When it comes to keeping your bike or car running smoothly, engine oil plays a bigger role than most people think. Many riders and car owners often ask, “Which is the best engine oil in the world?”
The truth is simple – the best engine oil is the one that suits your engine, your driving style, and your climate. There is no single bottle that works perfectly for every vehicle. However, there are some world-class engine oils known for their quality, performance, and reliability.
In this detailed guide by Apna Mechanic, we will explain everything in simple words. From types of engine oil to top global brands, from how to choose the right oil to common mistakes people make – you will find all answers here.
What Makes an Engine Oil the “Best”?
Before naming any product as the best engine oil in the world, we must understand what actually makes an oil great.
A good engine oil should:
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Protect the engine from wear and tear
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Reduce friction between moving parts
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Keep the engine clean
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Handle high temperature without breaking down
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Improve fuel efficiency
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Prevent rust and corrosion
If an oil performs well in all these areas, it can be considered among the best.
Types of Engine Oil
Understanding oil types is important before choosing the best one.
1. Mineral Engine Oil
This is basic oil refined from crude oil. It is cheaper but does not last long. Suitable for older vehicles.
2. Semi-Synthetic Oil
A mix of mineral and synthetic oil. Better performance than mineral oil. Good balance between cost and quality.
3. Fully Synthetic Oil
This is the highest quality oil. It offers better protection, better performance, and lasts longer. Most modern bikes and cars use synthetic oil.
If you want the best engine oil in the world, you will usually look at fully synthetic oils.
Top Engine Oil Brands in the World
Here are some globally trusted engine oil brands known for quality and performance.
1. Mobil
Mobil is one of the most respected names in the oil industry. Its Mobil 1 range is widely used in high-performance cars and racing vehicles.
Why it is popular:
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Excellent heat protection
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Long drain interval
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Strong engine cleaning properties
Many experts consider Mobil 1 among the best engine oils in the world.
2. Castrol
Castrol is known for innovation and performance. It works closely with many car manufacturers.
Best known for:
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Strong engine protection
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Smooth performance
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Reliable in extreme weather
Castrol EDGE and Castrol Power1 are highly trusted across the globe.
3. Shell
Shell produces high-quality synthetic oils under the Helix and Advance series.
Why drivers choose Shell:
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Advanced cleaning technology
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Improved fuel efficiency
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Trusted by many car brands
Shell oils perform well in both cars and motorcycles.
4. Liqui Moly
Liqui Moly is a German brand known for premium engine oils and additives.
Why it stands out:
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Strong wear protection
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Made in Germany
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Excellent for high-performance engines
It is slightly expensive but offers top-quality protection.
5. Motul
Motul is famous among bike riders and racing lovers.
Best features:
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Smooth gear shifting
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High RPM stability
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Strong racing background
Many superbike owners prefer Motul for its performance.
Is There Really One “Best Engine Oil in the World”?
The honest answer is no.
A sports car engine needs different oil compared to a commuter bike. A diesel engine requires different oil compared to a petrol engine.
So instead of searching for one universal best oil, you should look for:
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Manufacturer recommendation
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Correct viscosity grade
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API rating
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Climate suitability
At Apna Mechanic, we always recommend checking your vehicle manual first.
Understanding Engine Oil Grades
You must have seen numbers like 5W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50 on oil bottles.
These numbers tell you about viscosity.
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The first number (before W) shows cold temperature performance.
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The second number shows thickness at high temperature.
For example:
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5W-30 – Good for modern cars
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10W-40 – Common for bikes
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20W-50 – Suitable for older engines
Choosing the wrong grade can reduce engine life.
How to Choose the Best Engine Oil for Your Vehicle
Here is a simple step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Check Your Owner’s Manual
Manufacturers clearly mention recommended oil grade and type.
Step 2: Consider Climate
In hot countries, slightly thicker oil may work better. In cold areas, thinner oil is preferred.
Step 3: Think About Driving Style
If you drive aggressively or travel long distances daily, use high-quality synthetic oil.
Step 4: Choose Trusted Brands
Always buy from reliable sellers to avoid fake products.
Benefits of Using High-Quality Engine Oil
Using the best engine oil offers many benefits:
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Longer engine life
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Better mileage
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Smooth acceleration
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Less engine noise
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Reduced maintenance cost
Many engine failures happen because of poor oil quality or delayed oil change.
How Often Should You Change Engine Oil?
It depends on the oil type and vehicle.
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Mineral oil: Every 3,000 to 5,000 km
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Semi-synthetic oil: 6,000 to 8,000 km
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Fully synthetic oil: 8,000 to 12,000 km
However, always follow manufacturer guidelines.
At Apna Mechanic, we advise regular oil checks even before service time.
Signs Your Engine Oil Needs Changing
Look for these warning signs:
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Engine noise increases
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Dark and dirty oil
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Poor mileage
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Burning smell
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Oil warning light on dashboard
Ignoring these signs can cause serious damage.
Common Mistakes People Make
Many vehicle owners make these mistakes:
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Using cheaper oil to save money
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Ignoring oil change schedule
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Mixing different oil brands
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Choosing wrong viscosity
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Buying fake products
These small mistakes can reduce engine life.
Engine Oil for Bikes vs Cars
Bike engine oil and car engine oil are different.
Motorcycle oil also lubricates the gearbox and clutch. That is why bike oil has special additives.
Never use car oil in a motorcycle.
Does Expensive Mean Best?
Not always.
Sometimes you pay for brand name. Sometimes premium oil truly offers better additives and protection.
The key is balance – choose oil that matches your engine requirement.
The Role of Additives in Engine Oil
Modern engine oils contain additives that:
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Prevent sludge
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Reduce friction
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Stop rust
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Control foam
High-quality oils have advanced additive packages which improve performance.
Why Apna Mechanic Recommends Quality Oil
At Apna Mechanic, we have worked with thousands of vehicles. We have seen engines fail due to poor oil selection.
We believe:
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Proper oil increases engine life
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Regular oil change saves money
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Quality oil improves performance
Our experts always guide customers to choose the right oil, not just the most expensive one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which is the best engine oil in the world?
There is no single best oil for all vehicles. Brands like Mobil, Castrol, Shell, Liqui Moly, and Motul are globally trusted. The best oil is the one recommended for your engine.
2. Is synthetic oil better than mineral oil?
Yes, synthetic oil offers better protection, lasts longer, and performs better in extreme temperatures.
3. Can I mix two different engine oils?
It is not recommended. Mixing oils can reduce performance and change viscosity.
4. How do I know which oil grade to use?
Check your vehicle manual. It clearly mentions recommended viscosity grade.
5. Does engine oil improve mileage?
Yes, good quality oil reduces friction, which can slightly improve fuel efficiency.
6. What happens if I delay oil change?
Old oil becomes dirty and thick. It can damage engine parts and reduce engine life.
7. Is 5W-30 better than 10W-40?
It depends on your vehicle. Both are good but designed for different engines.
Final Words
The search for the best engine oil in the world should not be about choosing the most expensive bottle on the shelf. It should be about choosing the right oil for your engine.
Top brands like Mobil, Castrol, Shell, Liqui Moly, and Motul are known for quality across the globe. However, what matters most is:
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Correct viscosity
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Right oil type
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Regular oil change
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Genuine product
At Apna Mechanic, we always guide our customers with honest advice and practical experience. Your engine is the heart of your vehicle. Give it the protection it deserves.
