Let’s get one thing straight: engines with more miles are likely to be more worn, thus the benefit of high mileage engine oil. Internal components including seals, camshafts and bearings will have had more use in high-mileage cars. As a result, all of these will need an extra hand and some protection to save you money.
Generally speaking, higher viscosity oil is what you need for higher mileage engines. Grades from 0W-20 to 15W-50 are available online or in any good vehicle store. For higher mileage cars, you should generally keep an eye out for 10W-40 and onwards as these are thicker and can sustain higher engine temperatures more fluidly.
And whilst 10W-40 engine oil is better suited to high mileage cars, the use of synthetics and other alternatives can be too. Running your car on good oil and servicing it regularly can ensure a long lease of life.
The best at a glance:
Editor’s pick: Mobil Super 3000 5W-30 Full Synthetic – Buy from Amazon.
Best for reducing oil burn: Mobil 1 10W-60 – Buy from Amazon.
Best for both petrol and diesel engines: Shell Helix HX5 15W-40 – Buy from Euro Car Parts.
Nevertheless, searching for the right oil for your car can be daunting and quite confusing. So, we’ve compiled the best high mileage engine oil products in a shortlist. We’ve gone for a full range from synthetic engine oils to advanced conventional types. You can then decide for yourself which suits your needs.
How to find the correct engine oil for your car
Find the correct parts for your vehicle
Pros
- Easy to filter your search
- Loads of different cars in the search system
Cons
- Free delivery only available with Prime
The best high mileage engine oils
Editor's pick
Mobil's Super 3000 full synthetic oil is designed for cars with over 75,000 miles in mind. It fights against sludge and component wear more effectively than regular oil and is more suitable for cold-temperature running.
Pros
- Ideal for cold temperatures
- Additives mean great protection
Cons
- Won't suit some cars
Best for fighting against common wear
It's also part-synthetic which helps protect the engine in both low and high temperatures. For cars with higher miles, this is key to ensuring longevity.
Pros
- Part-synthetic ensures more protection
- Capable in high and low temperatures
Cons
- Full synthetic has a slight edge
Best for reducing oil burn
It also helps protect and condition seals, which helps prevent oil leaks and, given its viscosity, is helpful in higher temperatures.
Pros
- Provides great engine protection
- Helps reduce oil burns
Cons
- Some cars won't suit it
Best for both petrol and diesel engines
No synthetics are used in this oil, and while it doesn't offer the same level of protection as others, it is still very healthy to use in your car's engine, should it need 15W-40.
Pros
- High viscosity for warmer temperatures
- Good value
Cons
- Full synthetics are more beneficial
Best for long intervals
So, if you do many motorway miles a year and need a durable oil that can take on a lot of them, this is a fine option.
Pros
- Long oil change intervals
- Uses synthetic ingredients
Cons
- Viscosity isn't the most ideal for hot temperatures
FAQs
How does high mileage engine oil differ from the rest?
Some brands will label ‘high mileage engine oil’ on their bottles, which can make things easier to differentiate. But more often, this won’t be the case. The key thing to look out for is whether it’s suitable for your vehicle – which is why we’ve linked Amazon Garage at the top of the shortlist. Because while some cars like to run on 5W-30 engine oil, others will need something different.
But generally speaking, engine oils designed for higher mileage engines use a load of friction and wear additives. These are kinder to the older, worn-out seals and gaskets, and generate more fluidity to the oil on moving components. As outlined in our choices, there are a couple of ways to approach it. The first is opting for an oil designed for engines with over 75,000 miles (Mobil Super for instance), and the second is opting for oils with longer intervals than others. Either ensure that you can find the right oil for your driving needs. It’s also a good idea to keep on top of your gearbox oil as well since that’s also a vital moving component to a car.
Can I not just opt for normal, run-of-the-mill engine oil?
Of course. Your engine isn’t going to blow up if you regularly service your car using standard oil. But high mileage oil – especially full synthetics – are designed to make your engine live more cleanly and healthily. If you can imagine the difference between starting your mornings with either coffee or blended fruit smoothies, it’s a similar principle. If you run a high mileage engine on standard oil, there are likely to be a few more leaks (not drastic) over time due to the lack of additives and protectants treating the inner components. Synthetic oils are even available for your two-wheeled vehicles in the form of four-stroke oils.
Should I use thicker oil in a high mileage engine?
Using a slightly thicker oil can be beneficial for high mileage engines. As engines age, their internal components may wear, leading to increased clearances. A thicker oil, like moving from a 5W-30 to a 10W-40, can help maintain better oil pressure and reduce the chances of oil leaks and burning. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and consider the specific condition of your engine before making a change.
Does high mileage oil really work?
High-mileage oils are designed with specific additives that help address issues common in older engines. These oils often contain seal conditioners that can rejuvenate and expand seals, helping to prevent leaks. They also include detergents and anti-wear agents that help keep the engine clean and provide extra protection against wear. While not a cure-all, high-mileage oils can significantly improve the performance and longevity of older engines when used consistently.
What’s the best oil for older engines?
For older engines, a high mileage oil like Shell Helix is a good choice. These oils are formulated to provide enhanced protection against wear, reduce oil consumption, and prevent leaks. They also help clean the engine and prevent the buildup of sludge, which can be particularly beneficial for older engines that may have accumulated deposits over time. Always check the vehicle’s manual for specific oil recommendations and viscosity grades suitable for your engine.
How we choose
All of these high-mileage engine oils have been hand-selected by our team of experts, who have spent hours investigating and researching them to make it easier for you to find the very best. We’d never recommend a product we don’t believe in.
Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about.
Aaron Hussain is a commercial content writer at Bauer Media writing for Parkers and CAR. He is obsessed with classic cars and anything with a fascinating story to tell.
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