Is it possible to mix engine oils of different manufacturers, brands, viscosity

The question of the possibility of mixing motor oils constantly worries drivers, especially if the level drops sharply due to leakage, and you still have to go and go to the nearest company store or service.

In various literature, you can find a lot of information about mixing motor oils, and there is no single thought on this matter: some say that it is possible, others that it is not. Let's try to figure it out on our own.

As you know, motor oils for cars are divided according to a variety of criteria:

• basic base - "mineral water", synthetics, semi-synthetics;
• degree of viscosity (SAE) - there are designations from 0W-60 to 15W-40;
• classifications according to API, ACEA, ILSAC - for what type of engines it is intended - gasoline, diesel, four- or two-stroke, commercial, trucks, cars, and so on.

Theoretically, any new oil that comes on the market goes through a series of compatibility tests with other oils. To obtain certificates for various classifications, the oil must not contain additives and additives that will conflict with additives and the base base of some specific “reference” types of oil. It is also checked how “friendly” the lubricant components are to engine elements - metals, rubber and metal pipes, and so on.

That is, in theory, if oils from different manufacturers, such as Castrol and Mobil, belong to the same class - synthetics, semi-synthetics, have the same degree of viscosity - 5W-30 or 10W-40, and are designed for the same type of engine, then you can mix them .

But it is advisable to do this only in emergency cases, when a leak is detected, the oil quickly flows out, and you can’t buy “native oil” anywhere nearby.

If you have carried out such a replacement, then you need to get to the service as soon as possible and then flush the engine in order to completely clean all components of slag, scale and burning and fill in oil from one manufacturer. Also, while driving with such a “cocktail” in the engine, you need to choose a gentle driving mode, do not overload the engine.

Thus, it is allowed to mix oils of different brands with the same characteristics, but only in order not to expose the engine to even greater malfunctions that may arise when the level falls.

It is a completely different matter when it comes to mixing “mineral water” and synthetics or semi-synthetics. Doing this is strictly prohibited and not recommended even in emergency situations.

The chemical composition of oils of different classes is absolutely different. In addition, they contain additives that conflict with each other and coagulation of piston rings, clogging of pipes with various sediments can occur. In a word, you can ruin the engine very easily.

In conclusion, one thing can be said - in order not to experience in your own skin what mixing different types of motor oils leads to, always buy them for future use and carry a liter or five-liter canister in the trunk just in case.

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