This oil is just fine for your car, others may have difference preferences but it is superior to what what was avail in 1990. I normally use Chevron Delo or Mobil, whatever is the best buy at Walmart at the time, especially when you have to buy 2 jugs for a proper oil change.

 

I use shell rotella 5W-40 (blue jug) in my 1993 300D diesel and 1994 E320 gasoline.

 

It'll work great. Next oil change buy Delo 400 -- they are essentially the same, but Delo has slightly higher additive package. More zinc etc...

 

Can the more additives cause leaks. I noticed the front cover leak increased after I switched from Shell Rotella/Mobil Delvac to Delo400 on my W201 190E 2.3 with M102 engine.

 

Where it says CF/SM the SM part means its meets the SM specification for gasoline engines.
http://www.api.org/certifications/engineoil/pubs/upload/engineoilguide_march2010.pdf

Many of us use 15w40 "diesel" oils in older MB gasoline engines and this is one of the best examples.

 

Thanks for the replies.

I see the "SM" designation.

This Shell Rotella Oil says it meets mb approval 228.31.

Is the correct approval for our 103 gas engines 229.1?

I just seen this spec sheet from MB for 229.1 and Shell Rotella is not listed (but the Castrol GTX is). The sheet was updated on 08/01/2013.

MB 229.1 - Multigrade engine oils (Specification 229.1) - Mercedes-Benz Specifications for Operating Fluids

So now I am wondering if we should be using this Shell Rotella Oil (if 229.1 is correct for us). And I don't see the chevron oil listed either.

 

The Rotella T6 synth is the way to go. High levels of ZDDP and gas/diesel approved. Don't use oil based on the MB approval, the oil requirements pre 1997 MB are totally different than post. Bobstheoilguy.com is a good resource.

 

I have used the T-6 before in other cars. Would this be good for a M103 for winter? I like the 15w-40 in summer. The more zinc the better. I myself just would like a little thinner oil in the cold that I would get with the T-6. Would this trade off mix be OK?

 

yeah you really want to use the lightest oil you can. The difference between 5w40 and 15w40 is nothing in summer but a lot in winter. Its also better not to switch oils alot because the additives packages can interfere.

 

FWIW -- the T6 synthetic on my oil analysis versus the non-synthetic actually used LESS Zinc. So stick with the regular non-synthetic and it will also avoid increased leaks. (which I experienced also).

 

I've used it in all my gas and diesel engines for 27 years.Nothing but praise for mile longevity.How ever if your in a emmision state use Royal Purple 15w40

 

I went to the MB dealer to get some parts and the parts guy working there (who happens to drive a 1994 E320) also said the Shell Rotella is fine. He also said they fill our cars with 15w40 of Quaker State, which is the same brand that they used years before when I used to take it to the dealer.

Yet according to MB, Quaker State is not even listed here as an approved oil on their website:
MB 229.1 - Multigrade engine oils (Specification 229.1) - Mercedes-Benz Specifications for Operating Fluids

What good is having these approved lists if they don't update them!

 

Yet according to MB, Quaker State is not even listed here as an approved oil on their website:
MB 229.1 - Multigrade engine oils (Specification 229.1) - Mercedes-Benz Specifications for Operating Fluids

What good is having these approved lists if they don't update them!

The approval list is worthless. Just because an oil doesn't show up on that list doesn't mean the oil is would not pass the test. Also keep in mind that these lists have more to do with extended oil change intervals and fuel economy than the quality of the oil.

 

It doesn't have to be about updating them -- more to do with meeting the standards and I am sure, some level of cost that oil manufactures simply do not want to pay to get a mark of approval from MB.

Either way, stick with whats tried and true. You won't find one person on here who has said 15-40 diesel oil shortened their lifespan, or caused X issue. Its been tested with time. Not so with synthetic...(yet).

 

Looks like 229.3 or 229.5 and SJ or SL "IF" one of those
spec oils is not available.

For Vehicles Without Flexible Service System (FSS or FSS PLUS) – U.S. vehicles Model Year 1997 and earlier:


Side Note: The “Flexible Service System (FSS) – Mercedes-Benz (1998 and newer) use a Flexible schedule for maintenance called Flexible Service System (FSS). The system is designed to offer a flexible service schedule which is directly based on driving habits. Contact your local Mercedes-Benz dealer if you need further explanation.

Again, Mercedes-Benz recommends the use of approved engine oils only. They are listed in the Mercedes-Benz oil specification “sheet 229.3 or 229.5″ which also meet ACEA and/or API classifications listed on the chart below. If a specific Mercedes-Benz-approved or recommended ACEA engine oil is not available, then an API engine oil meeting the recommended API classification can be used.

Only engine oils (including synthetic) with any of the following classification grades, or combinations thereof, are approved according to published documents available from Mercedes-Benz

 

Looks like 229.3 or 229.5 and SJ or SL "IF" one of those
spec oils is not available.

For Vehicles Without Flexible Service System (FSS or FSS PLUS) – U.S. vehicles Model Year 1997 and earlier:


Side Note: The “Flexible Service System (FSS) – Mercedes-Benz (1998 and newer) use a Flexible schedule for maintenance called Flexible Service System (FSS). The system is designed to offer a flexible service schedule which is directly based on driving habits. Contact your local Mercedes-Benz dealer if you need further explanation.

Again, Mercedes-Benz recommends the use of approved engine oils only. They are listed in the Mercedes-Benz oil specification “sheet 229.3 or 229.5″ which also meet ACEA and/or API classifications listed on the chart below. If a specific Mercedes-Benz-approved or recommended ACEA engine oil is not available, then an API engine oil meeting the recommended API classification can be used.

Only engine oils (including synthetic) with any of the following classification grades, or combinations thereof, are approved according to published documents available from Mercedes-Benz

API SL and SJ have been superseded by SM. The above MB list is outdated and SM oil is perfectly suited for an MB engine.

 

229.1

Application: Engine lubricants
Engine Type : 4-Stroke
Quality: Technosynthese
Product Range : Car
Viscosity: 15w50

ACEA Standards: ACEA A3/B4
API Standards: API SERVICES SL/CF
OEM Approvals : VW 501 00 / 505 00 ; MB-Approval 229.1

229.5 SM

 

Mobil 1 0W40 Synthetic

When we purchased our 95 E320 wagon over two years ago, I called our local Benz dealer for a recommendation on oil since this was our first Mercedes. The dealer, Mercedes-Benz of Rochester, only carries Mobil 1 0W40 full synthetic and that is what goes in every gasoline car that passes through their service center. Along with the Jetta we own, which I've run synthetic in for 5 years since I bought it, I'll continue to run the Mobil in all 3, including my new to me 94 E320.

 

When we purchased our 95 E320 wagon over two years ago, I called our local Benz dealer for a recommendation on oil since this was our first Mercedes. The dealer, Mercedes-Benz of Rochester, only carries Mobil 1 0W40 full synthetic and that is what goes in every gasoline car that passes through their service center. Along with the Jetta we own, which I've run synthetic in for 5 years since I bought it, I'll continue to run the Mobil in all 3, including my new to me 94 E320.

Your dealer is doing a disservice to you and other owners of MBs with older cars.

yMobil 1 0W40 or 5W40 is used in the newer cars. I don't think You should not be putting it in your car.

Here in Vancouver the dealer still carries and uses 15W40 for our older engines (103 and 104 and maybe others). In hotter climates, or in summers, they sometimes put in 20W50. For very cold climates you can use a lighter oil for the winter though.

 

Long story short, you can use whatever oil you find in any store in the US as long as the viscosity appears in your owner's manual.

 

Not really, there are grades of oil available now that weren't around
back in the 90's. So you have more choices now depending on your climate.

Mercedes uses 0W40 or 5W40 Mobil 1 at the dealer depending on gas or diesel.

If you go on Mobil's website and use their "help me pick my oil"
feature, when I put in my 1993 400E it recommends 0W40 Mobil 1
which was not around in 1993 or in my manual.

Like you say though, just use a good oil, Rotella is a good oil.

 

Another favorite of mine, Mobil 1 0W40 has good API specs, and 229.5



Mobil 1 0W-40 synthetic motor oil meets or exceeds the requirements of:
API SN/SM/SL/SJ
ACEA A3/B3, A3/B4
Nissan GT-R

Mobil 1 0W-40 motor oil has the following builders approval:
MB-Approval 229.3
MB-Approval 229.5
BMW LONGLIFE OIL 01
VW 502 00
VW 505 00
PORSCHE A40

 

Thanks for posting the specs, Clarkz71! I'm happy to see a long time MB Tech back up what I was told about the Mobil.
:thumbsup:

 

i'll stick with the new Royal Purple15w40 syntheic thats now out.it does not get minus 4 degrees here or colder.what ever you do don't use Super Tech 15w40 my engines both cars burned the oil.

 

Interesting. My wife put 80,000 miles on a '98 C280 that had over 70k when we got it. She was told, and we used, Mobil 0-20 all the way. I thought it was pretty thin, particularly since we live in Honolulu, Hawaii where temps range from 70 - 90 year round. Can't argue with the results, though.

Think I will move to 0-40 next time.

 

Synthetic is required for newer cars because the FSS monitors service interval for the oil...the oil change interval is typically 10K miles or more. They stir up a lot of sludge in older cars, and may find ways to leak that conventional oils wouldn't.

 

Clark, what is your opinion on oil choice for those of us who have the pre-chilled cams + rocker arms which are notorious for going flat? My understanding is the use of oil with a heavy zinc package will help slow the wear...Hence why I am weary of anything other than 15-40 diesel. (Obviously only affects those of us 86-EARLYYYYY 89 model years who did not have the warranty done on it).

 

ps2cho, you want to check the spec's of the oil
for phosphorus and zinc levels which is the wear additives.

For example Mobil 1 15W50 its 1200/1300 ppm

Mobil 1 0W40 is 1000/1100 ppm

On the other hand, their base Mobil 1 10W30 is only 800/900 ppm

To show you how good diesel oil is, Mobil 1 5W40 turbo diesel is 1130/1250 ppm

I would guess most 5W40 diesel oils follow suit.

Just check your brand for the phosphorus & zinc levels to be sure.

 

Rotella 15W40

Found this on Bob Is The Oil Guy, someone e-mailed Shell oil to ask
about wear additives.

"Shell Rotella T Multigrade Oil SAE 15W-40 with Triple Protection Technology, our API CJ-4/SM specification product, typically contains about 1200 ppm zinc and 1100 ppm phosphorous as manufactured."

 

For the 0W40 doubters

Interesting question I found on the "ask Mobil 1" FAQ. Note the car model.




Question: Using 5W-40 Grade Motor Oil Instead of 0W-40 in a Mercedes-Benz

I've been using Mobil 1 0W-40 synthetic oil in my 1992 500E Mercedes for 4 years now
and have been told to consider 5W-40 grade for my car. I live in southern California,
my mechanic only carries 0W-40 weight, and I want to ask if the 5W-40 grade is better
then 0W-40 grade all around?
-- Steve Vainshtein, Los Angeles, CA

Answer:

Both a 5W-40 and 0W-40 will provide the same level of protection at high temperatures,
especially if you are using a product like Mobil 1. As far as the 0W versus the 5W,
this should not make a difference for you other than at start-up.
The 0W would provide you a faster start-up at low temperature but you are unlikely to see
the differences in your climate. Either grade is fine for you and unless you are having any issues,
we recommend you stay with Mobil 1 0W-40 as it is specifically designed for your type of vehicle

 

MB spec 229.1

If you can find it, this Mobil 1 5W50 (not 15W50) meets spec 229.1

I didn't even know they had a 5W50