Diesel engine oil is a type of motor oil that is designed for use in diesel engines.
It’s basically a thick, black oil that is made from a variety of petroleum-based products.
But did you know that there are many different types of diesel engine oil?
In this blog post, we will cover the most common types and their uses. Additionally, we will discuss the pros and cons of each type to help you make an informed decision when purchasing engine oil for your diesel vehicle.
Keep reading to learn more!
Types of Diesel Engine Oil for a Truck
Since engine oil is an essential component of any diesel engine, it is important to choose the right oil for your engine.
Here are the most common types of diesel engine oil:
1. Standard Motor Oil
Conventional motor oil is the most common type of engine oil.
It is made from a blend of petroleum-based products and contains additives that protect your engine from wear and tear.
Pros
- Conventional motor oil is affordable and widely available.
- It can be used in most diesel engines without any issues.
Cons
- Conventional motor oil does not protect your engine as well as other types of engine oil.
- It needs to be changed more frequently than other types of oil.
2. Synthetic Motor Oil
Synthetic motor oil is a type of engine oil that is made from synthetic base oils.
A stronger performing base fluid is produced through the development of new base oil components (synthesis) to create a synthetic base oil. It also comes with certain additives that can protect your engine from wear.
Pros
- Synthetic motor oil protects your engine better than standard oils.
- It does not need to be changed as often as conventional motor oil.
- It can help improve fuel economy.
Cons
- Synthetic motor oil is more expensive than conventional motor oil.
- It may not be compatible with all types of engines.
3. Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Full synthetic motor oil is a type of engine oil that is made from 100% synthetic base oils.
For full synthetic motor oil, over 90% of the base oil formulation consists of these more potent synthesized base oil components.
Pros
- Full synthetic motor oil is the best type of motor oil for protecting your engine.
- It can help improve fuel economy.
- It does not need to be changed as often as other types of motor oil.
Cons
- Full synthetic motor oil is the most expensive type of motor oil.
- It may not be compatible with all types of engines.
4. High Mileage Motor Oil
High mileage motor oil is a type of engine oil that is designed for use in high mileage vehicles.
This type of oil not only comes with additives that can help in protecting your engine much better but also there are seal enhancers that reduce leaks.
Pros
- High mileage motor oil can help extend the life of your engine.
- It can help improve fuel economy.
- It protects your engine from wear and tear.
Cons
- High mileage motor oil is more expensive than conventional motor oil.
- It may not be compatible with all types of engines.
5. Synthetic Blend Motor Oil
Synthetic blend motor oil (also called Semi-Synthetic or Hybrid Formula Oil) is a type of engine oil that is made from a blend of synthetic and conventional base oils.
It also contains additives that protect your engine from wear and tear.
These motor oils provide a balance between the economy offered by conventional oil and the protection offered by synthetic oil.
But because of the synthetic base stock, you’ll receive more performance and protection than with a normal oil alone.
Pros
- Synthetic blend motor oil is less expensive than full synthetic motor oil.
- It can help improve fuel economy.
- It does not need to be changed as often as conventional motor oil.
Cons
- Synthetic blend motor oil may not be compatible with all types of engines.
- It does not protect your engine as well as full synthetic motor oil.
Best Oil Brands for Diesel Truck Engines on the Market
If you drive a diesel truck, you know how important it is to keep the engine in top shape.
One wrong oil choice, and your truck might start sounding like it’s about to retire early.
After some trial, error, and a few too many “why is my engine whining?” moments, I’ve picked the oils that really deliver.
1. Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic
This one’s my favorite. Full synthetic, high-performance, and great at reducing sludge buildup. Your engine gets smoother operation, even when hauling heavy loads. Think of it as a little luxury for your hardworking truck.
2. Mobil Delvac 1 ESP
Perfect for long hauls and tough driving conditions. It protects the engine from wear and keeps deposits under control. I like knowing my truck can handle a long day on the road without me worrying about maintenance.
3. Valvoline Premium Blue Extreme
Reliable and consistent—exactly what I want. It reduces friction, helps with fuel efficiency, and works well across different diesel engines. No surprises, just smooth performance.
4. Castrol Vecton Long Drain
If you prefer fewer oil changes, this one’s for you. It maintains engine cleanliness, performs well under high temperatures, and keeps things running efficiently. A solid choice for trucks constantly on the move.
5. Chevron Delo 400 XLE Heavy Duty
Built for durability. Heavy-duty engines thrive on it, and it handles tough conditions without complaints. I consider it a dependable backup whenever I need extra endurance from my truck.
The key is matching your engine’s needs with an oil that protects and performs. Personally, rotating these based on load and season keeps my truck happy—and me less stressed.
Key Features and Considerations When Choosing Engine Oil for Your Truck
Now that you’ve got a handle on the different types of diesel oil, it’s time to talk about how to pick the right one for your truck.
Think of this as your cheat sheet for keeping your engine happy and healthy.
1. Viscosity
Viscosity is basically how “thick” or “thin” the oil flows, and it plays a huge role in keeping your engine parts lubricated. A higher viscosity means thicker oil that flows slower, while a lower number flows more easily.
For most diesel trucks, 5W-40 and 15W-40 are common choices. The first number tells you how the oil behaves in cold starts, while the second shows how it performs when the engine is running hot.
Picking the right thickness can prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
2. Additives
Modern oils aren’t just oil—they’re packed with chemicals that enhance performance. Dispersants, detergents, anti-wear agents, and anti-foaming additives all work behind the scenes to protect your engine.
Some keep deposits under control, while others prevent oil from thinning in extreme heat. Before buying, check which additives align with your truck’s needs.
3. Base Oils
The base oil is the foundation. Synthetic options are engineered to withstand high temperatures and resist breakdown, while petroleum-based oils are a more budget-friendly option but don’t last as long under stress.
For heavy-duty trucks, synthetic is usually the safer bet.
4. Certification
Quality matters, and certifications make it easy to spot. Look for labels like “API Certified,” which ensures the oil meets strict industry standards. It’s like having a stamp of approval from the pros.
5. Engine Compatibility
Not all oils work with every engine. Check your truck’s manual or the oil label to see if it’s compatible with your specific make—be it Cummins, Duramax, or Ford Power Stroke.
The right match helps your engine run smoother and last longer.
6. Road and Weather Conditions
Where and how you drive affects your choice. Hot climates often need thicker oils, while cold weather requires something that flows more easily.
Highway driving, off-road adventures, and heavy hauling all influence the ideal oil consistency.
7. Quantity and Shelf Life
Engine size dictates how much oil you’ll need. Also, consider storage: synthetic oils typically last longer on the shelf than conventional ones, giving you more flexibility.
8. Application
Diesel engines aren’t all the same. Passenger vehicles, heavy-duty trucks, off-road machines, marine engines, and industrial equipment all have different requirements.
Make sure the oil you choose is suited for the kind of work your engine does.
9. Price
Finally, cost matters. Synthetic oils tend to be pricier but offer superior protection and longer change intervals.
Conventional oils are cheaper upfront but may require more frequent replacements. Think of it as investing in peace of mind versus pinching pennies.
FAQs
Is 5W-30 good for trucks?
Yes, 5W-30 is a good oil for trucks. It is a synthetic oil that has a high viscosity rating, which makes it ideal for use in cold weather conditions.
10W-30 is also a good oil, especially for summers. It has a lower viscosity rating, which makes it ideal for use in hot weather conditions.
Is it OK to use 5w20 instead of 5w30?
No, 5w20 is not the same as 5w30. 5W20 is thinner and intended for colder conditions.
If you substitute 5w20 for 5w30 in a warmer environment, you may experience more friction and engine wear.
Your car’s performance and lifespan will be jeopardized in the long run.
How often should I change my diesel engine oil?
Most manufacturers recommend changing your diesel engine oil every 5,000 miles.
However, you may need to change it more often if you drive in extreme conditions.
Final Thoughts
To summarize, there are different types of diesel engine oil available in the market. Each type has its own set of pros and cons.
The best type of diesel engine oil to use is one that meets your specific needs. You should consider the climate, driving conditions, and the type of engine you have when choosing an oil.
When choosing an oil, also consider your budget. If you want the best protection for your engine, choose synthetic oil.
Synthetic oils offer better protection and may not need to be replaced as often. They also have a longer shelf life than petroleum-based oils. But if you are on a budget, conventional oil will do the job just fine. Be sure to check the compatibility of the oil with your engine before making a purchase.
Also, consult your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic to find the best oil for your engine.