Car engine oil, expensive (castrol) vs cheaper brand? Just paying for the name ?

AdrianC

sevenhills wrote: »

I think it can only be a good thing to change the oil more often. Its thinner oil these days, but its changed for the same reason.

There are massive technical differences in oil compared to the days when 3k or 6k intervals were the norm. Filtering is improved, crankcase design is improved, machining tolerances are improved, fuelling is massively improved. Oil simply lasts far, far longer.

I'd agree that 20k intervals are excessive, mostly aimed at reducing servicing costs for the first owner or two, rather than longevity - but that doesn't mean you need to go back to 6k/6mo. If you're worried, look into used oil analysis.

James2k

i change the oil in my jeep every 6 months, with fuchs full synth pao ester oil. you pay your money you makes your choice. £75 on oil + filter every six months works for me and i like to keep her ticking over nicely.

The s5 gets whatever audi puts in.

However i would say fuchs is an excellent brand, worth a look, check opie oils.

almillar

If you're worried about wasting money on oil, my first question would be why are you changing the oil every 6 months/5,000 miles?
What engine is it, how do you drive it, and what is SEAT's recommendation?

oldagetraveller1

Who, in their right mind would buy engine oil from Antwerp or even Egypt? Plenty of reputable alternatives in the U.K..

Pork and ham reported.

Goudy

You need oil of the correct grade and international standard.
I would also recommend one that meets Seat's (or more likely VW's) specification for your engine.

The Grade will be the 0W-3 or 5w40 part of the oil.
The international standard will be something like ACEA A1, A3, B3, C1, C2 and so on.
The Seat (VW) specification will be something like Volkswagen VW 504.00 / 507.00
(these are examples, you need to check your handbook for the correct ones).

After you've cover those, it's just down to your confidence in the brand.
Try filling in your cars details here
https://www.opieoils.co.uk/
That should give you plenty of choice.

Mickey666

The OP is changing the engine oil every 5,000 miles, which is way under most recommendations, so the oil is still likely to be in quite good condition when changed.  On that basis, I wouldn't worry about using a particular brand - just make sure the oil meets the minimum recommended spec for the engine.  I'm sure that's what most garages do when servicing cars - who bothers to ask their garage what oil they use?  OK, no doubt a few people do, but you get my point