Synthetic Motor Oil

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S ynthetic lubricants are artificially-made oils that are usually used as an alternative to conventional oils. In short terms, they are used as a substitute for the most common lubricants refined from petroleum. Generally speaking, they provide superior mechanical and chemical properties as opposed to conventional mineral lubricants. Most car enthusiasts recommend them as they provide a huge range of benefits, especially if the car is driven in extreme conditions or is a performance vehicle.

Top 14 Synthetic Motor Oils Compared

Photo	Product	Size	Full Synthetic	Engine	Price
Best Overall	1. Castrol 03124 EDGE 0W-20	5 quarts		Gasoline	Check Price
Our Choice	2. AmazonBasics AMDH533Q	5 quarts		Over 75,000 miles	Check Price
Best for Turbo Engines	3. Castrol 03084 EDGE 5W-30	5 quarts		Gasoline	Check Price
Best for Diesel	4. Mobil 1 120760 0W-40	5 quarts		Gasoline and diesel	Check Price
Best for Motorcycles	5. Shell Rotella 550045347 T6	4 quarts		Diesel	Check Price
	6. Mobil 1 120758	5 quarts		Gasoline	Check Price
	7. Valvoline 782256 5W-30	5 quarts		Gasoline	Check Price
	8. Valvoline SynPower SAE 5W-20	5 quarts		Gasoline	Check Price
	9. Castrol 03096C GTX Ultraclean	5 quarts		Gasoline	Check Price
Best Budget-friendly	10. Pennzoil 550022689 5W-30	1 quart		Gasoline	Check Price
	11. Pennzoil 550038221	5 quarts		Gasoline	Check Price
	12. Quaker State (550036718-6PK) 5W-50	1 quart		Compatible with biofuels and hybrid vehicles	Check Price
	13. Briggs & Stratton 30W Engine Oil	1.5 quart		4-cycle engines
	14. Royal Purple 51520	5 quart		Gasoline

1. Castrol 03124 EDGE 0W-20

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You are definitely going to like the fact that it provides the highest level of protection for critical engine parts, which means that your vehicle will actually be able to perform at its maximum. This is an advanced full formula that helps the engine even under extreme pressure.

It reduces volatility and it provides superior protection for critical engine parts to help you car run efficiently at all times. Furthermore, it even helps decrease deposit formation in the engine so that the response from this all so important part of the vehicle is maximized.

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2. AmazonBasics AMDH533Q

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Providing a protective coat to help reduce wear on the components of the engine, this 5-quart formula from AmazonBasics is what any caring car owner should own. It helps minimize friction from the engine parts that are in contact and move, helping enhance fuel economy so that you end up saving money in the long run, all while delivering an overall improved power output and performance.

It boasts a high resistance to thermal breakdown and viscosity, and as a result of using it, exhaust emissions will be considerably lowered. Furthermore, it actively participates in the prevention of rust and corrosion buildup.

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3. Castrol 03084 EDGE 5W-30

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Using fluid titanium technology, this oil provides incredible strength under pressure, improving the engine’s performance by reducing friction. The advanced full synthetic formula is specially designed for gasoline engines and it is certified by the American Petroleum Institute.

The engine of your car will be protected by reducing metal-to-metal contact regardless the speed. Besides this, it lowers deposit formation on engine and increases its response. In comparison to conventional oils, this one is much more efficient when it comes to fighting against viscosity breakdown. The oil comes in a 5-quart bottle.

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4. Mobil 1 120760 0W-40

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The fact that it is the best-selling synthetic motor oil is enough to recommend it for any car owner. It is engineered for the latest diesel and gasoline engine technology, and it has excellent low-temperature capabilities that ensure fast engine protection at start-up to keep your vehicle up and running perfectly for a long time.

As it even boasts a great cleaning power, it caters to dirty engines as well, and it is perfect even for those who drive in extreme conditions as it provides quick protection for reduced engine deposits and wear. Evidently, its main highlight is the fact that it helps reduce costs as it aids in fuel economy due to the enhanced frictional properties it boasts.

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5. Shell Rotella 550045347 T6

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The Shell Rotella 550045347 T6 is without a doubt a great car motor lubricant that will definitely help you improve fuel economy in those vehicles where 5W-40 or CK-4 motor oil is required. This advanced low-ash formulation helps control the blocking of exhaust after-treatment devices.

It in combination with advanced multi-functional dispersant additives protects the motor against soot, dirt and other contaminants. Additionally, it offers a great low-temperature flow even at -30 degrees Fahrenheit.

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6. Mobil 1 120758

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It meets or exceeds ILSAC GF-5 requirements and boasts a proprietary blend of great performance synthetic base stocks with an excellent balanced component additive system. It also offers a low viscosity and an advanced full synthetic formulation, which together help increase engine efficiency. It provides high-temperature protection of higher viscosity models while it actually offers the best fuel economy in the Mobil 1 line.

It helps improve fuel economy up to 2%, based on a comparison versus those grades that are most commonly used. Actual savings depend on the vehicle/engine type, outside temperature, and driving conditions, evidently.

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7. Valvoline 782256 5W-30

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Specially formulated for high-mileage engines, generally, engines that have exceeded 75000 miles up to this point, it uses a blend of seal conditioning agents, anti-wear additives, and novel friction modifiers to keep your car up and running for a longer period of time. However, note that the formula can be used in newer cars as well.

As a matter of fact, it’s actually recommended to use it in this manner as well as it prevents the main causes for engine breakdown, more precisely sludge, friction, leaks, and deposits. Reasonably priced and available in a 5-quart or a 1-quart size option, no wonder it is one of the best-selling motor oils at the moment.

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8. Valvoline SynPower SAE 5W-20

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It will take care of your engine, allowing it to function at its maximum capacity. It provides an outstanding high-temperature protection and excellent cold-temperature protection through faster oil flow at start-up.

Furthermore, this formula helps maintain the fuel efficiency. The Valvoline SynPower SAE 5W-20 meets the performance requirements of all naturally aspirated, turbocharged, and supercharged passenger vehicles running in North America.

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9. Castrol 03096C GTX Ultraclean

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This model has been proved to offer 50% superior sludge protection against other models. This advanced protection will prevent velocity and thermal breakdown. By purchasing this model, you will also be provided with superior protection against high-temperature deposits.

The premium quality base oils and anti-wear additives will help to extend the life of your engine by many years. Just remember to change it as much and as soon as you consider suitable. Some say you need to change it every 3K, some say every 6k, and some say as often as you use it.

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10. Pennzoil 550022689 5W-30

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A fully synthetic blend which helps keep the engine clean and prolongs its life, it is one of our favorite selections due to its wonderful properties. Furthermore, the 1-quart version comes at an extremely cheap price that makes it all the more convenient to purchase. It provides great protection for the engine regardless of its condition or temperature.

What makes it so effective is the fact that it has a strong formula that makes it exceeds stringent requirements for cleanliness and protection set by car manufacturing companies. It helps keep the vehicle’s pistons 40% cleaner than other models do. However, do note that it should only be used for gasoline engines, so diesel is completely out of question.

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11. Pennzoil 550038221

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It is important that you protect your engine so that your car can operate properly. Therefore, what you need to do is to go for high-quality synthetic oil. This formula exceeds the most stringent car manufacturer requirements for protection and cleanliness, which recommends it to all car owners.

It has a 0.84 g/cm3 density, 224 C flash point, -48 C pour point, 170 viscosity index, and it is highly recommended for Ford WSS-M2C929-A, WSS-M2C946-A, Honda/Acura HTO-06, Chrysler MS-6395, GM 6094M, 4718M, Dexos1, ACEA A1/B1-10, A5/B5-10, APO SN-RC and all previous categories, A1/B1-12, A5/B5-12, and ILSAC GF-5.

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12. Quaker State (550036718-6PK) 5W-50

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The motor of your car is considered the heart of the vehicle. Therefore, it needs to be protected very well, in order to work at its maximum power. How can you do this? It is very simple, you need to use a high-quality oil, and the Quaker State 5W-50 is one of the best choices you could make.

This model and the other ones presented in this article will definitely do an amazing job. This formula is a great solution for protecting your car against friction-related wear, especially as temperatures increase. It actually keep the engine of your car cleaner with better wear protection.

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13. Briggs & Stratton 30W Engine Oil

This small engine oil has been designed to fit the needs of 4-cycle engines. Therefore, it’s suitable for lawnmowers, tractors, generators, pressure washers, and outdoor power equipment. In addition to this, it comes with a Briggs warranty which means it’s classified SJ/CD by the API. Depending on the use, the oil will last for up to 1-year.

As you may know, different oil types can work best at certain temperatures. As this is a SAE 30 oil, it works best at warmer temperatures. These temperatures are most commonly found in small engines. Furthermore, it has also been praised for the fact that it can last for 2-seasons after opening. Hence, you will be ensured durability and efficiency.

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14. Royal Purple 51520

For better wear protection and increased fuel efficiency, this SAE 5W-20 high-performance motor oil is suitable for your needs. In addition to this, it can also provide superior corrosion protection. This oil combines premium base oils with proprietary additive technologies to optimize the performance of the engine.

As this is an API-licensed oil will deliver excellent protection and improve the performance of gasoline engines. To ensure convenience, it’s also suitable for synthetic and conventional motor oils. Similarly, with the other oils mentioned, this will remain good to be used for years after opening. Hence, you can get the most for your money.

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Useful Info

In short terms, synthetic motor oil is a lubricant that uses artificially made chemical compounds. It can be made from chemically modified ingredients or can be synthesized from other materials. Moreover, it’s quite important to know that it is not manufactured using crude oil and it is relatively pure compared to conventional models. In fact, this lubricant is used to substitute refined petroleum oil when the motor is operating in extreme weather conditions. However, this doesn’t mean that a synthetic product cannot be used when the engine is operating at normal temperatures. Furthermore, when purchasing a lubricant for your car motor, you should take into account the fact that a regular oil will provide you with 3.000 miles of drive time before you change it. On the other hand, with it, you are looking to bump up that 7.000-10.000 miles before replacing it with a new one. These types of lubricants will provide a lot of benefits that will keep your motor running at peak performance. However, to better understand their benefits, you must know that there are three types of lubricants available in the current market, like:

• conventional minerals oils that are the traditional ones;
• semi-synthetic which is formed from a blend of conventional and synthetic types;
• full synthetic oils that are the latest and the most popular lubricants nowadays.

Generally speaking, synthetic lubricants are made with an advanced refining process and they are of a higher quality and purer than conventional oils. The refining process removes impurities and enables molecules in the oil in order to be customized to the demands of modern car engines.

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Choosing Between Synthetic and Conventional Motor Oils

When it comes to picking the right one, there are some aspects you must pay attention to. You can choose either a conventional type that is the most common one, or an innovative synthetic oil that is becoming more and more popular. It’s important to follow the owner’s instructions and read the label very well, but knowing a thing or two about every type will also help you decide.

• Conventional lubricant

  This is the traditional oil available in several viscosity levels, usually a 5W-20 or 5W-30 for lower ambient temperatures, and 10W-30 for higher temperatures. If you pick this one, keep in mind that you need to change it regularly, as well as the filter, to ensure the maximum performance of your car. The proper changing interval is 4 months or 4000 miles but you could go for 6 months with the same oil without causing any damage to the engine.

• Semi-synthetic lubricant

  For higher temperatures and heavier loads, the blend of synthetic and organic oil is the most appropriate. The fact it lasts to higher temperatures means it evaporates harder so the fuel economy will be increased. Generally, this type is chosen for large vehicles like pickup trucks or SUVs that require more engine protection. The price is a little higher than conventional oils but it’s still an affordable choice.

• Full synthetic lubricant

  The last type is the most high-end, designed for the latest engines designed by top brands like Mercedes. It’s of superior quality, with a long-lasting performance and increased engine protection. Choose it for low and high temperatures as well because it manages to remain at the proper viscosity regardless of the degrees. Although this type is the highest quality, it’s not designed for any type of engine and it’s also very expensive, sometimes being a useless investment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

Vehicles need proper care to run without issues and using the proper motor oil plays an important role in car maintenance. The synthetic oils we presented here do the job more than fine and are recommended for those who own performance vehicles and those who tend to drive in extreme conditions often.

Best Overall : Castrol 03124 EDGE 0W-20
Your safest bet if you want nothing but the best for the car you drive is the Castrol 03124 EDGE 0W-20 that decreases engine deposit formation, thus helping upkeep the motor in top-notch shape for a longer time than normal. It reduces volatility, therefore providing superior protection for all the motor components, offering increased response time.

Our Choice : AmazonBasics AMDH533Q
The preferred option of many car owners as shown by the sales it generates is the AmazonBasics AMDH533Q. Not only does it help you save money in the long run, as it enhances fuel economy through the properties it boasts, but it also protects the engine through minimization of friction between the parts. It offers high resistance to thermal breakdown, so it will play a major role in preventing rust and corrosion.

Best for Turbo Engines : Castrol 03084 EDGE 5W-30
If your car is equipped with a turbo engine, and you’d like to keep it in top shape, then you should consider Castrol 03084 EDGE 5W-30. It comes with a fluid titanium technology which will reduce friction between motor parts, improving its overall performance. Specially made with gasoline engines in mind, it is also certified by the American Petroleum Institute, therefore you can rest assured that it will lower deposit formation, increasing the motor’s overall response time.

Best for Diesel : Mobil 1 120760 0W-40
Perfect for both diesel and gasoline engines, Mobil 1 120760 0W-40 offers excellent low-temperature capabilities, ensuring the motor is protected right from the beginning. It has a high cleaning power, as well as the ability to reduce engine deposits and wear, thus working perfectly for those who drive in extreme conditions.

Best for Motorcycles : Shell Rotella 550045347 T6
Shell Rotella 550045347 T6 is a perfect choice if you’re the proud owner of a motorbike and you’d like to keep its motor in top shape. It comes with an advanced low-ash formula that will prevent exhaustion, protecting the motor against sooth, dirt or other contaminants. Even better, it can work with low temperatures as well, so you don’t have to worry about starting your bike in winter.

Best Budget-friendly Synthetic Motor Oil : Pennzoil 550022689 5W-30
If you’re on a budget, Pennzoil 550022689 5W-30 is the perfect selection. It comes with an asking price for all pocket sizes, and it provides high-quality performance. Not only will it keep the motor clean, enhancing its lifespan, but it also works with different temperatures.