Which oil is better: Mobile or Total? Examination of motor oils: destructive stagnation

Today we will deviate a little from the usual structure of such ratings - “best mineral / semi-synthetic / synthetic oil". The reason is simple: a particular engine first of all needs the oil viscosity specified by the manufacturer, and modern engines use low-viscosity lubricants (this is usually a high-temperature viscosity of 30, on many engines - 20). It is stupid to discuss anything other than synthetics in this context. No less strange is the division into categories “oil for gasoline/ diesel engines“Taking into account the fact that 90% of modern oils are approved for use in engines of both types, it makes sense to discuss pure “diesel” oil in relation to passenger cars only in the segment of oils intended for engines with particulate filters.

Therefore, today we will divide motor oils according to the categories of their specific application, and not according to virtual parameters that have no practical meaning:

Oils with high temperature viscosity 40(5W40 in our rating) - the best option for engines produced in the 90s - early 2000s. For regions of the Far North, it makes sense to consider 0W40 oils; this can significantly facilitate engine starting in winter.
5 W30 Today it can be considered universal: this viscosity is used both in budget foreign cars and in premium car engines.
0 W20- low-viscosity motor oils used in large quantities modern engines. Moreover, pouring more viscous oils into them is categorically not recommended: piston rings, which specifically have reduced elasticity to reduce mechanical losses, cannot cope with a stronger oil film, and oil loss begins to increase.
High temperature viscosity 50 is relevant for owners who use their cars hard - it’s not for nothing that 5W50 and 10W60 oils are commonly called “sports” oils.
10W40 - The standard choice of owners of old cars, as a rule, is budget semi-synthetics of outdated quality classes - SH, SJ.
Diesel engines with particulate filters should have minimal oil loss, which should not produce noticeable solid sediment(low ash content). This parameter is critical, therefore only oils that have the appropriate certification can be filled into the engines of such cars. The vast majority of passenger diesel engines of this type use oils with a viscosity of 5W30, and we will consider them.

The modern automotive lubricant market can offer a huge number of options for motor oils. Some of the world's most famous manufacturers are Total and Shell. They offer motorists oils for different cars and at different prices. But how do you choose the best of the two brands?

Using high-quality motor oil is the key to long and trouble-free operation of a car engine. And every driver tries to choose the best option for his vehicle.

However, it is necessary to take into account the vehicle manufacturer’s tolerances so that the engine operates in optimal conditions.

Purpose and range of Total and Shell

Motor oil is designed to perform several functions at once:

Create a dense oil film between rubbing surfaces.
Protect metal parts from oxidation.
Cool friction pairs.

The service life of the motor and its efficiency directly depend on the quality implementation of each of these points.

It should be noted that both manufacturers, Total Quartz and Shell Helix, produce different types motor lubricants:

mineral,
synthetic,
semi-synthetic,
mineral, hydraulically treated,
GTL and PIO oils.

They differ from each other not only in price, but also in characteristics and properties.

How are Shell Helix and Total Quartz motor oils similar?

Total and Shell add special fluids to their lubricants called additives. Their purpose is to neutralize the shortcomings of base oils and add previously unavailable properties to them.

It is thanks to additives that motor lubricants can retain their properties for many kilometers. If you take oils identical in viscosity from Total or Shell, then they have similar properties and characteristics:

Lubricating properties (guarantee the presence of a dense oil film between the rubbing surfaces).
Wide operating temperature range (responsible for the ability of the oil to provide all the necessary operating conditions at any ambient temperature).
Durability and wear resistance (properties responsible for the length of the run between replacements and the resistance of the lubricant to changes in properties during operation).
Absence of hygroscopicity (ability to absorb moisture).
Low burn. (motor oils work under difficult conditions, so at a certain mileage they may begin to evaporate, that is, “burn out”).

At the same time, both concerns, Total and Shell, are trying to produce a lubricant that has each of the above properties.

Which is better, Total or Shell?

Choosing between the oils of these two companies is quite difficult. Both manufacturers are European and try to meet the highest quality standards. Therefore, first of all, you should refer to the technical documentation of the car.

The next important issue is the prevalence in the market. In our country, Shell Helix is much more common than Total Quartz, and the prices for oils from this company are somewhat lower. In terms of chemical differences, the TOP lubricants from these companies are equal in kinematic and alkaline viscosity.

However, Shell has more anti-wear additives; Total lags behind in this regard. But as for oil waste, Totals last longer in a vehicle engine without the need to add fresh oil.

Every car owner, after a certain period of time, is faced with the need to change the car oil. Since there is a large selection on the market various types from such manufacturers as: Shell, Mobile, Motul, Liquid Moly, Castrol, etc. - the choice is not easy to make. To do this, you need to compare the range and choose the oil that best suits the requirements of your car.

Engine oil parameters

There are three main oil parameters that will help the driver make a choice:

Oil viscosity is its state of aggregation (liquid, thick, solid), depending on temperature. Usually they take wide temperature ranges - from -30 to +100 degrees Celsius. This is one of the most important indicators, since it is the viscosity that determines the friction force with which the engine cylinders interact, and, as a result, the engine wear rate.

The base number is the content of ions in car oil that neutralize acids and oxides during engine operation. Measured in KOH/g. How more value this parameter - the longer the oil will be able to neutralize the harmful acidic environment

The combination of these indicators determines the quality of the motor oil and its focus: additional protective properties or better engine performance. Currently, according to the “auto review” rating for 2014, the most popular among them are the products of the companies and.

They are similar: they are synthetic, high-quality oils with their own place in the market.

From this statement follows the question - "which one is better?".

To answer this, let’s analyze the viscosity, base number and content of various ions.

Analysis of the chemical properties of Shell and Mobile oils

Analysis of chemical composition and base number The chemical composition of automobile oil is determined by its additive elements, the content of which is measured in milligrams per kilometer. These elements include calcium, phosphorus, zinc, boron, and magnesium ions. In terms of the content of calcium ions, Mobile or Castrol oils have an undeniable advantage.

It contains more than 2000 mg/kg, compared to 1354 mg/kg of Shell oil. The amount of magnesium is about the same. The content of phosphorus, zinc, boron is also higher in Mobil products, but it cannot be said that the difference between these indicators is great - on average, the deviation reaches 10%. However, Shell oil contains 2 times more barium than its competitor - 14 mg / kg. It is noticeable with the naked eye that Mobile oil is significantly ahead of Shell in terms of the content of various ions. This quantitative advantage results in a higher TBN: on average, Mobile oils show values in the region of 9.5 mg KOH/g, while Shell oils have a value of about 5.40 mg KOH/g. Interesting feature Mobil oils, which significantly improves the functionality of the product, is the molybdenum content. This metal protects the engine from wear and reduces the effect of friction. Its mechanism of action is simple - it fills microcracks, increasing the smoothness of the surface. The average molybdenum content in Mobil oils is 150 mg/kg.

Despite Shell's apparent lag in terms of quality composition, empirical experience shows that the compared oils show equally good performance in terms of engine wear protection. The only significant difference between them is the difference in protection between aluminum and steel parts, which has been studied due to trace concentrations of iron.

Mobile oil shows the best results when working with an aluminum engine, and Shell oil - with a steel one. Also, in practical use, these oils show almost the same ability to protect against acids and various oxides. Despite the fact that Shell oil has an alkaline number almost twice as low as Mobile, it maintains the permissible acidity level no worse. Comparison of physical properties It has already been said that viscosity is one of the significant parameters of automobile oil.

Shell and Mobil at low temperatures comparison

In order to compare Shell and Mobile products, it is necessary to monitor the behavior of these oils at low temperatures and high temperature conditions. Tests have revealed that Shell oil is thickest at 100 degrees Celsius, that is, at engine operating temperature. It is superior not only to synthetic Mobil or Castrol, but also to semi-synthetic samples Motul or G-Energy. The low-temperature properties of the compared pair are excellent. Even at a temperature of -27, the oils retained a liquid state of aggregation, slightly thickening, and provided stable work engine and quick engine start - within 3 seconds.

Oil consumption "waste"

This parameter reflects the amount of oil that must be burned in an automobile engine in order to optimal performance. Accordingly, the waste consumption is determined not by the last, in importance, indicator - efficiency. Shell, in this regard, demonstrate quite high consumption. Without adding oil, the engine is ready to run up to 4500 km, after which the level begins to drop, and, by 5000 km, will fall below the permissible minimum. Mobile is a more economical oil. The difference between the indicators is not so significant - its consumption is 3% lower than that of Mobil products. Therefore, it can be considered that Shell and Mobile, in this respect, do not show significant differences. This is evidenced by the numbers: the average fuel consumption when using Mobile oil is 11.32 l / 100 km, and Shell - 11.39 l / 100 km. To each his own In all main parameters, the functionality of Shell and Mobile oils is kept at a high level. Their chemical composition And physical properties ensure good engine performance and do not cause problems.

So is it Shell or Mobile?

Both of these oils are good, but it is important to determine the optimal zone for their operation. If the car is operated in conditions where it is problematic to provide the car with high-quality fuel, then the car oil must have big amount additive elements that provide an increased base number - like Mobil oils. It is also necessary that the car engine and oil are as close as possible to each other. As mentioned above, steel mechanics will be more to the taste of Shell, and aluminum mechanics - Mobile.

After analyzing all these factors, the motorist needs to make his own choice between these products. Operating conditions of the car, quality of gasoline, climatic conditions- all this affects the operation of the oil. Therefore, the answer to the question: “Who is better, Shell and Mobile?” will be completely different in different situations.

Any motorist, even those without much experience, understands that the presence of a lubricant is simply necessary for a car. Without such a fluid, mechanical components and assemblies will simply fail, and the car will not even go far. In fact, the aspect of choice is extremely important; you should purchase only a high-quality substance that is supported by the manufacturer’s warranty and approved by the vehicle manufacturer. If you buy good oil, the interacting mechanisms will function for a long time and without fail, delighting the owner of the car. In the material below, we will look at the products of branded companies, find out which oil is better - Shell or Mobile, having first compared them with. High-quality lubricating fluids not only reduce friction between system elements, but also resist oxidative processes and cool hot parts.

Comparison of Mobil, Shell or Castrol engine oils.

Criteria for choosing engine oil

If a motorist does not know what to rely on when choosing a lubricant, he should first of all turn his attention to the product foreign manufacturer. As a rule, everything motor fluids can be classified. The substances differ from each other in composition; you can buy mineral lubricants in stores, which are considered basic (they are created by selective purification by removing paraffins using a solvent); minerals that have been subjected to hydroprocessing; as well as lubricants that have the highest degree of viscosity.

Motor fluids that have the highest level of oxidative stability, as a rule, have excellent viscosity and do not contain paraffins. This class includes exclusively basic synthetic fluids without harmful impurities of sulfur and metals.

Manufacturers also create products that are based on plant extracts. Such substances have high level durability of the outer film of oil. Their main advantage is considered to be the ability to flush the power unit, showing good thermal and antioxidant functions. It is considered that the most the best oil, which exists today, is a lubricant created using GTL technology. This substance is produced exclusively by Shell, where this lubricant is called Pennzoil.

Differences between oils by chemical properties

If a car enthusiast doubts which oil is better - Shell or Mobile, he should take into account that almost all modern motor fluids contain substances of several described categories. In addition, they contain, thanks to which you can hide the shortcomings of basic lubricants. The best motor substances are considered to be oils: Shell Helix, Mobil 1, Castrol, Liqui Moly. According to many experts, the goods produced by Total and Zik have no worse properties, however, when choosing, it is extremely important to take into account the quality of lubricants.

When choosing a motorist, the lubricating qualities of the liquid, the temperature range of operation, the possibility of a substance long time function without loss of primary properties, hygroscopicity, polarity, evaporation rate. It is not for nothing that there is an unspoken struggle for superiority between the leading companies in the production of motor fluids, each plant is trying to invent a fluid that would have optimal performance in relation to all existing qualities. However, it is not yet possible to isolate just one single substance.

The product in question is purchased by the owners of both injection and, machines are equipped with both automatic boxes and mechanics. Due to the mass of differences between the types of engines and gearboxes, it is not possible to single out only one single agent, optimal lubrication should also be bought depending on which region or climatic zone the car is being used. In addition, the price of the finished product becomes an important indicator for many.

If you think about which oil is better - Shell or Mobil, it should be noted that Exxon Mobil is one of the leading manufacturers of auto chemicals, widely recognized by car owners from around the world. The most popular are regularly improved synthetic lubricants. When comparing Shell and Mobile oil, one must take into account the fact that Royal Dutch Shell has a strong foundation, owning many subsidiaries of energy and oil refineries. At the peak of fame, there are almost always synthetic and semi-synthetic motor fluids, which have traditionally high quality.

Many motorists often cannot figure out which oil is better - Mobil or Castrol. As practice shows, the product of the lubricant manufacturer Castrol is in great demand among compatriots. The Russians are trying to acquire Castrol synthetic and semi-synthetic substances, which are ideal for power units installed both on cars and on trucks, on motorcycles. Performed analysis chemical properties of automotive oils from these manufacturers does not allow us to name only one unprecedented winner. All the described lubricants of these companies are in demand among Russian motorists. Due to the ever-increasing competition, lubricant manufacturing companies are regularly looking for new technologies and improving the quality of their products.

Principle of choosing motor lubricant

Comparing Mobile and Shell oils, we can conclude that both lubricants have excellent quality indicators, which made them very popular among motorists from all over the world. True, Castrol oil also has no worse qualities.

Before buying this or that lubricant, you need to pay attention to the climatic conditions in which the car will be operated. With the active operation of the vehicle at the time of combustion, any fuel is converted into soot. Any residual deposits do not disappear without a trace; they remain on the walls of the motor elements. The essence of the work of lubricants is to significantly reduce friction between engine parts, neutralize oxidation reactions, and wash away harmful deposits from system elements, which necessitates the need to periodically change the engine oil.

When purchasing a lubricant, you should consider its environmental friendliness and safety. Depending on the season, you should choose summer, winter or all-season liquid. There are always motor oils on sale that are intended exclusively for a specific type of engine, as well as universal ones. Of course, if you have enough money, it is recommended to give preference to oils from Shell or Mobile (if they are original) or cheaper analogues produced by Total, Lukoil, TNK.

The main differences between oils

To understand which oil is better - Mobile or Castrol, you should check it against many factors. Regarding different criteria, the leaders are completely different lubricants. When considering such a factor as the most economical fuel consumption, Shell's product is in the lead. According to studies, people who prefer a product of this brand can save about 8% on the fuel they use.

Often comparative analysis affects the stability of the oil film, motorists are often interested in comparing lubricants at low temperatures. Here, Mobil's product is considered an unprecedented leader. This lubricant increases the service life of the engine, as it has a beneficial effect on reducing wear on system elements. True, this negatively affects the power of the power unit due to the increased coefficient of friction that appears due to the formed film. In Shell and Castrol lubricants, these qualities are somewhat less pronounced.

Russian specialists regularly check motor lubricants for many indicators. For example, with respect to kinematic and dynamic viscosity, all oils have excellent performance. As for the presence of additives, lubricants from Mobil, Shell, and Castrol win (at the same level, oils from Zik and Total). In terms of density, all oils correspond to the declared indicators. If we talk exclusively about anti-wear properties, we should give preference to Mobile and Shell lubricants; Castrol is a little weaker in this regard.

Taking into account the waste consumption and all the above criteria, Russian experts note that all the above-mentioned companies supply the market with oil on which a motorist can drive about 300 thousand km without any problems. Test results showed that Shell, Castrol and Mobile lubricants are suitable for use under normal operating conditions. Only under heavy loads on the machine’s power unit or high temperatures should you pay attention to the properties of a particular substance.

Conclusion

So, it is impossible to single out just one oil that would have excellent characteristics in all respects. The optimal substance should be selected according to the temperature and load conditions in the power unit. Some specific features of the vehicle should also be taken into account; sometimes the use of high-quality fluid is impossible due to a certain gap in the parts, which directly affects the efficiency of the fluid. You should only purchase products that meet the technical definitions of the manufacturer, as well as the personal preferences of the motorist. The main thing is that the working substance must be original, not counterfeit.

The article will consider a test of the well-known magazine ZR, carried out on SAE-5W30 oils, under conditions close to real ones, namely on brand new Ford Focus cars, just released from the factory.

All 5w-30 oils were tested under the same conditions.

Conditions under which the 5w30 motor oil test was carried out:

10,000 km, of which idle speed is 54 hours,
100 hours at 6000 rpm, which included the city cycle in traffic jams, and cold 45 starts.

It is worth paying attention to the fact that oil was constantly added to the cars; accordingly, this casts doubt on the validity of the testing.

Test results

As a result of the experiments, the top three included Castrol, G-Energy and Mobil. The entire table of candidates for the title of best is formed below.

1. Castrol Magnatec A1 5W-30

Synthetic motor oil 5W-30 - Castrol Magnatec A1.

The manufacturer claims increased cleaning of long-lasting engine parts, based on a molecular structure using Intelligent Molecules technology. The oil base is synthetic. We recommend the product for all types of modern engines.

Test indicators - in terms of waste, Castrol gave not bad results, but among the tested oils it turned out to be average, the iron residue in the exhaust did not significantly exceed the norm, which indicates good cleaning abilities only at the beginning, chemical residues. oxidation also exceeded the norm, so it is recommended to change the oil after 10,000 km, for this is a critical indicator.

2. G-Energy F Synth EC 5W-30

Synthetics from G-Energy F Synth EC.

Manufacturer's claim for superior protection, both at low and low high temperatures, thanks to a durable protective film. The peculiarity of this oil was highlighted for increased energy saving, which suggests use in supernew Ford engines (recommendations from Ford). The product is suitable for all types of engines and can be used on minibuses, jeeps and all types of passenger cars.

Testing - the change in viscosity is average, the iron content is not bad, burnout is normal - an average oil from Gazprom, but of Italian origin. G-Energy F Synth EC is not designed for long runs without replacement; its cleaning reserves are very low.

3. Mobil Super FE Special 5W-30

Synthetic motor oil Mobil Super FE Special.

A loud statement from the manufacturer is that this particular motor oil belongs to the VIP class, and guarantees reliable and high-quality protection of the car engine under extreme loads over long distances. The base is a hydrofracking base. Application: supernova passenger car engines.

The test results - the oil indeed confirmed its excellent cleaning properties, but took first place from the bottom in terms of waste, so it cannot be called economical. Further the test showed very great content iron when merging, which is also not very good and the oil still needs to be changed after 10,000 without experimenting with long distances.

4. Motul 8100 Eco-nergy 5W-30

Synthetic oil Motul 8100 Eco-energy.

Statement from the French manufacturer - economical, with excellent cleaning and protective characteristics, with an anti-wear effect, good anti-corrosion properties, anti-foaming, antioxidant. The manufacturer recommends using the oil for all vehicle groups A1/B1 and A5/B5 according to ACEA.

Testing - a good oil with all average indicators, with stable average characteristics under average loads, stable average class.

5. Shell Helix Ultra Extra 5W-30

Motor synthetics Shell Helix Ultra Extra.

Presentation from the manufacturer - premium synthetic motor oil with excellent cleaning properties and complete protection of all car parts. Economical in consumption, can work on any engines under extreme loads with an extended replacement interval. It has the eco-characteristics of all Shell products due to its reduced chlorine content. Recognized by Mercedes Benz, VW and BMW. Ideal for modern diesel engines and older power units.

Testing - the oil showed the most high performance and fully corresponded to what was stated. The iron content is low, waste is minimal, which confirms its operation without topping up, the acid performance indicator is not high, stable viscosity parameter without coordinate jumps taking into account temperature changes.

6. THK Magnum Professional F 5W-30

Synthetic motor oil THK Magnum Professional F.

The manufacturer's application is a fully synthetic oil with good energy efficiency, aimed at Ford vehicles, which is confirmed by the automaker. Characteristics of work in the stay-in-grade category. Indicated for use in gasoline engines (and with modifications of turbocharging and direct injection) in passenger cars.

Results of testing - The oil performed very well, became a leader in terms of waste parameters, perfectly preserved engine parts, since the iron content in the oil was minimal, the alkaline number also changed within the permissible limits (in Russia). An interesting product that is worth paying attention to, if you also take into account its low cost, then THK Magnum Professional F will clearly take first place.

7. Total Quartz 9000 Future fuel economy 5W-30

Synthetic oil for cars Total Quartz 9000 Future economy fuel.

All-season oil with stable characteristics, indicated for operation in all modes - city, highway, traffic jams. Provides good engine protection by preventing dirt and sludge from entering the engine. Economical, not designed to exceed replacement distances, maximum 10,000 km.

Test - the oil did not pass the test even at 10,000, it had to be topped up every 4,000 km. At the same time, its viscosity turned out to be very low, the oil thickened and formed lumps of soot.

8. ZIC XQ LS 5W-30

Synthetic oil ZIC XQ LS.

From the manufacturer - base for ZIC XQ LS oil YUBASE + additive package from Lubrizol, Infinium, Oronite (USA) using VHVI technology. Such parameters guarantee low engine oil consumption, ideal engine protection, exceptionally high cleaning characteristics, extended replacement cycle. Actually, we have already encountered such parameters when testing ZIC XQ LS 5W40, then the oil performed excellently and practically became a leader.

The test data shows that it is resistant to combustion, but does not keep the viscosity from changing too much, the iron content in the exhaust is higher than normal, which indicates poor-quality engine protection, the alkalinity number also exceeded the permissible limits in the change. It is not clear why almost two identical products showed such different results; perhaps the reason is additives - thickeners, the content of which is higher in 5W40.