The French oil concern Total, one of the five largest global oil refineries, also participates in the production of Elf lubricants. Under the Elf brand, a wide range of oils for various purposes, of various viscosities, is produced, including 5W-40, which is popular in our difficult climate, with frequent temperature changes (seasonal and daily). Let's take a closer look at Elf with SAE 5W-40.
Types of lubricants
Oils under the Elf brand with a viscosity of 5W-40 are produced exclusively on a synthetic basis, are called Evolution and are divided into three types:
Full Tech LSX
This is a high quality lubricant produced using synthetic manufacturing techniques developed by Elf itself. It is designed for passenger cars and light trucks that are equipped with gasoline or diesel engines with catalytic exhaust aftertreatment systems. Suitable for engines operating in difficult conditions, including sport and high-speed driving. The oil is recommended for most units, especially those manufactured after the year 2000, equipped with multi-valve or direct fuel injection, turbocharged and catalytic converters. Approved by car manufacturers - Volkswagen, Ford, Porsche, Fiat, Mercedes, BMW, General Motors.
Certified to API CF/SN and ACEA C3. Thanks to the SAPS Low technology used (reduced ash content of sulfates, sulfur and phosphorus), it reduces the content of toxic substances in the exhaust, thereby facilitating the work of neutralization systems and extending their service life.
Suitable for the requirements of car manufacturers for extended drain intervals (from 20 to 40 thousand kilometers) due to its high resistance to oxidative processes.
The package of modern additives perfectly protects engine parts from premature wear, washes away dirt and deposits, keeps the washed-out dirt in suspension in its volume, keeping the inside of the engine clean.
Elf 900 NF
Elf Evolution 900 NF is recommended for diesel engines, including those with turbocharging, but without a particulate filter, for gasoline engines - turbocharged, multi-valve, with or without a catalyst, mounted on cars, trucks and light vans. Suitable for any type of operation - driving around the city, highway, high-speed highways, sports driving, auto racing.
When developing this product, much attention was paid to the requirements of car manufacturers for extended service intervals. Certified to API CF/SL and ACEA D4/A3. Approved for use in vehicles manufactured by Volkswagen Group (VW, Audi, Seat, Skoda), Porsche, Mercedes, Chrysler.
Excellent lubrication qualities provide easy winter start-up, cleanliness of engine parts and components, extended drain intervals, wear protection (especially for the timing system). The synthetic base of the oil is not subject to the harmful effects of oxidative processes that are activated when working at elevated temperatures, so the product retains its original qualities for a long time in difficult operating conditions .
Good pumpability and stable viscosity guarantee easy starting in cold weather, which also has a positive effect on the life of engine parts.
Grease 900 SXR
Elf Evolution 900 SXR is formulated for diesel engines installed in passenger cars, light vans and trucks, both turbocharged and non-turbocharged. Designed for extremely heavy operating conditions (city, highways and motorways, sports and high-speed driving styles). During the development, the requirements of automakers for extended service periods were taken into account. Classified to API CF/SN and ACEA B4/A3. Approved for use by Renault, including those running on gasoline (turbocharged and not), diesel engines that are not equipped with a particulate filter.
It ensures the cleanliness of the insides of the power unit, increases the life of the engine components and allows the engine to be operated under conditions of extended service intervals. Good resistance to oxidative processes at high temperatures, a high degree of pumpability in cold weather, stable viscosity characteristics guarantee easy start-up in cold weather.
Characteristics
Reviews
Alexey, Lada Kalina
I bought Elf Excellium, but it disappeared from sale. The service suggested that the company rebranded the oils, and now it is being produced under the name Evolution 900 NF. I took it and was satisfied, the behavior of the car has not changed. Topping up is not needed, it is practically not spent on waste, at minus thirty a trouble-free start - personally verified. It is also important: if you forgot or there is no time to go to the service for maintenance, then you can allow an overrun, it is written in the characteristics of the oil that this is allowed.
Alexander, VAZ 2107
I read reviews about Elf SAE 5W40 oil, thought about it and decided to buy a 4l canister. I bought it in a company store, where I always take it, and there were no complaints. I was dissatisfied with the oil. It instantly darkened, there was an emulsion on the filler cap, its consumption also increased, and smoke came out of the exhaust pipe. Maybe I got excited about pouring synthetics into a used car, they didn’t fit each other?
Dmitry, Opel Astra
I have been using Elf SAE 5W40 oil for three years already, I have driven about fifty thousand km on it, I change it at 10-12 thousand. I drive both in winter and in summer, on the highway and in the city, everything suits me.
Rustam, Renault Logan
As I bought Renault, so from the first MOT and pour, as they advise in the service. Although the warranty has already ended, and I serve it myself, I like the oil, I don’t plan to change it.
Conclusion
Good quality oil, suitable for use in our climate, with weather changes from severe frosts to thaws in short periods of time. Due to the extended drain intervals, it is ideal for use in commercial vehicles (taxi, sales representatives, commercial delivery).
A car in our time is still not a luxury, but a means of delivering its owner to the desired destination. The only problem with the car is that its maintenance is sometimes expensive, and repairs, especially the engine, can significantly shake the family budget. Accordingly, it is required to make every effort to ensure that it works as long as possible. One of the most important keys to success is the use of high-quality engine oil.
One of the best is oil reviews about which, as well as its main characteristics, we will consider today on the pages of this article.
Basic information
For some reason, it turned out that for the entire time this brand was present on the domestic market, it always remained, as it were, on the sidelines, since there were practically no catchy advertisements or frankly flattering reviews about it. But in recent years, ELF products have become increasingly persistent in winning over domestic consumers. Even such "veterans" as Mobil and Motul in some areas are beginning to lose ground.
The manufacturer also "presses" on the possibility of filling in the engines of cars that are operated in particularly difficult conditions. Suitable not only for a leisurely ride in dense city traffic, but even for those who like to storm the expanses of the country, where, as you know, there is no smell of roads as such. Even if you like a desperate, sporty ride, Elf 5W40 oil will be an excellent choice for you. Reviews indicate that even in this mode of operation, your car is not in danger.
The interval between oil changes has also been seriously extended. Unlike other eloquent manufacturers, Elf really developed oil in full accordance with the recommendations of the most eminent automobile concerns. Of course, in any case, we believe that before pouring new oil into a car, you need to visit the website of its manufacturer and clarify all the nuances of compatibility.
In general, Elf 5W40 oil (reviews confirm this) can be safely poured into the engines of any car. This is confirmed by its SL class, which indicates full compliance with all applicable standards in this area.
The main advantages of the oil according to the manufacturer
Let's summarize. According to the manufacturer himself, his products have the following advantages:
Excellent in all modes of operation. A guarantee of high purity of all its components due to a special package of additives that have always favorably distinguished Elf engine oils.
The components of the oil itself are completely resistant to oxidation, the product retains all its qualities even under very harsh operating conditions.
Even a cold winter start-up is greatly simplified while maintaining the maximum possible resource of the motor: this is achieved thanks to a special formula that allows the oil to warm up quickly and immediately begin to lubricate the engine components.
Even with extended drain intervals, the lubricant does not turn into a jelly-like “something” and does not cripple the motor.
Specifications
At 15°C it has a density of 1298 g/cm3 (0.8526).
The viscosity index at 40°C is 445 mm2/s (85.11).
At 100°C this characteristic changes little: 445 mm2/s (14.05).
Freezes at temperatures below -39 degrees Celsius.
"Flash" - 92°C.
Total base number 2896 mgKOH/g (10.1).
Important! In general, experienced motorists say that only two indicators are important to us: the pour point and the base number. In the first case, it should be noted that it is quite enough if in your area the winter ambient temperature rarely drops below -35 degrees Celsius. If you live in areas closer to the north where this temperature occurs regularly, it is better to choose a different lubricant.
As for the base number of 10.1, this value indirectly indicates that the oil will indeed be a good idea to clean the engine. Given the characteristics of the fuel at most gas stations in our country, this characteristic is extremely important. This is how Elf 5W40 engine oil differs. Characteristics, however, say little if the most important indicators are not recounted in simple terms.
Deciphering important indicators
What is pour point? Simply put, in this state, the oil loses its fluidity, turning into a homogeneous, amorphous mass. This indicator is tested simply: the lubricant is poured into a test tube, which is installed in a thermostat with artificial ice. Temperature values are read every few minutes.
Important! The pour point must necessarily be five to seven degrees below the threshold at which the oil is still able to be pumped. You need to know that the solidification of most lubricants occurs for a rather banal reason: the precipitation of paraffin crystals.
This is especially true for oils obtained from cheap grades of oil. Normal manufacturers necessarily add special additives to their products that prevent this phenomenon. Actually, due to this, Elf 5W40 oil shows excellent results up to a temperature of -35-36 degrees Celsius.
Base number. This value indicates a shared possible resource. The fact is that in any oil that is operated for any long time, a significant amount of oxidation products is formed. To neutralize them, manufacturers use specific additives. The lower the base number, the faster the lubricant will lose its characteristics. If you bought cheap oil, or you operate your car in a large city and forget to change the lubricant on time, then the car's engine can quickly fail.
To find out this very number, manufacturers use potentiometric titration. Simply put, the base number in this case is the ability to neutralize a certain weight volume of acid added to the oil.
It must also be said that Elf 5W40 oil is not a purebred "synthetics", but a hydrocracking lubricant. Many car enthusiasts are also impressed by the fact that the manufacturer does not go down to “miraculous ceramic dust” or other “nanotechnological” additives, which indirectly indicates the seriousness of the company.
That is why in recent years, Elf 5W40 engine oil has been found more and more often on the shelves of automotive stores. We will analyze the reviews about it now in more detail.
So what are the users saying?
In our stores you can find cans of one, four and five liters. Everything is done neatly, but sometimes motorists complain that it is impossible to make out the date of oil production. As a rule, we get the French version. Very often there are canisters, the instructions for using the lubricant on which are printed with rather rough ones. Apparently, the French save on translators.
Of course, there is no frankly unreadable nonsense, so you will surely understand the recommendations from the manufacturer. We can say that Elf is quite “serious” oil, despite these minor flaws.
Experienced drivers also note that there are no cardboard boxes on the neck under the lid. But the latter sometimes causes severe irritation, since the “plug” is sometimes glued so that after opening the canister you definitely won’t be able to stay with clean hands. The filler neck itself is extremely commendably done, which characterizes almost all Elfs. Unlike all foreign and imported analogues, there is a kind of telescopic “bar”, with which it is easy to fill in oil in any conditions.
Many note that due to this “pleasant little thing”, when changing the lubricant, it is possible to remain practically clean, and such containers are extremely convenient for periodically adding oil.
Important note
Motorists, however, are strongly advised to use products for which there was Elf 5W40 oil. Reviews indicate that a large amount of dirt washed off by additives simply cannot be removed from the motor in a different way.
Controversy
What else characterizes motor oil "Elf 5W40"? Reviews about it are twofold: some users claim that the engine starts to run softer. On the contrary, other motorists argue with fervor that the engine makes noticeably more sounds.
Let's see: most often negative reviews come from motorists who live in the northern regions. Please note that the article repeatedly met with recommendations not to use the "Elf" in those areas where in winter the ambient temperature regularly drops to -35 degrees Celsius and even lower. Elf 5W40 oil is not adapted to such conditions, what can you do ... In general, in this case it is better to buy ordinary synthetics.
At such temperatures, Elf is not a very good oil, since due to its considerable density, the engine lubrication process is greatly complicated. Not surprisingly, after starting it starts to work "hard". In general, carefully read the recommendations of the manufacturer!
Elf Evolution
Elf Evolution engine oil stands apart. How do motorists respond about this variety? It should be noted here that the company places particular emphasis on the use of this lubricant in severe climatic conditions. Judging by the proclamation, it can be successfully poured into cars that are operated in the conditions of our North. Is it really?
Alas, this time the French were somewhat cunning. Indeed, more additives have been added to the composition of this brand, which, in theory, resist the rapid thickening of the lubricant well even at very low ambient temperatures. But in practice they do not do it very well.
Drivers from northern cities unanimously claim that Elf Evolution 5w40 oil frankly behaves badly at temperatures from -25 degrees and below! That is, it manifests itself worse than its “colleague in the shop”! What this paradox is connected with is not known for certain.
To be fair, let's not forget about fakes. Only a completely naive buyer can assume that a fake lubricant from a fairly well-known foreign concern will not interest anyone. As studies by many domestic experts show, there are at least 15-23% of fake motor oils on the market. Among the popular brands that are especially often counterfeited is Elf. Of course, the use of such ersatz has an extremely negative effect on the condition of the engine of your car.
Thus, buy lubricants exclusively in certified large stores. Yes, this advice is very banal, but, unfortunately, it has not lost its relevance at all. Only in this case you will be able to maintain the high performance of your car's engine.
But there is also a positive side. It is connected with the operation of the car in urban conditions: motorists believe that this 5w40 Elf motor oil actually saves up to 7% of fuel. And this recognition from motorists who are forced to spend several hours every day in traffic jams is worth a lot!
A little about fantasy
In principle, not all reviews should be listened to. And this applies not only to negative, but also to some positive characteristics. So, some "experts" complain that after filling this lubricant ... the engine power does not increase! We think it’s not worth reminding all the time that all the eloquent exhortations of some unscrupulous manufacturers about “restoring the engine” or “increasing engine power” are fairy tales that you don’t need to pay attention to.
We have also already said that the manufacturer of "Elf" commands respect precisely because it does not give such ridiculous promises to customers. Yes, and certificates from large automobile concerns also inspire considerable trust and respect.
So, what can finally be said about Elf 5w40 oil? Its characteristics allow us to speak with a clear conscience about its high quality and suitability for use in many climatic and operating conditions. In any case, Elf is definitely no worse than many of its counterparts from other manufacturers. Finally, I would like to wish everyone a good road and high-quality oil!
In order for the car to be operated for a long time without significant breakdowns, it is necessary to provide it with proper care and conditions of use. Much depends on what we fill in and with what frequency, in particular, the motor resource of the machine. At this stage, many inexperienced motorists make a characteristic mistake - they violate the rules for servicing the car, making their own adjustments. At the same time, no one coordinates anything with specialists in advance. We are talking about motor oils. When violating the recommendations, they run a class lower or higher. The range of lubricants is so wide and varied that it is difficult for the owner to make the right choice when buying. In order to provide methodological assistance, we will consider Elf 5w40 automotive engine oil and its characteristics in relation to technical means.
Characteristics of engine oil elf 5w40
The lubricant belongs to the class of synthetic fluids intended for refueling in vehicles:
- passenger class;
- minivan, minibuses;
- cars with pre-installed turbocharged and bi-turbo superchargers;
- sports class.
Elf, the official oil manufacturer, even took care of specialized racing cars. Now you do not need to purchase special lubricants and additives for the engine, just fill in the version of Evolution 900 NF oil. This synthetic base is specifically for high-speed engines, such as Renault.
The Evolution 900 SXR series, which is also based on a synthetic base, for the first time, engineers have applied the technology of "polarization under the influence of a magnetic field." Thus, fully coordinating the molecular composition of the liquid, which increases its service life.
How to distinguish from a fake
It is quite simple to distinguish elf 5w40 engine oil from a fake or a high-quality fake. Engineers took care of this at the stage of manufacturing the canister. Pre-pouring the base in the form of a special form. In parallel, putting a lot of markings on the packaging. The third characteristic feature is a special seam - soldering, located only in the area of the handle. This is not easy to do, as you will need special equipment that is available in factories. Handicraft solder the seam in the bottom area, which automatically unmasks the fake. Of course, if the buyer understands oils.
Application
Thanks to the "polarization" technology, Elf 5w40 engine oil with its characteristics received the "Green Light" for use from the world's leading car manufacturing concerns. So, the following communities and organizations gave their “good”:
- SAE - the world classifier and standardizer of motor oils;
- ACEA 2004 / C3 - European division of SAE;
- API - international classifier of liquids and lubricants;
- Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen, General Motors, Renault, Peugeot, Nissan;
- Full approval for the use of lubricants in engines of a standard not lower than Euro - 5, 6, including race cars, subject to filling with specially created synthetic bases.
Advantages and disadvantages
- the widest possible temperature range;
- versatility of use, both on diesel and gasoline engines;
- ability to withstand high loads and temperatures;
- keeping the motor clean;
- replacement increased to 20 thousand km;
- power increase by 2.7%;
- consumption reduced by 5.6%;
- maximum fluidity even at critical temperatures;
- complete breakdown of waste products. This was first used in the auto fluid market, when the oil “cleans up” after itself;
- the critical threshold for changing the molecular composition is minus 40 °C. Evolution 5w40 engine oil, as well as Excellium NF, was created specifically for special geographical conditions.
Not without criticism: as a negative point - sometimes unreasonably high price in retail sales.
Reviews
- Vitaly, 35 years old, entrepreneur, owner of Opel Astra. By the nature of my activity, I am systematically on the road, negotiating contracts with suppliers. In a week I can wind a couple of thousand kilometers with ease. In order to somehow help the engine endure difficult everyday life, I pour Elf 5W synthetic-based oil into it. I see the result, I am quite satisfied;
- Karina, 27 years old, Audi owner, director of a services firm. After buying an Audi, during a scheduled technical inspection, the master recommended filling in synthetics from Elf. I obeyed. I am satisfied with the motor, because there are no complaints, I always go through MOT with a bang. I recommend;
- Victor, 44 years old, driver, company car Toyota Kemry. A couple of years ago, the boss bought new Toyotas. The cars are perfect, no issues. In order to increase the service life, it was recommended to fill the service station with the original synthetic base from Elf 5W. In general, we are satisfied with the result, the indicators of scheduled technical inspections are high, which means that the oil is working;
- Valentin, 39 years old, owner of Ford Focus 3, manager. When buying, I filled in Mobile 0W. But six months ago, friends recommended trying out products from Elf 5W40. Satisfied, the car has become faster, more economical, power has increased. I advise everyone.
- Elf Evolution 900 NF 5W-40 (manufactured in Belgium, Ertveld)
- The Romanian version, which, due to its poor quality, we will call a fake, although Elf has a production facility in Barashov.
Let's start with the cost
A low price is a direct signal to refuse to purchase oil. But, how, after all, to determine the balance between too low and normal cost of production? Of course, in different outlets the cost of the same product will vary. This material was written in times of unstable exchange rates. The cost of a 4-liter can of Elf Evolution 900 NF 5W-40 oil varied at that time from 1.7 to 2.5 thousand rubles. As a result, it is necessary to develop a technology for determining the adequate cost of products. As an example, the easiest option would be to find out the cost in the Exist online store.
Elf oil article - 194873. We type in the search, the cost is displayed - 1850 rubles. Subtract from it 15% total - 1570 rubles. In principle, this is the adequate cost of oil for bulk purchases.
As a result, if at another point the oil is sold at a cost of less than 1,500 thousand rubles, then most likely you have a fake. And to go into details and the words of the seller at the expense of an excellent supplier is not worth it. Turn around and leave!
Visual inspection with attention to detail
Here are photographs of Belgian oil
The numbers indicate that:
Of course, it is difficult to fully describe the quality of the oil from the photo, but it feels like a product from Belgium has an amber color and a favorable smell. The product from Romania is grey-brown in color and has a strong chemical smell.
Other parameters cannot be estimated at home. I dipped my finger - no difference was noticed. I dripped on white paper - no differences were noticed.
In this section, drivers are presented with reviews of car owners about Elf engine oil. The information is collected on the basis of real impressions of motorists based on surveys. If you have experience using Elf, please share it with others by submitting feedback via the comment form. It will be published immediately after moderation.
Dimonich, Opel Astra
On the Elf 5W30 evolution has already traveled more than 40,000 km. The car is operated on the highway and in the city approximately equally. I change the lubricant every 10 thousand. I am satisfied!
vyacheslav 10, Renault Espace 4
I use Elf engine oil all the time. There were no complaints or flaws in the operation of the car. The only drawback that I noticed is its darkening. For the sake of comparison, I took Moli for a sample, but it is more expensive.
As a result, I consider Elf normal, and those people who claim that their lubricant mixture does not darken at all are lying, since the lightness of the component indicates a clear sign of a fake composition or the death of the engine.
Sergey, Volkswagen Golf
Went a little, until the first frost. On cold days, the butter turned into mush. Before that, I used Comma 10W40 for more than 3 years - this did not happen.
AUTOMATIC 26, Volkswagen Vento
I did not like. The cost is average, but the quality indicators of the composition leave much to be desired - it burns out, darkens quickly, and thickens in the cold. Three years skated on Elf 5W40, changed every 7000 km.
Each time the car drove worse than the previous one. After removing the valve cover - I had a shock, everything was covered in soot and soot. I had to flush everything in order to pour another. In general, little good, it did not suit me.
Vyacheslav, Renault Simbol
There have been two Simba's in my lifetime. I use only ELF 5W40 synthetics. Never had to add. Enough from replacement to replacement. The oil does not darken, the car starts easily even in the cold season. I am 100% satisfied with the quality of the lubricant.
Yuri, Renault Sandero
My choice is synthetic 5W30. I've been driving for about 5 years now. Didn't notice any flaws. The oil practically does not blacken and does not require addition. Serves stably for 10 thousand, everything is fine.
Eugene, Renault Logan
I have been using Elf for a very long time, probably for 8 years. The car eats grease carefully, it starts up in the cold with half a turn. I recommend it to the workhorses of the past, as more modern powertrain configurations require something different.
AUTO4603, VAZ 21074
So I decided to leave my honest review. From the very beginning of the acquisition of the car, semi-synthetics 10W40 was poured into the seven. Acquired only in proven places, avoiding the possible acquisition of low-quality composition.
During the period of long-term operation revealed both advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include accessibility for the average consumer. There are more minuses, among them - a quick darkening and the appearance of an emulsion under the hood. I would like to say that the quality of the oil is below average. ELF did not live up to my expectations.
Glory, Renault
The car runs all season on ELF-synthetics. I try to make a replacement every 15,000. I have never topped up. I am satisfied with the oil, both in quality and in price.
www.www, Renault Symbol
I've been sitting on the Elf for 8 years. I change periodically, depending on the mileage or on the period of work. At the end of the period - the oil is always transparent, it has never been added during the period of operation.
Ilya 02, Mazda 626
My swallow is simply unkillable. Works with a bang, despite the mileage (287 thousand km). I operate it in various modes, pour only Elf synthetics. For all the time the machine was running, the lubricant did not fail and showed itself only on the good side.
In winter, the car starts without any hesitation. The oil does not leave a large deposit, has an excellent complex of additives and perfectly washes the interior of the engine. I am happy to use this brand.
Bob30, Ford Scorpio
At first, I poured Hado into the car, but over time I stopped liking it. Traction was lost, the motor began to work unstably. On the advice of friends, I decided to change the old oil to ELF. Drove 8000 and so far without complaints, the machine feels good.
Ivan, VAZ 2110
I have been using Elf oil for the second year already. I work in a taxi myself. There were no problems with the engine. Already clocked 170,000. Replacement every 10,000 km. I give it a solid four!
Vladimir
7 thousand and start topping up, black oil. I'll try Coma
