Valvoline versus Castrol
We’re going to compare two well-known synthetic oils you may be in the market to buying. I’ll discuss the pros and cons, my review, experience using the products, and more.
They are fully equipped to lubricate any engine. I will tell you if these oils do these crucial things to ensure you’re getting your monies worth. If you want to find out if Valvoline or Castrol wins the top, keep reading.
Valvoline SynPower is a fully synthetic motor oil that provides top of the line engine protection by targeting engine stress factors such as heat, wear, and deposits.
It is a gasoline engine oil that comes in 32-ounce bottles that are compact enough to store in your trunk.
Product Description
Valvoline was established in 1866 and has been perfecting their motor oil for more than 140 years to improve vehicle performance.
This brand has made tremendous milestones that have changed the engine oil industry since its beginnings.
For instance, in 1939 Valvoline introduced single grade oil to replace 18 other motor oils.
The line has also created an all climate oil and was the first to launch a drive-thru oil change.
Features:
- Maintains Fuel Efficiency over the lifespan of the oil
- Has high-temperature protection
- Equipped with Sludge and Varnish protection for engine cleanliness
- Fully compatible with all engine models
- Is API SN Plus Approved
- Fights volatility and evaporation
- Has a special seal to prevent leaks
- Not a high mileage formula
- Isn’t compatible with Diesel vehicles
My Experience
I had an excellent experience using this product in my vehicle.
It typically will last me up until 7,500 miles and is reasonably priced.
It does what the Valvoline claims it can do by withstanding the cold and hot climates I tend to travel in.
I never have trouble with my engine performance while using this oil and it coats the cylinder walls like a glove. I’m glad I tried this motor oil out because it was worth it!
Castrol Edge is a motor oil that can withstand viscosity breakdown better than other synthetic and conventional oils.
If you are in high-stress driving conditions or need the oil for high-performance applications, then this is the best oil you can buy for that.
It is recommended to utilize this oil to its fullest potential; you should use Bosch oil filters.
Product Description
Castrol makes being the top manufacturer look easy by providing premium lubricating oils, greases, and other related services to the automotive industry.
Its roots are in the United Kingdom and have expanded to over 40 countries while offering oil for virtually all domestic, industrial, and commercial applications since 1899.
They have even formulated grease for NASA’s space program that can be in minus 80 degrees Celsius to 204 degrees Celsius back in 2012.
Features:
- Suited to handle severe applications like hauling and high-performance driving
- 3X stronger against viscosity breakdown
- Has Proprietary titanium additive to protect against unsurpassed wear
- Meets engine test requirements by API SN, ILSAC GF-5, and ACEA A1/B1
- Eliminates engine deposit formation for optimal engine response
- Compatible with Ford, Honda, and Chrysler
- Amazing acceleration
- Not certified for Diesel cars
- Expensive
- Gas consumption will potentially increase
- Oil leaks if you have the wrong gaskets
What Was My Experience?
Castrol Edge motor oil worked, and I could tell my car loved me for it. I noticed that my car is now feeling a lot smoother in sound and performance has been enhanced.
I usually change my oil every 5,000 miles, but with Castrol Edge, I can drive up until about 10,000 to 15,000 miles.
I haven’t had any issues with my engine’s performance in the brutal winter weather as I have with other lubricants.
I highly recommend this oil for those who have a high-performance vehicle or will be towing a lot because Castrol Edge will be able to perform in these situations with ease.
Valvoline v. Castrol: Which Is Better?
Now it’s time for the verdict. Is it the Castrol or the Valvoline that is better.
It is indeed the best long lasting synthetic oil with special additives that increase your vehicle’s performance better than competitors. It is also set at a reasonable price.
We chose this oil for second place because it can improve your engine’s functionality and is excellent for lubricating the engine to reduce friction.
Another perk is that it can provide better miles to the gallon, but it still has nothing on Castrol Edge that can meet strict Dexos1 standards.
Alternative: Does Mobil 1 Stand Up To The Test?
Last, but not least is Mobil 1. It is still a great engine oil, but it is difficult to find.
Nonetheless, it is easy to use and can protect against cold starts.
The price is decent, but not as cost effective as the other two so ordering it online could break the bank with the shipping and tax that is added on.
Still, it helps reduce sludge and carbon deposits that can build up in your motor.
Mobil 1 is a synthetic gasoline engine oil that comes in a 32-ounce package. It is well known for its impressive quality.
It is most compatible with the Mobil 1 Extended Performance Oil Filter and has a Mobil 1 Warranty. This motor oil is equipped to handle all types of modern vehicles.
Some of the vehicles it can handle are:
- High-performance
- Supercharged
- Turbocharged
- Passenger cars
- Light vans
- SUVs
- Trucks
It has no additives or crude in its formulation; therefore, it is excellent for the mechanical performance of the vehicle. If your vehicle has more than 75,000, it will still work to its full potential.
Product Description
Mobil 1 was introduced in the early 1960s to prevent military plane wheel bearings from falling when they were landing in cold temperatures and are used in aircraft applications all over the world to date.
Mobil 1 wasn’t introduced to the USA until 1974 and introduced a new standard in lubrication technology.
By 1989 the brand expanded their specialty by creating consumer products along with their commercial products.
Features:
- Has unsurpassed wear protection
- Cleans the engine for extended engine life
- Proprietary anti-aging technology for extended oil life
- Mobil 1 Annual Protection Limited Warranty available
- Can last up to 20,000 miles or need to be changed once a year
- It protects your engine for the lifespan of the extended interval
- Can be used in premium vehicles
- May need to check oil levels regularly to make sure it stays a light color
- Have to show more caution for it to reach its full potential
- Containers may leak
Conclusion
I figured out how to get the most out of your Mobil 1 motor oil. You have to follow the instructions in your owner’s manual carefully.
I typically drive about 60 to 70 percent highway mileage, and by using this engine oil, I am able to reduce the time I spend on maintenance for my vehicle.
That means I can spend time doing what I enjoy. This is definitely an excellent oil to use.
You can also check:
FAQ and Buying Guide:
Contents:
How many miles does Valvoline Full Synthetic Oil last?
It is recommended that you change your Valvoline Synthetic Oil every 3,000 to 4,000 miles, however, for severe driving, you should change it in 3,000 to 3,750-mile increments.
That applies to about 80% of users who drive in severe conditions.
For regular driving habits, you can go up to 6,000 miles before changing your Valvoline oil. Don’t go past 6,000 miles or your engine won’t be able to recover.
Is Castrol Edge Fully Synthetic?
Yes. Castrol Edge is a fully synthetic oil formulated for high performance and prestige engines.
It will help to maximize your engine’s performance in the long and short term.
It can deliver excellent levels of protection for any driving condition and temperature.
It can reduce friction by up to 15% and is 45% stronger than most engine oils.
How long does Castrol Synthetic oil last?
What is great about Castrol Synthetic Oil is that it last for up to six months or 15,000 miles. Be aware that this applies to typical driving and not severe driving conditions.
If you are going to be driving in severe conditions, the oil will last for up to 3 months or 3,000 miles.
Changing the motor oil more frequently will benefit your engine’s lifespan, and you will detect any potential problems your vehicle may be having.
Is Mobil 1 fully synthetic oil?
Yes. Monil 1 is a fully synthetic motor that will increase performance and protect vehicles of all ages and driving conditions.
This synthetic oil controls oil breakdown and reduces wear that may happen to your engine. It even protects from cold starts when temperatures drop as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
When should I change my Mobil 1 synthetic oil?
You should change your Mobil 1 Synthetic Oil every 15,000 miles or once a year depending on which comes first.
It will last about five times longer than a traditional synthetic oil allowing you to save money on oil changes.
Is synthetic oil really better?
This man-made oil is created from a base oil, powder additives, and a carrier oil that promotes an even distribution for additives.
It starts with highly refined crude oil that is pumped from deep underground similar to conventional oil.
What makes conventional oil and synthetic oil disimilar is the level of refinement they undergo.
The reason why synthetic oil is better than conventional oil is the way that it is made and how your car will perform after it is put in your vehicle’s engine.
Your vehicle’s performance will increase by 47% in comparison to conventional motor oil. Not to mention synthetic oil has many benefits such as:
- Fewer emissions
- Increased engine protection and wear from lower friction
- Better fuel and oil economy
- Oil effectiveness because the quality is more predictable and uniform
- Reduced engine drag from more significant resistance to thickening
- Quicker engine start time
- Better all-weather protection
- Helps clean engine sludge and deposits
Synthetic oil is made with performance in mind, and it is the best oil you can use on your engine although it is more expensive than conventional oil.
It resists breakdown to last longer than its counterpart.
When you’re looking for synthetic oil for your car, make sure you check your owner’s manual for the viscosity grade and oil specification to ensure you get the right engine oil for your vehicle.
Another way to determine if synthetic oil is the right choice is to consider your lifestyle.
For instance, if you live in a place with extreme temperatures or if you use your vehicle for towing or hauling heavy materials then synthetic oil is the better choice. Not to mention it keeps sludge from building up which can block the flow of oil and lead to your engine dying.
Bottom line there are a variety of aspects to choosing the best oil.
I recommend you try all three to determine for yourself which you like, but we guarantee that Castrol Edge will win you over. Don’t fall for the conventional oil’s lower price because you get exactly what you pay for.
It is worth putting the investment into a synthetic oil to avoid engine problems and the costs that come with it later on.
Have you tried Castrol, Valvoline, or Mobil 1 motor oil?
If so, let me know which you think is worth buying in the comments.
Jill says
When your car is under warranty how long it last doesn’t matter, does it? You need to change it per makers specs or warranty is void.
Ron B says
Have you ever read the manual? It doesn’t say suggest 3000 Mike’s for normal everyday driving. Maybe you should read and educate yourself before commenting on something that you know nothing about.
Mark Sterling says
The Cummins recommendation for my 2016 Nissan Titan is oil change every 10,000 miles using specifically Valvoline Diesel Oil. Prior to owning the Cummins I only used either Castrol Syn or Mobile 1 on all my cars and changed as per maintenance schedule which has always been more than 5,000 miles. Not sure where the information in this article is coming from! So far I have not had a engine wear or breakdown problem with any of them. Another note the engine on my wifes 2016 cherokee maintenance schedule only recommend oil change is when the computer tells you to or 10,000 miles.
Robert Norman says
I drive a 2003 Honda Accord 2.4L with 131,000 kms and now, since reitirement- only put on about 4,000 kms or 2,500 miles a year.
My car has always been parked in a garage.
I have used Castrol Syntec and now Castrol Edge 5W- 20 since new and changed oil every 6 months or about 6,000 kms or 3,700 miles when working- vehicle uses very little oil between changes.
QUESTION:
Would it be safe to now change my oil once a year at 4,000 kms or 2,400 miles rather than at 6 months or 2,000 kms (1,200 miles) which seems wasteful?
Thanks
Bob Boaby says
Absolutely! Even changing synthetic oil after only 4000km is a huge waste of money.