These days, you will find that most automotive manufacturers opt for synthetic oils instead of the traditional sort and this isn’t too surprising. After all, there is a lot of evidence to prove that the synthetic oils are far superior, in a number of ways. With this information in hand, the only thing left for you to do is to choose the best synthetic oils available.
This, however, can be a more trying task to manage. Not only are there are numerous manufacturers producing this oil, it can be difficult to determine which oils actually live up to the hype. Considering that you probably don’t want to waste time and money trying to experiment with different brands, we took this challenge up for you.
Below, you will find the results and reviews for all of the synthetic oils that we examined. You will see just why we chose each of these options and even provided a buyer’s guide to make your selection process even easier.
Features to Consider in Good Motor Synthetic Oils
Here are the features and details that we deemed most important when choosing the best synthetic oils to use:
- Lubricating Power: since the main benefit of using synthetic oil is to create lubrication between car parts, it is important that the oil is able to thoroughly protect all the various mechanisms. What’s more, a good synthetic oil should be able to carry out these task for even longer, without requiring frequent changes.
- Viscosity Stability: it is important that your synthetic oil remains at just the right viscosity so it is able to flow properly and offer up the best protection. So, the superior synthetic oils will be able to stay at the right thickness, regardless of the rise or drops in temperature.
- Additives: the substances added to the synthetic oil ensure that the oil is able to provide the ultimate level of protection and continue to maintain its excellent properties, even as time goes on. So, the proper mix of additives in a good synthetic oil is necessary.
- Fuel Efficiency: an added bonus with any synthetic oil is if it keeps all of the internal parts, including the engine, working smoothly. This will allow the vehicle to use up less fuel, thus making your car more economical.
Top 10 Best Synthetic Motor Oils 2024
1. Castrol 03101 EDGE
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Lubrication and Protection Properties
There is no doubt that this oil really does an excellent job at ensuring that each of the internal parts is kept well oiled. This means that you can be sure that there is little to no metal on metal contact, regardless of the speed that you are driving at. The other reason that this is such a great synthetic oil is because it prevents the formation of deposits in your engine. Thus, it keeps your engine in proper functioning condition for longer.
Viscosity Features
This synthetic oil has a viscosity rating of 0W-40. This means that this is an oil that performs especially well in colder temperatures. So, if you are looking for something to keep your engine running smoothly during the winter time, then this is definitely the product for you. While the oil maintains its viscosity just as well during the hotter months, you may see a slight drop in effectiveness. So, if you do live in an incredibly warm area, this may not be the best option.
Composition Quality
The sheer quality of this synthetic oil is what places it at the top of the list. However, it is the unique fluid titanium technology that really makes it stand out in a crowd. Modern-day engines produce enormous amounts of pressure, which can reduce the effectiveness of the oils. This particular brand, though, is infused with titanium which helps the oil to resist this pressure and to maintain its lubricating properties.
Compatibility
For the most part, this synthetic oil is suitable for most modern engines. Nonetheless, if you have a European car, you will find that this oil is particularly well-suited to your machine. The oil also meets the requirements for the following companies – Ford, Mercedes Benz, Porsche, BMW, and Volkswagen. You can also watch out for better fuel efficiency to boot.
Pros
- Offers optimal lubrication properties
- Maintains viscosity in most temperatures
- Well-suited to numerous vehicles
- Withstands engine pressure well
- Can improve fuel efficiency
Cons
- Not as effective at high temperatures
2. Motul 8100 X-cess Oil
Editor’s Rating:
Lubrication and Protection Properties
This synthetic oil is a great lubricant, so much so, that it is suitable for so many different types of vehicles and engines. The oil flows smoothly, ensuring that each of the parts is thoroughly greased and that there is absolutely no friction between them, whatsoever. By using this oil, you can be quite sure that the possibility of your engine parts experiencing wear and tear is considerably lessened. Now, the only real downside with this is that you have to pay a pretty penny for such an advantage – a lot more than many of the other oils on this list.
Viscosity Features
The oil is billed with a weight of SAE 5W-40. This type of rating shows that this oil will work well in almost all weather conditions, regardless of how extreme the temperatures become. Thus, it is excellent at maintaining its viscosity and ensuring that the oil will properly flow and thoroughly coat all of the necessary engine parts. This is an oil that will do its job, all year round.
Composition Quality
There is a great mix of just the right additives in this oil. As a result, you get to enjoy high lubrication as well as a certain degree of maintenance as well. The superior composition quality allows the oil to keep all of the parts running properly, for an extended period of time. This is also what makes certain that the oil is able to maintain its properties for longer, thus requiring fewer changes.
Compatibility
As mentioned, this is an oil that is compatible with a considerable number of engines. For one thing, it works equally well with diesel and petrol engines. To top it off, it also meets the standards for BMW, Fiat, General Motors, Porsche, Mercedes Benz, Renault, and Volkswagen. In all these cars it can help to maintain fuel efficiency.
Pros
- Compatible with many different types of engines
- Excellent lubrication
- Good for all seasons
- Excellent for maintenance
- Good for fuel efficiency
Cons
- Expensive
3. Valvoline SynPower Oil
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Lubrication and Protection Properties
There is no denying that when it comes to lubrication and protection, there are few synthetic oils that can do it better than this one. For one thing, the oil is an excellent lubricant and makes sure that the oil clings to the machine parts as necessary. Due to this, there is no need to be concerned that the metal parts are moving against one another. Thus, this considerably reduces the risk of wear and tear. The other benefit is that this oil cleans out the engine thoroughly, ensuring that no debris or contaminants can cling to the parts and cause any issues.
Viscosity Features
This motor oil has an SAE weight of 0W-20. As you can imagine, especially in winter, this oil comes in extremely handy. This is because you can expect it to maintain just the right level of viscosity, even when the temperatures get incredibly low. The oil will flow smoothly, thoroughly lubricating all of the necessary parts. Now, this oil has been designed in such a way that it is quite effective during the summer as well and is unlikely to thin out too much. Nonetheless, you should check your owner’s manual to see if such a weight is suitable for your particular car or if it is too thin.
Composition Quality
What makes this oil stand out from its competitors is the presence of anti-wear additives. These have been specifically included in the formula to ensure that the engine and all of the associated parts keep running smoothly for as long as possible. Not to mention, these additives actually remain in the oil for longer and don’t deteriorate easily. So, they are able to keep up the maintenance advantages for quite a while.
Compatibility
If your car is naturally aspirated, supercharged, or turbocharged, then you can be quite sure that this oil is compatible with it. Not only is the oil suitable for various engines, it will also help them maintain fuel efficiency and help you to save some money too.
Pros
- Excellent lubrication and protection features
- Good for most kinds of weather
- Prevents additional wear and tear
- Very compatible
- Helps with fuel efficiency
Cons
- May not be suitable for some vehicles in the summer
4. Liqui Moly 2041 Motor Oil
Editor’s Rating:
Lubrication and Protection Properties
What’s truly great about this particular oil is that you won’t have to rely on maintenance nearly as much as you did before. This is largely due to the lubricating and protective effects of this oil. Since this oil is so good at greasing the various components of the engine, they don’t rub together, thus considerably cutting down on any wear and tear. What’s more, the engine is also kept free of dust, dirt, and debris allowing it to function beautifully for much longer.
Viscosity Features
The oil has an SAE weight of 5W-40. This means that throughout the year, you can expect the oil movement to be smooth and quick, keeping all of the parts well-greased. This oil has been specially designed to withstand all kinds of extreme temperatures, regardless of whether they are very high or very low. Due to this, there is no need to worry about a drop in performance at any time. That being said, due to this specific weight, you may want to check the requirements of your car. This may not be a suitable option for all makes and models.
Composition Quality
The selective additives in this motor oil helps to reduce the wear and tear that can typically take place with engine parts. The overall composition of this oil ensures that virtually every aspect of the engine is dealt with so that there are fewer issues to be expected, even during the long run.
Compatibility
There is no denying that this oil is compatible with quite a few different engines. For instance, it works well with both gas and diesel engines as well as ones that have the latest engine concepts. It works especially well with BMW, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, and Porsche models. You should be able to notice an improvement in the mpg while driving as well.
Pros
- Prolongs maintenance requirements
- Excellent for all kinds of temperatures
- Decent compatibility
- Cuts down on wear and tear considerably
- Offers up fuel efficiency
Cons
- May not be suitable for all makes and models
5. Schaeffer’s Synthetic Engine Oil
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Lubrication and Protection Properties
This is undoubtedly one of the more smoother engine oils. It is able to thoroughly coat all of the necessary engine parts, greatly reducing the friction between them. These components are then able to smoothly work with one another, without any grating result. Thanks to this feature, all of the parts of the engine are able to last longer since there isn’t as much chance of wear and tear.
Furthermore, this oil also works to cut down on any kind of build-up, including sludge, carbon deposits, and soot. So, if you are looking to improve the overall durability of your engine, this is certainly the oil for you. Alas, there is the issue of this being a rather pricey engine oil, especially if you need quite a lot of it.
Viscosity Features
Yet another excellent feature of this motor oil is that it is able to maintain its great performance, across temperatures. For instance, even when it gets cold outside, this oil is able to lubricate all parts very quickly. This means that shortly after starting your engine, you can drive off. On a similar note, when the temperatures are quite warm, the oil doesn’t thin out too much either. So, at high engine temperatures or in the summer, you can be certain that the oil maintains the right level of thickness.
Composition Quality
This formula contains Micron Moly and Penetro which are both friction-modifying additives. As such, this oil has been designed to greatly reduce the level of friction between the engine parts. It is also able to maintain its performance for longer as well.
Compatibility
One of the unfortunate things about this oil is that it is only meant for diesel engines. So, due to this, you will find that it is compatible only with a limited number of vehicles.
Pros
- Extremely lubricating and protective
- Maintains engine durability
- Great for all temperatures
- Good additives
Cons
- Only suitable for diesel engines
- Expensive
6. Shell Rotella T6 Engine Oil
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Lubrication and Protection Properties
There are so many protective features associated with this oil. For one thing, the high level of lubrication afforded by this product means that you really don’t have to worry about any parts wearing away. They are kept well-oiled and so do not rub against one another. Then, there is also the fact that the formula cuts down on the formation of ash and by doing so, prevents any harmful or poisonous substances reaching the engine. Last but not least, this oil has some amazing heat resistance which ensures that it will not break down quite so quickly. The only real problem with this oil is that the quantity is a little less than what some vehicles require.
Viscosity Features
Now, this engine oil has an SAE weight of 5W-40 and so works well as an oil that can be used throughout the year. This is because it has been designed to withstand fluctuations in temperature. So, even as it gets very hot or very cold, you can be certain that the ideal viscosity of the oil shall be maintained. Thus, all of the engine parts will continue to be lubricated as much as they need to be.
Composition Quality
An interesting feature in this oil is the advanced multi-functional dispersant additive. This, when combined with the base oils in the product, produce a very unique protective feature. As a result, a variety of contaminants are picked up, keeping them from damaging any component of the engine.
Compatibility
This engine oil has been formulated in such a way that it is suitable for vehicles with various stringent requirements. As such, you should have no trouble with compatibility whatsoever. It even works with more heavy-duty vehicles as well. Best of all, you are sure to see an impressive increase in the mpg by using it in these vehicles.
Pros
- Excellent lubricating and protective properties
- Additional maintenance features
- Great for various makes and models
- Good fuel efficiency
Cons
- Quantity may be too little for some vehicles
7. Mobil 1 Synthetic Oil
Editor’s Rating:
Lubrication and Protection Properties
The lubricating action of this synthetic oil is quite impressive. In doing so, it is able to keep a protective layer between all the relevant parts, ensuring that there is no friction created between them. As a result, you can expect wear and tear to be reduced rather drastically. However, this oil is able to take the protective features one step further. Not only does it make sure that the parts last longer, the oil is able to remain clean and clearer for longer. So, there is a good chance that you will not need to maintain the oil as readily as before. While you may not be cleaning out the oil as often, however, you will need to pay more for this bottle every time that you buy it.
Viscosity Features
This oil has an SAE weight of 0W-20 and thanks to this, you can tell that this is the perfect oil to use in the colder months. See, this oil is especially good at maintaining a low viscosity level as the temperature begins to drop. Thus, it is able to continue flowing smoothly, making certain that all of the parts are properly coated. Even during the summertime, you should be able to notice that the oil doesn’t actually thin out too much.
Composition Quality
This advanced formula means that the additive components are perfectly balanced within the oil. So, you get to enjoy all the additional benefits of the additives – such as the oil lasting for a longer period of time, without having to worry about any of the downsides.
Compatibility
This oil is certainly compatible with many different makes and models. This includes Nissan, GM, Toyota, and Honda. So, you should have no problem at all with using it, regardless of your engine. That being said, there is no real guarantee that the oil will improve your mpg in any way, even with the mentioned makes.
Pros
- Good compatibility
- Excellent protective features
- Prolongs maintenance issues
- Maintains viscosity levels all year round
Cons
- A bit expensive
- Doesn’t really help with fuel efficiency
8. Pennzoil Platinum Oil
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Lubrication and Protection Properties
If there is one thing that this oil is known for, it is for keeping engines well-lubricated and clean. So, on the one hand, you can be certain that all of the relevant parts will be thoroughly coated with the oil. When the vehicle is in motion, none of these elements will rub together and will, instead, work smoothly. Just as important is that this oil works to keep the engine area free of debris, dirt, and anything else that can clog up the engine. By doing so, it ensures that your oil will not need to be changed as often, thus allowing your vehicle to no need quite as much maintenance as before. This is good considering that you have to pay quite a bit more, every time that you purchase a bottle of this oil.
Viscosity Features
The SAE weight associated with this oil is 5W-40. Thus, you can safely assume that the viscosity level of the oil will always remain just right. This is regardless of the temperature fluctuations that are likely to take place. So, even if you live in an area where it gets really warm or cold, there is no chance of the oil getting too thick or too thin. Thanks to this feature, all of the engine parts will be coated perfectly, at all times.
Composition Quality
What stands out about this synthetic oil are the cleansing additives included in it. Thanks to this, you can be certain that the wear and tear of the engine will be reduced even further. At the same time, the additives are perfectly balanced so that the oil will continue to function smoothly until it needs to be changed.
Compatibility
A lot of care has gone into the precise creation of this formula. As such, it meets the requirements of a number of different vehicles including Chrysler, Ford, GM, Honda, and more. The only unfortunate thing is that you are unlikely to see any improvements in the fuel efficiency of these cars.
Pros
- Works well in all conditions
- Keeps engine incredibly clean
- Can prolong maintenance
- Good compatibility with makes and models
Cons
- Expensive
- May not provide as much fuel economy
9. Royal Purple 51530 Oil
Editor’s Rating:
Lubrication and Protection Properties
What you will quickly notice with this synthetic oil is that your engine is offered much better wear protection. This is due in a large part to the excellent lubricating features of the product. It is able to thoroughly coat the necessary internal components, ensuring that they don’t grind against each other at all. Thus, in doing so, the longevity of each of these parts are preserved quite a bit. This is especially true for those expensive catalytic emission systems and so can reduce your cost of maintenance quite a bit. On the other hand, it does cost a bit much, per bottle.
Viscosity Features
With the SAE weight of 5W-30, this oil continues to be useful all throughout the year. This is because it is especially good at withstanding most extreme temperatures. So, whether it is the icy temperatures of winter or the scorching temperatures of the engine, you don’t have to worry about the viscosity level changing too drastically. It will continue to have just the right amount of thickness and flow quite smoothly.
Composition Quality
There are a few really good additives in this oil. This, of course, is the reason that it is able to afford so much protection to the engine and associated parts. So, you will notice that there is much less corrosion in the internal components of your car. However, this doesn’t end just there. The additives included in this oil also work to make it compatible with other products as well. For instance, you will find that it is especially compatible with fuels that contain ethanol.
Compatibility
Now, the only real unfortunate aspect of this oil is that it only works with gasoline vehicles. Therefore, it is compatible only with certain makes and models of cars. However, in the cars that it can be used in, you can expect superior results.
Pros
- Extremely protective
- Helps with maintenance
- More compatible with ethanol fuels
- Suitable for all temperatures
Cons
- Works only for gasoline engines
- High price
10. Idemitsu Synthetic Oil
Editor’s Rating:
Lubrication and Protection Properties
If you are looking for an affordable synthetic oil that can still do a great job of protecting your engine, then this is definitely what you need. Although it is not a well-known brand, this oil has immensely lubricating properties. Thus, from the moment that this oil is circulated, you will have peace of mind knowing that all of the various components will work smoothly against one another. Thanks to this feature, the chance of wear and tear occurring is greatly reduced.
Viscosity Features
This synthetic oil has been provided with an SAE weight of 0W-20 which makes it quite suitable even for the coldest of temperatures. See, this weight makes certain that the oil will not thicken when the temperatures begin to drop. So, the oil will continue to flow smoothly between the various components. To a certain extent, this oil will also work quite well in warmer climates. Since the proper viscosity level can be maintained, it will not thin out too much either.
Composition Quality
This formula has some interesting additives included in it. The additives are friction-minimizing which is why the lubricating power of this oil is so impressive. However, this isn’t all that the additives do. They also work to reduce the number of deposits formed in the engine system. As such, the engine is allowed to work smoothly for longer periods of time, without requiring as much maintenance.
Compatibility
Now, this engine oil has been certified to be a well-functioning and high-quality oil. Despite this, it doesn’t specifically meet the standards required by some of the more expensive car brands. So, to stay on the safe side, it is best to use this engine oil for mid-range vehicles. The good news, though, is if that you use it, you will find that your fuel efficiency can improve quite a bit.
Pros
- Excellent lubricating and protective features
- Maintains ideal viscosity level well
- Good additives
- Good fuel efficiency
Cons
- Best suited for mid-range vehicles
Guide to Buying the Best Synthetic Motor Oils
In this section, we will list out the various features and details you need to look out for so you can choose the best synthetic oils for your engine.
Fully Synthetic vs. Synthetic Blend
It might be easy to think that synthetic blend and full synthetic oil are the same things. However, these are quite different. The fully synthetic oil is a pure formula and isn’t mixed with anything else. The synthetic blend, however, is mixed with other oils. For the best performance, you will find that you are better of with the pure formula.
Reading the Label
Now, this may seem like a fairly obvious point to make but one of the biggest mistakes that consumers make when it comes to choosing synthetic oil is a lack of attention to detail. As you can imagine, there are numerous types of synthetic oils, each with their own set of features. This is why, even within the same product brand, you can expect quite a bit of variance. To avoid picking the wrong product for your vehicle, it is vital that you carefully go through all of the details mentioned on the labels.
One of the first things you will need to check is what type of engine the oil is suited for. Most synthetic motor oils can be used for both gasoline and diesel engines. However, this isn’t always the case. Therefore, you should always see whether the oil in question will work with the type of engine that you have.
Car Company Requirements
The engines in vehicles these days are complex and sophisticated pieces of machinery. This is why you will often find that certain companies have requirements as to the type of oils that can be placed in their vehicles. While it can be tempting to ignore these suggestions, you should understand that by using a different type of oil, other than the one that is specified, may void your warranty. So, it is best to err on the side of caution and use what is required.
Fortunately, many of the best-rated synthetic oils, tend to have such information on the bottles. You will often find categories such as API SN/CF and ACEA A3/B3 which shows that the oil has been certified. Nonetheless, many brands will go one step further to ensure that they actually meet the requirements of specific car companies such as GM, Ford, BMW, and others. Always check your owner’s manual for the necessary conditions and determine if these match up with the categories on the bottle.
Viscosity
It has already been determined that the viscosity of the oil is incredibly important. This is what will tell you just how much the oil will thin or thicken, depending on the temperature conditions. So, how can you tell what you are getting? Well, once you check the SAE weight of the oil, you will be able to determine this fairly easily. See, this weight is provided in the form of XW-XX. Here, X denotes a number while the W stands for winter. The numbers shown will tell you how well the oil will perform under certain circumstances.
Typically, the lower the number in front of the W, the better equipped it is to withstand cold temperatures. At 5 and below, these oils will thicken very little, if at all, even when the temperature is registered at freezing values. Thus, this kind of oil will work well in regions where it gets quite cold in the winter. The numbers after the W let you know how such an oil will fair when the temperature starts rising. In this case, the higher the number, the better, as it means that the oil will not thin out easily when it starts to get very warm.
The Additives
Now, additives in synthetic oils can be a bit of a tricky issue. On the one hand, you do need a certain number of additives to ensure that the oil performs even better. On the other, too many additives can reduce engine performance. It is all about finding the right balance of additives to ensure optimal function. The good news is that the best synthetic motor oils have already achieved this equilibrium.
When considering additives, look for those that are able to improve the lubrication properties of the oil as well as offer up certain cleaning features. At the same time, these additives should be able to preserve the state of the oil so that you don’t need to change it as often. Last but not least, you should also consider additives that can help to increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.
Value for Money
As you are aware, it isn’t always a good idea to go for the cheapest option. After all, there is a reason that you get exactly what you paid for. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can exactly ignore the price tag associated with a certain type of synthetic oil either. This is why it is best if you identify the value of an oil rather than just the price. For instance, if you have a car that requires quite a bit of oil, then going for the most expensive option may not be more feasible. Most cars require between 5 and 8 quarts while most synthetic oils come in no more than 5-quart bottles.
Another thing to keep in mind is how long the oil can last. Now, as mentioned, there are some oils that are specifically designed to last longer. As a result, you won’t require quite as many oil changes. In these instances, it is perfectly fine to spend a little more money as there is no need to buy them as often.
There are quite a few things to understand about synthetic oil. Nonetheless, once you do have more information on what brands are the best, this whole process becomes a lot easier for you. All that’s left to do then is to pick the oil that’s right for you.
