ML320 oil specs and mechanic advice check
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 1
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From: Oregon
MB ML 320
ML320 oil specs and mechanic advice check
I'm requesting information In regards to Amsoil 5w-40 Euro formula vs Mobil 1 0w-40.
I noticed on the amsoil website it has mercedes certifications on the bottle:
Mercedes-Benz 229.3, 229.5
AMSOIL European Car Formula 5W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil
I was told by the local Mercedes 'expert shop' here in Oregon that the Amsoil 5w-40 synthetic is superior to Mobil 1 0w-40 for my 2000 Mercedes ML 320.
I have always read that Mobil 1 is what most Mercedes owners used - so I started researching a bit online what the mechanic told me - and am not convinced the Amsoil is any better than Mobil 1. The mechanic cited boiling points and breakdown points - but im not sure that he wasnt just trying to support a product he might get a better deal on (Amsoil).
Additionally, I've read that some Mobil 1 reformulation has occurred and that not all mobil 1 products are truly fully synthetic.
I have done some research online - and I'm still a bit confused on what is the best oil choice (protection wise) for my vehicle (2000 Mercedes ML320).
Is the Amsoil European blend full synthetic 5w-40 just as good (or better as my mechanic says) than Mobil 1 0w-40 for my particular vehicle?
My owners manual doesnt specify which mercedes 229 spec. It just says "mercedes certified 0w-40". I've read many confusing opinions on multiple forums about 229.3, 229.5, 229.5..... etc. being for diesel, gas engines and the numbers being interchanged for either engine type depending on who is commenting in a thread as an "expert". :-/
Thank you for any direction from those of you well versed in oil and mercedes.
I noticed on the amsoil website it has mercedes certifications on the bottle:
Mercedes-Benz 229.3, 229.5
AMSOIL European Car Formula 5W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil
I was told by the local Mercedes 'expert shop' here in Oregon that the Amsoil 5w-40 synthetic is superior to Mobil 1 0w-40 for my 2000 Mercedes ML 320.
I have always read that Mobil 1 is what most Mercedes owners used - so I started researching a bit online what the mechanic told me - and am not convinced the Amsoil is any better than Mobil 1. The mechanic cited boiling points and breakdown points - but im not sure that he wasnt just trying to support a product he might get a better deal on (Amsoil).
Additionally, I've read that some Mobil 1 reformulation has occurred and that not all mobil 1 products are truly fully synthetic.
I have done some research online - and I'm still a bit confused on what is the best oil choice (protection wise) for my vehicle (2000 Mercedes ML320).
Is the Amsoil European blend full synthetic 5w-40 just as good (or better as my mechanic says) than Mobil 1 0w-40 for my particular vehicle?
My owners manual doesnt specify which mercedes 229 spec. It just says "mercedes certified 0w-40". I've read many confusing opinions on multiple forums about 229.3, 229.5, 229.5..... etc. being for diesel, gas engines and the numbers being interchanged for either engine type depending on who is commenting in a thread as an "expert". :-/
Thank you for any direction from those of you well versed in oil and mercedes.
Member
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 112
Likes: 1
From: medina ,ohio
05,cl65;33ford3wc.
As you know this is an endless subject, Glyn Ruck who comments on this form has a proffesional level of knowledge on oil as a oil company triboligst, so a worthwile start in this area is to research his posts. I like you have been reading this winter so have a modest level of knowledge. As for your question, 229.5 is the current spec for gas engines, 229.3 is a old gas spec. Oil spec are ok to go "back" as the 229.5 is good for 229.3 service, but not the other way. 229.51 is the current desil spec. It seems that now some oils meet both desil and gas specs, and should obviously be ok. Im confused why MB would say just use 229 oil, it seems to indicate your engine only requires a older oil spec, in any event I'd use a 229.5 oil. I prefer the mobil 0-40 for my amg as it was developed for hi performance, turbo engines, and I like the 0 for best cold starting lube. Comments welcomed.
