What engine oil does Cummins recommend?
Cummins recommends using diesel engine oil that meets API service classifications and carries Cummins’ own approval for your specific engine model and emission system. For most modern heavy‑duty engines, that means API CK‑4 or FA‑4 oils; CJ‑4 is commonly used for older configurations. Always consult your engine’s manual or Cummins’ official lubricant catalog to confirm the exact specification for your unit.
How Cummins defines the right oil
Understanding Cummins’ guidance involves two core criteria: the oil must meet the appropriate API service category and it must be Cummins‑approved for the engine family. The exact category depends on the engine’s age, emissions system, and operating environment. Below is a quick guide to the categories you’re most likely to encounter.
API categories and Cummins approvals
Before reviewing the list, note what to look for on a oil container and in Cummins’ documentation. Oils that are API CK‑4 or FA‑4 and carry Cummins’ approval for your engine family are suitable choices. CJ‑4 oils may be acceptable for legacy engines, while some older CJ‑4 formulations may not be compatible with newer aftertreatment systems. Always verify with the engine’s documentation and Cummins’ lubricant catalog.
- CK‑4: Current standard for many modern diesel engines with advanced aftertreatment and high‑temperature performance. Suitable for a wide range of Cummins engines built after the transition to post‑2007 technologies.
- FA‑4: A newer category designed for low SAPS oils, often preferred for engines with stricter aftertreatment requirements; not all Cummins engines will accept FA‑4—check the engine family documentation.
- CJ‑4: The predecessor to CK‑4, commonly used in older engines. Some legacy Cummins engines may require CJ‑4 oils, but not all newer engines are compatible with CJ‑4.
- Other API categories (e.g., CF, CG) are typically not suitable for modern Cummins engines with modern aftertreatment unless explicitly specified by Cummins for very old equipment.
Concluding this section: The right choice depends on your engine’s age and emission system. Always confirm with the official Cummins lubricant specification for your engine family and era.
Common oil viscosity options for Cummins engines
Viscosity grade is chosen based on climate, engine design, and the manufacturer’s specification. Here are the grades you’re most likely to encounter in Cummins applications.
- 15W‑40: A traditional, widely used grade for many on‑highway and off‑highway Cummins engines, especially older and mid‑model years running CK‑4 compatible oils.
- 10W‑30: Common for colder climates or when the engine manual allows a lighter viscosity while maintaining protection under load.
- 5W‑40: Frequently specified for newer engines or regions with extreme temperatures, offering good cold‑start protection and compatible with CK‑4/FA‑4 oils.
- 0W‑40/0W‑30: Used in some modern engines or specialty applications where ultra‑low temperature performance is required; verify that your engine accepts these grades.
Concluding this section: The best viscosity is the one listed in your engine’s manual or Cummins’ lubricant catalog for your specific engine family. Use the lowest viscosity that meets the required API category and Cummins approval while still providing adequate lubrication in your operating conditions.
How to verify a Cummins‑approved oil
To ensure you’re buying oil that Cummins approves for your engine, look for specific indicators on the product label and in official catalogs.
- Cummins approval label: Look for a Cummins‑approved or Cummins Qualified designation on the oil container, which indicates it has undergone Cummins testing for your engine family.
- API category: Ensure the oil meets CK‑4 or FA‑4 (and not CJ‑4 unless your engine specifically requires CJ‑4) as required by your engine documentation.
- Cummins lubricant catalog reference: Cross‑check the oil’s specification against Cummins’ On‑Highway Lubricants Catalog or your dealer’s guidance for your engine family.
- Dealer or technical support confirmation: When in doubt, consult a Cummins dealer or technical support to verify compatibility for your exact engine model, year, and aftertreatment setup.
Concluding this section: The safest approach is to select an oil that is both API CK‑4/FA‑4 compliant and explicitly Cummins approved for your engine family, then confirm with the official catalog or a qualified technician.
Putting it all together: practical steps
When choosing engine oil for a Cummins engine, follow these practical steps to be sure you’re compliant and protected:
- Identify your engine model year and emission configuration (DPF/SCR, etc.).
- Check the owner’s manual or Cummins lubricant documentation for the required API category (CK‑4 or FA‑4, and whether CJ‑4 is acceptable for legacy engines).
- Choose an oil viscosity that matches the climate and the engine’s specification (e.g., 15W‑40 or 5W‑40, as approved).
- Verify the product is Cummins approved for your engine family and has the Cummins label or catalog reference.
Concluding this section: Following the engine’s documented requirements ensures protection, performance, and warranty compliance.
Summary
In short, Cummins’ oil recommendation centers on API CK‑4 or FA‑4 diesel engine oils that are Cummins approved for your specific engine family. The exact viscosity depends on climate and engine specification, with common grades including 15W‑40, 10W‑30, and 5W‑40. Always verify via the engine manual or Cummins lubricant catalog, and rely on Cummins‑approved products to ensure compatibility with aftertreatment systems and warranty terms.
Final note
Oil requirements can vary by engine model and production year. If you’re uncertain, contact your local Cummins distributor or service center for precise guidance tailored to your engine and operating conditions.
Why does Cummins recommend Valvoline?
The combination of Cummins's engine. Technology. And Valvoline's lubrication. Technology gives our customers the lowest life cycle cost in the industry. That's being better where it counts the most.
What motor oil does a 6.7 Cummins need?
Use API CJ/CK-4 oil that meets specification standards MS-10902 Oil meeting Cummins CES 20081 standards may also be used. Low ash diesel engine oil is required.
What is the recommended oil for a Ram 2500 diesel?
STP Diesel Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-40 1 Gallon
- Part # STPHD5W40GAL.
- SKU # 1056377.
What brand of oil does Cummins recommend?
Cummins exclusively recommends Valvoline Premium Blue engine oil for its engines. This partnership includes Valvoline's Premium Blue portfolio, which has been developed, tested, and approved by Cummins.
- Exclusive recommendation: Cummins officially endorses Valvoline Premium Blue as the aftermarket lubricant recommended for its engines, and it is used as the first-fill oil in many applications.
- Tested and approved: The oil has undergone extensive testing in a variety of Cummins engines, including those that use diesel, natural gas, and include DPFs.
- Benefits: Using Valvoline Premium Blue is said to provide superior performance and extended engine protection, which can help reduce maintenance costs and allow for extended drain intervals.
