Best Synthetic Oil For Diesel Engines for 2023: Top 15 Picks

Sometimes it might be quite difficult to find the best synthetic oil for diesel engines. With every niche market offering so many different products, it makes sense that this is the case.

Unfortunately, this very fact can make it incredibly difficult to find the item that best suits your needs, which is why we’ve put together this synthetic oil for diesel engines buying guide.

Our 15 Best Picks:

15 Best Synthetic Oil For Diesel Engines Reviews:

SaleBestseller No. 1
Valvoline Premium Blue Extreme SAE 5W-40 Full Synthetic Diesel Engine Oil 1 GA, Case of 3
  • EXCELLENT WEAR PROTECTION IN HEAVY DUTY APPLICATIONS that can take a toll on critical internal moving parts
  • RESISTS OXIDATION AND FIGHTS DEPOSITS & SLUDGE with higher quality synthetic base oils and special inhibitors
  • PROTECTS DURING COLD START UPS WHILE CONTROLING SOOT as heavy-duty equipment can sit idle for extended periods of time
  • ADVANCED FUEL ECONOMY up to 1.5% over 15W-40 conventional oils in on-highway operations
  • UNIQUE 5,000 MILES OIL DRAINS EXTENSION in Cummins X15/X12 engines when average is 7mpg or higher
SaleBestseller No. 2
Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 5W-40 Diesel Engine Oil (1-Gallon, Single Pack)
  • Full synthetic 5W-40 diesel engine oil with Triple Protection Plus technology protects against wear, deposits, oil breakdown, and improves low-temperature flow
  • Exceptional wear protection for longer life in a wide range of heavy-duty engine applications — from pickup trucks to tractors to semi rigs
  • Enhanced fuel economy capability of 1.5 percent without compromising engine protection or durability (compared to 15W-40 oils)
  • Multi-functional dispersant additives provide an enhanced level of protection against the effects of soot, dirt, and other contaminants (compared to previous formulation)
  • Increased shear stability for better viscosity control and optimal engine oil pressure
SaleBestseller No. 3
Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Blend 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil (1 Gallon, Case of 3)
  • Synthetic blend 15W-40 diesel engine oil with Triple Protection Plus technology protects against wear, deposits, and oil breakdown
  • Ideal for on-highway fleets, construction, and agricultural machinery, and diesel pickup trucks — including high-power vehicles that require resistance to heat and stress
  • Improves low-temperature flow (compared to conventional 15W-40 oils)
  • Helps control engine deposits for reliability at extended oil drain intervals (always follow the OEM recommended oil drain interval)
  • Controls engine wear 37 percent better than the maximum wear requirements in API CK-4 engine wear tests
SaleBestseller No. 4
Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. 9000CK4-006S SynShield OTR Plus Full Synthetic Diesel Engine Oil 5W-40, 1-Gallon Bottle
  • Maintains Fuel Economy Without Sacrificing Engine Durability.
  • Superior Cold Weather Startability And Operating Characteristics.
  • Oil Strength: Withstands Higher Heat Range Than Conventional Oils.
  • Keep-Clean Performance: Superior Soot Busting, Deposit-Dispersing Capability.
Bestseller No. 5
Triax Fleet Supreme ESP 15W-40 API CK-4 Full Synthetic Diesel Engine Oil, Friction Optimized and Boosted with Molybdenum and Nano-Boron, Superb Powerstroke Performance (5 Gallon Pail)
  • CRP organic, metallic, Moly plating technology for unsurpassed wear protection, oxidation, and high temp stability
  • Friction modified and VI stabilizer pre-boosted; un-rivaled turbo-charger protection; will not create deposits and ash on turbo bearings (will not fry on the turbo)
  • Contains state-of-the-art dispersal and ash control systems to keep your engine extremely clean
  • Extreme drain intervals capabilities; 25,000-mile drain interval for pickups and 80,000 for class 8 semi-trucks
  • Eliminates the need to clean diesel particulate filters and is for use in virtually all diesel-powered pickups and heavy-duty trucks, both pre 2007 and post 2007 models fitted with emission control systems
SaleBestseller No. 6
Royal Purple 05154 API-Licensed SAE 15W-40 High Performance Synthetic Motor Oil - 5 Gallon
  • Better wear protection
  • Increased fuel efficiency
  • Better protection of the expensive catalytic emission system
  • Improved compatibility with fuels containing ethanol
Bestseller No. 7
Factory Racing Oil SAE 15W-40 Synthetic Blend Diesel Engine Oil - API CK-4-5 Gallon (2x2.5 Gal)
  • FULLY CERTIFIED AND MEETS OEM SPECIFICATIONS - Factory Racing Parts was born from expertise and credibility. We put in the work to make sure you are getting the right viscosity and certifications to meet warranty for your engine.
  • SPECIFICATONS: SAE 15W-40, API CK-4/CJ-4/CI-4, produced in an ISO9001-2015 quality certified facility. Look it up if you’re bored.
  • EASY HANDLING - Individual 2.5-gallon bottles allow for easy handling and pouring. Great alternative to the 5 gallon pails.
Bestseller No. 8
Mobil 1 Turbo Diesel Truck Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-40, 1 Gal
  • Mobil 1 Turbo Diesel Truck Is Designed For Modern Diesel Truck Engines, Delivering Long Drain Capability, Exceptional Performance, And Potential Fuel Economy Benefits
  • Meets Or Exceeds The Demanding Specifications Of Major Truck Manufacturers - One Engine Oil Can Be Used For Mixed Fleet Operations
  • Recommended For Use In All Super High-Performance Diesel Applications, Including Low Emission Engines
  • Helps Engines Last Longer By Reducing Low-Temperature Sludge Buildup And High-Temperature Deposits
Bestseller No. 9
Triax Fleet Supreme ESP 10W-30 Ultimate Full Synthetic, Friction Modified, API CK-4, Heavy Duty Diesel Engine Oil with Moly, Performance Boosted, Superb Powerstroke Performance (4 Gallon Pack)
  • CRP organic, metallic, Moly plating technology for unsurpassed wear protection, oxidation, and high temp stability with 60% lower wear than leading industry ZDDP products
  • Friction modified and VI stabilizer pre-boosted; unrivaled turbo-charger protection; will not create deposits and ash on turbo bearings (will not fry on the turbo); 2-5% Fuel economy versus 10W-40, 5W-40, and 15W-40 grades
  • Contains state-of-the-art dispersal and ash control systems to keep your engine extremely clean
  • Extreme drain intervals capabilities; 25,000-mile drain interval for pickups and 80,000 for class 8 semi-trucks
  • Eliminates the need to clean diesel particulate filters and is compatible with virtually all diesel-powered pickups and heavy-duty trucks, both pre 2007 and post 2007 models fitted with emission control systems such as DPF, SCR, or DOC
Bestseller No. 10
Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 Diesel Engine Oil (1-Gallon, Case of 3)
  • Full synthetic 5W-30 engine oil with Triple Protection Plus technology protects against wear, deposits, oil breakdown, and improves high/low temperature performance
  • Performs extremely well in both diesel and gasoline engines, allowing mixed fleet customers to consolidate lubricants
  • Enhanced fuel economy capability of 2.8 percent, helping to deliver fuel savings without compromising engine protection or durability (compared to conventional SAE 15W-40 oils)
  • Increased shear stability for better viscosity control and optimal engine oil pressure
  • Strong oxidation protection helps to minimize the formation of acids and oil thickening, resulting in a longer, cleaner engine life
Bestseller No. 11
AC Delco dexosD Light Duty Diesel Motor Oil 0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil, 7 Quarts fits 3.0 Diesel engine
  • 7 Quarts of Oil
  • Oil Type: Synthetic
  • Viscosity Grade: SAE 0W-20
  • Quantity: 7 bottles
  • OEM Approvals: GM dexosD
SaleBestseller No. 12
15W40 Diesel Engine Oil - 55 Gallon Drum
  • This item does NOT ship to residential, home business or farm addresses, please scroll down to confirm shipping details prior to purchase.
  • 15W40 Diesel Engine Oil 55-gallon drum (Conventional Heavy Duty) (DEO), is designed and formulated to provide superior performance. It is suitable for virtually all modern low-emission heavy-duty engines and older hard-working diesel engines. With its wide range of specifications and approvals from many of the world’s leading engine makers, it is an excellent choice for on-highway fleets, general haul, construction, agriculture, public-transport operators, and diesel pick-up trucks.
  • Certifications: API CI-4, SM, ACEA E7-08, DH-1, Caterpillar ECF-1a Cummins CES 20078/20077/20076, Volvo VDS-3/VDS-4, Man 3275, MB 228.3, Renault RLD-3, Mack EO-M Plus, MTU Type 2.
  • Pack Size: 55 Gallon Drum (200L Volume)
Bestseller No. 13
Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. 0700CK4-012 SynShield Durability Advantage 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil, 12-Quart Bottle (Pack of 12)
  • Excellent wear protection during severe operating conditions
  • Oil durability: strong oxidation and viscosity control with less oil consumption
  • Better contamination control with superior soot-busting, deposit-dispersing capability
  • Strong stay-in-grade performance throughout the life of the oil
  • Friction modified with micron moly and penetrate
SaleBestseller No. 14
Mobil 1 122260 5W-40 Turbo Diesel Synthetic Motor Oil - 1 Gallon (Pack of 3)
  • Exceptional resistance to high-temperature varnish and low-temperature sludge deposits to help keep engines clean
  • Wide viscosity range provides outstanding protection consistent with an SAE 40 grade oil at high temperatures, combined with the easy cold-start performance of a 5W rated oil
  • Outstanding wear protection
  • Excellent high- and low-temperature performance; Pours at temperatures as low as -53 degree Fahrenheit and protects at oil temperatures as high as 400 degree Fahrenheit
  • Improved protection against sludge and harmful deposits; Excellent fuel economy benefits
Bestseller No. 15
15W40 CK-4 Synthetic Diesel Engine Oil - 55 Gallon Drum
  • This item does NOT ship to residential, home business or farm addresses, please scroll down to confirm shipping details prior to purchase.
  • Sinopec Diesel Engine Oil TULUX T700 Synthetic CK-4 is formulated using synthetic high viscosity index group 3 base oils and Superior low SAPS additive packages. It is the new generation of DEO to meet strict new emission, long life protection performance and fuel economy and environmental standards. Suitable for use in high speed, four-stroke heavy duty low-emission diesel engines fitted with exhaust after-treatment systems designed to meet Euro V and Euro VI exhaust emissions standards.
  • Certifications: API CK-4, SN, ACEA E9 E7, Military Specification MIL-PRF2104K; ACEA E7-12; ACEA E9-12; Global Specification DHD-1; Caterpillar ECF-3; Cummins CES 20081, CES 20086; Detroit Diesel Power Guard Oil Specifications: DDC93K218 and DDC93K222; Deutz DQC III-10 LA; Ford WSS-M2C171-E, WSS-M2C171-F1; JASO DH-2; Mack EO-O Premium Plus, Mack EOS4.5; MAN 3275, MAN 3575; MB 228.31; MTU 2.1; Renault VI RLD-3, RLD-4; Volvo VDS 4, VDS 4.5; Navistar;
  • Pack Size: 55 Gallon Drum (200L Volume)

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to find the best synthetic oil for diesel engines?

Here, we’ll be going over a number of factors that you can use to ensure that you’re purchasing the best synthetic oil for diesel engines for you.

Regardless of which type of item you’re looking to buy, chances are that there are existing buying guides on the internet, all of which aim to give you good synthetic oil for diesel engines recommendations.

Despite these recommendations, however, it’s always a good idea to do your own research. In addition to this research, asking yourself the following questions is also super helpful:

  • What features does the synthetic oil for diesel engines need to have to be perfect for my needs?
  • What is my budget?
  • Do I need to purchase a certain brand?

Once you’ve answered these questions and have a good idea of what you’re looking for and the buying process becomes much easier. Keep in mind that when looking for the best product, there’s no need to rush. In fact, very rarely are the ideal products found by choosing the first one you see or by basing your decisions on only one factor. Take your time and enjoy the process!

Now, with the answers to the previous questions in mind, we urge you to use our upcoming buying guide for synthetic oil for diesel engines to find what you’re looking for:

Brand

In some cases, the brand of synthetic oil for diesel engines is very important. For example, if you’re looking for an item that works in tandem with another, you might very well need both products to be the same brand. If this is the case, it’s vital to pay attention to this factor, as choosing the wrong product can mean the difference between wasting your money and buying a great product that functions as it should.

Features

The features in any given synthetic oil for diesel engines are important because they can dictate which version of an item you need and how much money you need to spend. Consider all the key features that you want your item to have and don’t settle for anything that doesn’t check at least ¾ of your boxes.

Reviews

Customer reviews about synthetic oil for diesel engines are crucial – especially when you’re buying a product that costs a lot of money or serves a big importance. Luckily, most products can be found online, which means that it’s common for there to be scores of customer reviews from those who have already purchased any given product.

Pay attention to these reviews. Take note of the pros and cons that they mention, and factor these into your big decision. In some cases, you’ll be forced to sacrifice one con in order to gain a particular pro, but being aware of the potential con is going to be beneficial in either case.

Quality

Of course, quality is key. You don’t want to purchase a low-quality product. If you do, you run the risk of your item breaking, not working properly, or otherwise proving to be very disappointing, as well as a waste of money.

You can compare synthetic oil for diesel engines quality by researching what your potential purchases are made from, contrasting the individual items against each other to discern which one is made of the best materials.

Warranty

Warranty isn’t always going to be important, but it definitely can be. This is especially true if the item in question is tech-related or expensive. A good warranty will be valid for an extended time after purchase and cover a variety of problems ranging from item defects to random accidents, water damage, and other miscellaneous events that could ruin your product.

Conclusion

The quest to find the best synthetic oil for diesel engines can be daunting – but it doesn’t have to be. It can be made much easier by asking yourself a few simple questions and then thinking critically about the items you want to buy. Consider their features, quality, brand, warranty, and customer reviews and you’re more likely to make a great purchase.