Best Motor Oils for Your Car
For people who drive automobiles, there is always something they watch out for, and that is the engine. The engine is the heart of a motorbike or vehicle, and it needs to be kept in the best shape for effective performance.
Now, one of the most known ways to take care of the engine is by applying motor oil which is a viscous liquid substance used to reduce friction, prevent damage and ensure a system works perfectly; so that it can be used for as long as possible.
With this maintenance routine, it is great if you choose the best motor oil for the average car especially, to do the job. No doubt, the framework of the engine may seem quite complex, even though their mechanics are the same for all cars, but it is surprising to see that it depends on a simple thing for survival, and that is the motor oil we are reviewing.
Therefore, ensure you get the best motor oil brands, and if you cannot, we have handpicked and reviewed 9 of the top-rated motor oils available for an average car so that drivers or car owners can choose from.
In this review, we have made sure we show you the differences between the types of motor oil, working, advantages of these oils, frequently asked questions as well as a buying guide to put you through the selection process. Read carefully, so you know how to take care of your engines for years to come.
Top 9 Motor Oils
| Product | Best Price |
|---|---|
Our Pick |  |
Best for Noiseless Experience | |
Best Volume | |
Best Fuel economy | |
Best Genuine Oil | |
Best Power | |
Best High Mileage Oil | |
Best Value for Money | |
Best for Advanced Protection | |
How It Works?
Applying oil on the engine is called lubrication. For many years now, lubrication is a major phenomenon for anything that has to do with metals to prevent it from getting damaged. An engine consists of metals that must go through this same process in order to prevent them from getting damaged.
Now, lubricants help to extend the lifetime of your engine, but applying them doesn’t mean it is totally ensuring it runs smoothly, rather, to prevent wear and tear, as well as corrosion of metals.
On how it works, firstly, the oil is stored in the engine’s sump, also called the oil reservoir. On turning on the engine, the oil sucked via the pickup tube which then becomes pressurized passes through a filter to remove impurities, to give off a clean oil.
This oil then flows to other parts of the engine such as the pistons, valve train, and bearings before it flows back through the oil channels to the sump again.
Advantages of Using a Motor Oil
Asides using motor oil to restore the efficiency of an engine for a great performance, and preventing wear and tear, there are other advantages to users. Depending on what type you buy, i.e., whether synthetic or regular motor oil, there are merits involved. They include;
Advantages of Synthetic oil
- Improves protection level of the engine wear
- Suitable in all kinds of temperature (both hot and cold conditions)
- Sledge-free from the engine
- Clean and environment-friendly
- Drop infrequent changing of oils
- Reduced emission levels
Advantages of Regular oil
- Comes at an inexpensive price
- Available anywhere car accessories are sold
- Smoothens rough surfaces quickly and better
- Pretty standard and usable for light-duty operations
Types of Motor Oil
From all kinds of motor oil, there are generally two types that are recognized. They include; the synthetic motor oil and the regular motor oil. Each of these types of oil is then divided into categories on the basis of viscosity, cars they work with, etc.
Synthetic Motor Oil
Synthetic motor oils are great kind of lubricants that consists of additives that break down the oil into simpler and slower units for topnotch performance regardless of the weather (hot or cold).
Also, they do not contain impurities, that is why they are expensive. They are always expensive compared to the other types, and they are divided into; the full-synthetic oil, the synthetic-blend oil, and the high-mileage oil.
Full-synthetic Oil
These oils are technically made for engines with improved and advanced features. They are made to go through a test called the stringent test, and if that proves positive, they are considered strong, and long-lasting. The full-synthetic oil works best under low temperatures.
Synthetic-blend Oil
These oils are a little less than full-synthetic oil because they contain both a mixture of synthetic and regular oil. They also do quite a lot, especially for heavier engines such as those in SUVs. They offer protection as part of their benefits.
High-mileage Oil
This is the commonest type of synthetic oil along with is the best motor oil for high mileage engines which is used on most average cars we see today. They contain a substance called seal conditioner which makes them blend between regular and synthetic oil. The purpose of this is to ensure flexibility in the seal properties of the engine.
Regular Motor Oil
Regular motor oils are a simpler kind of oils which makes them inexpensive. They are derived from crude oil, which means they do not contain additives, but rather, they contain impurities.
This oil is saddled with a responsibility of lubricating the engine in such a way that important parts of the engine are coated for an increase in speed, and to prevent wear and tear. They are divided into; the conventional oil, and the conventional-premium oil.
Conventional Oil
This kind of conventional oils are found in a dealer’s shop, and they contain little additives for efficiency. They are even considered the cheapest oils you will find on the market.
Conventional-Premium Oil
For every car you see on the road, this is another kind of regular motor oil they make use of. They are used for light-duty operations, and they are pretty much standard.
Buying Guide: What You Should Consider?
Additives
First thing you should always consider is: are there additives in the oil or not? That is the quality to let you know whether it is synthetic or just regular oil. Additives help to clear out impurities, and enhance smooth performance; hence, you should look out for what your car requires.
Viscosity
One property of any liquid, especially a lubricant like motor oil is its ability to flow freely, which is termed Viscosity or Motor oil viscosity. It has another function called the viscosity index which is the measure of the change in the viscous nature of oils when the temperature is involved.
Now, why it is an important factor to consider is because there could be a tough decision to make between two liquids, and one thing that will differentiate them at that point is its viscosity. In a case like this, a good viscose liquid will only react to little changes in temperature, and that right there is your choice.
Engine/Car type
Also, the engine or car type is also an essential factor while you make a decision on what motor oil to pick. From the different types of motor oils, i.e., synthetic and conventional, we have discovered those that will perfectly for SUVs, heavy engines, top-duty cars, and just a regular car.
Well, we are more interested in an average car which can be driven on a free road; hence, a good decision to make in either the synthetic or regular aspect. If you pick a motor oil that doesn’t suit your car or engine, don’t be disappointed when you don’t see the changes you expect.
Protection
As we have described, motor oil offers maximum protection against all kinds of things, including; wear and tear, and damage. For a motor oil that will successfully give topnotch wear protection, it must contain additives whether in small or large quantities.
Synthetic motor oils are good in this aspect, and it won’t be such a bad idea to consider this factor immediately you have figured out your engine or motor type.
Without protection, the car gets faulty, engine stops working, and the car becomes useless in no time. Therefore, you should put this in mind when choosing any of the best motor oil for average car.
Durability
In addition to the various factors above that contribute to the working mechanism of a motor oil in a car, durability has an important role to play too. Durability is a factor that describes how long a product will last when used or applied.
This also applies to motor oil because you want something that will last long, so you don’t end up spending on maintenance, or extra getting new oil each time. There is always a time limit for oil change, and it would be wonderful if you have a good quality of motor or engine oil left for refill.
Volume
The volume is another cool thing to look at. There are several motor oils at different volumes; some could be 1L, 2.5L, 3.5L, etc. The higher the volume, the better chance you have of using it for a long time.
For instance, if just need something small, and temporary, or you are on a tight budget, you can just get the small one, and use it until the next time you are ready to buy another. It is very good, if you are mindful of this factor.
Technology
It may be quite surprising that even tech has something to contribute to the performance of an engine oil in a car. Yes, it does, and many of them have been fashioned with advanced tech to make sure fuel consumption is reduced, torque power is great, and the engine runs smoother and faster.
Therefore, if you want a good result, pick a good quality product that has a high tech, and adds value simultaneously. You never can tell; this factor may be just what is missing in other motor oils you have previously used. Most synthetic motor oils have great tech than regular motor oils.
Strength
When we talk about strength, we mean how powerful the oil is to withstand several conditions. There are some oils that can either withstand wet or dry conditions, while some may withstand both. Wet conditions could affect how well the fluid flows into the system, and dry conditions could reduce the viscosity of the liquid, i.e., one goes slowly, and the other is sloppy respectively.
Nevertheless, it is essential you get a motor oil that can work in either of the circumstances without losing quality or action. This is why there is a buying guide showing this factor for you to choose the right thing.
Versatility
Lastly, one more important factor you should never forget is the versatility of the motor oil. Versatility means the ability to use a product for more than one purpose.
In this case, the motor oil should be able to serve all kinds of cars you have in your possession. This saves you the stress of having to buy all different types of motor oil, and end up spending more or getting the wrong product.
Always check the description or car-compatibility feature as well as volume, before you pick any of the best motor oil. The motor oil could either be a type that is synthetic or regular; whichever one it is, it must be a good value for money.
9 Best Motor Oil for Average Car
1. HP Lubricants 15W-50 Engine Oil – Our Pick
HP Lubricants Racer4 15W Engine Oil for bikes is a special lubricant on the market with just what your bike needs for great performance because of its components, i.e., it is a fully synthetic oil with additives, making it rid of impurities. It has an excellent wear resistance which is a good quality of any top-rated motor oil built to last.
It is suitable for so many car engines, which include; Yamaha FZ FI, Yamaha Vmax, Suzuki R1000 ABS, Suzuki GSX R1000, etc. It is so far the best motor oil for two wheeler.
In addition to some of its incredible characteristics, it enhances a smooth-running engine, and super-protection for gears, so a user can do all sorts of things with the motorbike.
With an outstanding sheer resistance also, the quality of oil improves the working mechanism in the engine of a motor. Also, it is very stable, and it ensures there is a good thermal resistance, making it usable under any circumstance.
Adding to these, this oil is made out of one of the finest raw materials which gives it an unbeatable quality, and makes it suitable for most bikes on the road today. Its unique properties and friction control abilities are worthy of commendation. Lastly, this is a high viscosity motor oil that is suitable for all kind of automobiles.
- 2.25 kg of body weight
- 15W-50 Viscosity level
- 2.5 Liters Volume
- Oil leaks are easily detectable due to the quality of material
- Good choice for different kinds of bikes
- Offers great quality specifications, and improved with outstanding features
- Enhances stability of the engine
- Longer oil life
- Friction control capability
- Volume is quite good for continuous use
- Manufactured from a large-dominating and reputable brand, HP.
- Can withstand any temperature changes
- Oil seems to be mixed with mineral oil
- Warranty period is not stated
2. HP Lubricants Semi Synthetic Engine Oil – Best for Noiseless Experience
HP Lubricants Racer4 Synth Engine Oil for Motorcycle is also another product from HP with intense quality and friendly design. With this motor oil which is a synthetic oil that contain additives, and no impurities, a smooth performance, and overall protection is guaranteed to the engine. In fact, the protection factor is what makes it unique and different from other engine oils for bikes on the market.
HP is largely dominating the market and it would not be wrong to say the HP is Best motor oil brand in the market. With this oil that works for both turbos and motorcycles, it indeed offers great engine and gear protection for users. In addition, this engine oil helps in the retention of viscosity whether at a low or a very high temperature.
In fact, for smooth wet clutch operation, this product is best at what it does in its enhancement; also, it is perfect for a noiseless experience, as well as long-lasting engine and oil period.Lastly, there is a level of compatibility with advanced fuels and advanced exhaust emission control system.
- 957 g body weight
- 10W-30 Viscosity level
- 1 L Volume
- Great for all kinds of motorcycle engines, including turbos
- Contains anti-wear additives (high tech) for absolute protection
- Can neutralize acids; hence, enhancing a good running system
- Produces strong fluid film for additional protection
- Ensures stability and resistance to oxidation
- Smooth wet clutch operation
- Gives maximum protection for the gear and engine
- Prevents accumulation of deposits caused as a result of temperature changes
- Small in size and volume, which means it can only be used not more than twice
3. Shell Rimula Mineral Engine Oil – Best Volume
Shell is a big brand in the petrochemical world, and this product, i.e., Shell Rimula R3X Mineral Motor Oil is one of their best products so far.
It makes use of an advanced adaptive tech which is a great quality of any motor oil that wants to thrive well in a competitive market of motor oils; it is a tech built to prevent wear and tear, enhance low fuel consumption, and reduce viscosity to a reasonable level. It only supports heavy engines and turbo cars, and in some instances, some average cars are compatible with it.
With Rimula R3X, a drain interval is possible, and that takes about 450 hours of time before the next change. It is also a lubricant with good quality that ensures the cleanliness of engines, such that molecules in it remove and block deposits which are liable to form particles. The cleanliness of an engine is the main reason why it can run smoothly without ever getting tired or worked up.
In addition, these adaptive molecules have other roles they play, and one includes forming a protective film which ensures wear control and protects the engine from unfavorable heat and pressure. No doubt, this is one of the best motor oils ever produced for great efficiency.
- 4.62 kg of body weight
- 5 Liters Volume
- 15W-40 Viscosity level
- 450 hours drain interval
- Offers maximum protection and wear control for engines
- Can help to withstand a lot of pressure and heat with the aid of a protective film
- Contain molecules to help filter and remove deposits
- Suitable for some turbo and heavy engines, as well as few average cars
- Consumes low amount of fuel
- Volume is one of the highest
- A quality product that improves engine rev
- No warranty available
4. Motul 4100 Synthetic Motor Oil – Best Fuel economy
Motul 4100 Semi Synthetic Motor Oil is a good lubricant that conserves and makes sure there is limited usage of fuel down to the minimal level, as well as improve fuel economy. It is one of the best lubricants because it is synthetic in nature, meaning that it contains impurities, and supports a wide variety of cars.
Some of the cars which this motor oil is suitable for include; Toyota Corolla, Toyota Etios, Volkswagen, Eco Sport, Honda-Brio and all other car engines running petrol, CNG, LPG, and Diesel, in which most of them are your average cars.
This lubricant has one important duty, and that is to ensure the important engine parts are well protected against damage which may be caused by rising temperatures. In essence, Motul 4100 has good thermal resistance, and its stability is a good one. It has its own specifications which are API SM/CF which has something to do with how the engine responds to lubrication.
In addition, this motor oil is a synthetic-blend, and it has done so to the extent where it blends fully well into an irresistible quality. It will serve a great purpose for modern engines with low viscosity oils. Lastly, the Motul 4100 motor oil ensures that wear control, piston deposit control, oxidation control, emission control, seal compatibility and a clean system is enhanced for efficiency.
- 3.48 kg of body weight
- 4 Liters volume
- 5W-30 Viscosity level
- API SM/CF compatibility
- Oil is good for different kinds of cars
- Enhances cleanliness and system control
- Contain additives and do not contain impurities
- Improves resistance to temperature changes
- Volume is quite good
- No strain-resistance
- Protection level is outstanding and ensures a reduction in oil consumption
- Works good on most modern engines
- No warranty period available
- Cap has issues; it is always open
5. Servo MGO 20W-40 Engine Oil – Best Genuine Oil
Another great motor oil in the mechanics world is Servo MGO Motor Oil for Maruti vehicles which is strong, and superior in performance. This motor oil can do all sorts of things, including, resisting unfavorable thermal sensitivity, improving friction control, and enhancing the stability of the lubricant in the engine.
It is a type of lubricant suitable for engines of cars such as Maruti 800, Alto, Wagon R, Swift, and Ritz, as well as Omni and Gipsy.
The genuine value of this oil is quite outstanding because, on its level of importance, it shows that it enhances oxidation control, making it stable, as well as removing all kinds of discrepancies.
It is very easy to say that it is a type of synthetic oil having considered all these factors, as well as its viscosity; it is an oil that does not contain impurities because of the additives present in its constituents. It is indeed a lubricant that makes sure your engines are wear protected, and performance remains topnotch.
Further, it may look quite small compared to other types, this is as a result of its volume (3L). Also, it meets the SAE and OEM specifications as required to make a great product that we all see on the market today.
- 2.88 kg of body weight
- 20w-40 Viscosity level
- 3 Liters Volume
- SAE/OEM-compatibility
- Removes discrepancies in oil structure
- The oil keeps performance in check
- Synthetic oil which means it does not contain impurities
- Enhances stability and excellent wear protection of engines
- Good thermal resistance
- True to its quality, and produces low emissions
- No strain-resistance
- Great quality and good price
- Only suitable for Maruti cars
- A little thicker for low viscosity oil cars
6. Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oil – Best Power
This is another product from Amsoil known for its high resistance against oil consumption, and good performance when it comes to increasing the lifespan of a car engine.
It is often believed that high heat caused by an increase in temperature could make motor oils to become volatile; however, this oil has been improved with additives to enhance its stability, and make sure it doesn’t boil off too quickly. In this regard, it is a synthetic formulated-base oil which can be used on any kind of car.
Further, the power/strength of this lubricant is quite an interesting sight to see because it guards against wear and tear which are major factors for loss in efficiency of an engine.
Also, it makes sure there is a clean system by getting rid of deposits which may lurking around the engine. This property is aided by its constituent detergent that helps to fight off dirt and deposits.
Additionally, there is a mechanism in which the oil passes through metal surfaces, like the piston ring/cylinder wall interface; the movement of this oil can cause a great deal of pressure to be exerted on the shear molecular structure of the motor oil. This action causes a loss in viscosity, but with the aid of Amsoil Extreme Power, protection is possible, and engine life is preserved.
- 998 g body weight
- 0W-40 Viscosity level
- 0.95 Liter Volume
- Reduces oil consumption to the minimal level
- Enhances great viscosity and provides absolute protection for the engine
- Protects the engine and makes sure it lasts long enough
- Can be used for all kinds of car
- Powerful with its anti-wear additives
- Can only last for a distance between 5000 to 7000 km
7. SERVO ADON Motor Oil – Best High Mileage Oil
One incredible motor oil to pick out of many options is SERVO ADON D High-Mileage Motor Oil because it is quite different being a high-mileage oil (a special type of synthetic oil). Just like most synthetic oils with additives, it is a lubricant that has the tendency to withstand the highest temperatures; hence, liquid won’t get volatile as a result, and viscosity is still going to be great. These high temperatures include both hot and cold conditions.
Also, this motor oil is a fluid that helps in the reduction of harmful piston deposits that could lead to a blockage in the engine’s system. As well, they offer maximum protection against rust and corrosion which may happen in any way. This is also called resisting oxidation which is an important quality of keeping a lubricant useful on metal to metal parts of the engine.
In addition, the turbo components are also kept clean during the process of reducing the consumption of motor oil. It contains a seal conditioner which makes it a good factor to enhance flexibility and seal properties of an engine. Lastly, it is used by all kinds of car, and doesn’t matter whether it is a synthetic or regular motor oil-compatible car or not.
- 99.8 g body weight
- 5W-30 Viscosity level
- 150 mL Volume
- Offers great protection to the engine in all aspect
- Promotes a clean system, by getting rid of deposits and dirt
- Usable by both synthetic and regular oil vehicles
- Contains seal conditioner material
- Can withstand any amount of pressure and temperature
- Flows really well, and great in quality
- Very affordable to purchase
- Brilliant when it comes to resisting oxidation, rust and corrosion
- Small in quantity
- A little different from others in performance
8. AMSOIL Signature Motor Oil – Best Value for Money
Amsoil 5W-30 is another product of Amsoil made with great consideration for fuel economy and high resistance against oil consumption. The lifespan of an engine becomes improved to the highest level with the aid of this lubricant, and it is often said that changes in temperature whether hot or cold will affect the viscosity of the fluid; the molecular constituent of this oil ensures stability.
This motor oil is synthetic in nature, which means it contains additives to enhance performance, and does not contain impurities which limits the accumulation of deposits and dirt.
In addition to the qualities it possesses, it has the strength of a horse because it protects against wear and tear (wear control, thereby, restoring the efficiency of the engine to the best level.
In a case where the engine system is dirty, as a result of previous oils used, it ensures cleanliness by disposing off deposits which may be around the engine. This is a feature that is enhanced by the constituent detergent in the lubricant, that helps to fight off dirt and deposits.
In addition, the difference between this motor oil and other oils produced by Amsoil is that it has 5W-30 viscosity which makes it a little more expensive than others. However, they go through the same mode of operation where oil passes through metal surfaces, such as the piston ring/cylinder wall interface; the oil movement can exert pressure on the molecular structure of the lubricant.
- 907 g body weight
- 5W-30 Viscosity level
- 946 mL Volume
- Offers protection for over 25,000 miles distance covered in a year
- Reduce pressure on metal to metal contact
- Increases an engine life to the highest maximum
- Contain additives to improve wear control
- Works really well, and usable by all cars
- A little expensive compared to other models by the brand
9. Shell Helix Synthetic Engine Oil – Best for Advanced Protection
Knowing fully well that Shell is a top-brand, Shell Helix is another synthetic motor oil with great qualities, and functions. They are compatible with all kinds of car, including; Toyota, Hyundai, Chevrolet, Mahindra Scorpio, etc. It is good for an average car because it offers advanced protection for a car engine especially in severe conditions.
Also, it is made of a flexi-molecule technology which helps as an additional protection against temperatures and pressures at high levels. The viscosity is really good because the rate at which it flows is good for this kind of oil. It is definitely what every driver will need for protection as well as reduction in fuel consumption.
In fact, it keeps the engine in good shape, and improves wear control for the different parts. For anyone who needs something that will produce low emissions, this is a good choice. Indeed, it is a great lubricant for gas, petrol, and fuel vehicles available at a good cost.
- 3.12 kg of body weight
- 5W-30 Viscosity Level
- 3.5 Liters Volume
- Provides wear control and protection on all kinds of engine
- Quite affordable considering what it has to offer
- Viscosity is really great, and volume is worth the money
- Improved with high tech, and can withstand great temperature and pressure
- Not totally synthetic in nature
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the frequently asked questions about the best motor oils for an average car, and the answers we have provided for each one of them.
1. What distance can a synthetic oil cover?
The distance you can cover on a single fill of oil to your engine depends on your engine. On average, the oil can last for 3000 to 6000 miles; however, when you start refilling or changing, it could go for about a distance of 4000 miles, more or less.
2. How are oils disposed of after they are used?
Oils naturally are pollutants, and they need to be disposed of properly to prevent environmental hazards. Many people pour them into dams, drainages, dams which is very bad and detrimental to health. A step you should take is to dispose of the oil at waste or oil-disposal bank, and you have a safe environment.
3. How often should the oils be changed?
There are variations on how oils should be changed. There are end-of-oil change intervals as described by the manufacturer in the product you buy, which should be adhered to strictly. However, it is done on the basis of how far or how long you have traveled in distance and time respectively. Between synthetic oils and regular oils, the latter requires more changing for efficiency.
Conclusion
Having the best motor oil, especially for an average car is certainly great because it saves you from spending extra money repairing your engine because it got broken by the wrong choice of oil. It is important to understand that the quality and type of oil has a lot to contribute on the performance of your vehicle, such as noise level, and movement on the road. It will be fantastic if you choose any of the 9 top motor oils reviewed above.
However, there is one more classification we are yet to make. This classification is based on the cost of the motor oil into three categories, which include;
High Range Motor Oil: Motul 4100 Power 5W-30 API SM/CF Technosynthese Semi Synthetic Motor Oil, Shell Helix HX8 5W-30 API SN Fully Synthetic Engine Oil for Cars.
Mid-Range Motor Oil: Shell Rimula R3X 15W-40 API CH4 Mineral Engine Oil, AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Amsoil Extreme Power 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil, HP Lubricants Racer4 15W-50 API SL Engine Oil for Bikes.
Low Range Motor Oil: Servo MGO 20W-40 Engine Oil for Maruti Vehicles, HP Lubricants Racer4 Synth 10W-30 API SN Semi Synthetic Engine Oil for Motorcycle, SERVO ADON D High-Mileage Motor Oil.
It is necessary that we show you our best pick from each of the categories above. Below are our picks, and why we picked them;
- For High Range, we chose HP Lubricants Racer4 Synth 10W-30 API SN Semi Synthetic Engine Oil for Motorcycle and Shell Helix HX8 5W-30 API SN Fully Synthetic Engine Oil for Cars because it comes at a good value, even though it is expensive.
- For Mid-Range, our pick was HP Lubricants Racer4 15W-50 API SL Engine Oil for Bikes because it has the highest volume and great quality at the same time.
- For Low Range, we picked Servo MGO 20W-40 Motor Oil due to the fact that it comes at a cheap price but with outstanding performance.
In conclusion, ensure you look closely at the motor oils that have been reviewed above, as well as the buying guide to make a great decision. Whatever you come up with, ensure it is definitely what you will benefit from.
