The most popular brands of oils include Shell and Castrol. They are united by high performance and versatility. Consider the features of both brands.

Shell oils

Castrol oil is a high quality lubricant that combines high performance characteristics and acceptable cost... The oil forms a high-strength protective film that provides reliable protection car nodes from external influences. The use of Castrol oil guarantees a high level of protection of the contacting parts, preventing the formation of deposits and carbon deposits. Castrol oils are characterized by stable viscosity and can be used at both high and low temperatures. When using Castrol oils, it is recommended to replace them periodically after every 10-15 thousand km. ride.

The main advantages of Castrol oils are:

• increased protection of vehicle components from mechanical damage and aggressive environments;
• long replacement interval;
• versatility in use;
• high viscosity index;
• availability of specifications from leading car manufacturers;
• environmental friendliness.

Shell and Castrol oils are roughly comparable in their performance properties. Shell oils have a higher viscosity index and better oil film stability, while Castrol oils have a lower sulfur content.

If you have doubts about which oil needs to be poured into the engine, then you should pay attention to our rating for 2018 - 2019. This top 10 of the best engine oils has been compiled according to the opinion of the customers. Also, the ideal price-quality ratio was taken into account, which often comes to the fore when buying.

Best 5w30 engine oils

10 ZIC X9 5W-30

For the latest engines turbocharged or non-turbocharged it is recommended to purchase ZIC oil X9 5W-30. The content of ash, sulfur and phosphorus has been significantly reduced here. The service life of the engine will be significantly extended, and fuel will be consumed more economically. Suitable for absolutely all seasons.

Pros:

• Suitable even for turbocharged engines.
• Makes the engine reliable.
• Ideal for use at any time of the year.

Minuses:

• It is advisable to use high quality gasoline.

9 General Motors Dexos2 Longlife 5W30

Inexpensive synthetic oil General Motors Dexos2 Longlife 5W30 is necessary for constant aggressive driving, as well as during severe operating conditions. All critical engine components are quickly lubricated, resulting in visible fuel economy. Even at low temperatures, the engine will start properly the first time. A durable oil film also appears, which protects particularly wear parts.

Pros:

• Very quiet engine compartment.
• Makes the car start in the cold.
• Minimum price.

Minuses:

• The oil needs to be changed frequently.

8 SHELL Helix HX8 Synthetic 5W-30

SHELL Helix HX8 Synthetic 5W-30 engine oil is fully synthetic, and can also be actively used for gasoline and gas engines... Also the oil is suitable for diesel engines without filters. It perfectly protects and cleans the most important component of the car. No more harmful deposits will remain on the surface of the motor. Moreover, friction between parts is significantly reduced, which has a beneficial effect on fuel economy.

Pros:

• It is used in a wide variety of engines.
• Saves fuel by reducing fuel consumption.
• Makes the motor more durable.

Minuses:

• A large number of fakes.

7 TOTAL Quartz INEO ECS 5W30

TOTAL Quartz INEO ECS 5W30 oil has a low sulfur and phosphorus content, as well as a fairly low sulphated ash content. Thanks to this, the exhaust gases are significantly cleaned, and fuel is significantly saved. This oil can be poured into almost any engine - diesel and gasoline.

Pros:

• The motor starts to run quieter.
• The service life of the engine is extended.
• Serious fuel savings.

Minuses:

• Rarely found on sale.

6 Lukoil Genesis Claritech 5W-30

Low ash engine oil Lukoil Genesis Claritech 5W-30 is suitable not only for most cars with diesel and gasoline engines, but can also be used in all seasons. This oil increases the longevity of the engine, and also improves the functioning of the exhaust aftertreatment system.

Pros:

• The engine starts easily even in winter.
• There are practically no fakes.
• Minimum oil consumption.

Minuses:

• Requires fairly frequent replacement.

5 Idemitsu Zepro Touring 5W-30

Idemitsu Zepro Touring 5W-30 oil is created for absolutely any cars running on gasoline. The high efficiency in terms of fuel consumption is complemented by an outstanding viscosity. This synthetic oil is adapted to a wide variety of temperature conditions, having a beneficial effect on the engine. For its manufacture, the most complex catalytic dewaxing is used.

Pros:

• Really quiet operation of the motor.
• Suitable for harsh winters.
• Serious gas mileage savings.

Minuses:

• It can be difficult to find on sale.
• Suitable only for gasoline engines.

4 LIQUI MOLY Special Tec AA 5W-30

Need some serious engine protection? Then LIQUI MOLY Special Tec AA 5W-30 will become good choice... This synthetic oil reduces fuel consumption and protects against unnecessary wear thanks to a special formulation. Motor parts are not damaged during operation, and the motor itself remains extremely clean. Particular emphasis is placed on American and Asian cars, on which active testing was carried out.

Pros:

• Excellent fuel economy.
• The engine remains always clean.
• Oil quickly flows to all parts.

Minuses:

• More suitable for cars of Asian and American brands.

3 MOBIL 1 ESP Formula 5W-30

All engine parts are kept as clean as possible thanks to MOBIL 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 synthetic engine oil. It is made on the basis of an exclusive formula, which includes technological components. Developed oil for gasoline and diesel engines... Protects the engine and saves fuel.

Pros:

• Keeps the engine clean and durable.
• Significantly saves fuel.
• Allows you to start the car in cold winter.

Minuses:

• Quite an expensive pleasure.

2 Castrol Edge 5W-30

The durable oil film sets Castrol Edge 5W-30 apart from the competition. The oil can withstand even extreme pressure. Titanium FST technology makes the motor much more efficient. Wear protection is present as well as fuel economy.

Pros:

• The car accelerates more dynamically and smoothly.
• The engine runs efficiently.
• Good motor protection.

Minuses:

• The sound of the engine may change.

1 Motul Specific dexos2 5W30

Synthetic engine oil Motul Specific dexos2 5W30 is ideal for four-stroke diesel and gasoline engines. It fits almost all motors. It is also recommended to use it with SUVs or split injection engines. It is an advanced energy saving oil API class SN / FC provides a high level of ecology, forcing cars to throw away much less harmful substances to the air.

Pros:

• Highest quality.
• Suitable for a wide variety of motors.
• A careful approach to sustainability.

Minuses:

• Quite a high price.

Best 5w40 engine oils

10 TNK Magnum Super 5W-40

TNK Magnum Super 5W-40 oil appears to be semi-synthetic. The balanced composition qualitatively protects the motor from dirt and other problems. Oil easily "starts" the engine in cold weather. And it can be used with almost all motors.

Pros:

• Protects against overheating and deposits.
• Stability throughout the entire service life.
• The engine is not afraid of any temperature.

Minuses:

• In some cases, forms black carbon deposits in the engine.

9 Lukoil Lux synthetic SN / CF 5W-40

If you want to try premium synthetic oil on affordable price, then you should take a closer look at Lukoil Lux synthetic SN / CF 5W-40. It fully complies with the latest operating standards. The oil is recommended to be used for passenger cars as well as small trucks and vans. Protects modern engines well, even under intensive driving conditions. At the same time, the noise level is noticeably reduced, and deposits cease to form.

Pros:

• The car drives quietly and smoothly.
• There are almost no fakes.
• Suitable for a wide range of motors.

Minuses:

• Not the best quality canisters.

8 G-Energy F Synth 5W-40

Really quality oil G-Energy F Synth 5W-40 will improve the engine performance of not only cars, but also trucks and minibuses. Such oil is poured into the most different motors(gasoline, diesel, turbocharged units). Its consumption is quite low due to the special components. And the details always stay clean.

Pros:

• Seriously extends the life of the motor.
• Always clean parts.
• Long replacement intervals.

Minuses:

• It may lose properties over time.

7 ELF Evolution 900 NF 5W-40 4 l

Synthetic lubricant ELF Evolution 900 NF 5W-40 was designed for passenger car engines. This oil can be poured into any diesel and gasoline units, with the exception of diesel particulate filters. Withstands extended drain intervals and effectively cleans all parts. A great option for a variety of climatic zones.

Pros:

• Does not require frequent replacement.
• Suitable for many motors.
• Perfectly cleans all elements.

Minuses:

• It is not packed in the most reliable way.

6 TOTAL Quartz 9000 5W40

High-quality engine oil TOTAL Quartz 9000 5W40 is suitable even for turbocharged engines. Ideal for direct injection units as well as common rail. Due to the highest viscosity index, it can withstand a wide variety of temperature conditions. It has increased protection against wear and extended drain intervals. Just perfect for passenger cars, making the engine completely clean and tidy.

Pros:

• The highest degree of protection.
• The engine remains completely clean.
• Substantial replacement interval.

Minuses:

• Poor fuel problems can occur.

5 MOBIL Super 3000 X1 5W-40

Synthetic oil can be called truly versatile. MOBIL Super 3000 X1 5W-40. It is this that makes the engine more reliable, and its service life is significantly increased. Suitable for both diesel and gasoline engines... Withstands the widest temperature range, which again speaks in favor of this oil. If driving conditions are often difficult, then this oil is an excellent choice.

Pros:

• Nice work in summer and winter.
• Auto always starts the first time.
• The motor is extremely quiet.

Minuses:

• There is a huge variety of fakes.

4 SHELL Helix Ultra 5W-40

Modern engine needs care? Pay attention to this - SHELL Helix Ultra 5W-40. This synthetic oil enables diesel and gasoline units open up in a new way. The engine becomes immediately clean, as deposits stop forming. Moreover, it is the only oil of its kind approved by Ferrari itself. It can withstand even a long drain interval, making the motor as efficient as possible.

Pros:

• Oil does not burn.
• The motor runs incredibly quiet.
• Perfectly lubricates all critical parts.

Minuses:

• There are frequent counterfeits.
• The price may seem high.

3 Castrol Edge 5W-40

Castrol Edge 5W-40 uses a tough film to effectively protect the engine from a variety of problems. Titanium compounds are used here, which have incredible durability. This oil has a beneficial effect on the engine, revealing almost its full potential. No deposits will spoil the engine anymore, and its smooth operation will be felt when you press the gas pedal. With this oil, the motor will take on a completely new life.

Pros:

• It has a positive effect on the dynamics of acceleration.
• Unleashes the potential of the motor.
• Reliably protects against dirt.

Minuses:

• Can change the sound of the engine in operation.

2 LIQUI MOLY Molygen New Generation 5W-40

For an easy car running all year round, we recommend LIQUI MOLY Molygen New Generation 5W-40 oil with high stability. The oil effectively fights deposits, extending the life of the motor. The manufacturer claims that the oil can save up to 4% of fuel. At the same time, the overall engine life is also significantly extended.

Pros:

• Smooth and precise motor operation.
• It is consumed almost imperceptibly.
• Saves fuel up to 4%.

Minuses:

• Quite a solid cost.

1 Motul 8100 X-clean 5W40

Motul oil 8100 X-clean 5W40 for progressive gasoline and diesel engines meets Euro-4 and Euro-5 quality standards. This oil will protect the engine of a brand new car, leaving it in its original form. In this case, the absolute purity of not only individual elements, but also the entire engine will be guaranteed. It can harden only at a temperature of -39 degrees, which makes it possible to actively use the oil even in cold winter.

Pros:

• Ideal for fairly new motors.
• Effectively cleans the entire engine.
• Really saves fuel.

Minuses:

• Some turbocharged engines consume oil heavily.

Shell Helix engine oil very common among motorists around the world. It is distinguished by high quality and durability of use. Currently there are several types of oils of this brand on the market - HX7 in a canister of blue color, HX8 in light gray canister and Helix Ultra in canister dark gray... Each of them has its own characteristics and approvals of automakers, as well as made using different technologies. In addition, SHELL takes care to minimize the amount of counterfeit on the market, therefore all canisters have original protective elements.

Types of Shell Helix oils

To begin with, it should be noted that the Helix line from SHELL was developed specially for cars, and over time it changed from simple mineral oils to modern synthetic oils, including used in sports cars... Further, it makes sense to take a closer look at each type produced. This line includes the following brands of oils:

• HX3. It is mineral and packaged in a red canister.
• HX5. It is also mineral, but it is believed to be more suitable for diesel engines.
• HX6. It is semi-synthetic and comes in a yellow canister.

However, the listed oils are currently considered obsolete and are less and less common on the market. Instead, the more advanced HX7, HX8 and ULTRA are filling the market. It is about them that will be discussed below. Let's start in order.

Shell Helix NH7

It is sold in a dark blue canister. Is an . It can be used for both gasoline and diesel engines. Has the following classification: API SN / CF, ACEA A3 / B3, A3 / B4, ASO SG +. At the same time, it has the following official automakers' approvals: MB 229.3, VW 502 00/505 00, Renault RN0700, RN0710, Fiat 955535-G2.

You can buy SHELL Helix HX7 oil with a viscosity of 10w 40 in a 4 liter canister according to the following article - 550040315. The price of such a canister as of the summer of 2018 is about 1100 rubles.

Shell Helix NH8

Packaged in light gray canisters. Is completely. Also suitable for both diesel and gasoline engines. Has the following specifications: API SL / CF (meets the requirements of API SN bench tests), ACEA A3 / B3, A3 / B4. Also, the oil has official tolerances the following car manufacturers: MB 229.3, VW 502.00 / 505.00, Renault RN0700, RN0710.

You can buy SHELL Helix HX8 engine oil in a 4 liter canister with a viscosity of 5w-30 according to the article number - 550040542. The price of this volume is 1500 rubles.

Note! In 2018 Shell launches new HX8 oil with new approvals:

• SHELL Helix HX8 A5 / B5 5W-30 for Ford, Volvo, Mazda cars;
• SHELL Helix HX8 ECT 5W-30 with low ash package (excellent for diesel engines with and without particulate filter) with European approval ACEA standard C3 and approval for the car manufacturer VW 504.00 and approval MB 229.31.

This means that if earlier oils with a low ash package (ECT) were only in oils of the Ultra type, then from now on a similar composition will appear in the HX8 line. Moreover, it will cost less than the designated Ultra.

Shell Helix Ultra

Available in dark gray cans. It is also a fully synthetic oil. Can be used for gasoline and diesel engines. This oil produced with PurePlus technology, according to which oils are produced from natural gas, and not from oil, as other producers do. This oil has low ash and waste, which is especially good for diesel engines with particulate filter.

Butter Shell helix Ultra ECT 5w30 has the following classification: API SN / CF (and even exceeds SN by 60%), ACEA A3 / B3, A3 / B4. Tolerances: BMW LL-01, MB-Approval 229.5, 226.5; VW 502.00 / 505.00; Porsche A40; RN0700, RN0710; PSA B71 2296; Ferrari; FIAT 9.55535-Z2; Chrysler MS-10725, MS-12991.

In 2018 SHELL is also introducing a new Ultra type oil on the market, but with a full ash package. In other words, the old Shell Helix Ultra ECT 5w30 (low ash package) will be supplemented with the cheaper Shell Helix Ultra 5w30 with a full ash package. For the rest of the characteristics and tolerances, the oils are similar.

Shell Helix Ultra is the only oil officially approved for use famous company Ferrari for the engines of its cars. This is one of the reasons for its high cost.

You can buy SHELL Helix Ultra oil with a viscosity of 5w 30 in a 4 liter canister with the following article - LHEL078B12. The price of oil is about 2,000 rubles.

Interestingly, most modern synthetic oils (like semi-synthetics) can be mixed with each other, especially if they are produced by the same manufacturer. In particular, Shell Helix HX8 can be added to Shell Helix Ultra without any problem. Even if they have different viscosities, for example, .

Shell Helix oils comparison

What is the difference between Shell Helix oils and what are the similarities, and for which engines does it make sense to use each of them? As for Shell Helix HX7 oil, in this trio it is the simplest and most affordable. The composition is intended for use in almost any modern passenger car engine. Accordingly, if the car owner is satisfied with the price of the product, then the oil is an excellent solution for any modern car (except, perhaps, special sports cars, for which premium oils are used).

Next, we will compare the two remaining oils in the description - HX8 and ULTRA. As stated above, they are both synthetic. The Shell Ultra lineup is officially considered premium. HX8 oil is currently available in two viscosity grades - 5W-30 and 5W-40. They are issued by traditional technology used to make synthetic oils called deep hydrocracking technology, which is the most common. Its main advantage is that production costs are low, which means that the final price of Shell oil will be relatively low. Moreover, the SHELL company has its own patented hydrocracking technology, which is called by the English abbreviation XHVI, which in Russian means ultra-high viscosity index.

A distinctive feature of SHELL Helix Ultra oil, as mentioned above, is that the base oil in its base is made using the unique PurePlus technology, which has been patented by SHELL. That is, from natural gas, and not from oil and its components. The base oil obtained using this technology is absolutely transparent, since there are no foreign impurities in it. The fluidity of such base oil very high. And this makes it possible to obtain oils of various viscosities. Advantages of Helix Ultra oils:

• Very low waste consumption. That is, you need to top up very rarely, which means that the consumption will be minimal.
• Good low temperature properties. In particular, with such an oil with a viscosity of 5W-40, you can start a serviceable engine at a temperature of minus 40 degrees Celsius, which is superior to other similar compositions.
• Exceptional resistance to aging (oxidation). That is, their performance properties are equally good throughout the entire service life. And this makes it possible to increase.
• They perfectly tolerate all unfavorable conditions of car operation, for example, refueling low-quality fuel, when driving on dusty roads, extreme driving, poor maintenance and so on.

However, in fairness to say that such oil is quite expensive, and it does not make much sense to use it in a middle-class car, unless the car is new and the car owner wants to keep the engine in good condition as long as possible. Well, for the owners of premium cars or sports cars Shell Helix - this is the very thing.

How to distinguish a fake

New canisters SHELL Helix 2018

Due to the popularity of the Shell Helix trademark and its constant distribution on the market, a huge amount of counterfeit products are currently being sold on store shelves. Both buyers and manufacturers of the original oil suffer from this. However, the company is constantly improving the degree of protection of its products, inventing and implementing various tricks on canisters, by which it is easy to distinguish fake packaging from the original. But recently, she completely changed the design of her Shell oil cans. Therefore, at first they are unlikely to be forged, but the old cans will still be on the shelves for some time. So further we will discuss the features of protection against counterfeiting and verification of the authenticity of Shell Helix engine oils, since both versions of canisters have the main protection - a label on the lid, with a verification code, QR code and a specific hologram.

Traditionally, we will start our review with a canister of Shell Helix HX7 oil. The original packaging has the following individual differences:

For the original canister of Shell Helix HX8 engine oil, all of the above differences are also true. However, she has several individual characteristics. In particular:

1. There is a high-quality image of the engine piston with the Acnive Cleansing inscription. In particular, this means that the printed pixels are not visible. There are flaws on fakes.
2. The plastic from which the canister is made shines by itself.
3. The sticker does not have a matte surface, but the transition to color has a smooth character, moreover, over the entire surface of the sticker.

Now we will talk about the canister of the best Shell Helix Ultra oil in this line. So, the canister has the following external differences:

Genuine Shell oils have a pleasant sweet smell. Counterfeits, on the other hand, often have a strong, repulsive scent.

Also, new canisters of all types of the mentioned oils have a protective sticker-label. It contains the following elements:

1. A four-digit code that must match the last four digits on the canister barcode.
2. In the original, the code has a green background. When moisture gets on its surface, the background changes color to red, and after drying it turns green again.
3. The green area on the sticker changes to gray when the viewing angle is changed. And if you illuminate the sticker with ultraviolet rays, then it should turn red.
4. A hologram of four elements on the label must be of the same quality, and if you change the viewing angle, then its color will also change.
5. Directly under the sticker there will be a 16-digit code, while its last four last digits must match the four verification ones indicated slightly above.
6. As mentioned above, using a QR code and a smartphone, you can open a trading page on the manufacturer's website and only to it. If someone entered information about the four-digit code before you, the system will report this on the page. If this happens, then this is a reason to think about it, since there is a possibility that these products are counterfeit.

As you can see, the SHELL company cares about its customers, so it has implemented quite effective measures to protect its own products. So now buy original products it is much easier for consumers.

Engine oil internal combustion, performs several tasks. It cools the engine parts, prevents corrosion, reduces friction of moving parts, thereby slowing down wear.

Since there are many types and varieties of engines, there are just as many engine oils. After all, the work of different motor systems is designed for certain working conditions. You can determine which oil to use when operating a car, for example, Shell or Mobile, if you know the principles of classifying oils.

About Mobile and Shell manufacturers

A significant number of car owners have a far from complete understanding of engine operation at different temperatures, as well as show no interest in the chemical composition of oils. They are based only on the reviews of other drivers and the recommendations of specialists.

Both concerns have long gained popularity in the world market. The first, North American, has been around for over 120 years. During this period, it has significantly strengthened, absorbed several less significant competitors.

In 1999, it merged with the large English company Exxon. In terms of sales, the corporation has been in second place in the United States for a long time, confidently maintaining its place in the top five world leaders.

Shell, the largest manufacturer of car oils, is a joint product of two countries - the Netherlands and the UK. He is the leader in the global market in terms of sales. Created at the very beginning of the 20th century.

The products manufactured by Mobil and Shell Helix are of high quality. At the same time, the first manufacturer has formulations that reduce consumption.

The second produces motor oils that allow you to start engines without problems in any heat. At the same time, they reliably protect the motors. In addition, there are GTL oils in the line of this company.

General information about Mobile and Shell Helix engine oils

The assortment of both manufacturers includes mineral water. The process of its manufacture is the primary (selective) purification of the composition from the paraffins present in it.

Hydrotreating mineral oils improves their performance. They lubricate parts better. There are very few substances that are pollutants.

Lubricants with a special viscosity are also produced, which is ensured by the hydrocracking process. Such compositions are present in the assortment of both Shell and Mobile. They are divided into mineral, synthetic, semi-synthetic.

All these products are stable against oxidation, have good viscosity, and there are no harmful impurities. Most high quality possess GTL oils. Mobil has no trains of this level yet.

Both Mobil and Shell Helix are manufactured for both diesel and gasoline engines. In addition, there are universal formulations that are suitable for working with those and other internal combustion engines.

When purchasing engine oil, you should always control the kinetic viscosity index. If the viscosity is high, then it can be poured into the motor even if the summer heat reaches tropical values.

In motor oils intended for internal combustion engines, there are always various additives that improve its properties. V last years synthetic oils are becoming more popular. They contain chemical compounds that provide higher performance.

Engine oil requirements

When choosing an oil, you should rely on the following basic parameters:

Viscosity is a state of aggregation that depends entirely on temperature. This indicator is considered important, since it is responsible for the frictional force with which the engine cylinders work.

Alkaline number - indicates the volume of ions, which in the process of functioning eliminate oxides, cope with wear, and show detergent characteristics. The higher the indicator, the longer oil will be able to cope with its task.

All these nuances indicate the quality of the oil and its direction: improved performance of the motor or additional protection... Both Mobil and Shell have lubricants that are optimal in all respects.

Overview and additive properties in Shell Helix and Mobil oils

When analyzing the chemical composition, the alkaline indicator is the first thing to pay attention to, since it is the determining factor for the variety of additives. The presence of ions is ensured in them:

• zinc,
• bora,
• calcium,
• phosphorus,
• magnesium.

Mobile always contains more calcium - 20 mg / kg (Castrol also declares the presence of the same level of calcium ions in its products).

In Shell products, calcium is less, not more than 13.55 mg / kg.

The rest of the elements and compounds are present in approximately equal proportions. However, Mobile has a little more of them.

At the same time, Shell oils contain a higher volume of barium - 15 mg / kg. In Mobile, this figure is 9.5.

But in general, Mobil formulations have more base additives than Shell. In particular, they contain molybdenum (Mo), which improves the lubricating effect. This metal is designed to protect engine parts and assemblies during friction.

When the motor is running, microcracks form in the parts. They are filled with molybdenum particles. Mo is highly durable and extends the life of the motor. A kilogram of Mobil oil contains 150 milligrams of molybdenum.

Waste consumption

When the engine is running, a process called oil burnout occurs. This parameter indicates the volume of car oil that burns in the internal combustion engine. It can also be called an indicator of efficiency.

There are maximum permissible indicators of consumption in case of stupor. In such cases, the less car oil is consumed, the more economical it is considered.

All Mobil products are superior to Shell Helix in this respect. The difference in fumes is close to three percent. But such an indicator is not a significant value, based on which a choice can be made.

Shell shows increased consumption... Without topping up, it will work 4500 km, then the oil level will fall, and by 5000 km it will drop below the permissible values.

Mobile is a more economical option, but the difference between them is not so noticeable - about 3%. This is indicated by the following data:

1. On average, Mobile oil is consumed 11.32 mg per 100 kilometers.
2. Shell's consumption is 11.39 per 100.

The physical properties and chemical composition of the oils are responsible for the proper functioning of the engine.

Low temperature operation

Lubricants were also tested in cold conditions. At the same time, the temperatures were brought to minus 30 degrees. Studies have shown that Shell oils do not liquefy at 100 ° C.

According to this indicator, it surpasses its competitor, as well as semi-synthetic samples from G-Energy and Motul.

The properties of the compositions from both brands in the cold season remain at their original level. Shell Helix and Mobil maintain their viscosity even under 30 degrees of frost, providing a start within three seconds.

Which is better, Shell Helix or Mobile?

The large presence of additives in car oil is only an indirect factor of influence on ensuring the functioning of the engine. During the tests, Shell's performance was not inferior to Mobile.

Differences are present only when it comes to "soft" parts, that is, made of metals such as copper and aluminum. But in steel engines Shell shows advantages.

Both options have their advantages, but it is necessary to determine the optimal area of ​​their work. In a situation where, due to the peculiarities of operation, it is not possible to fill the vehicle with the proper fuel, a large package of additives must be added to the oil to increase the base number - the Mobil brand is suitable for this criterion.

It is also important that the oil and motor are compatible. As noted, Shell is suitable for steel, and Mobil for aluminum.

Climatic indicators, fuel quality, as well as the working conditions of the car - all this affects the operation of the oil. Therefore, the answer, which choice to make, will be completely different in different conditions.

Which oil is better: Shell or Mobile? This question is of interest to many motorists, since today there is a huge selection on the motor oil market.

The value of car oil is very important. It lubricates and protects engine parts that are in constant motion. But that is not all. Thanks to engine oil, the engine can be protected from chemical reactions that can be damaging to it.

Fuel burns, forming various deposits and carbon deposits, all this settles on the engine parts. Failure to change the oil regularly will cause the engine to malfunction and damage moving parts. Is of great importance right choice oil brands.

What is engine oil

There are a number of engine oils that are manufactured for different types engines, for gasoline or diesel, for example Motul or some other brands. But there are oils that are suitable for both types of engines. Engine oils can be designed for summer or winter season, or be all-season.
The base of any oil is distillate components that have a certain viscosity, contain synthetic products, for example, polyalphaolefins, ether components. Almost 80-90% of any oil is a base, the rest of the components are additives that are designed to stabilize certain properties of the oil.

What oils are most popular today

All oils that are on the market today can be divided into several types.

1. Mineral oil. This type is based on oil derivatives. This type of lubricant belongs to the budget. Its cost is low. However, there are drawbacks. It contains a large amount of additives that are necessary for stabilization. This leads to the fact that the mineral oil requires frequent replacement.
2. If you mix mineral and synthetic oil, it turns out semi-synthetic oil... Synthetic components can be contained in an amount of 20-50% of the total base. The cost of a semi-synthetic substance is higher than that of a mineral one, but slightly lower than that of a synthetic one.
3. Basic framework synthetic oil make up chemical components. Initially, synthetic fluids were produced for aircraft and racing cars... Gradually they began to be used in automotive industry... The use of synthetic fluids, such as Liquid Moli, has a definite advantage. All components of such lubricants are stable and provide reliable protection for the engine at low temperatures and under heavy loads.

What automotive oils are used today?

All fluids that are used in car engines today differ not only in the type of base, but also in cost, as well as in the degree of popularity.

Expensive brands include the following:

Slightly cheaper:

• Aral;
• Total;
• Agip;
• Mannol.

The cheapest oils are produced by domestic producers:

• Lukoil;
• Azmol.

So, the choice is simply huge, but expensive oil does not mean quality. Let's not forget that brands like Shell, Castrol or Mobile are most often counterfeited. This is what causes serious damage to these brands.
However, the final choice between Mobile or Castrol must be made taking into account the characteristics of the car. As a rule, after the fluid has entered the engine, its properties begin to seriously change. After approximately 3-5 hours, initial oxidation begins to occur. After that, the substance is used up, and its chemical composition becomes stable. The life of the lubricant depends on this.
On how correctly the Mobil or Castrol oil is chosen, such parameters as:

1. Fuel consumption during vehicle operation.
2. Power and dynamics.
3. Environmental safety of the vehicle.
4. Starting characteristics.

If we compare the liquid by such a parameter as fuel consumption, then the most economical brands were Zeke, Shell and Esso. Despite the fact that their viscosity ratio is the same, compared to mineral oil, the fuel economy when using these grades is almost 8%.
How does fluid affect power and dynamics? As you know, oil is necessary to protect moving parts from harmful substances and premature wear. However, at high temperatures, its viscosity changes significantly. If you use a liquid with a high viscosity, then protective film it turns out more, due to this, engine components can be operated longer, but another problem arises. The friction force becomes much greater. This leads to the fact that the power power unit becomes smaller. Using an oil that is too low viscosity will result in more power engine, but until the oil film is destroyed.

Environmentally friendly car and oil

No less important is such an indicator as the content of toxic substances in a liquid. After all, exhaust gases are harmful to others. As a rule, the oil contains components such as sulfur and phosphorus. They do not affect the readings of the gas analyzer, but they do have an impact on the environment. In addition, the substances after the combustion of oil in the engine significantly reduce the resources of the neutralizer honeycomb.

If we compare Shell or Mobile, Shell contains the largest amount of sulfur. Studies have shown that Castrol has the lowest amount of sulfur. If we talk about the amount of phosphorus, then almost all manufacturers fit into the figure of 0.12%. The least amount of phosphorus is found in Castrol and Shell. The sulfur values ​​of these two brands differ greatly, by almost 0.67%.
Which oil is most reliable in extreme situations? As you know, in our country there are strict GOST standards. They determine which oil is the best. Of course, if the oil is produced by a European company, then its performance is determined by no less stringent standards. Important for our climatic zone is the ability of the oil to withstand critical loads, as well as reduce engine wear.

One of important characteristics lubrication is the stability of the oil film. Another indicator is how much the oil can protect the engine against premature wear. Meets Mannol and Mobile critical load standards. Compared to them, Shell has a slightly lower score. This oil has some performance considerations. In last place in terms of engine protection against wear is Castrol. Mobile is recognized as the most reliable oil.

Start parameters

As you know, characteristics such as the viscosity index have an effect on the starting qualities of an engine. The higher it is, the better the engine starts. No less important indicators are the pour point and conditional cranking temperature. Here it is desirable that the indicator be as low as possible.

Shell and Zeke oils have the highest rates, the viscosity index of these grades is 155. In this regard, Castrol has a viscosity index of about 147. From this we can conclude that all this affects cranking. The lowest solidification is observed in Motul, Ravenol and Mannol. They are capable of hardening if the air temperature is more than -40 ° C. But even at a temperature of -35 ° C, Zeke and Shell showed good results. Under today's temperature conditions, winter period that's more than enough.

As for mechanical losses, here the characteristics are approximately the same for Zeke, Ravenol and Mannol. The best indicators here are found in Shell and Zeke.

What parameter are we missing? There is one more important indicator that we have ignored. The oil not only protects the engine from premature wear, but also cleans it from contamination, so it is important how much the oil has the ability to form deposits.

It turns out that its ability to form deposits depends entirely on its volatility. A parameter such as volatility depends entirely on the temperature at which the flash occurs. Zeke has the highest rates, it is about 242 ° С, if we talk about Esso, then here it is only 209 ° С.

In order to clean the engine from sediments, special detergents are added to the oil. Shell's alkaline index is 8 mg KOH / g. However, if we evaluate the degree of volatility, then here it is slightly higher.

We have reviewed several of the most popular brands of car oils. So which is the best choice? It depends on the brand of the car, its age, driving style.