I have a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C300 with the V6 gasoline engine (M272). For the past six years/around 50k miles, I’ve been using Mercedes-Benz 5W-30 oil with MB 229.52, and the car hasn’t had any oil-consumption issues. I change it regularly every year. The car was purchased six years ago from the U.S., and we don’t know what oil was used before. I’ve checked that this engine type (M272) calls for MB 0W-40 or 5W-40 with 229.5. Should I switch to 229.5, or keep using 229.52 since there have been no problems?
The 229.52 (low ash) oils may have slightly lower zinc and phosphorus levels than the 229.5 oils. The 30 vs 40 viscosity is not important as many 229.5 oils are 5W-30 viscosity. The zinc and phosphorus additives protect the high stress areas of the engine like the main and rod bearings and the camshaft. The levels may be only slightly lower in 229.52 oils and in some maybe not at all. The additive packages would have to be compared to know exactly. Since the M272 is not considered a high stress engine, the choice is yours. However, if the 299.5 oil is available from the same supplier as the 229.52 oils, changing would be simple.
I have been using the Mobil1 0W40. I use it because I like the temp ratings on the chart and I can get it locally for a good price. Summers around here can see into the 90's sometimes and winters can get cold.
Long time M1 0w-40 user, recently switched to M1 ESP 5w-30. If your state is already on low-sulphur fuel, and most states are, then use the low-ash specifications (229.52, LL-04, etc.). Or keep using 229.5. At this stage of the car's life I doubt it will make a difference.
Long time M1 0w-40 user, recently switched to M1 ESP 5w-30. If your state is already on low-sulphur fuel, and most states are, then use the low-ash specifications (229.52, LL-04, etc.). Or keep using 229.5. At this stage of the car's life I doubt it will make a difference.
Not criticizing, just curious. Why would the sheet 229.52 oils correlate to low sulfur fuel? Low ash oils are needed in engines with particulate filters and none of the W204 gasoline engines have them.
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