Car oils and everything you need to know about motor oils. Topic: Opel-approved engine oil Lubricant selection rules for different Opel models

April 1, 2015

Opel is one of the oldest European car brands. And today more and more motorists prefer these machines. They are distinguished by stylish design and impressive reliability. Opel car owners know how to appreciate quality and pay special attention to their maintenance. First of all, it concerns the choice of engine oil for Opel. How not to make a mistake with the brand of lubricant, we will tell you in our material.

Engine oil approvals forOpel

Each manufacturing plant develops its own tolerances for motor oils that can be safely used in the engines of manufactured cars. Opel also has a list of such tolerances. When choosing engine oil, be sure to follow these manufacturer's instructions and look for a mark on the canister label indicating that a particular lubricant complies with a certain tolerance.

Until 2010, two main approvals were approved for Opel cars, the key differences of which concerned only the type of car engine. However, Opel vehicles manufactured before 2002 may use motor oils that meet the ACEA A3 standards for gasoline engines and ACEA B3 / B4 (for diesel engines). The recommended replacement interval for such oils is 7,500 km for vehicles with diesel engines and 15,000 km for gasoline engines.

In cars that left the assembly line after 2002, it is recommended to fill in engine oils confirmed by the GM-Opel certificate (GM LL A-025 and GM LL B-025). In this case, the recommended lubricant change interval is at least 30,000 km.

GMLLA-025

Engine oils that meet this approval are suitable for passenger cars with gasoline engines.

GMLLB-025

These engine oils are designed for use in Opel vehicles with diesel engines.

In 2010, the updated GMdexos1 and GMdexos2 tolerance system, which were developed by General Motors Corporation, came into force. These tolerances regulate the use of different motor oils for different markets (Europe, USA).

GMdexos1

This approval applies to engine oils used in Opel cars with a gasoline engine. This tolerance characterizes lubricants for Opel used in the American automotive market. Oils that meet this tolerance are available in the following viscosity options: 0W-20, 5W-20, 0W-30 and 5W-30.

The GMdexos1 approval has replaced the GM6094M approval. It reflects more stringent requirements for engine oils according to the following characteristics:

• oxidation, sludge deposition;
• aeration;
• fluidity at low temperatures;
• oil waste;
• safety for seals.

GMdexos2

This approval has been developed specifically for diesel engines, which are equipped with Opel vehicles in the European market. The GMdexos2 approval replaces the previous approvals GM-LL-B-025 and GM-LL-A-025.

We list the main requirements that apply to oils that meet the GMdexos2 approval:

• engine protection against soot deposits;
• restriction on the use of chemical elements that impair the operation of the catalyst and emission reduction systems;
• high operational stability of oils.

Opel regulates special tolerances and standards for lubricants. If the car was made before 2002, then it is allowed to use motor oil according to the ACEA A3 / B3 / B4 European quality certification for gasoline and diesel engines.

The most common were oil tolerances developed before 2002. They combine a variety of lubricants for gasoline and diesel fuel units with a long engine fluid change interval of up to 30,000 km. These include permissions:

1. GM-LL 025A;
2. GM-LL 025B.

The first characterizes automotive oils for gasoline engines. In particular, the basic requirements comply with the ACEA A3 regulations. The second is for diesel units and indicates the requirements corresponding to B3 / B4 according to ACEA.

Main characteristics of permits for Opel cars

1). Ensuring control over the formation of deposits at maximum temperature marks (formation of foam on the piston rings). Additionally, the basic types of motor fluid and detergent additives are regulated;

2). Possibility of deposit formation under low temperature conditions. Types of detergent additives, oil concentration and purity are identified;

3). Resistance to oxidative processes. It directly depends on the amount of additives used that are responsible for the base number, as well as the content of chemical elements that affect their decrease or increase in the product. The optimal alkali content stabilizes acids during the operation of the oil and demonstrates the possibility of oxidation in the open air;

4). The degree of protection against increased wear is determined by the set of additives used, temperature and viscosity indicators;

5). The level of fuel economy;

6). The ability to form soot deposits and soot, refers to diesel engines with installed DPF filters;

7). The possibility of using oil in engines with catalysis converters. Limited amount of harmful components: sulfur, ash, sulfates.

It is also worth noting the fact that motor oils with GM-LL-A 025 approval correspond to viscosity indices 5w30. Thus, they can be used when the air temperature is between -20° and +20° C.

Key rules for choosing oil for Opel engines

For an error-free choice, you must use the following recommendations:

• Opel Astra OPC allows the use of oils with a viscosity index: 0w30; 5w30; 10w30;
• Opel Astra H - approval GM-LL-A 025 / B 025;
• Opel Astra G - ACEA A3 / 96;
• Opel Vectra B - GM-LL-B 025 Dexos 2;
• Opel Vivaro - Specific Dexos 2;
• Opel Omega B - GM-LL-B 25;
• diesel units X25DT - category ACEA A3 / B3;
• gasoline units - ACEA A2 / A3;
• diesel engines until 1995 - category ACEA B3;
• motors manufactured before 1995 comply with ACEA B2 / B3.

Replacement frequency:

• gasoline engines - 15,000 km;
• diesel units since 1995 - 15,000 km;
• X25DT engines - 10,000-12,000 km.

Viscosity parameters specified in the tolerances for oils for Opel cars:

• On X18XE1, Z18XEL, Z18XE and other GM four-stroke gasoline engines, it is recommended to use lubricants with a viscosity tolerance of 30/40;
• Synthetic-based all-weather motor fluids with a viscosity index of 0w-x, 5w-x, 10w-x according to ACEA B3 / 98 A3 / 98, where "x" indicates a viscosity of 30-40;
• The quality of engine oil according to the ACEA classification must comply with group A3 / B3. If the engine consumes a larger amount of lubricant, then it is recommended to fill in a composition with a viscosity of more than 40 in order to save it.

Even though a lubricant with a higher viscosity reduces consumption at elevated temperatures, engine valves begin to clog with slag and eventually lead to wear on the internal combustion engine system.

Engine oil approvals for Opel cars

The Opel concern is not engaged in the specialized development of quality standards for individual engine models. So far, there are two general types - for gasoline and diesel.

Tolerances for Opel cars start with the GM-LL marking and, according to the ACEA classification, are designated by the letter symbols A and B - for internal combustion engines on gasoline and diesel, respectively. If there is no information about Opel tolerances on the packaging with automobile oil, then this indicates that it does not comply with the technical regulations of the German automaker.

Not so long ago, new Dexos standards came to replace the GM-LL-B 025 and GM-LL-A 025 tolerances. They are recommended by GM for use in German Opel vehicles.

An exception can only be those cars, the tolerances of which indicate a special oil that corresponds to the CJ4 classification according to API. For example, Duramax diesel units.

The Dexos specification also applies to older cars, as they are equipped with engines that meet the technical specifications of this classification.

1. The Dexos 1 classification is for gasoline engines and has replaced the GM-LL-A 025 specification;
2. Dexos 2 - for diesel retrofit units, replacing GM-LL-B 025 and GM-LL-A 025.

Dexos 2 overrides the Dexos 1 classification and is used as an alternative replacement. In addition, it is indicated in almost all manuals of new Opel cars due to the prevalence of oils, as well as their final cost.

The Dexos 2 specification characterizes a more stable set of thickeners and additives for extended lubricant change intervals.

As for Dexos 1, here it is worth highlighting a lower degree of viscosity for motor fluids. Therefore, this oil specification is recommended for use in cold regions with a short relubrication interval.

Engine oils approved for use in Opel vehicles.

SAE 0W-30 CASTROL EDGE

Viscosity: SAE 0W-30
Quality classes: API SL/CF, ACEA A3/B3, ACEA A3/B4
Approvals: GM-LL-A-025, GM-LL-B-025, MB 229.3, MB 229.5, VW 502.00, VW 505.00, BMW Longlife-01
Meets requirements: API SM

Castrol EDGE SAE 0W-30 is a modern, fully synthetic multigrade motor oil formulated with the latest Castrol technologies. This oil has a high level of performance.

SAE 0W-30 Total QUARTZ ENERGY 9000
Viscosity: SAE 0W-30
Quality classes: API: SL/CF, ACEA A3/B4 - 2007
Approvals: MB 229.5, BMW Longlife 01, VW 502.00, VW 505.00, GM-LL-A-025, GM-LL-B-025, RENAULT (petrol and diesel), PSA E -05 Niv 3 , PSA D - 05 Niv 3

Motor oils Total QUARTZ ENERGY 9000 0W-30 are 100% synthetic motor oils with a pour point of -54, which have high performance in the operation of diesel and gasoline engines of passenger cars. This type of oil is well suited for various driving styles under the most difficult operating conditions.

SAE 0W-40 / 5W-40 / 5W-30 AGIP TECSINT
Viscosity: SAE 0W-40/5W-40/5W-30
Quality classes: API SL/CF, ACEA A3/B3, ACEA A3/B4, CCMC G5, PD2
Approvals: VW 502.00, VW 505.00, MB 229.3, PORSCHE, BMW Longlife 98 (5W-30), BMW Longlife 01 (SL 5W-40), GM-LL-B-025 (SL 5W-40 and 5W-30 )

AGIP TECSINT engine oils are the latest generation of fully synthetic multigrade automotive oils designed for use in the latest gasoline and diesel engines (turbocharged and catalyzed, multi-valve). Car oils are produced on the basis of high quality synthetic base oils.

SAE 0W-40 LIQUI-MOLY Synthoil Energy
Viscosity: SAE 0W-40

Tolerances and approvals: MB 229.3, VW 502.00, VW 505.00, BMW Longlife - 98, Opel GM-LL-B-025, Porsche

LIQUI-MOLY Synthoil Energy SAE 0W-40 is a fully synthetic, multigrade, multigrade engine oil designed for use in modern gasoline and diesel engines, including those equipped with catalytic converters and turbocharging.

SAE 0W-40 Mobil 1
Viscosity: SAE 0W-40
Quality classes: API SL/SJ/CF, ACEA A3/B3, ACEA A3/B4, ILSAC GF-3
Tolerances and approvals: VW 502.00, VW 505.00, VW 503.01, BMW Longlife-01, MB 229.3, MB 229.5, Porsche, Opel GM-LL-B-025, GM-LL-A-025

Mobil-1 0W-40 engine oil is a synthetic multigrade oil for gasoline and diesel engines (especially recommended for powerful turbocharged and multi-valve engines) of modern cars and sports cars, SUVs, minibuses and light trucks. Positioned as a car oil for
extreme and harsh operating conditions.

SAE 0W-40 Mobil 1 New Life

Viscosity: SAE 0W-40
Quality classes: ACEA A3/B3, ACEA A3/B4, API SJ/SL/SM/CF
Tolerances and approvals: VW 505.00, VW 502.00, MB 229.5, MB 229.3, BMW Long Life 01, GM LL-A-025, GM LL-B-025, Porsche Special Oil List, Saab (recommended).

Mobil 1 New Life 0W-40 oils are designed specifically for new and used vehicles in good condition. Mobil-1 New Life 0W-40 can be used throughout the life of such vehicles.

SAE 5W-30 Motul Specific LL A/B 025
Viscosity: SAE 5W-30

Tolerances and approvals: GM-LL-A-025, GM-LL-B-025

Motul Specific LL A/B 025 5W-30 is a special engine oil designed for use in modern OPEL, GM and SAAB engines, taking into account the latest engine oil quality requirements of the specified manufacturer. Particularly recommended for use in GM gasoline and diesel engines with direct injection (Y22DTR and Y20DTH with catalytic converters). Compatible with all types of fuel: gasoline (leaded and unleaded), diesel fuel, gas.

SAE 5W-30 Teboil Diamond
Viscosity: SAE 5W-30
Quality classes: API SL/CF, ACEA A3/B4
Tolerances and approvals: VW 502.00, VW 505.00, MB 229.3, BMW Longlife -01, GM-LL-A-025, GM-LL-B-025

Teboil Diamond 5W-30 is a fully synthetic, multigrade, multigrade engine oil designed for use in modern gasoline and diesel engines. Meets the requirements of VAG, BMW, Opel, Saab (GM) and Mercedes Benz.

SAE 5W-40 LIQUI-MOLY Synthoil High Tech
Viscosity: SAE 5W-40
Quality classes: API SM/CF, ACEA A3/B4 - 2004
Tolerances and approvals: BMW Longlife - 98, MB 229.3, VW 502.00, VW 505.00, Opel GM-LL-B-025, Porsche

LIQUI-MOLY Synthoil High Tech 5W-40 engine oil is a fully synthetic, multigrade, low viscosity, polyalphaolefin-based motor oil for use in modern gasoline and diesel engines. Recommended for multi-valve high-load engines, including those equipped with an intercooler and turbocharging.

Source and full list:

The first car under the German brand Opel was released in 1899. Today it is a world-famous company that produces practical and reliable cars. Naturally, the durability and quality of vehicles is guaranteed only when using high-quality consumables, including engine oil. Today, the influence of lubricants on the performance and life of the engine is no longer disputed - this is an axiom. Typically, manufacturers regulate oils suitable for their engines according to standardized specifications - SAE, API, ACEA.

Features of the development of tolerances Opel

Currently, Opel is part of the large concern General Motors, and therefore the basic laws in the companies are the same. Motor oils are subject to stringent requirements, and to obtain approval, the lubricant manufacturer must undergo expensive laboratory tests. Only then can an indication of compliance with the tolerance be placed on the packaging of the product.

Opel had three groups of tolerances:

• Until 2002, oils were regulated according to generally accepted specifications ACEA, API;
• 2002-2010 - GM-LL-A-025 and GM-LL-B-025 for gasoline / diesel engines;
• DEXOS-1/2, released as a result of tightening environmental regulations.

Valid approvals Opel

If the car was manufactured before 2002, then it is allowed to use oils in accordance with the European quality category ACEA A3 and B3 / B4 for gasoline / diesel, respectively. The most common are approvals that have been in force since 2002. They combine products for gasoline / diesel with a long replacement interval (within 30 thousand km) - these are GM-LL 025A and GM-LL 025B. Approval GM-LL-A-025 regulates products for gasoline engines. The basic requirements in this case correspond to the category ACEA A3. Approval GM-LL-B-025 - for diesel engines installed in passenger cars, in accordance with the requirements of ACEA B3, B4 classification.

Two DEXOS category approvals combine oils based on high-quality synthetic bases and unique additives that function with exhaust aftertreatment systems. These lubricants provide excellent engine cleaning and protection, as well as guarantee the highest fuel economy. However, these tolerances have been valid only since 2010 and are poured exclusively into new cars. The DEXOS specification is patented and valid worldwide, and also includes 2 groups:

• DEXOS1 - for engines running on gasoline. It is a synthetic blend or fully synthetic base that meets the viscosity parameters of 5W-30. Oils in this category are characterized by: improved control of oxidation, aeration and sludge, low waste (substance volatility at low temperatures), good compatibility with seals. Products can be used in engines with variable valve timing. Low viscosity oils;
• DEXOS2 - for diesel and gasoline engines operating under increased loads. This category regulates such requirements as: protection against soot deposits on the internal surfaces of the motor, extension of catalyst life and protection of expensive exhaust purification systems (due to the inclusion of special chemical additive components), optimal performance. With stable additives and extended drain intervals.

Basic characteristics

The current approvals for Opel engine oils regulate the compliance of lubricants with the following criteria:

• Wear protection - the level of wear protection, determined by the capabilities of the additives used and the viscosity and temperature stability indicators;
• Sludge - Possibility of formation of low-temperature deposits. It is determined by the concentration and type of detergent additives, as well as the level of purity of the oil base;
• Piston deposits - regulates the possibility of deposits at high temperatures (appearance of varnish foam on piston rings). It is also regulated by the type of base and detergent additives;
• Oxidative thickening - resistance to oxidation. Depends on the type and amount of alkaline additives that can neutralize the acids that occur during operation. Demonstrates the ability of the oil not to oxidize in air;
• Fuel economy - the degree of fuel economy;
• Aftertreatment compabillity - the ability to use in systems with catalytic converters, restrictions on the amount of sulfates, sulfur, ash, ash content;
• Soot thickening - the ability to form soot deposits. This characteristic is especially relevant when it comes to diesel engines with a particulate filter.

It should be noted that oils with GM-LL-A-025 approval correspond to viscosity parameters of 5W-30, that is, they can be used in the range from -20 to +20 degrees. And the category GM-LL-B-025 is either 5W-30 or 5W-40 (ranging from -30 to +40 degrees).

Lubricant selection rules for different Opel models

• For Astra OPC, only oils with a viscosity of SAE 0W-X, 5W-X, 10W-X are allowed, where X is at least SAE 30;
• For X25DT - quality criteria according to ACEA A3 / B3;
• Gasoline engines - in accordance with ACEA A2 / A3
• For diesel engines manufactured since 1995 - category ACEA B3;
• Until 1995, ACEA B2 or B3 recommendations apply (diesels)

As for the replacement intervals, Opel tolerances indicate:

• For gasoline engines - 15 thousand km or 1 year;
• Diesel engines since 1995 - 15 thousand km;
• Omega B model with X25DT engine (diesel) - 10 thousand km or 12 months.