Rating of the best synthetic motor oils for 2022

The issue of extending the period of uninterrupted and durable engine service worries any car owner, regardless of the mileage, brand or model of his car. The most important aspect for this is the timely replacement of used engine oil. At the same time, before the moment of filling, it is necessary to figure out which automotive fluid is the most optimal, which one specifically needs to be chosen. In this review, we are talking directly about synthetic products, which, with the advancement of the latest technologies in oil refining, are replacing mineral materials and are presented in a large assortment on the domestic market.

What it is

Synthetics are characterized by excellent protective, lubricating, washing properties that increase the resource. It has proven itself in the difficult conditions of the Russian climate and has demonstrated excellent functionality with its efficiency, reliability, workmanship, and reasonable cost. In order to avoid mistakes when choosing, you should listen to the recommendations of professionals.

Synthetic motor oil is a specific liquid for filling into an internal combustion engine (ICE), produced by organic synthesis with the addition of additives to impart useful properties.

The lubricating fluid ensures the normal operation of the motor and prevents its wear. In addition, it is intended for:

• protection against dry friction of the conjugated units of the unit;
• removal of soot, sludge, other deposits;
• heat removal from heating parts;
• anticorrosive protection of surfaces;
• reducing gaps between elements.

Production and composition

The manufacturing process consists of directed chemical synthesis, in which raw oil in the form of crude oil is processed into a molecular state as a result of several stages of distillation. After alignment of the hydrocarbon chain, a homogeneous composition with chemical and thermal stability is obtained. This base is then developed into a base stock, to which appropriate effective additives are added to give the final product exceptional characteristics.

The main components that determine the types of synthetic lubricants:

• esters (synthesis of organic acids and alcohols);
• hydrocarbons (alkylbenzenes, polyalphaolefins).

It should be borne in mind that for many manufacturers, the assignment of synthetic definitions to lubricating fluids is very conditional. The reason was tax preferences for the sale of such goods. In addition, this group often includes hydrocracking products, as well as mixtures containing additives from 30% or up to 50%. In addition, it is popular to purchase base oils and additives from synthetic manufacturers and then mix them to obtain formulations sold under new trademarks. As a result, the number of synthetic products and brands is growing every year.

Properties

1. High viscosity index - characterizes the optimal thickness of the oil coating both at plus and minus temperatures. Provides increased wear resistance of motor mechanisms, especially at extreme temperatures.
2. Optimum low temperature performance - determines the stability of the flow in winter conditions. Characterized by a decrease in the degree of wear at start-up, as well as the fastest possible supply of lubricant to the main components of the engine.
3. Low volatility - determines the minimum liquid consumption. Allows you to save on topping up due to an increase in the replacement period.
4. High thermal-oxidative stability - characterizes the slow aging process when interacting with atmospheric oxygen.
5. Low coefficient of friction - demonstrates the uniform molecular structure of synthetics and a reduced internal coefficient of friction. Increases work efficiency by lowering the temperature.

Varieties according to the SAE standard

According to the American Association of Automotive Engineers (SAE), synthetic oils are classified by fluidity and viscosity under certain temperature conditions into summer and winter types. They are designated as follows:

• the first number represents the viscosity characteristics in winter;
• the letter W (Winter) informs about the winter type of lubricant;
• the last digit reflects the maximum positive temperature for operation.

All-weather fluid is indicated by summer and winter values, for example, grades SAE 5W-30, 5W-40.

 

Recommendations for selection by viscosity

In case of exhaustion of the motor resource:

• up to 25% (new engine) - all season: 10W-30 or 5W-30.
• 25-75% - all season: 5W-40; winter: 10W-30 or 5W-30; summer: 15W-40 or 10W-40;
• more than 75% - all season: 5W-50; winter: 10W-40 or 5W-40; summer: 20W-50 or 15W-40.

Varieties according to the API standard

According to the American Petroleum Institute (API), products are classified according to performance standards and quality levels for diesel and gasoline engines. They are specified using the abbreviations API CE or API SJ, in which:

• the first letter is the type of internal combustion engine: C - diesel, S - gasoline, T - two-stroke;
• the second letter is the level of performance (the higher it is, the lower the position of the letter in the alphabet);
• recording through a fraction is a universal oil for use in diesel or gasoline engines.

Criterias of choice

In order not to make mistakes when choosing the optimal product, experts recommend paying attention to the following conditions:

1. Manufacturer's approvals specified in the vehicle's service book. In case of their absence, clarification of information from the official dealer of a particular brand of car.
2. Clarification of the brand of the previous lubricating fluid used.
3. Certification according to international standards ACEA, API, ILSAC.
4. The required viscosity index according to the SEA standard in the range recommended by the manufacturer and the corresponding operating conditions.
5. Budget calculation based on the fact that synthetic oil is more expensive than mineral or semi-synthetic.
6. You can use the picker online.

Where could I buy

Popular brands of synthetic oils are available for purchase at specialty consumables and automotive fluids departments, auto repair shops, service stations, and manufacturer dealers. Managers will explain any nuances, give competent recommendations: which company is better, what differs, functionality, efficiency, quality, how much it costs.

In addition, the pages of online stores offer a rich assortment in order to order the products you need online. The product card contains all the necessary information, descriptions, photos of packaging, price, user reviews.

Best Synthetic Motor Oils

The rating of quality brands is based on the opinions of buyers who left reviews or ratings. Popularity was determined by operational parameters, reliability, quality, price.

The review includes leaders among the best products that are poured into the engines of cars, trucks and special equipment, as well as buses.

TOP 4 best synthetic oils for passenger cars

Aral High Tronic F SAE 5W-30

Brand: Aral.
The country of origin is Germany.

Low-viscosity product of the highest category for all-weather use in almost any diesel and gasoline engines of modern Chrysler, Jaguar, LandRover, Volvo, Ford models. Proprietary production technology allows to achieve high thermal stability when used in a wide temperature range. The composition includes an excellent set of cleaning additives to effectively combat deposits in the motor. Replaced once a year after 10,000 km.

Price - from 1,350 rubles.

• optimal viscosity characteristics;
• good fluidity;
• reduced fuel consumption;
• reduced exhaust toxicity;
• wide temperature range of use;
• high thermal stability;
• long service interval;
• branded cleaning additives.

• no.

Differences between the original Aral High Tronic and the fake:

Bardahl XTEC 5W-30 C2

Brand: Bardahl.
Country of origin - Belgium.

All-weather brand for passenger car engines equipped with particulate filters in accordance with Euro-5 and Euro-4 standards. It is recommended to fill in gasoline or diesel units with or without turbocharging. The proprietary composition contains an average level of phosphorus, sulfur, sulfate ash. Low-viscosity properties help to reduce harmful emissions into the atmosphere and reduce fuel consumption.

Price - from 1,317 rubles.

• good thermo-oxidative stability;
• low consumption for waste;
• reserve for liquefaction;
• excellent packaging;
• few fakes.

• overcharge.

Video review Bardahl XTEC 5W-30 C2:

AVENO FS 5W-40

Brand - AVENO.
The country of origin is Germany.

Fully synthetic all-weather product for diesel and gasoline engines of passenger cars with carburetors or turbocharging. Demonstrates good properties when starting in cold weather. Helps reduce fuel consumption. Reducing friction between parts helps protect the internal combustion engine from wear. Allows you to extend the replacement intervals recommended by car manufacturers.

Price - from 646 rubles.

• good properties when starting in severe frosts;
• stability of viscosity characteristics with shear stability;
• fuel economy;
• excellent dispersing and detergent properties;
• neutrality to sealing materials;
• reliable protection against corrosion, wear, foaming;
• extended replacement period;
• purification of catalysts;
• famous brand;
• quality packaging;
• affordable cost.

• not detected.

Rosneft Magnum Runtec 10W-40

Brand - Rosneft.
Country of origin - Russia.

All-weather lubricant product of domestic design for filling in diesel or gasoline engines of Russian-made passenger cars, incl. turbocharged. The complex use of the latest additives and synthetic base components guarantees the preservation of a significant reserve of original properties at the end of the interservice period. Provides reliable protection of the motor after a run of 16 thousand km.

Price - from 570 rubles.

• unique composition;
• stability of operational properties;
• extended replacement period;
• reduced maintenance costs;
• ensuring the protection of the motor after a run of 16 thousand km;
• preventing the formation of deposits;
• acceptable price.

• not detected.

Rosneft Magnum Runtec test:

comparison table

	Aral High Tronic F SAE 5W-30	Bardahl XTEC 5W-30 C2	AVENO FS 5W-40	Rosneft Magnum Runtec 10W-40
SAE viscosity grade	5W-30	5W-30	5W-40	10W-40
API class	SL	SN	SN	SN, CF
ACEA class	A1/B1	C2	A3/B4	-
engine's type	gasoline, diesel	gasoline, diesel	gasoline, diesel	gasoline, diesel
Shelf life, years	5	4	5	5
Packing, l	1; 4; 60; 208	1; 4; 5; 20	1;4; 5; 20	1; 4; 5; 20; 216,5
Density, kg / cu. m	850	853	856	850
Viscosity at 40⁰С, sq. mm/s	55	61.7	86.6	?
Viscosity at 100⁰С, sq. mm/s	9.7	10.5	14.1	14.1
Viscosity index	162	160	169	160
Pour point, ⁰С	-42	-45	-42	-38

TOP 4 best synthetic oils for trucks

Mobil Delvac 1LE 5W-30

Brand: Mobil.
The country of origin is the USA.

All-weather product for pouring into heavily loaded diesel engines. High performance provides fuel economy and reliable engine protection. The use of the latest proprietary technologies contributes to good performance and high-quality work of freight transport. Provides effective wear protection with significant fuel savings potential. Prevents pollution of the exhaust system. Demonstrates good performance in severe frosts.

Price - from 5 489 rubles.

• long service life of the motor;
• reduced fuel consumption;
• reduced volume of drained liquid;
• extended replacement interval;
• efficient operation of the exhaust system;
• easy start in cold conditions;
• proprietary counterfeit protection.

• no.

Video test Mobil Delvac 1 LE 5W-30:

SHELL Rimula R6 LM 10W-40

Brand - SHELL.
Producing countries - Russia, Great Britain, Germany, China.

Multi-purpose lubricant for filling in the most modern heavy-duty and powerful diesel engines with catalytic converters or particulate filters. In addition, it is suitable for American, European, Japanese diesel units of earlier generations, as well as compressed gas engines in MAN, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo. The synthesized composition has the desired properties and contains an exclusive set of additives. Allows you to provide good protection of the internal combustion engine from wear, deposits, overheating. Has low toxicity of exhaust gases.

Price - from 5,705 rubles.

• stability of operational characteristics;
• reliable protection at low temperatures;
• low emissions;
• prevention of blocking particulate filters;
• extension of the replacement interval;
• reduced maintenance costs;
• ensuring high wear resistance;
• excellent cleaning properties;
• reduced content of sulfur, ash, phosphorane;
• long service life.

• not detected.

Petro-Canada Duron UHP 5W-40

Brand: Petro-Canada.
Country of origin - Canada.

All-weather brand of a premium product for diesel and gasoline engines. Providing wear resistance increases productivity and reduces fuel consumption. Performance meets the highest performance standards and exhibits extended drain times in all climates. Provides exceptional performance at low start temperatures. Allows you to reliably protect the motor from harmful sludge and formations. A strong oil film guarantees wear protection.

Price - from 1,528 rubles.

• reliable wear protection;
• prevention of oxidative thickening;
• reduced fuel consumption;
• reduction of sludge and deposits;
• improved pumpability in severe frost;
• cold start efficiency
• shear stability;
• low volatility;
• reduced consumption;
• excellent anti-corrosion properties;
• stylish packaging design.

• no.

Video review of Petro-Canada:

NEO Neo Revolution A 5W-40

Brand - NEO.
Country of origin - Russia.

A universal product for modern diesel and gasoline multi-valve engines of trucks and special equipment, fully adapted to Russian operating conditions. The use of proprietary Neo Stream Atlantic technology ensures good engine cleaning with careful collection of all deposits formed during regular trips. Allows to reduce fuel consumption and to increase an interval of replacement. Cooling properties keep the power unit cool at maximum loads.

Price - from 704 rubles.

• quality manufacturing;
• increased lubricating properties;
• high wear resistance;
• increase in motor resource;
• stability of viscosity characteristics;
• maintaining the temperature regime.;
• long service life.

• unsightly canister design.

NEO Magic Liquid:

comparison table

	Mobil Delvac 1LE 5W-30	SHELL Rimula R6 LM 10W-40	Petro-Canada Duron UHP 5W-40	NEO Neo Revolution A 5W-40
SAE viscosity grade	5W-30	10W-40	5W-40	5W-40
API class	CJ-4, CI-4, CI-4 PLUS, CK-4	СJ-4, CI-4, CH-4	SN, CJ-4, CI-4, CH-4, CK-4	SN, CF
ACEA class	E4, E6, E7, E9	E6, E9	-	A3/B4
engine's type	diesel	diesel	diesel	gasoline, diesel
Shelf life, years	5	5	5	5
Packing, l	4; 20	4; 5; 20; 209	1; 4; 20; 205	1; 4; 20
Viscosity at 40⁰С, sq. mm/s	72.8	96.8	88.6	82.9
Viscosity at 100⁰С, sq. mm/s	12.1	14.5	14.3	14
Viscosity index	163	?	168	173
Pour point, ⁰С	-51	-36	-45	-47

TOP 3 best synthetic oils for buses

SINTEC Platinum 5W-30

Brand - SINTEC.
Country of origin - Russia.

Universal all-weather product based on synthesized basic components and a multifunctional set of additives for use in atmospheric or turbocharged gasoline engines. It has excellent thermal oxidative and low temperature properties for extended drain intervals and easy starting at low temperatures. The latest detergent-dispersant and anti-wear additives keep the engine clean and protected throughout its life.

Price - from 605 rubles.

• versatility of application;
• thermo-oxidative stability;
• low consumption for waste;
• protection against harmful deposits;
• high wear resistance;
• easy start in frosty weather;
• compatibility with seal materials;
• excellent value for money.

• no.

What's inside SINTEC Platinum 5W-30:

Kixx G1 SP 5W-50

Brand: Kixx.
The country of origin is the Republic of Korea.

An all-weather brand for gasoline units that meets modern API SP standards. The base components obtained using proprietary VHVI technology have a very high viscosity index. The composition of effective additives includes polymers of the latest generation. Provides reduced friction losses, significant fuel savings and extended engine life. Significantly reduces the risk of damage to parts as a result of spontaneous ignition of the fuel mixture in the cylinder.

Price - from 1,000 rubles.

• excellent performance characteristics;
• high viscosity index;
• minimization of internal mechanical losses;
• fuel economy;
• resistance to oxidation;
• temperature stability;
• easy start in severe frost;
• valve mechanism protection;
• wear resistance;
• small costs;
• improved set of additives;
• acceptable cost.

• not detected.

KIXX engine oils:

Repsol ELITE COSMOS F FUEL ECONOMY 5W 30

Brand: Repsol.
Country of origin - Spain.

A universal brand for filling diesel and gasoline engines of Ford vehicles and European automakers with the required quality level A5 / I5. During operation, it significantly reduces harmful emissions and reduces fuel consumption under normal conditions. Provides a quick start of the internal combustion engine in severe frost. A dense film on the surfaces of parts minimizes their wear. It has good detergent properties that extend the life of the power unit.

Price - from 973 rubles.

• reduced fuel consumption;
• increased wear resistance;
• quick start in cold weather;
• long service life;
• reduced CO2 emissions;
• excellent viscosity;
• European quality;
• easy pumpability at start-up.

• no.

Video review:

comparison table

	SINTEC Platinum 5W-30	Kixx G1 SP 5W-50	Repsol ELITE COSMOS F FUEL ECONOMY 5W-30
SAE viscosity grade	5W-30	5W-50	5W-30
API class	SL, CF	SN, SP	SN+RC
ACEA class	A3/B4	-	A5/B5
engine's type	petrol	petrol	gasoline, diesel
Shelf life, years	5	5	5
Packing, l	1; 4; 5; 20; 60	one; 4T; 200	1; 4
Density, kg / cu. m	853	850	852
Viscosity at 40⁰С, sq. mm/s	67.4	118	53
Viscosity at 100⁰С, sq. mm/s	11.75	18.6	9.8
Viscosity index	168	176	170
Pour point, ⁰С	-44	-39	-36

Self-replacement

Changing the oil in a car is within the power of even a beginner. In order to replace the waste fluid with your own hands, just follow a simple step-by-step instruction.

1. Warm up and stop the engine.
2. Wait for the motor to cool down, pick up a tank to drain the waste material.
3. Unscrew the plug at the bottom of the sump on the crankcase with a wrench and manually.
4. Drain the waste liquid until the jet stops flowing.
5. Tighten the plug and fill in new oil, taking into account that some volume of the old fluid remains inside the motor.
6. Change oil filter.

During the replacement process, it is imperative to use a dipstick to maintain the correct fluid level. The process can be accelerated by first filling with 80% of the lubricant, followed by gradual addition to the desired level.

Mixing any liquids from different manufacturers is strongly discouraged!

Different additives can chemically act with unpredictable results. Only products from the same manufacturer are compatible with each other.

Engine flushing is carried out when:

• replacement of the manufacturer or brand;
• the need to change characteristics (type, viscosity);
• ingress of foreign liquids - fuel, antifreeze;
• using a low-quality product;
• opening the cylinder head after any repair;
• doubts about determining the prescription of the last replacement.

Good luck choosing. Take care of yourself and your loved ones!