Pennzoil Platinum vs Mobil 1: Which is Better?
Which motor oil is better between Pennzoil Platinum vs Mobil 1? This is a question that frequently gets asked by car motoring enthusiasts, and a question we’ll be tackling to find the answer of in this detailed comparison.
Motor oil is the lifeline of your engine and under no circumstances should the engine be subjected to low-grade motor oil. A good quality motor oil cleans your engines, lubricates it, keeps it cool, and maintains the fuel economy. So, if you’re planning to change your motor oil anytime soon, I recommend you switch to synthetic motor oils if you haven’t already done so. But, you’ve got to beware as there are several terrible synthetic oils out there on the market.
In this guide, I’ll be discussing two top-selling synthetic motor oils on the market and strike a comparison between both to help you pick the right one. I will also provide you with a third alternative in case you don’t feel that either of the two are what you’re looking for.
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Pennzoil Platinum motor oil is a powerful combination of synthetic base oils and superior performance additives. I have been using this oil for almost a year now, and there seems to be no compromise with the quality. Moreover, given its high quality, it’s pretty decently priced as compared to the other synthetic motor oils on the market.
Apart from its great performance, I really like this particular product by Pennzoil for its cleaning ability. After all, everyone wants their engine oil to provide maximum performance and to achieve this; I bought Pennzoil Full Synthetic Motor Oil to keep the important parts of my vehicle’s engine clean. From what I have observed, I can say that Pennzoil can make your engine 40% cleaner than other standard synthetic motor oils on the market.
Superior active cleansing agents
The fully synthetic motor oil is produced in a way that it can keep any engine clean to help you achieve maximum engine response and protect your engine in severe conditions. With Pennzoil , I drove an extra 500 miles last year.
The oil is ILSAC GF-5 certified and is approved for use by Kia, Hyundai, Ford, and Chrysler MS 12007.
- Improves mileage
- Leads to 40% cleaner pistons
- Maintains the horsepower and torque power of your engine
- No impurities present in the oil
- Provides protection against wear and tear
- Reduces engine noise
- Improper disposal can harm the environment
What customers have to say about Pennzoil Platinum 550022690?
I read through all the customer reviews before switching to Pennzoil Platinum and here’s what they’re saying about the product:
- If you want to buy a synthetic motor oil that’s affordable and high quality, it has to be Pennzoil Platinum.
- One of the customers mentioned that they’ve been using the oil with their Honda Pilot with zero problems.
- Another customer has been using the oil with their Honda Accord 2012 model, and they’re simply loving the superior detergent action. They even shared the sample of the oil for testing at the Blackstone laboratories after 5567 miles, and they were surprised to see the results.
Product specifications
Here’s a quick table with the general specifications of Pennzoil Platinum 550022690-6PK Full Synthetic Motor Oil:
| Brand | Pennzoil |
| Model no. | Platinum 550022690-6PK |
| Weight | 11.7 lbs. |
| Viscosity | 0w-20 |
| Origin | USA |
| Engine type | Diesel/Gasoline, Hybrid, Non-hybrid |
| Canister | Plastic |
| Approvals and recommendations |
|
The Brand and notable features:
Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic Motor Oil can be a perfect pick for your vehicle’s engine. It has a viscosity rating of 0 in extremely cold temperatures and a rating of 20 at normal temperatures.
Notable features:
- Removes sludge more easily than synthetic blend and conventional oils.
- Packed with superior active cleansing agents.
- Provides wear and tear protection against uneven terrains and extreme temperatures.
- Good for severe driving conditions.
- Provides great mechanical power.
- Leads to increased gas mileage.
Mobil 1 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil is another oil that I would recommend you use as it is a safer bet. Every synthetic oil expert is talking about this product and it’s suitable for old cars and trucks also. I am not the only one using this oil in one of my cars, i.e., a Honda Accord; many brands such as Chevrolet, Porsche, Mercedes, Nissan, etc., are using the oil as the factory-filled engine oil.
The oil provides great performance in extreme temperature conditions and prevents dirt and debris from building up on the engine. In simpler words, the oil also acts as a cleansing agent. Moreover, it plays a critical role in reducing friction by creating a dense layer between the moving parts of the engine to make sure they don’t touch.
This leads to an improved lifespan of your engine. My Honda dealership told me that an engine that is aided by Mobil 1 never breaks down by overheating and I can proudly say that the oil is living up to its reputation. The oil absorbs all the heat generated in the engine.
The oil remains thin and light when it gets really cold outside, and you can start your car without experiencing any sort of delay.
- Can withstand extreme temperatures
- Resistant to freezing
- Keeps the engine clean
- Reduces friction by providing ample lubrication
- Provides long-lasting protection
- Shields the engine against wear
- Flows very fast in even in cold
- Resistant to evaporation
- Free from impurities
- Not suitable for diesel engines
- Not suitable for aviation engines
What customers have to say about Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil
I read through over 100 customer reviews before switching to Mobil 1 Synthetic Motor Oil and here’s what they’re saying about the product:
- Many customers found it extremely difficult to maintain the oil viscosity within 20000 miles. However, they were easily able to do so with Mobil 1. Some customers also mentioned that they had to use seal conditioners to break their engine’s seal as it has been quite some time since they had changed the oil.
- Even racers are using the oil to enhance the performance of their cars during the racing season.
- The most interesting review was written by a customer who lost his 4×4 in a river but managed to pull it out. On pulling the dipstick, he discovered that the oil had emulsified into a yellowish custard-like material, but the engine was still working and did not show any signs of getting seized. Isn’t it amazing?
Product specifications
Here’s a quick table with the general specifications of Mobil 1 Annual Protection 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil:
| Brand | Mobil 1 |
| Model no. | 5W-30 |
| Weight | – |
| Viscosity | 5W-30 |
| Origin | USA |
| Engine type | Gasoline |
| Canister material | Plastic |
| Approvals and recommendations |
|
The Brand and Notable features:
Mobil 1 Full Synthetic Motor Oil is another top-rated synthetic motor oil on the market. With Mobil 1 Annual Protection Oil, you only need to change your engine oil once every year. It is an ultimate synthetic motor oil that comes with a new lubrication technology which offers improved engine life.
I had second thoughts about using this oil in my Accord as I was already using Pennzoil Platinum in my other car; however, I am really happy with my decision now.
Notable features:
- Improved synthetic technology provides better engine car and long-term protection.
- Comes with a proprietary anti-aging technology that prevents oil breakdown and leads to extended oil change breaks.
- Provides wear protection against extreme temperatures.
- Prevents the build-up of sludge that can harm your engine.
- Flows very fast even in extremely cold conditions.
- Comes in a convenient to use 5-quart package.
Worth considering an alternative:
So, as already mentioned above, Castrol Extended Protection 5W-30 Advanced Synthetic Oil is a worth considering an alternative if you’re not satisfied with either of the two synthetic oils mentioned above.
I am personally biased towards Mobil 1, but one of my friends forced me to try Castrol EDGE Extended Protection for a few months. And, I am really satisfied with the performance of my engine after using the oil. It’s almost as good as Mobil 1 in terms of performance and cleansing action.
I’m an avid traveler, so it does not take me a lot of time to hit 15000 miles. As promised by the brand, I required an oil change after driving 15876 miles. Unlike other oils mentioned here, Castrol EDGE comes with titanium technology that involves structural and molecular changes to the oil to make to make it suitable for heavy-duty activities such as towing, heavy-hauling, etc.
- Great viscosity strength
- Powerful thermo-oxidation efficiency
- Long-lasting protection
- Improved fuel economy
- Can be used with cars, trucks, etc.
- Reasonably priced
- Not suitable for low temperatures
- Not easily available in the physical stores
What customers have to say about Castrol EDGE?
I read through over 240 customer reviews before taking a chance with Castrol 03087 EDGE Extended Performance Synthetic Oil and here’s what they’re saying about the product:
- The first and the most critical aspect of the oil that pushed me to try is that it can be used with a wide-range of vehicles such as high-power bikes, cars, mini-trucks, and so on. And, this point has been repeatedly mentioned by a lot of customers.
- Many customers have mentioned that their vehicles feel a lot smoother while driving and the engine noise has also reduced manifold.
- BMW-owners are especially moved by the high-performance of the oil.
- Overall, customers have some really excellent things to say about Castrol 03087 EDGE, and they are pretty sure that no other synthetic motor oil on the market can beat this oil.
Here’s a quick table with the general specifications of Castrol Extended Protection 5W-30 Advanced Synthetic Motor Oil:
Product specifications:
| Brand | Castrol |
| Model no. | 03087 |
| Weight | 9.1 lbs. |
| Viscosity | 5W-30 |
| Origin | USA |
| Engine type | Diesel |
| Canister material | Plastic |
| Approvals and recommendations |
|
The Brand and notable features:
Castrol EDGE Extended Performance Synthetic Oil can be a perfect pick for those who’re looking for a high-performance oil for their trucks, cars, and other heavy-duty vehicles. Castrol is a tried and tested brand that has earned a great reputation in the automotive industry. And, they’ve proved their worth repeatedly in the industry.
Notable features:
- Fluid titanium technology offers great protection against wear and tear.
- Provides durable and consistent performance up to 15000 miles before the next change of oil.
- Reduces friction across a wide range of speeds.
- Decreases build-up of dirt, debris, and sludge on the engine to maximize performance.
- Very affordable synthetic oil.
FAQ and a Buying Guide
Contents:
Should I Use High Mileage Oil or Synthetic?
Most dealerships, brands, and motor oil experts recommend using synthetic oil. Conventional high mileage oils are mostly recommended by local mechanics and are derived from crude oil.
On the other hand, synthetic oil is conventional oil modified to protect your engine and boost its performance. Some combinations of synthetic oils are specially manufactured to offer high mileage and enhance the performance of your car. Here’s are some benefits of synthetic oil over conventional high-mileage oil:
- Synthetic oils come with added lubricants that provide the oil with the ability to protect the engine during extreme temperature conditions.
- Synthetic oils are engineered to maintain their thickness or viscosity at higher temperatures.
- Synthetic oils do not breakdown easily, so oil changes are not frequent.
- Synthetic oils come are packed with active cleansing agents that prevent the formation of sludge or build-up of dirt and debris on the engine.
Is Pennzoil Platinum a Full Synthetic Oil?
Yes, Pennzoil Platinum is a full synthetic oil. Using the PurePlus Technology, a patented process that converts gas to liquid, natural gas is converted to form high-quality synthetic Pennzoil Platinum Motor Oil.
Since it is a synthetic oil, it hardly contains any impurities that are found in crude oil.
When Should I Change my Mobil 1 Synthetic Oil?
Mobil 1 Extended Performance Synthetic Motor Oil guarantees protection for up to 20000 miles. Based on personal experience, I can tell you that you’ll require the first oil change at about 15000 miles.
How Long Does Castrol Synthetic Oil Last?
Castrol 03087 EDGE Extended Performance Synthetic Motor Oil lasts for approximately 6 months or 15000 miles.
Is Synthetic Oil Really Better?
Yes, synthetic oil is definitely worth the price. Even though it costs more, it lasts longer, and requires fewer changes.
It also prevents sludge build-up on your engine. Synthetic oil is highly recommended for high-performance vehicle.
My Conclusion: Pennzoil Platinum or Mobil 1?
Now that you’ve gone through the complete Pennzoil Platinum vs. Mobil 1 comparison, what’s your take? Have you been able to narrow down your choice to either of them? Well, don’t worry if you haven’t; I’ve also provided you with a third alternative.
The oil is packed with Titanium technology that makes the oil more resistant to wear and tear. It is almost 3x stronger against viscosity breakdown than Mobil 1 Extended Performance Synthetic Motor Oil. You can drive up to 15000 miles without worrying about the oil change.
I hope you found this detailed comparison helpful and enjoyed reading it. If you have any more questions, you can write to me or post your queries in the comment section below. I’ll be glad to assist you.
I have a free oil changed form Ford is motorcraft full synthetic as good
I HAVE USED ALL THREE,PENNZOIL PLATINUM,MOBILE 1,AND CASTROIL FULL SYNTHETIC.
I HAVE REBUILT ENGINES THAT HAVE USED THE ABOVE MENTIONED OILS,AND HAVE SEEN THAT PENNZOIL PLATINUM HAS KEPT THE ENGINES A BIT CLEANER THAN THE OTHERS.HOWEVER,CHECKING THE WEAR ON CAMS,CRANKS,AND CYLINDER WALLS,USING ANY OF THE THREE OILS MENTIONED,YOU WILL DEFINATELY KEEP THE WEAR TO A VERY MININUM.I DO NOT RECOMEND THE USE OF QUAKER STATE CONVENTIONAL,AS I HAVE FOUND A LOT OF SLUDGE IN ENGINES THAT DO.
I would never go 15,000. Lies between changes with any oil. 7500 is my Mazda’s recommend interval but I usually change it at 6000. I use penzoil platinum high mileage as my 2008 Mazda 6s has 152,000 miles nw. It runs as good as it did new.
Indeed. And your Mazda 6 is not a turbo engine. Peak engine oil temps with NA engines is ~200°C while for turbos it is ~400°C. I believe engine oil should be changed more regularly with turbo powered engines than the maximum’s car makers state. Honda state 6,000 miles (max in ideal conditions) for their NA engines! In Germany Castrol make a special premium oil for turbo engines recommended by BMW. Go figure.
Remember 15,000 is highway miles. Easy going Approximately 1,500-2,000rpms. Sustained. Not stop and go driving. I’d cut that to half in town driving. Especially if your a spirited driver.
I would never go 15000 miles, either. Oil is cheap. Engines aren’t.
Do you know anything about the Castrol and GM motors. I didn’t see anything about them and was wondering if you’ve heard anything since writing this.
I’m sorry but I disagree with this motor oil ranking. Where in the world is Amsoil “Signature Series” 100% Synthetic oil???
Surely you don’t believe that Castrol or Pennzoil Platinum outperforms Amsoil’s top series synthetic (signature series)? In the best case scenario I would put Pennzoils “ULTRA Platinum” oil in 2nd place & Pennzoils “Platinum” in 4-5th place after Amsoil, Redline, Royal Purples top synthetic & Mobil 1 Extended performance.
Ultra Platinum has out performed Redline, Royal Purple, & Mobil 1 in a number of tests. Ultra Platinum is on a par with the signature series and some elements of the additive package are better. Yet most comparison tests are the Signature series vs the regular Pennzoil Platinum, skewing the results. But Amsoil fan boys will refuse to accept this. Here’s the other kicker. I can get Ultra Platinum through Walmart in a 5 qt jug for $36 (Oct 2020). How much is signature series? $12 a quart.
Now, I’m not an Amsoil hater as I use their Severe gear oil in my 4WD differentials and their Signature Series ATF in the transfer case and love it. Huge difference in rolling performance. But I see no difference in engine noise, MPG, or any other factor between the two motor oils. So I will keep using Pennzoil UP
The test results between Amsoil Signature and Pennzoil that I have seen (Project Farm, etc.) used the Ultra Platinum with the results being that Amsoil has come out on top. I plan to use Pennzoil Ultra Platinum in my pickup next oil change since cutting mileage driven in half (good oil and cost effective in this case). Having used Amsoil for over 18 years I never had any engine problems with this oil. One of the reasons for using Amsoil is to get the extended range between changes (and safely so). Their detergent package is a good bit more intense than the Ultra Platinum as is Redline’s. Commonsense says one would shorten the time of oil changes for direct injection and engines and turbos despite oil used. At the moment, I am using Redline Performance in my SUV for the first time. Not impressed with the “Amsoil fan boys” comment as it is not helpful.
I’ve been using Mobil1 for my Nissan Altima for about 3 years. Engine was smooth and quiet. But now I’m at trying Pennzoil platinum. Increased fuel economy but the engine seems a little rough. Not better than Mobil 1 in low temperature.
The oil is not the problem at 15,000 miles because it does not wear out. It is dirt. No matter how good of an engine a manufacturer makes, ALL piston rings leak. With leaks come blow by. Blow by enters the crankcase which enters the oil. Oil filters are good but cannot extract all of the dirt. Unless the oil is filtered through an centrifugal oil separator like what is used on locomotive diesels, dirt is in the oil. Keep in mind that additives also lose their effectiveness as they age. Pressurized engines (supercharged or turbocharged) have more blow by than a naturally aspirated engine. From a financial point of view, new vehicles are an expensive investment. What is the point of saving a few dollars to skimp on changing the oil a little more often and run the risk of engine damage or premature failure? Change it every six or seven thousand miles, use a really good oil filter, synthetic engine oil and know that the engine is running clean and protected. Many times engines that are well cared for can last longer than the vehicle they move! Keeping clean air filters are equally as important. There is no substitute for “fresh” high quality oil and high quality filters.
I agree – very well said. Thanks!
In the Penzoil product I noticed Chrysler MS 6395 ( I drive a Ram) but in the Castrol EDGE product a different number MS 6396. I can’t find any information on the latter….just a miss print?
Is the difference enough to warrant cost a new Hemi engine?
I have used Mobil1 Extended Performance 15k mile rated oil since 2006 in my 06 Toyota Avalon and now in my 08 Toyota Avalon. Both still have the original motor. My 06 is now at over 546k miles on the dial. The 08 is at 175k on the dial. Both still running strong and smooth. I change the oil every 10k miles even though its rated for 15k. Gives me leeway to work with because you cant always get it done right on the number due to unforseen events in a schedule.
My wife had the oil changed while I was on a business trip in my 08. They put in Pennzoil Platinum. It made the car feel sluggish over time. As soon as I drained it out and put back in the normal Mobil1 15k blend everything went back to the expected performance and feel.
There maybe better oils available but for performance of over half a million miles on my one engine with that blend I wouldnt choose anything else unless someone showed me data to back it up, not lab but real world data.
I used Amzoil for many years back when they were the only kid on the block. Sort of strayed away years ago to Penzoil Synthetic. I commuted 114 miles a day 5 days a week for 25 years in TX heat at speeds best not mentioned. IN those many years had several makes of autos all 4 cyl always the highest performance engine available with standard trans. Drove every one of them over 200k with never a mechanical break down or failure . I mean never a wrench on any of them except for timing belts spark plugs etc. Come to think of it did have to replace a radiator that cracked on a Honda at 200k. Highest was 295K on a Honda Accord. Got rid of the cars mostly because of paint failure and int falling apart due to TX heat and sun. . But none of them were using any oil between changes and normally changed oil and filter ever 10K . I would advise possibly sooner if not mostly hwy miles like I ran,or in a colder climate. I Sort of believe any quality Synthetic would do as well But these two brands worked for me. I will mention the Hard worked Dodge 2002 Ram in my driveway with 150k on it. Pulled a 3,000 lb camper over the rockies in 100+ heat to visit daughter in Portland OR and back 3 times and around the State of TX a lot. Has 150 k on it now. Have Amzoil in auto tranny and rear end. Only thing done to it has been brakes. THese small. V8 engines and trannies are not well rated for longevity, thank you synthetic oils..
Follow up // Well the 2002 Ram 4.7 V8 finally gave up at 180 K // rods started knocking // The 4.7 v8 was not known to last. // Was a bad engine design noted for cooking the oil. OH well only engine fail in 30 years// most of 4.7 died before 100 K from reports I have seen. This due to sludge clogging the oil pump. I still maintain Penzoil Plat. Probably doubled the life of that engine.
I use Pennzoil Platinum in a couple vehicles and no issues but when i contacted Pennzoil and asked what oil is best to use in the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek they said Ultra Platinum. I would like them to tell us the additional additives in their oil. Cost and availability is an issue with the Ultra.
This is for all of you, the best synthetic oil in the world is called AMSOIL. They prove this throughout all oil tests, the pioneers and first in synthetics from 1972. AMSOIL is the “benchmark by which all other synthetics are judged” before you visit their website listen.. if you have used regular oil, do not drive the 25,000 miles they state because it is so good that it will loosen all sorts of crud etc and probably plug their very own oil filter! I change mine every 11 months but never reach 25000k. I study everything in comparison and will tell you mobile1 is a joke due to the fact that it thickens 35% in viscosity by 7000k or less! They advertise well that’s all. Wear scarsscuffing are worse than many others too. So will you drive mobils’ 20,000k max now? 19% at the VERY end for AMSOIL. Never had an engine problem, emmisions test issue or bringing my ride up to terminal velocity with over 300,000+ (3) times without failure. For the price, use either Pennzoil or Castral T while looking into Amsoils’ proven graphs.
Amsoil was used by the German during WWII ,someone brought it to America in 1972 ..German used it in Tanks ,planes ,heavy Trucks..Amsoil is by far the best oil ever !
Ya I do, been running my Mazda 6 for years on mobile 1 20,000 oil for 18,000 to 20,000 miles. Never a problem, leak sludge or filer issue. Amsoil and mobile 1 are so close that you’d never keep a car long enough. I have a Harley 117 which I’ve ran mobile 1 in for 7 years, changing it every 7000 to 10,000 miles. (mind you, this is an engine that runs alot hotter than a car, especially in traffic) 175,000 miles later, when I open it up to do a mod change, not on once of sludge and my compression rates were still the same. Amsoil is good, I’m just not willing to send the 3+ dollars a quart more that doesn’t do anything more for me.
They’ve gotten oils so good now, you and I will never put them through the tests they do. IMO, Find a synthetic oil you can afford and change it and an interval that you’re happy with and you’ll be good no matter what you choose. Mobile 1 is worth the money for me because of what I’ve seen in my engines, just as those who like to use Amsoil and spend more.
This article is intended for the average consumer, who will go to Walmart or Autozone and see lots of Mobil 1 and Pennzoil, but no Amsoil period. Plus Amsoil is twice the price of these other oils so I don’t think it’s really appropriate for the average person who just wants a good oil that meets the required specification. Amsoil is for people pushing the boundaries of service intervals and willing to spend twice the money on a boutique motor oil.
Look at the oil MSDS. If it has mPAOs and/or Decene it is real synthetic These make up grade IV base oils. Others use grade III bases and are not true synthetics.
Mobil 1 has Decene but it is less than 10%. Not sure what “made from natural gas” means for Penzoil.
Sad that true information is missing from these oils. All you get is marketing tripe.
I have two new SUV’s one Hyundai with a 2.0 L GDI engine and the other a KIA with a 1.6 L TGDI engine. Looking for the best oil to minimize carbon built up on intake valves. Recently installed on both vehicles, oil catch cans to stop the blow by mess from being reburned. Amsoil is good oil but has a following like Jeep folks. Red Line and Royal Purple is outside my budget. Went to the Pennzoil site and they recommended Platinum Ultra or second choice Platinum Euro L. Platinum Ultra is not locally available but did sample Euro L with Platinum of the same oil weight, 5W-30. Viscosity feels slightly thicker with Euro L because this oil can handle diesel and gas engines, Platinum only gas engines. Reports in Europe on Euro L is great for TDI, GDI and TGDI engines with little carbon build up on intake valves and increased reliability of the engines. BMW, Benz, Audi and Volkswagon think so. Euro L is the same price as Platinum and locally available. I will try Euro L and monitor it closely. Drain it at 3000 miles and have samples tested. Europe seems to have an edge on these GDI engines over American oil formulas.
Euro l is good oil. I run it in my diesel Range Rover. It is rebranded Shell Helix, even though it is not the recommended Oil for the car there is less fuel dilution and the cars oil quality sensor prefers it. With the Castrol c1 factory oil maybe 6k miles between oil changes with the euro l the trip computer calibrates to around 10k. I change on around 5k miles regardless. I’ve used it in my wife’s genesis and my outboard in my boat. It is a much stouter oil than the other Pennzoil platinum but mind you it is a diesel oil designed for low saps. Frankly my favorite oil is Rotella t6, cheap and a very stout oil. I also agree change your oil more frequently 2x a year is generally good, it doesn’t cost much and you avoid issues with oil contamination.
I am going to use Pennzoil Platinum it seems good to me. Thanks Alex for your valuable information.