitors on steroids. They prevent premature wear due to heat, excess abrasion, and even the breakdown of the engine material itself.
Viscosity Index Improvers: Viscosity is a fluid’s resistance to flow. Oil viscosity decreases when it becomes colder and increases when it gets warmer. Viscosity index improvers increase the functional range so that it can flow more freely in cold temperatures and doesn’t become too thin in hotter temperatures.
Friction Modifiers: Friction modifiers increase an oil’s ability to lubricate moving parts.
Foam Inhibitors: Foam inhibitors prevent foaming that occurs from fast-moving parts of the engine.
Why Should You Use A Synthetic Oil Over A Traditional One?
There are several reasons why synthetic oils are viewed as superior to their traditional counterparts.
Here are the most important:
- They last longer, meaning you won’t have to get an oil change as frequently.
- They can withstand more extreme conditions
- They don’t break down as easily as conventional oils
- They additives help them lubricate your engine better
- They help to increase fuel efficiency
- They help to prevent your engine from overheating
- They aid in cleaning your engine and exhaust systems
- Some products can lower your emissions
- Some can work with pre-existing, conventional oil
- They can improve overall running costs by reducing how often you have to change the oil
Is There Any Reason I Shouldn’t Use Synthetic Oil?
There aren’t a lot of negative things to be said about synthetic oils. However, and just like everything else, there are a few downsides that should be mentioned.
First of all, some cars weren’t designed to use synthetic oil and using it may damage the engine. To avoid this, do your research on yours before making the switch.
Secondly, synthetic motor oil costs more than conventional kinds, mainly because of the extra additives and the technology required to make them.
Thirdly, if you have an older car (1990’s or earlier), then you’ll need regular engine oil. There are certain products out there that are designed to be compatible with older cars, but you need to be absolutely sure you know what that means for you and your vehicle.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Buy One
Knowledge is power. There are so many options on the market today, that it can be genuinely difficult to choose one that best suits your needs.
Here are our recommendations for some of the most important things to consider:
Also, here’s a video with some additional tips to help you make the best decision you can.
Viscosity Rating
The climate in which you live, the season, and your vehicle’s design specifications are all going to affect the oil you buy and the viscosity rating that you need.
The best way to find out what you need is to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
What Do You Need It To Do?
We’ve said that one oil just can’t do it all, no matter how good it seems to be. Various additives will often cancel out the effects of others, so you need to understand your needs and the needs of your vehicle.
If you want better gas mileage, get one that’s known for making your engine run smoother. If your car is used primarily for short commutes, you may need a product that’s big on detergent and cleaning the deposits in your engine.
Do You Have a High-Performance Vehicle?
Today, turbocharged engines are becoming more common. Synthetic oil is especially good for these kinds of engines, but there are still some other options that are better because they are specifically designed to be used within that application.
What Is The Age Of Your Vehicle?
Older vehicles usually don’t need or use synthetic oils. On the other hand, most modern cars do.
Oil is even rated by the API for use in certain vehicles over a certain age.
The API gives categories to different oils that will fit with different vehicle types – more specifically, engine types. The most current category is “SN” and is compatible with the newest vehicles.
Refer to your service manual to see the manufacturer-recommended type that you should use.
Wrapping It Up
The options are many, but we’ve given you everything you need to know about how to choose the best synthetic oil for you and your car.
These products are becoming increasingly popular nowadays and increasingly necessary in the fast-moving, technology-driven automotive market. They are also getting better with time, and the choice to use them is becoming easier.
Still, the choice of which exact option to use is a big one. We’re sure that the day will come when somebody comes out with a product that’s perfect in every way, worthy of being dubbed the jack of all trades – but that won’t be anytime in the near future.
Fortunately for you, though, it won’t be that difficult to choose exactly what you need right now.
