Does it matter what brand of oil I put in my car?

Yes, brand matters only to the extent that the oil you choose meets your car’s exact specifications. The critical factor is compliance with the engine manufacturer’s requirements—viscosity, performance ratings, and any OEM approvals. The brand name on the bottle is less important than whether the oil has the right certifications for your vehicle.

What matters most when you choose oil

The auto industry relies on precise standards to protect engines, and those standards are what you should prioritize when buying oil. In many cases, a wide range of brands can satisfy the same specification, so understanding the labels on the bottle is essential. Here’s a quick guide to the key considerations.

• Correct viscosity grade for your climate and engine, as listed in your owner's manual (for example, 0W-20 or 5W-30).


• API and ILSAC ratings (such as API SP and ILSAC GF-6) that certify basic wear protection, sludge control, and engine cleanliness.


• ACEA specifications if your vehicle requires European performance standards (these are more common on European and some high-performance engines).


• OEM approvals or brand-specific certifications when required by the manufacturer (for example, Dexos1 Gen 2 for many GM engines; MB 229.x for some Mercedes-Benz models; VW Group approvals for certain VW/Audi engines).


• Oil type and composition (conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic) aligned with engine design, climate, and drain interval recommendations.

In practice, you’ll often find several brands that meet the same specs. The important thing is that the oil you pick carries the exact combination of viscosity and certifications your car requires. If you follow the manual, the brand label becomes a secondary consideration.

Brand names vs. OEM approvals: what to look for

Automakers emphasize approvals and specifications over brand prestige. Some makes require OEM-approved oils, while others simply mandate meeting API/ILSAC or ACEA standards. The following points illustrate how this works in the market today.

• Dexos1 Gen 2 and related Dexos certifications are GM’s way of standardizing oil quality for many of its gasoline engines. If your GM vehicle calls for Dexos, you’ll want an oil carrying that certification.


• Mercedes-Benz often specifies MB 229.5 or 229.51 for many engines, while BMW may call for LongLife-01 or similar approvals. These are not marketing labels; they are performance benchmarks.


• Some makes—such as several European brands—turther require particular VW, Renault, or other OEM approvals depending on model year and engine family. Always verify the exact code in your manual or dealer literature.


• If your car does not require a brand-specific approval, a high-quality oil meeting API/ILSAC (and ACEA, if applicable) may be perfectly suitable. The key is matching the spec, not the brand name.

Bottom line: When your vehicle specifies an OEM approval, you must use an oil that carries that certification. If not, ensure the oil meets the general API/ILSAC/ACEA specs. Always check the owner’s manual for the exact requirements.

Synthetic vs conventional vs blends: what to know

Another common consideration is the oil’s composition. The choice between synthetic, semi-synthetic (synthetic blend), and conventional oil depends on the engine design, climate, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Here’s how they typically stack up.

• Synthetic oils generally offer better performance in extreme temperatures, improved detergency, and longer drain intervals for many modern engines.


• Synthetic blends provide some synthetic benefits at a lower price point and can be suitable for a wide range of engines and climates.


• Conventional oils can be adequate for older engines or models that don’t demand higher-performance oils, provided they meet the required specifications.

Choosing the right type should be guided by the manual and your driving conditions. The brand is less important than ensuring the oil meets the indicated spec and OEM approvals.

Practical tips for navigating the oil aisle

With a sea of brands, here’s how to stay on course and avoid common pitfalls. This guidance helps ensure you don’t compromise performance or warranty coverage.

• Always verify compatibility with the owner’s manual before buying.


• Don’t rely on brand prestige alone if the oil doesn’t meet the required specs; you may lose protection and warranty eligibility.


• Look for explicit OEM approvals or clear indications that the oil meets API/ILSAC/ACEA specifications required by your vehicle.


• Keep receipts and note the exact oil you used, in case you need to reference it for service records or warranty claims.

Sticking to the car’s specified requirements ensures reliability, protects warranties, and avoids the risk of engine damage due to improper lubrication.

Summary

The brand of oil is less important than whether the oil meets your car’s specifications. Always consult the owner's manual for the correct viscosity and required certifications, including any OEM approvals. If your vehicle requires a brand-specific oil like Dexos, MB 229.x, or VW approvals, choose an oil carrying those certifications. For many cars, API SP/ILSAC GF-6 oils that meet the manual’s specs are perfectly acceptable, whether from a premium or store-brand producer. In short: match the spec, not the brand, and your engine—and warranty—will thank you.

Does it matter what oil you put out in your car?

Yes, it matters what oil you put in your car; using the wrong type can lead to engine damage, reduced performance, and a shortened lifespan. Always use the oil viscosity and type (conventional, synthetic, or blend) recommended in your car's owner's manual, as different engines require specific lubrication properties. 
Why the correct oil is important

• Lubrication: The right oil lubricates moving engine parts to minimize friction, which is essential for preventing wear and tear. 
• Protection: It protects against excessive heat and sludge buildup, which can impair engine function over time. 
• Performance: Using the correct oil maintains engine performance and can even improve fuel efficiency. 
• Warranty: Using the wrong oil may void your vehicle's warranty, especially with many newer vehicles that require full synthetic oil. 

How to choose the right oil

• Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for the specific oil viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) and type (conventional, synthetic, blend) your engine requires. 
• Consider the viscosity numbers: The numbers on the oil container indicate its viscosity. The first number (e.g., the "5" in 5W-30) refers to how the oil flows in cold temperatures (W = Winter), and the second number (e.g., the "30") refers to how it flows when the engine is hot. 
• Look for specific certifications: Your manual might also list specific certifications or specifications your oil needs to meet. Look for these on the bottle. 
• Don't mix: While occasionally mixing oil types won't cause immediate damage, it's best to stick to one type. If you need to top off, only do so with the exact type specified in your manual. 
• When in doubt, ask: If you're unsure, ask a dealership or mechanic what oil your car needs. 

What happens if I put 5W-20 instead of 5w30?

Putting 5W-20 instead of 5W-30 oil means you are using a slightly thinner oil when the engine is hot. This can lead to slightly less engine protection, especially in hot weather or during heavy use, and a minor reduction in fuel economy. However, for most modern cars, the difference is minimal and there is no need for immediate concern unless your vehicle is a high-performance model, in which case you should consult your owner's manual and consider changing to the correct oil as soon as possible. 
Potential effects of using 5W-20 instead of 5W-30

• Reduced protection: 5W-30 is thicker at operating temperature, which provides a slightly better protective film on engine parts. The thinner 5W-20 may lead to a minor increase in wear. 
• Increased fuel economy: Because 5W-20 is thinner, it requires less energy to pump, which can result in a small improvement in fuel efficiency. 
• Impact on high-performance engines: Some high-performance engines have tight tolerances and are designed for thinner oil. However, putting 5W-20 in an engine that specifies 5W-30 can be problematic for some modern high-compression engines, potentially leading to bearing failure if driven hard, says Quora. 
• Warranty concerns: If your car is under warranty, using the wrong oil could potentially void your warranty in case of a powertrain failure. 

What you should do

• Check your owner's manual: The safest bet is to always use the oil recommended by your car's manufacturer. 
• If the wrong oil was added during an oil change:
  • Modern cars: For most modern cars, this will likely not cause any immediate damage, but you should have the oil changed to the correct weight as soon as possible. 
  • High-performance cars: If you have a high-performance vehicle, change the oil to the recommended weight immediately to avoid potential damage. 
• If you just added a small amount of 5W-20 to an engine that calls for 5W-30: This is generally not an issue. 
  • For most modern cars, you can continue using 5W-30 as recommended in your owner's manual. 
  • However, if you have a high-performance vehicle, check your owner's manual to see if you need to change the oil to 5W-30 immediately. 

Is it okay to put different brands of oil in a car?

Yes -- mixing brands of motor oil is generally acceptable provided the oils share the same type and specification. Engine oil performance depends primarily on viscosity grade, base oil type, and additive chemistry/standards, not the brand label.

Does it matter what brand of oil I get for my car?

Yes, engine oil brand matters, but specifications and standards like API certifications are more important than the brand name itself. As long as the oil meets your vehicle's required specifications (viscosity and API/ILSAC ratings) listed in the owner's manual, it is generally safe to switch between brands. Some reputable brands may offer premium products with more advanced additives, leading to better engine protection, so brand choice does impact quality, but the key is ensuring the oil meets the correct standards. 
Why specifications matter more

• Industry standards: Oil brands must meet industry standards, such as the API donut label or ILSAC starburst, ensuring minimum performance and compatibility requirements. 
• Compatibility: Using oil that meets the correct specifications guarantees compatibility with your engine and is crucial for your warranty. 
• Consistency: Switching between brands is not harmful as long as you use the correct type and viscosity grade recommended by your manufacturer. 

How brand can influence quality

• Additives: Different brands use varying additive packages. Premium brands may include more detergents and anti-wear agents for enhanced engine protection. 
• Quality: Reputable brands often provide higher quality assurance, and some may have higher-performing products beyond the basic standard, which could last longer and provide better protection. 
• Performance: Higher-quality oils can lead to better engine performance and efficiency, which may result in lower fuel costs.