If you add another oil. How safe is it to mix different car oils

There are many opinions among drivers about whether it is possible to mix engine oils and how this can affect engine performance. Some are extremely categorical about such undertakings, insisting on the indispensability of the engine flushing stage, while others, on the contrary, do not see anything shameful in the “mixes” and provide their own arguments.

Mixing motor oils is theoretically allowed

Obviously, this issue requires clarification with the obligatory emphasis on a solid evidence base.

Is it possible to mix motor oils

Let's start with the fact that the answer to the main question will be positive, but with a caveat. Yes, mixing motor oils is theoretically allowed. To make sure of this once and for all, pay attention to the existence of semi-synthetic motor oils. After all, if mineral oil is organic, and “synthetics” are completely artificial chemicals, then “semi-synthetics” is nothing more than their simple symbiosis.

True, in the absence of a direct ban on mixing oils, you should not abuse it.

Video lecture on the admissibility of mixing motor oils

How oils of different viscosities are combined

If you have mineral oil in your engine, then it can be mixed with semi-synthetic brands, as well as oils that are hydrocracking products. Similarly, it is allowed to combine "mineral water" with synthetic oil made on the basis of polyalphaolefins (PAO).

As for other types of "synthetics", for example, polyester, glycol or silicone, such oil is not allowed to be poured into mineral oil in all cases, the formula of a particular synthetic oil matters. This point should be checked with the official representative of the car brand under the nameplate of which your car was released.

It is also possible to add mineral oils to "synthetics", "semi-synthetics", which is relevant for cases of a sharp decrease in the oil level on the dipstick and in the absence of the necessary canister at hand.

What can synthetic oils be mixed with?

Most of the modern brands of synthetic motor oils are approved by API (USA) and ACEA (Europe) standards. The requirements of these standards stipulate that the oil produced must have the ability to be completely miscible with any other brand of API or ACEA certified engine oil. In this case, there should not be any chemical reactions dangerous for engine parts, leading to precipitation, foaming, etc.

This means that if you have “synthetics” with API or ACEA certification filled in your engine, then in an emergency you can add any other oil from a certified manufacturer without worry. On this mixture, it will be possible to get to the service station in order to fix the breakdown and change the oil to the one recommended by the manufacturer.

What happens if you mix "semi-synthetics" with "synthetics"

You can mix synthetic 5W40 oil with semi-synthetic 10W40

When it is urgently necessary to add synthetic oil, for example, you are faced with a drop in the level of the working fluid somewhere in the field, and in the trunk there is only an incomplete canister with "semi-synthetics", then you should not be upset.

You can mix, say, synthetic 5W40 oil with semi-synthetic 10W40 and get a workable mixture with a viscosity of 6W40 or 8W40 (depending on the ratio of oils) at the output. But the best option, allowing you to ride before the scheduled engine oil change, is to add a higher quality lubricant. For example, 5W40 synthetic oil can be added to "semi-synthetic" 10W40.

Engine oils from a single source

Products of the same brand at different levels, as a rule, are similar in many respects, having more common elements.

Many experts are of the opinion that it is better to add oil that is not quite suitable in viscosity to the engine, as long as it is from the same manufacturer as the main one already poured into the engine. And, despite the above-mentioned unification according to API or ACEA standards, these conclusions have their own rational grain.

The fact is that within the same brand, products of different levels, as a rule, are largely similar, having more common elements than distinctive ones. This means that the base of the oil is the same and the composition of the additives also does not differ significantly. It can almost be guaranteed that there will be no additive conflict when mixing.

In addition, oils from the same company can be mixed in any proportion. You also need to pay attention to the fact that one manufacturer can produce the same oil under different brands.

When switching from one viscosity to another, it is better to use oils of the same brand.

During a normal engine oil change, about 5-10% of the old composition remains in the engine

Not everyone thinks about it, but even with a regular engine oil change, about 5-10% of the old composition remains in the engine. Although this is not much, it still makes sense to protect engine parts from possible additive conflicts. To do this, use oils of only one brand.

It is especially important to adhere to this rule in the case of a transition from one viscosity to another. Ideally, if you had “semi-synthetics” from “X” company filled in, then the “synthetics” you decided to switch to should be of the same brand.

Is it possible to combine engine oils from different manufacturers

It is very risky to mix motor oils from different manufacturers.

The most risky option temporarily allowed is mixing motor oils from different manufacturers. It's all about additives, the composition of which differs for each corporation and is protected by patents. Of course, this does not mean that when the oils interact, everything will definitely foam and then precipitate.

Moreover, many drivers do not allow such a possibility at all and pour what they are advised, often preferring a new manufacturer. I must say that in practice, cases of incorrect reactions between engine oils of different brands are extremely rare, although chemical interaction between their components is inevitable.

In this case, no one can guarantee that the old and added oils will work as a whole, and will not destroy a certain part of each other's useful properties.

Blending Shell oils

At one time, the journalists of "Behind the Wheel" decided to find out how this or that motor oil would behave if it was mixed in various proportions with another similar product. As a result, several popular products were selected, among which, in particular, Shell oil was present.

As a result of laboratory testing, it was found that when even a small amount of engine oil from other manufacturers is added to the chemical composition of Shell lubricant, certain chemical reactions occur. But in the end, such metamorphoses did not bring any negative changes.

There have never been any official prohibitions on mixing working fluids directly from oil product manufacturers. Companies, as a rule, are limited only to recommendations on which oil is desirable to use for specific operating conditions.

At the same time, none of the brands will ever openly declare that its oil can be safely mixed with liquids of other brands, since this is not beneficial for it. That is, Shell always recommends topping up only Shell, and Mobil, in turn, will in every possible way assure the motorist of the need to remain loyal to the only brand - Mobil. These are the laws of commerce.

The combination of oils 5w30 and 5w40 - what do we have in the dry residue

When mixing engine oils, the high temperature viscosity coefficient may slightly decrease.

And now a good example of possible mixing. Let's say you find a significant difference in the engine oil level in your engine. When going to the store, it turns out that the 5w40 "synthetics" brand is temporarily absent, or there is a suitable marking, but the oil itself goes under a different brand.

In this case, there is nothing wrong with adding 5w30 synthetic oil to the engine. Of course, if a significant addition of oil is implied, then in the end the viscosity will change somewhat. But this is not critical at all. In the case of using all-weather oil 5w30 or 5w40, the temperature for a trouble-free start of a cold engine is at -35 ºC.

The only difference is that when mixed, the high-temperature viscosity coefficient (the number after the letter “W”) will slightly decrease, which is important at extremely high operating temperatures.

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December 26, 2016

A modern car is designed in such a way that, with proper operation, it can nurse for a long time. But, sometimes breakdowns or unforeseen situations occur - oil leaks. The reasons are different: marriage in rubber seals, the consequences of an accident, not tightness of the system. In such cases, the driver is forced to look for a tow truck to get to the nearest service station or top up the lubricant. Not always available identical. What to do, readers will ask a question. Mix - this would be a concise answer. Can engine oils be mixed? We will talk about all the intricacies of the “cocktail” below.

Types and types of oils

The modern automotive industry market is filled with various automotive lubricants, the number of types of which exceeds 40 - 50. They differ in class, type, composition of chemical additives, and temperature indicators. The duration of the vehicle's life depends on how well the replacement intervals are observed. Recommended mileage is 10,000 km.

Each automotive manufacturer fills the motors with mineral-based lubricants by default. If you do not take into account the premium class, where the choice is in synthetics or semi-synthetics. This is done in order to reduce the cost of the machine, and increase profits. After the purchase, the new owner decides to change the fluid or continue to fill in the same. A certain brand is selected for each car in order to promote and promote it. During subsequent scheduled technical inspections, specialists continue to fill in lubricant without flushing the motor. They are guided by the fact that the same type of oily base will not coagulate. Topping up will also be carried out without fear.

Main reasons

Mixing and consequences, that is the question. It should always be remembered that even the highest quality flushing will not ensure 100% draining of all mining. As practice shows, about 400 ml. always remains in the motor channels. Whether we like it or not, new and old grease mixes. It is widely believed among motorists that oils from different manufacturers cannot be compatible. Such a mixture can only harm the power unit. Like it or not, let's take a closer look.

The question of compatibility arises only when the driver decides to change the brand. On their own, or at a service station, however, not always certified.

Factors that encourage change

Often the driver is left alone with the problem. Worst of all, when the night is outside, and passing transport does not stop. Not many motorists are accustomed to carrying a spare can of oil in the luggage compartment. The maximum that can be found is a plastic bottle with the remnants of a chemical additive. Even in the current conditions, it is not always possible to buy lubricant at the gas stations on duty near the road. In such moments of despair, one has to fill in what is.

Additives

What to do if the owner pours chemical additives into the motor that guarantee the operation of the engine even with a minimum fluid level. Undoubtedly, the reader is right. But, not all brands guarantee safety and not all recommend driving at low levels. Mankind knows the facts when one or another driver drove several tens of kilometers without lubrication. Whether this is true or not is not known for certain. There is also no accompanying information about the type of lubricant. The unequivocal answer is not recommended. Officially, no one banned.

It turns out that by pouring a chemical additive into the engine, you are protected in case of a leak ?! The driver is relieved from the need to search for liquid.

First of all, let's remember the types of liquid:

• mineral (100% organic);
• semi-synthetic - a mixture of organic and inorganic bases, in a ratio of 40/60%;
• synthetic or hydrocracking - 100% artificial.

For each of the listed types, a special base with a chemical composition is created. Only for the first, it is organic, for the rest it is artificial. Each of them is stuffed with stuffing. Something similar to cooking stuffed peppers. The composition of additives is kept in the strictest confidence. The circle of persons is strictly limited. Therefore, where does a simple buyer or a service center repairman have information about the ingredients.

Mixing is not prohibited by law

Each manufacturer of petroleum products only recommends and prescribes certain improvements. The owner has the right to choose whether to listen or not. Do not take the concept of "allowed" literally. Allowed when absolutely necessary. It is correct to mean a chemical incompatibility reaction between chemical additives, and not organic bases.

So, mineral and semi-synthetic can be "interfered", hydrocracking - no. Because semi-synthetics basically contain more than 40% mineral oil. The probability of combination is high, unlike synthetics.

Leading oil base manufacturers in the US (API) and Europe (ACEA) have agreed to make a lubricant with characteristics that make it interchangeable. In other words, there would be no negative chemical incompatibility reaction. The probability of precipitation, loss of fossils is excluded, as well as a violation of molecular integrity, deterioration in fluidity, susceptibility to the negative influence of temperature conditions. But no significant progress has been made. The stumbling block remains the sales market, the financial component, world fame. When everything is identical, the meaning of production will disappear.

• today it is quite acceptable to add a different type of lubricant and continue on to the nearest service;
• then it is imperative to change the residues, thoroughly wash the power unit with a special flush;
• change filter elements;
• check the integrity of the rubber seals. If necessary, replace, lubricate with heat-resistant sealant;
• pour in new mixture. Check compression in the cylinder group.

Advice. If your car is still under warranty, cut the time until the next inspection by half. This is necessary for reinsurance and car safety. Be sure to notify the center about the incident. They know better what additional tests to conduct.

On the example of Shell

The world-famous Shell brand openly recommends that all owners fill in, add only oils of its brand. The issue of compatibility is not even raised. As the manufacturer assures, its products have absolute compatibility with each other.

The results of many years of testing only confirmed the above information. "Intra-brand" liquids showed no chemical reactions. Other brands, when mixed, gave positive reactions, but of little force. Those that could not cause damage to the power unit. As you can see, there was no official approval for mixing, even from Shell. Everything remains the same, Mobile will advise Mobile, Castrol will be Castrol, and so on through the chain of company names. Every merchant praises his product.

Summing up the above, the recommendation is the following. In case of emergency - add any oily base. Drive to the nearest service. In general, a self-respecting driver always carries a liter of identical oil in the trunk. Good luck to you. All the best. See you soon in the next article.

A very popular question can engine oils be mixed, whether their additives differ, what is the difference among motor oils, do the viscosities of different manufacturers correspond and in what proportions can they be added.
Experts will answer such questions with a categorical “no” just in case, and they can be understood. It is unlikely that anyone will dare to find out the degree of literacy of the buyer, understand a specific situation and take the risk of a potential problem. But we, on the fingers and in an accessible form, will try to disassemble the basics of this science.

What to consider when mixing engine oil in the first place:

• What base (organic, semi-synthetic or synthetic)
• Criteria ILSAC, ACEA, API, engine type and type of fuel
• Viscosity SAE

Before an oil is released to the market, the manufacturer must analyze the miscibility of this engine oil with other brands, provided that they meet the stated criteria. The main task - this is to prevent conflict between additive packages and compliance with the degree of synthetic lubricant.
In small proportions, they allow mixing motor oils with the same viscosity from different manufacturers, For example:
Mixing Shell 10w40 and Elf 10w40, given that they recommended for one type of engine(gasoline or diesel), targeting the same mode of transport(light or cargo), both engine oils are similar in composition- semi-synthetic. When mixing, pay attention to the second viscosity number (example: x w40). If the oil is from the same manufacturer, but there is no suitable viscosity, then mixing synthetic with a semi-synthetic base (5w40 and 10w40), or mineral and semi-synthetic (15w40 and 10w40), but not 10w40 and 5w30.

We advise you to resort to mixing engine oils as carefully as possible, because. it is easy enough to make a mistake that can lead to premature overhaul.

If there was still a top-up, you should call in for a service as soon as possible and change the oil (having previously found out the reason for the lubricant consumption). This is exactly the case when it does not hurt to clean the system with flushing oil, because. if in the process of topping up undesirable products are nevertheless formed, then it is worth getting rid of them as soon as possible.
We strongly do not recommend mixing engine oil on different bases (synthetic and mineral). Additives of such are almost guaranteed to give an undesirable effect and the engine will fail!
Not so long ago, an article was published about changing the property of an oil when a similar lubricant is added to it. Several well-known brands participated in the test. The results were quite optimistic: chemical reactions did occur when adding engine oil of a foreign brand, but no cardinal changes in properties were found, the additives did not conflict. The conclusion suggests itself: the difference among motor oils of the same type is not so great and is controlled by the relevant services.

And the most important thing. Do not allow uncontrolled consumption of engine oil to the point that it does not have to be topped up and mixed. If the engine began to systemically require topping up in excess of the norm, you need to take the shortest route to the service station and find out the reason.

This question has been tormenting many motorists for many years now, and information on this problem is contradictory. I began to look for an answer when I was on a business trip. I needed to add oil to the engine, and there was no brand suitable for me at gas stations.

The ideal situation is when your car works all its life with one variety from one brand. But reality is far from ideal. New, higher-quality brands at attractive prices are constantly appearing on the market, or a proven variety disappears from the shelves.

Even automakers themselves are changing the recommended brands for new car models due to fierce competition and the offer of consumables at a minimal markup. Hence the many reasons why it is not clear whether it is possible to mix motor oils of different brands. For example, a malfunction occurred in which the level quickly goes down and there is no other way out but to add oil and get to the service station. In such a situation, you will be ready to pour anything into the car just to get to the place.

Therefore, for starters, it is worth getting basic knowledge about automotive oils. There are different types of oils. Any lubricant consists of a base and additives that affect the quality characteristics. The base can be of two types:

• synthetic;
• mineral;
• semi-synthetic.

There are other distinguishing features:

1. The degree of viscosity (indicated by SAE symbols, can be from 0W-60 to 15W-40).
2. By engine type (gasoline, diesel, truck, passenger car, commercial, etc.).
3. API classification.

Any of the oils before entering the market is tested for compatibility with other brands. To obtain a certificate, conflicting components are excluded from it. There are some "benchmarks" against which any new product is compared. This helps to know which engine oils can be mixed. In addition, any lubricant should not harm the rubber and metal parts of the machine.

What can't be mixed?

Now I propose to figure out whether it is worth the risk of mixing synthetics with semi-synthetics and oils from different companies. Keep in mind that this is far from ideal. Either way, you are damaging your car. The production of the base can be radically different for any manufacturer. The whole reason is the use of additives due to which the desired properties are achieved.

It is because of the diverse composition that many experts say that motor oils can be mixed, but do not guarantee safe operation. No one knows what mixture will turn out in the end, and how it will affect the operation of the units, plus there are many manufacturers on the market with individual formulas. The main thing is not to use grease from different manufacturers at the same time without making sure personally or from trusted sources that this is allowed.

Many professionals answer that it is absolutely impossible to mix different oils. The first example when topping up is prohibited is an attempt to combine a synthetic base with a mineral one, because their composition is completely different. In addition, the additives that they contain simply cannot dissolve properly or behave in an unknown way. The consequences of improper mixing can be as follows:

• engine slagging: sediment, ring coking and deposits;
• some of the additives may precipitate;
• viscosity will increase, it can curl up and clog all channels;

Personally, I was wondering which engine oils allow you to mix synthetics with semi-synthetics, because I mostly pour Castrol. It was possible to find out that the composition of the “synthetics” base is heavy vegetable alcohols, and oil products are used in semi-synthetics. If you combine such options, then the mixture will be able to work for about 500-1000 km. This is a backup option on the road, when there is nothing to add to semi-synthetics besides synthetics. It is possible that with longer driving, the engine will have to be given for serious repairs or even scrapped.

Mix without harm

Now I will give examples when mixing practically does not harm the engine. This is the safer option. Oils from different manufacturers with the same base may have a similar viscosity, and also be intended for the same engines. But it’s better to get to the workshop where you can fill in the appropriate material.

You do not need to use "synthetics" of different viscosities, even from the same manufacturer, it is better to select the same indicators. I found out which motor oils can be mixed from my dealer to get to the parking lot. If something happened to the car on the road, be sure to pick up the handset and call the dealer. We receive the necessary information and act on the basis of the situation. This is necessary so as not to pay for repairs in the event of a breakdown.


I was filled with synthetic from "Castrol" 5W-40. The first digit shows the viscosity at sub-zero temperatures outside the window, and the second is the viscosity for a hot environment. For Russia, this is an acceptable option. Some people buy 10W-40. It does not differ much from the version I bought, but it is not recommended to combine it due to differences in viscosity parameters.

I will continue. Unfortunately, at that time I did not find 5W-40 in stores. I had to buy "synthetics" from Mobile with the same viscosity. I did not even buy semi-synthetics from Castrol with other viscosity characteristics, so as not to harm the car. Of course, if you have a “mineral water” filled in, then you need to top up the same. When using a mineral base, you will not be able to save yourself with another option.

Even in my version, I understood that it was impossible to drive like that for a long time, only to the service station. There you need to drain the resulting cocktail, flush the engine and then completely replace the lubricant. Here is a list of steps I took after pouring synthetics with the same viscosity.

1. I went to the store for flushing oil. It can be used for washing and some kind of additive.
2. Prepared a container for draining.
3. Poured the resulting cocktail.
4. Filled the engine with flushing oil. Attention! Remember that flushing should only be used in serious situations when you have violated the rules for using a car. For example, in my case, this is a combination of synthetics with semi-synthetics. It happened to me not for the first time, so I decided to flush the engine. Below I will tell you when you should not use flushing.
5. After rinsing, I poured out the rest.
6. Filled with new, high-quality oil.

Guys, never rush to follow these steps. Flushing should be done in extreme situations. If you are not an expert in this matter, please contact us for a question. The fact is that the oils themselves are able to clean the engine, the main thing is to change them more often.

Now I always carry a spare can with me just in case - it's cheaper that way. Life experience teaches that it is better to buy a couple of canisters in reserve. Here are a few more rules for mixing oils:

• after practicing with the “cocktail”, you need to change the oil a couple of times ahead of time due to residues in the engine;
• the main thing is to choose the same characteristics no matter which manufacturer;
• the black color of “working out” also indicates the need to replace filters;
• know the amount of oil in your car so that when replacing it, you can control the work of the craftsmen (ask to open the drain after pumping out).

Even experienced motorists often disagree: is mixing motor oils good or bad? In this article, we will reveal some of the nuances of servicing the engine of your car.

1 What types of motor lubricants are used in passenger cars?

The lubricant for the engine must comply with the parameters set by the manufacturer. There are several classifications of this consumable. Motorists are familiar with the American API system, the European ACEA, the international ISLAC and some others.. We are closer and more understandable classification, focused on the type of oil base:

• synthetics - completely artificial consistency;
• mineral - made from natural products, most often oil;
• semi-synthetics - a symbiosis of the first two categories of motor oils.

Synthetic products have enhanced protective properties, they are resistant to the processes occurring in the engine. Such consumables cope well with increased loads and allow you to start the car without problems in severe frost. On the packaging of synthetics, it is always indicated that it is made from substances obtained by artificial means. Full Synthetic.

Mineral oils are made from natural ingredients. This type of lubricant is less resistant to stress. He does not like high temperatures, frost and requires increased attention to himself. The only plus of the mineral consumable is its low cost. Semi-synthetic products have the properties of synthetics and mineral components. Often in such a lubricant special additives are used that improve the quality of the product. For semi-synthetics, for example, refers to a South Korean company SK Corporation.

2 To mix or not - how to be?

Let's say right away that the different types of oils used in the engine can be mixed. But in order not to harm the motor, you need to do this, observing some rules. Mineral grease is best diluted with semi-synthetic products or synthetics based on polyalphaolefins (PAO). Consumables made by hydrocracking are also suitable.

In synthetics, if necessary, add mineral. There is nothing wrong with that. However, look at what kind of lubricant you are using. These should be polyester, glycol or silicone oils. If possible, do not be lazy and search the Internet for which product can be mixed with your synthetics.

Currently, leading engine oil manufacturers have developed special API and ACEA standards that allow you to mix different lubricants without the slightest risk. If the package has this abbreviation, then feel free to add the contents of the bottle to your engine, even if the product is released by another company. Semi-synthetics can also be mixed with synthetics. A successful combination is obtained when a higher quality consumable is poured into a lower quality oil.

3 To different manufacturers - special attention

Often mixing different types of lubricant is not critical to the engine. But if possible, do not use automotive consumables from different manufacturers to top up the engine. Such products may contain additives that conflict with each other due to differences in composition and manufacturing techniques. In rare cases, additives set in motion chemical reactions that lead to foaming of the main product and the formation of sediment.

Even with a complete oil change, a certain amount of old grease remains in the engine. There is a possibility of incompatibility of additives.

If for some reason you do not have the opportunity to add synthetics to synthetics, then try to mix products made by the same company. With such a replacement, most of the components of motor lubricants will contain a minimum of various additives and will not cause negative processes.

From all of the above, we can conclude. You can mix motor oils, but do not forget about simple rules. Dilute synthetics with a semi-synthetic, semi-synthetics with a mineral counterpart, and mineral consumables with a semi-synthetic. The best option would be if the oils were made by the same company. And do not forget to have a small supply of lubricant recommended by your car manufacturer.