Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How long have AMSOIL lubricants been on the market?

A. AMSOIL introduced the first API (American Petroleum Institute) service rated synthetic motor oil in 1972. Since that time, AMSOIL has varied and expanded its product line to include universal ATF, greases, fuel additives, filters, coolant, industrial lubricants, and appearance products.

Q. What are AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils?

A. AMSOIL Synthetic Oils are fuel efficient, extended life lubricants manufactured from select synthetic base stocks and special purpose additives to provide improved overall performance characteristics.

Q. What are AMSOIL Synthetic Blend Motor Oils?

A. AMSOIL Synthetic Blend Motor Oils are a blend of synthetic fluids and petroleum oils. They are combined to form an all season motor oil that demonstrates many of the performance features of 100% synthetic lubricants.

Q. Can AMSOIL Motor Oils be used in any engine?

A. AMSOIL Motor Oils are recommended for any mechanically sound gasoline- or diesel-fueled engine. Practically speaking, that means AMSOIL is excellent for use in any vehicle’s engine.

Q. Will AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils void the warranty of a new vehicle?

A. Absolutely not! Manufacturers’ warranties are based upon the use of oils meeting specific API Service Classifications, for example, SJ/CF. AMSOIL lubricants not only meet, but exceed the current API Service requirements and, thus, are perfectly suited for use in any new vehicle without affecting the validity of the new vehicle warranty.

Q.Are AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils All-Season Oils?

A. Synthetic oils are made to protect and perform better than petroleum oils at both high and low temperature extremes. That’s why every jet engine in the world is lubricated with synthetic oil. AMSOIL Motor Oils have extremely low pour points and flow readily at extremely low temperatures for easier winter starting and significantly reduced engine wear. At high temperatures, no conventional motor oil can compare to the overall protection AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils provide. That’s extremely important for today’s turbocharged and small, non-turbocharged engines!

Q. Will using AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils increase fuel economy?

A. Because the molecules of the synthetic base stocks are built in the laboratory with a more uniform size, AMSOIL Motor Oils reduce friction and drag better than petroleum oils, resulting in significant fuel economy increases. In a recent 1.2 million mile demonstration, AMSOIL Lubricants showed a 4.5% increase in gas mileage. Other tests have shown increases of as much as 15% under certain weather and driving conditions. Yet, because every vehicle is different, as are driving habits and conditions, it is difficult to accurately project an exact increase. In government terms, "Your mileage may vary."

Q. Are AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils compatible with other motor oils?

A. Yes. AMSOIL Motor Oils are compatible with all other synthetic or petroleum motor oils. To achieve the best performance of any motor oil, however, you should always "top off" with whatever oil is in your crankcase, if at all possible. While mixing other oils with AMSOIL is not likely to damage your engine, the improved performance of AMSOIL and its extended-drain capabilities will likely be compromised. Email me for more information.

Q. Why are AMSOIL Motor Oils capable of extended drain intervals?

A. AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils are highly resistant to the destructive effects of heat, and do not break down like petroleum oils. They are formulated with cutting-edge additives and a higher "TBN" [Total Base Number] to combat the formation of acids and contaminants. This means that AMSOIL Motor Oils can provide much longer drain intervals than conventional lubricants. See The Unmeasurable Benefits of AMSOIL Motor Oil article reprint.

Q. Will AMSOIL Motor Oils decrease oil consumption?

A. As proved by the NOACK volatility test, AMSOIL maintains its viscosity over longer periods than competing oils. When used in mechanically sound engines, AMSOIL Motor Oils can reduce oil consumption. Under test conditions, a reduction of as much as 42% was demonstrated for prolonged periods. However, this should not be taken to mean that AMSOIL Motor Oils are “cure-alls” for engines that consume oil because of mechanical problems such as worn or damaged seals.

Q. Is there a recommended procedure for changing to AMSOIL Motor Oils?

A. There are no special requirements; however, in older vehicles or those with high mileage, it may be advisable to use AMSOIL Engine Flush first. This will ensure that the engine is clean and free of any accumulated contaminants which might have an effect on the service life of AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils. In all cases, it is good judgement to install a new AMSOIL Super Duty Full-Flow Oil Filter (SDF) every time you change oil and at six month or 12,000 mile intervals.

Q. Should Oil Additives or After Market Products be added to AMSOIL Motor Oils?

A.AMSOIL specifically recommends against mixing other additives with AMSOIL. AMSOIL Motor Oils are properly formulated under the strictest Quality Control procedure to provide superior lubrication performance. Read about the quality additives used in AMSOIL Motor Oil.