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10 Best Motor Oils 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy Full Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20, 5 Quart

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,222
Viscosity
Oil Change Interval

Most important from
46368 reviews

Viscosity
Performs well in extreme temperatures—good for hot & cold climates.
Oil Change Interval
Good for long drain intervals—less frequent oil changes needed.

Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy Full Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20 is designed to enhance fuel efficiency with its low-viscosity formulation. Being a full synthetic oil, it offers superior protection and performance compared to conventional oils. One of its standout features is the Triple Action Formula, which ensures excellent engine performance, cleanliness, and protection, helping to extend the life of your engine by preventing the buildup of deposits and sludge. This oil meets the ILSAC GF-6 standards, providing low-speed pre-ignition and timing chain wear protection, which are critical for modern engines.

Another key advantage is the long oil change interval, allowing up to 10,000 miles between changes, which can be convenient for those who prefer less frequent maintenance. This motor oil has received high customer ratings, indicating strong user satisfaction. However, synthetic oils like this can be more expensive upfront compared to conventional oils. Additionally, while the 0W-20 viscosity is great for fuel economy and cold starts, it may not be suitable for all vehicle types, particularly older models that might require a different viscosity.

This product is highly suitable for those looking to improve fuel economy and engine protection in their cars and trucks.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,222
Viscosity
Oil Change Interval

Most important from
46368 reviews

Viscosity
Performs well in extreme temperatures—good for hot & cold climates.
Oil Change Interval
Good for long drain intervals—less frequent oil changes needed.
#2

Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-20, 5 Quart

Rating
10.0
Viscosity
Additives
API and ACEA Ratings

Most important from
46368 reviews

Viscosity
The Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5W-20 keeps the engine running smoothly and efficiently.
Additives
This oil is trusted for its high quality and reliability, reducing wear over time and keeping the engine clean.
API and ACEA Ratings
Performs exceptionally well in extreme temperatures, making it suitable for both hot and cold climates.
Oil Change Interval
Excellent for long drain intervals, meaning less frequent oil changes are needed.

Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-20 is a high-quality option designed to offer excellent engine performance and protection. Its synthetic nature helps it perform better under extreme temperatures, maintaining good viscosity whether it is hot (up to 500 degrees F) or cold (down to -30 degrees F). This oil meets the ILSAC GF-6 standards, ensuring it offers low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear protection, which are critical for modern engines.

It also improves fuel economy and helps keep your engine clean by preventing deposits and sludge buildup. One of its standout features is its long oil change interval, allowing you to go up to 10,000 miles between changes, which can save time and money in the long run.

Despite its excellent performance and protection qualities, you may need to consider availability and potentially look for similar alternatives within the Mobil 1 range or other brands as this product has been discontinued. Its viscosity of 5W-20 makes it suitable for a broad range of vehicles, including cars and trucks. If you prioritize engine longevity and performance, and can find it in stock, this motor oil is a strong candidate.

Rating
10.0
Viscosity
Additives
API and ACEA Ratings

Most important from
46368 reviews

Viscosity
The Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5W-20 keeps the engine running smoothly and efficiently.
Additives
This oil is trusted for its high quality and reliability, reducing wear over time and keeping the engine clean.
API and ACEA Ratings
Performs exceptionally well in extreme temperatures, making it suitable for both hot and cold climates.
Oil Change Interval
Excellent for long drain intervals, meaning less frequent oil changes are needed.
#3

Valvoline Full Synthetic High Mileage with MaxLife Technology SAE 5W-20 Motor Oil 5 QT

Rating
9.8
Viscosity
Synthetic vs. Conventional
Additives

Most important from
32994 reviews

Viscosity
Designed specifically for older engines, this oil significantly reduces oil consumption and wear, helping extend the life of high-mileage vehicles.
Synthetic vs. Conventional
Offers excellent value by combining high-quality synthetic oil technology with an affordable price point.
Additives
The advanced formula fights aging engine issues by minimizing leaks, restoring seals, and preventing sludge buildup for a cleaner, smoother-running engine.

Valvoline Full Synthetic High Mileage with MaxLife Technology 5W-20 is designed specifically for cars and trucks with over 75,000 miles, making it a great choice if you want to protect an older engine. It’s a full synthetic oil, which generally offers better performance and longer-lasting protection than conventional oils. The 5W-20 viscosity means it flows well in cold starting conditions while still protecting your engine at normal operating temperatures. This oil includes special additives called seal conditioners that help prevent and even treat leaks—something common in older engines.

It also provides 50% better wear protection than the industry standard, plus extra defense against deposits, sludge, corrosion, and rust, helping to keep the engine cleaner and running smoother over time. On the ratings front, it meets or exceeds current industry standards (ILSAC GF-6A, API SP, and others), so it’s suitable for modern engines and offers reliable protection. Made in the USA by a trusted brand with over 150 years of history, it’s widely well-reviewed by customers for performance and longevity.

The 5W-20 viscosity is best matched to vehicles that recommend this grade—using a different viscosity may not provide optimal protection. While synthetic oils often allow for longer intervals between changes, always follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule. If you drive an older vehicle looking to extend its life with high-quality protection, this Valvoline oil is a solid option that balances advanced technology with proven performance.

Rating
9.8
Viscosity
Synthetic vs. Conventional
Additives

Most important from
32994 reviews

Viscosity
Designed specifically for older engines, this oil significantly reduces oil consumption and wear, helping extend the life of high-mileage vehicles.
Synthetic vs. Conventional
Offers excellent value by combining high-quality synthetic oil technology with an affordable price point.
Additives
The advanced formula fights aging engine issues by minimizing leaks, restoring seals, and preventing sludge buildup for a cleaner, smoother-running engine.

Buying Guide for the Best Motor Oils

Choosing the right motor oil for your vehicle is crucial for maintaining engine performance and longevity. Motor oil lubricates the engine's moving parts, reduces friction, and helps keep the engine clean by preventing the buildup of sludge and deposits. When selecting motor oil, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your vehicle and driving conditions.
ViscosityViscosity refers to the thickness of the oil and its ability to flow at different temperatures. It's important because it affects how well the oil can protect your engine under various operating conditions. Viscosity is usually indicated by a number followed by 'W' (for winter) and another number (e.g., 5W-30). Lower numbers mean the oil is thinner and flows more easily at low temperatures, which is good for cold starts. Higher numbers indicate thicker oil that provides better protection at high temperatures. For most drivers, a multi-grade oil like 5W-30 or 10W-40 is suitable, but always check your vehicle's manual for the recommended viscosity.
Synthetic vs. ConventionalMotor oils can be either synthetic or conventional. Synthetic oils are chemically engineered to provide superior performance and protection, especially in extreme temperatures and high-stress conditions. They tend to last longer and offer better engine protection but are more expensive. Conventional oils are derived from crude oil and are less expensive but may not perform as well under extreme conditions. If you drive in very hot or cold climates, tow heavy loads, or have a high-performance engine, synthetic oil might be the better choice. For regular driving conditions, conventional oil is usually sufficient.
AdditivesAdditives are chemicals added to motor oil to enhance its performance. They can include detergents to keep the engine clean, anti-wear agents to protect engine parts, and antioxidants to prevent oil breakdown. The presence of these additives is important because they help the oil perform better and last longer. When choosing motor oil, look for oils that contain a good balance of additives suited to your driving conditions. For example, if you drive in stop-and-go traffic, an oil with strong anti-wear properties might be beneficial.
API and ACEA RatingsThe American Petroleum Institute (API) and the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) provide ratings that indicate the quality and performance of motor oils. API ratings are usually denoted by two letters, such as 'SN' or 'SP', with the second letter indicating the oil's performance level (higher letters mean better performance). ACEA ratings are more detailed and include categories for different types of engines and driving conditions. Checking these ratings can help you ensure that the oil meets the necessary standards for your vehicle. Always refer to your vehicle's manual to see the recommended API or ACEA rating.
Oil Change IntervalThe oil change interval is the recommended frequency at which you should change your motor oil. This is important because over time, oil degrades and loses its effectiveness in protecting your engine. The interval can vary depending on the type of oil you use and your driving conditions. Synthetic oils generally have longer intervals between changes compared to conventional oils. Your vehicle's manual will provide guidance on the recommended oil change interval, but it's also a good idea to consider your driving habits. For example, if you frequently drive in harsh conditions or have an older engine, you might need to change your oil more frequently.

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