longbeach

OK, I recently acquired a 2003 (2), W210 4matic wagon. I inquired earlier about engine oil, and just read the whole post " What's the real deal here". I understand that Mobil1 0w40 is the recommended oil. I had the opportunity to meet and talk with the prior owner. He said he did all his own oil changes and used Mobil 1 5w30. Now, my question is, is it OK to switch to 0w40. Car runs great and he seems to have taken good care of it. I also bought an extra set of wheels he had with winter tires on them. Thanks for any info.

kajtek1

You can change the oil to different one any time.
Especially that you are considering using the same brand, just different weight.
Don't think 5W30 meets MB specifications, what puts "he did take good care" into question.
Adding different oil between changes is not recommended, but lot of people do it with no reported problems.
Enjoy new drive.

longbeach

Thanks again Kajtek1. You are certainly a wealth of knowledge. I appreciate your speedy replies. All the best, LB

RichM

If you have any questions on brands or viscosities, you can refer to the link below. All the oils listed are spec for your car. Viscosity is up to you depending on your climate.

https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/bevolisten/229.5_en.html

longbeach

Thank you also, RichM. Good info....

longbeach

Just found this list from Mobil which pretty much sums it up as far as Mobil1 meeting 229.5 spec. https://mobiloil.com/~/media/amer/us...pecs-guide.pdf . Found it interesting that it has the higher zinc and phosphorus levels like the 5w-50 I use in my old triumph Spitfire. I thought they cut those levels in newer cars because of cat problems. But, I guess not. Learn something new every day....

kajtek1

Researching oils is never ending as million of forum topics show.
I quit using Mobil 1 years ago as it produce increased iron, at least on diesels.
When I bought gasoline car for wife, I used M1 for fist quick change, but lately found Castrol 0-40 that meets MB specifications.
I have high respect for Castrol from the time when M1 did not exist yet, so that made me feel good.
But even if you have education to analyze the data, takes lot of samples to make your mind.
I did that with my Ford Truck diesel years ago, what made me going for Rotella T6 for them.
Now the gas car takes 2 years between oil changes. Even if I send sample of every oil, it would take me 10 years to generate data for analyse.
Don't think I will go for it.

longbeach

I certainly agree about the never ending topic. And I've found there are as many favorites as there are brands. I never gave it much thought until I got the Triumph and then I had to find the proper oil for the older flat tappet engine. I have never done my own analysis as you have. And I'm thankful that there are folks like you and others out there offering your experience and results so we can all learn a bit. Thanks...LB