Best Engine Oil – Top 10 Most Tested & Compared in 2023

Find the best engine oil for your vehicle with our comprehensive guide. We’ve tested and compared the top 10 engine oils on the market. Our expert reviews and analysis cover everything from performance to affordability, so you can choose the oil that’s right for you.

If you run for a while, what will happen? You will be thirsty, therefore drink some water to make your body function properly. Without water human body cannot react accordingly; we all know that.

The same goes for a car engine. But engines don’t call for water; they require engine oil. Otherwise, they couldn’t run smoothly for a prolonged time.

Now imagine if you consume impure water, what will happen? Illness, right? If you feed the engine some lousy engine oil, nausea will suck it down too. This it is imperative to provide the engine with the ideal food.

No problems in this article today, I will work on that. I will explain everything about the best engine oil. You will look at reviews, buying tips, and a good deal of diverse information. Let’s start:

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Top Rated Engine Oil – Comparison

This section is for those who don’t have enough time to read the entire article. You will get an overview of all the ten products and then read only the review that you think is ideal for you.

Need not read the entire article, though I recommend it. Full article and buying tips will help you choose smartly, especially if you are new. Anyway, check out the comparison chart below:

Image

Name

Rating

Quantity

Price

MERCURY 4-Stroke Engine Oil

MERCURY 4-Stroke Engine Oil

5/5

128 Ounces

Briggs & Stratton 2-Cycle Motor Oil

Briggs & Stratton 2-Cycle Motor Oil

5/5

16 Oz.

Pennzoil Marine XLF Engine Oil

Pennzoil Marine XLF Engine Oil

5/5

1 Gallon

STIHL 0781 313 8002 Engine Oil

STIHL 0781 313 8002 Engine Oil

5/5

2.6 Ounce

Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Engine Oil

Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Engine Oil

5/5

1 Gallon

Best Engine Oil in 2023 – Reviews & Guide

Best engine oils can be plus or minus twenty dollars. If you don’t want to spend too much money still need a better option, synthetic blend is an excellent choice.

If you can spend over 20 dollars, you will get full synthetic motor oils. Based on your budget, you will find something on the best engine oil reviews we have mentioned below. Look which one is suitable for you.

1. Briggs & Stratton 30W Engine Oil

Briggs & Stratton 30W Engine Oil
4-cycle engine oil
Manufactured in United States
Use in 40°-100° F temperatures

Briggs & Stratton is a big name for doing business since 1908. They have an excellent reputation in providing quality engine oil. This Briggs & Stratton 30W Engine Oil is an illustration of their class.

The Briggs & Stratton is formulated especially to perform better in harsh temperatures. The quality is phenomenal as it is made in the US. As you appreciate, the United States consistently produces top quality products.

Anyway, this oil has a particular blend of anti-coagulants. So, while not in use, the oil will not go dull. You will get better wear and tear protection with fuel efficiency.

This oil is ideal to use, no matter the age of your vehicle. Again, it works gently so that your engine doesn’t have to face any sharp change. It removes existing deposits a little at a time, so the oil flow will consistently remain up to the mark.

Even though the price of Briggs & Stratton seems high, but for a larger bottle like this, I think the price is okay. It is one of the most excellent car engine oil, if not the best. Hurry up to ensure your purchase.

Pros
  • SAE approved
  • Perfectly priced
  • Available in different size bottles
  • Ideal for all air-cooled 4-cycle engines
  • Manufacturer provide certified warranty
  • Has anti-coagulants included so it never go stale while not in use
Cons
  • A little pricier

2. Briggs & Stratton 2-Cycle Easy Mix Motor Oil

Briggs & Stratton 2-Cycle Easy Mix Motor Oil
Easy measuring
2-cycle engine oil
Prevents plug fouling

The Briggs & Stratton is another great motor oil solution available at an acceptable price. People who have used the product and are using said many positive things about the product. They are deeply delighted.

It is a mix of motor oil useable to any 2-cycle engine. Professionals have recommended using the engine oil with TORO, Lawn-Boy, Ryan, and other power equipment with the 2-cycle engine. It keeps the engine vigorous for an increasing period by eliminating harmful elements.

You will discover fuel stabilizer on the bottle that causes no deposit; still, it prevents plug fouling effectively. You can simply measure remaining oil.

The price of the bottle is not exceedingly high. Also, the thickness of the oil is just appropriate. In the winter, it will not lead to any trouble with starting the engine.

The Briggs & Stratton 2-Cycle Easy Mix Motor oil for me is the epitome of effective motor oil. Please give it a go; I am sure you will enjoy the performance.

Pros
  • Easy to dispense
  • Easy to use
  • Value for money
  • Comes in a sturdy 16 ounce can
  • Has oil tip and measure
  • Suggested to use for TORO, LAWN Boy, RYAN and many other 2-cycle power equipment
Cons
  • Not entirely smokeless

3. Pennzoil Marine XLF Engine Oil

Pennzoil Marine XLF Engine Oil
2-cycle engine oil
Maximum additive treatment
Protect against piston-scuffing

In the plethora of motor oils in the market, one could certainly find himself in the never-ending labyrinth. To pull you out from the maze, we have here the Pennzoil Marine XLF Engine Oil, regarded as one of the loveliest motor engine oil.

This oil blends with gasoline well, and you can easily distinguish for its dyed blue color. But to get the excellent performance, you should follow the manufacturer’s fuel/oil ratio guidance.

Pennzoil Marine XLF provides the utmost protection against piston-scuffing and keeps your engine clean. It is suitable to use in most of the weather.

It is formed with an advanced cleaning formula that offers outstanding performance. The price of the oil is not low nor high. You can easily give it a go, and pull yourself out from the labyrinth. Hurry up; the stock is limited.

Pros
  • Nmma TC-W3 approved
  • Mixes easily with gasoline
  • Ideal for different weather condition
  • Keep engine clean with advanced formula
  • Impressive performance at a reasonable price
Cons
  • Not any serious issue that can be mentioned

4. STIHL 0781 313 8002 Engine Oil

STIHL 0781 313 8002 Engine Oil
2-cycle engine oil
Fully synthetic oil 
Biodegradable oil

When the name is STIHL, trust is never an issue. STIHL has been producing quality products for many years. They never disappoint their customers. With STIHL 0781 313 8002 High-Performance Engine Oil, STIHL has proved their class once again. If not the best, it is one of the best motor engine oil in the market.

We all know metal gets rusted often. STIHL high-performance oil prevents that issue, and for those people all around the globe is a big fan of this champion.

Another complaint about oils is that they biodegrade wood. This oil will not allow you to file this complaint as it is remarkably biodegradable.

STIHL 0781 313 8002 has ultra-lubricating qualities that make it an ideal choice for chainsaw users. It prevents corrosion and has an extreme viscosity index.

They form this oil with the fully synthetic material ideal, especially for keeping chainsaw engines healthy. The price is high, and each can contain a slightly poorer amount; it is still worth a try.

Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Best value for the money
  • Keeps the engine healthy
  • Environment friendly synthetic oil
  • Ideal for chain saws and power tools
  • Provide high quality cleaning performance
Cons
  • Price seems a bit high

5. Shell Rotella T4 Triple Protection Engine Oil

Shell Rotella T4 Triple Protection Engine Oil
Excellent oil
Improved oil aeration
Enhanced engine stability

Shell Rotella T4 Triple Protection Engine Oil is by far the most theoretically upgraded formulation. With the Triple protection formula, this engine oil protects against corrosion, controls deposit and wear. Meaning, the engine will give optimal performance for an extended period.

Shell Rotella T4 can be effective for both new and old engines. No matter how worse and severe the condition of the engine, use this oil and your engine will listen to your command.

This oil is API CJ-4 certified and passed through several other tests. Thus, you can fully trust this product. It will provide ultimate protection in any weather condition.

However, there is no see through quart measurement bar on the gallon, which makes it difficult for the users to know how much oil is left to use. I believe the manufacturer will solve this issue as soon as possible.

Overall, the price seems okay for the quality it provides. You can give it a go. Be quick to confirm your deal. The stock might end any day.

Pros
  • API CJ-4 Certified
  • Ideal for both old and new engines
  • Ideal for heavy duty diesel engines
  • Increase shear stability performance
  • Keep the engine cleaner by protecting from deposit
Cons
  • See through quart measurement bar on a side of the bottle would be better
  • 5 gallon bottle give a hard time while pouring into engine

6. Quicksilver 4-Stroke Marine Engine Oil

Quicksilver 4-Stroke Marine Engine Oil
4-cycle engine oil
Ensure best performance
Fit all types of marine engines

Quicksilver always maintain top-quality while making their products. You will always get a hundred percent satisfaction from a Quicksilver product. The Quicksilver 4-Stronge Marine Engine oil is no exception. It is one of their greatest of their inventions that holds their baton of triumph in the market.

They design it for all 4-stroke engines. The oil will run through the engine’s oil path to lubricate everything, including crankshaft, piston rings, crankshaft bearing, piston rod bearing, and so on. It will keep every part smooth, moveable, and cool.

Again, the Quicksilver marine engine oil cleans the engine by reducing damaging deposits. This is a multi-viscosity oil comes with 25W-40 viscosity applicable for both summer and winter condition.

Quicksilver 4-Storke Marine Engine Oil is better than most of the engine oils in the market. It is worth a shot. Also, the cost is modest. So, why are you waiting for?

Pros
  • Reasonably priced
  • Comes in a one gallon bottle
  • Multi-viscosity oil for all weather condition
  • Ideal for most of the 4-stroke marine engine
  • Provide excellent protection against corrosion and wear
Cons
  • Not very good on extreme cold

7. Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Engine Oil

Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Engine Oil
Low-ash formula
Ensure low emission
Improve cold starting

Shell Rotella T5 is another tremendous engine oil to the plethora of products. They formulate it with the advanced low-ash formulation. So, this oil control is blocking effectively.

In the chilly atmosphere, generally starting a car is a headache. If you use this oil, you can say goodbye to this headache once and for all. Also, it would reduce fuel consumption at an excellent rate.

Rotella T5 engine oils thickness is just perfect. It is not excessively thick, which can be a pain in winter, not certainly thin, that can be a pain in summer. So, it is suitable for all-weather with appropriate viscosity.

The overall price of the product is fair. If you use Rotella T5, your engine will work like a charm, and it will remain workable for an increased duration.

Pros
  • Fully synthetic
  • Perfect viscosity
  • Ideal for any weather condition
  • Provide ultimate engine protection
  • Save money by reducing fuel consumption
Cons
  • Not any major issue to mention

8. MERCURY 4-Stroke Engine Oil

MERCURY 4-Stroke Engine Oil
Improve cold starting
Ensure long engine life 
Best for all types of marine engines

In marine engine oil, Mercury 4-Stroke will be the top choice. Without a doubt, mercury is one of the biggest names in the engine oil industry. They have been making quality marine engines, engine oils, and so many other products with the highest precision.

This Mercury 4-Stroke engine oil is synthetic and designed as the name suggests for 4-stroke engines. It offers the best lubrication and protection to most of the gasoline engines. You will get better corrosion protection compared to other engine oils in the market.

The viscosity of the Mercury Engine oil is 25W-40. That means it can serve you in summer as well as in winter. The oil is accessible in a one-gallon bottle.

Also, for revving engines, this is suitable. Even lower horsepower motors can ride like a champ when combined with this oil.

But the price is outrageous compared to other products on our list. Still, it is worth a try. If you want to keep your engine healthy for an extended period, don’t overlook it. Ensure your buy right away.

Pros
  • FC-W certified
  • Perfect viscosity
  • Keeps corrosion away
  • Ideal for all 4-stoke engines
  • Provides excellent protection
Cons
  • A bit expensive

9. Schaeffer Supreme Synthetic Gasoline Engine Oil

Schaeffer Supreme Synthetic Gasoline Engine Oil
Synthetic gasoline oil
Improves engine durability
Ensure cold weather startup

Last, we’ve Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. 9003D-0125 Supreme Gasoline Engine Oil for you on the list. It is last not the least. Even according to experts, Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. 9003D is one of the best engine oil, if not the best.

During the cold condition, the engine gives a hard time starting. It is because of the poor engine oil your using that has improper viscosity. They design this engine oil to serve you in winter conditions. You will not experience engine startup issues even in extreme cold.

If you use this engine oil correctly, it can keep the engine cleaned and protect against carbon buildup. Also, it provides extreme protection against wear, scuffing, and abrasion. Overall, it is an excellent engine oil to use for the price. If you pick it, you will not regret that’s for sure.

Pros
  • Provide strong protection
  • Never affect fuel-economy
  • Ideal to use in extreme cold
  • Enhance engine performance
  • Keeps engine healthy and durable
Cons
  • No serious issue that can be mentioned here

10. Motul 104092 Synthetic Engine Oil

Motul 104092 Synthetic Engine Oil
4-cycle engine oil
Improves engine response
Ensure maximum power output

Motul 104092 Synthetic Engine Oil is another fantastic product of the present time with all the qualities one requires from engine oil.

This engine oil is suitable for 4-stroke motorcycles that have catalytic converters.
If you use it regularly, the performance of the engine will greatly increase. It will make the engine quieter while making shifting smoother.

Motul 104092 motor engine oil is formed with ester technology that improves the response of the engine. They used extreme pressure formula so that the gearbox get the utmost protection.

It is approved by API SL/SHSG and JASO MA. So, it keeps the engine safe and free-flowing for an extensive period. The value sounds excessive, but for the quality, I suppose it is okay.

Pros
  • Makes engine quitter
  • Ensure smoother shifting
  • API SL/SH/SG and JASO MA certified
  • Give perfect protection to the gearbox because of extreme formula
  • Best for 4-stroke motorcycles with catalytic converters
  • Has ester technology included
Cons
  • Little bit expensive

Frequently Asked Questions – Engine Oil

Q) What are the significant differences between synthetic oil and conventional motor oil?

Ans: Regular motor oil, also known as conventional motor oil is derived from petroleum, whereas synthetic oils are refined and processed. So, synthetic oils are much cleaner than conventional oils.

So, if you use synthetic oil instead of traditional oils, it would be better for your vehicle. Also, know that good quality synthetic oils are long-lasting and able to withstand extreme heat.

Q) Which engine is oil good to use?

Ans: All the above products I have mentioned above are excellent to use. But you have to check whether the particular model can couple with your car engine properly or not. Read the car instruction manual properly and the details of the product before you buy it. It will let you know whether the engine oil is compatible.

Q) How often should I change engine oil?

Ans: You should change engine oil between 5000 to 7500 km. Means twice a year is appropriate. However, it depends mostly on the car type of oil you are using and your car using time. If you use your car more often, you might need to change engine oil more than twice a year.

Q) What is the shelf life of engine oil?

Ans: It depends on the storing system. If you store it properly in a temperature-controlled atmosphere, it can last over five years. If it is kept in an open container with no temperature-controlled environment, then it won’t last long.

Q) Can engine oil be mixed?

Ans: It is okay to mix engine oil if necessary. Most of the engine oils are made of natural components, if you are low in oil, feel free to mix. But it is not recommended to mix oils routinely. It can be harmful. If possible, don’t mix, if necessary, go on.

Things to Consider Before Choose Engine Oil 2022

Don’t trust in a cock and bull story! The market is bundled with many engine oil options of different brands, those who have appealing advertisements and false information.

These make people skeptical and often lead them to the abyss. In this era of posh and careful marketing strategy, buying something seems the toughest job. Not to worry, as I am here to lessen your pain. In this article, I will review some of the best engine oil of the present time.

In the reviews, you will get cent percent honesty. You will also learn some crucial buying tips, and the answers to some often asked questions. So, what are you waiting for? Let the real journey begin. I will open with buying tips first. Let’s start:

Consider Type

Engine oil can be of many types based on the material by which they are made. While buying engine oil, your first concern should be the type. Consider which type is good enough for the engine of your vehicle.
Let’s help you out on that with a brief detail about the types.

Conventional: The most common engine oil type is conventional, which is less compelling when compared to fully synthetic, synthetic blend or high-mileage engine oils. In new cars, conventional is common.

Anyway, a conventional oil approximately let you go 3000 to 5000 miles in between oil changes.  If you wish to go for conventional engine oil, 5W-20 or 5W-30 is the proper judgment.

Synthetic: Fully synthetic engine oils are having immense popularity in recent times because of their performance on high-performance automobiles.

If you prefer to acquire the best synthetic engine oil, remember they are designed for engines with higher RPM and temperate. In a nutshell, synthetic motor oils are for heavy-duty vehicles.

Synthetic Blend: You can call them hybrid as they are a blend of synthetic and conventional motor oil. Those oil offers excellent protection and enhance engine performance compared to conventional types. Also, these are less expensive.

High-Mileage: These motor oils are produced for some specific vehicles with a high mileage. By high-mileage vehicle, I meant those cars that has over 75,000 miles on the engine.

Consider Viscosity

If you figure out the correct viscosity for your engine based on the weather in your area, you are a champ in buying engine oil. If not, ready to experience some real trouble. Viscosity is an essential factor to consider. Based on external temperature, operating temperature and load vehicles get a viscosity rating from their manufacturers.

  • Gasoline engines usually have viscosity levels of 5W-30, 5W-20, and 0W-20.
  • Diesel engines generally have viscosity levels of 15W-40 and 5W-40.

These numbers show the ability of motor oil to resist thickening in low temperatures and thinning at high temperatures. “W” is referring to the thickness of oil in chilly temperature.

Most engine oils are multi-grades today, which means they have a viscosity of two grades. You don’t have to use thin oil in winter or thick oil in summer if you select multi-grade oils. Remember the lower the number before ‘W,’ the better it will perform in winter.

Additional Consideration

If you have a sports car and you love to drive fast, high-mileage motor oil is what you need. Some goes for those who carry heavy loads on their car frequently.

Types of additives on the oil of different brands differs from each other. Many of the brand use anti-foaming agents, anti-wear agents, antioxidants, detergents, corrosion inhibitors etc. Decide which additives are best for your vehicle.

You should know the need of the engine. It might hurt it if you use an improper mixture of conventional oil and synthetic oil. It can ruin the strength of synthetic characteristics. Remember that few old cars works better with conventional engine oils whereas modern cars runs better with synthetic oils.

Price Consideration

Best engine oils can be plus or minus twenty dollars. If you don’t want to spend too much money still need a better option, synthetic oil is an excellent choice.

If you can pay over 20 dollars, you will get full synthetic motor oils. Based on your budget, you will find something on the best engine oil reviews we have mentioned below. Look which one is suitable for you.

Conclusion

Engine oil is an integral component of a car to perform better. If you don’t use a wonderful one, your car will not run smoothly. Using a worse kind for an extended period can ruin the engine completely. Therefore, it is essential to know everything and buy a good option.

As discussed, I have mentioned some of the best engine oil reviews with practical buying tips. I hope this will help you out. I also answered some questions people asked often.

So, now it is my time to say goodbye to you all. If you still have anything else to say, feel free to ask in the comment section. I will try to answer honestly. Anyway, this is not the end, my friend. We will surely meet again in this blog with some other essential car article. Keep an eye on our blog and share so that we can grow.

Thank You for reading!

Important Tools for Your Vehicles
Brian Hazel

About the author

Brian Hazel is an professional auto repair & automotive enthusiast currently living in USA. My interests range from all types of vehicle maintains & repairing.

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