Best Oils for 6.0 Powerstroke – The Ultimate Guide (How To Select, Buy And Change Oil)

Using proper engine oil has a lot more benefits than you might think. Using an adequate and high-quality engine oil brings even more benefits, from raw engine performance to its fuel economy. In this article, we are dealing with 6.0 Power Stroke engine and best three oils for it.

We will present you our top 3 items, and then move on to valuable information related to Power Stroke engines, and the importance of using high-quality engine oil. We will also provide you with oil change guide, which should help inexperienced drives maintain vehicle’s oil system.

Recommended Oils for 6.0 Powerstroke

1. Mobil 1 Turbo Diesel Oil 5W‐40

Mobil is a very respectable engine oil provider, with Mobil 1 being one of their most successful items. This fully synthetic engine oil is perfect for heavy-duty environments, emphasizing engine protection in high-temperature situations.

Mobil 1 also helps satisfy low emission requirements. Its formula features less toxic elements (phosphorus and sulfur). Since modern engines operate on high temperatures (higher than the old diesel engines did), the oil manufacturers in Mobil developed an engine oil that will help them endure extreme conditions.

These engines generate more soot, which can cause permanent damage to your engine; Mobil 1 helps prevent the accumulation of (that) residue. It is arguably the best oil for high-temp conditions; after all, it is an official NASCAR engine oil.

Mobile 1 is even better in low-temperature conditions. Due to its thin, 5W 40 formula, this oil stays fluid in very low temperatures, helping with engine startup. Its formula helps prevent low-temp sludge accumulation but also prevents the buildup of oil deposits caused by high-temp performance. And because it cleans the engine effectively, it reduces the vehicles oil consumption.

To conclude, Mobile 1 5W-40 is accustomed to the way Powerstroke 6.0 engines work. Those who live in colder areas should try it, together with those who own heavy-duty vehicles. It is, like all products on our list, a bit expensive. Alas, you can read this forum discussion to see why a lot of people use it.

2. Valvoline Premium Blue Diesel Engine Oil 5W-40/15W-40

Valvoline is another, very respectable engine oil manufacturers. Many drivers appreciate Their Valvoline Premium 5W-40 (see who and why), due to its protective nature and superior synthetic formula.

Valvoline 5W-40 is endorsed by one of the most notable engine manufacturers, Cummins. Its formula provides consistent, stable and safe engine start in freezing conditions, but also anti-thermal protection in hot conditions. It is also an effective stopper of oil oxidation, preventing the occurrence of rust (which can damage the engine).

Most importantly, the Valvoline blue diesel oil contains optimal viscosity in virtually any environment. It also enhances the vehicle’s fuel economy better than standard, non-premium oils. Both Valvoline 5W-40 and 15W-40 meet demands of modern low emission diesel engines. It is needless to say that, if you do have Cummings engine, you should probably go with this engine oil.

Valvoline requires less maintenance. It protects form critical component wear (protects “sensitive” engine parts) and prevents corrosion. It is more expensive than the Mobile 1 but less expensive than the Rotella T6.

Note that you have the option to choose between 5W-40 and 15W-40. 15W is less expensive than the 5W and is suited for warmer temperatures. The main difference between 5w and 15w is their low-temp performance. The general rule says that 15W is good for temperatures down to 15F, and 5W down to -15F. Read this forum discussion to learn more about it.

3. Shell Rotella T6

Last on our list of products is the Rotella T6 5W-40, the best all-around Powerstroke oil. While it is the most expensive product on our list, it is also the most valuable one, promising to improve your fuel economy by 1.5%. As one forum member said:” There is a reason why Rotella T6 5W-40 is always sold out in stores”.

Compared to old engine oil formulas, Rotella’s chemical structure endures high-pressure environments and protects the engine in all conditions. It contains dispersant additives which reduce the harmful effects of elements such as soot or dirt. This oil successfully controls dirt deposits, making sure that the engine is always lubricated to an optimal degree.

Shell Rotella T6 is entirely synthesized and compatible with today’s diesel emissions system. Its low-ash formula is consistent with the most rigorous engine manufacturer’s requirements. This new, “eco-friendly” formula stops intoxication and blockage of engine’s post exhaust devices. Because of that, the engine will comply with emissions requirements but also use the oil more efficiently.

The Rotella T6 5W-40 is ideal for scorching conditions (hot areas/regions too). Those in need of durable and resistant oil should go with Rotella. You should also know that there are Rotella comes in Original And New Packaging, Original one being more expensive. We suggest you go with the original package, due to its proven value and quality.

What to Know Before You Buy?

Now that you’ve seen the product list, it is time to dive deeper into the subject. First, we will explain why we chose these particular products, and why is it essential that you always buy high-quality engine oils. We will teach you why you need good oil, how to obtain the right oil for your vehicle, and how to change the oil (together with filters).

Determining The Basics

Every vehicle comes with owners manual, which explains the type of oil your vehicle should use. The manual will probably recommend the compatible engine oil and will list out the required oil categories show you. Note that you don’t need to understand every single category, make sure that the oil you buy meets the engine’s requirements.

On 6.0 Powerstroke Engines

6.0 Powerstroke engines operate under extreme pressure. The engine uses high-pressure oil to compress the fuel before fuel injection process starts. In some engines, the oil is squeezed even up to 3600 PSI. Because the oil in these engines is subjected to “barbarian” conditions, these engines can use only fully synthetic, preferably additive-enhanced engine oils.

Such oils are more durable and more resistant to conditions with which conventional oils struggle. They are more resilient to mechanical damage, heat and harmful chemicals. In other words, 6.0 Powerstroke engines aren’t that kind to engine oil. And if you want to maximize the engine’s lifespan, you need to buy premium oil.

On Low And Heavy-Duty Conditions

In this article, we talk a lot about oil’s ability o endure heavy-duty environment; what do we mean by that? Low-duty conditions refer to the typical/standard engine running. In this case, the low-duty relates to “normal” driving, when your engine isn’t exposed to heavy activities.

On the other hand, heavy-duty refers to activities that require more engine power, which may include:

1. Towing: dragging an object (such as a trailer) puts more pressure on the engine. Consequently, the engine will use oil more frequently.
2. High-Speed driving: driving at high speed uses more fuel and oil. The main “issue” here is the temperature and weight. The more stuff your vehicle carries (and the more weight you add to it), and the faster you go, the more frequent your changes will need to be.
3. Long-term or frequent idling: according to this guide, frequent idling equates to 10 minutes per hour of regular driving. So, if your engine is idling more than 15% of your driving time, you should change the oil more frequently.
4. Dust And Dirt: driving in dusty conditions (or offroad driving) also taxes the engine. The more dirt there is in the air, the more dust/dirt particles will find themselves in the engine. Quality oil can deal with these issues, but only if it isn’t spent/wasted.
5. Short-distance driving: 6.0 Powerstroke engine isn’t your typical, urban engine. When you start it, it should drive more than 10 miles; anything below that is considered a short trip. The more frequent these trips are, the more often you’ll have to change the oil.

If you are looking for general guidance, experts agree that changing the oil and filter should be conducted every 5000 miles. But, if your vehicle is exposed to heavy-duty activities, you should change the oil more frequently, you should change the oil every 3000 – 4000 miles.

On Driving Style

Each of us has unique driving style. Some drivers are more aggressive and love high-speed driving, and others may be more conservative and restrained. As you probably know, your driving style has an impact on your vehicle (gas mileage, engine usage, transmission usage, etc.)

And as we said, 6.0 Powerstroke is a beast of an engine, and it isn’t surprising if you want to push it to its limits from time to time. But, you have to realize that aggressive driving requires more regular engine checks, oil changes, filter changes, and so forth.

Buying The Right Engine Oil

Why we reviewed these particular oils? Well, while these oils aren’t the only products available to you, they are arguably the best for 6.0 Powerstroke engines. These high-pressure, fully synthetic oils endure harsh climate, heavy-duty environment, and offer the protection your engine needs.

Here are the most important things you have to keep in mind when you are buying the 6.0 Powerstroke engine oil:

Viscosity

The better the oil retains its optimal viscosity levels, the more liberally it can be used. For instance, the products we reviewed are all 5W-40 oils. The two symbols, 5W and 40 refer to oils temperature range, that is, under how extreme conditions is the oil valuable and suited for use.

5W-40 oils often excellent temperature coverage, since they are suitable for freezing and hot weather. It has wintertime use, helping the engine start, and protect the engine’s sensitive parts from high temperatures (caused by climate or excessive, heavy usage).

Viscosity is inherently related to oil’s pressure, which affects the way fuel injectors work. Modern, high-pressure engines require oil that withstands such (high-pressure) conditions; other, low-quality engine oils can lose their initial quality more rapidly, and cause critical damage to the engine.

Protection

The primary role of engine oil is to protect the engine. Think about the complexity of the car engine, its moving parts, pistons, and valves. And the faster you go, the faster these parts are moving. This creates more friction and ultimately generates more heat.

Standard, non-synthetic engine oils cannot withstand the high pressure and high-speed conditions of 6.0 Powerstroke engine. Heat will break down the oil’s chemical structure, and ultimately compromise the engine’s functionality.

To ensure adequate protection, you need to use high-quality oil because it lubricates and cools the engine better than standard engine oil. Performing regular oil changes and using high-quality oil will ensure that your motor is well lubricated and cool during high-temp conditions.

Cleaning Performance

Oil is engine’s janitor (so to speak. Dirt, dust or other particles can be detrimental to the engine’s performance and durability. If left unchecked, the problem can spiral out of control, resulting in oxidation and rust accumulation/corrosion.

Furthermore, oil itself becomes a burden to the engine. The term oil sludge refers to solidified, burnt oil. High temperatures burn the oil, and oil breaks down into sludge. In fact, oil sludge is one of the most common causes of engine problems (in an internal combustion engine).

That’s why it is essential that you buy the oil that is compatible with your engine. You should probably buy the one that can endure hot temperatures since 6.0 Powerstroke engine produces a lot of heat. Sludge can also occur due to extremely cold conditions (the oil will lose its optimal viscosity, turn from fluid to solid state).

These “chunks of oil” will clog the engine, causing decreased performance, even permanent damage. Using high-quality oil will reduce accumulation of sludge, together with regular oil and oil filter changes.

Gas Emission Compliance

Most modern engine oils are accustomed to the new, low-emission diesel engines. Nowadays, diesel engines are experiencing a lot of pressure (thanks to the Diesel Engine Emission Scandal), and are put through rigorous testing. So, the engine oil manufacturers started developing, low-ash lubrication formula, featuring less phosphorus and sulfur, helping the diesel engines reduce air pollution.

Premium oils even enhance the vehicle’s ventilation system, thus reducing air pollution. You can find more info regarding this topic in this Ford guide (check page 4 and 36).

Fuel Economy

Mobil, Shell, and Valvoline are respectable and worldwide companies. Their engine oils, apart from protecting your engine from wear, also boost the fuel economy. Shell Rotella V6 even promises to increase the vehicle’s fuel economy by 1,5%.

While this doesn’t seem like a big deal, you have to look at things from a long-term perspective. The more you use such high-quality oils, the more money you save on fuel. It’s not a lot, but it is a nice bonus.

For me, buying a high-quality engine oil is an investment, not an expense. Giving your engine the attention it needs is a long-term tactic: you save money on fuel, oil, oil filters, and you are minimizing the chances of engine wear and damage.

Vehicle Economy

Using high-quality oil reduces the number of oil changes and improves your vehicle’s durability. For instance, using Cummins engine in pair with Valvoline 5W-40 (they call it “The Only One”) reduces the number of oil checks by 20%. In short, you’ll save 20% money on oil and oil filters.

Naturally, quality engine oil will prevent engine wear, protect its sensitive parts, thus lowering the chance of permanent engine damage. Of course, you don’t have to buy the oil we suggest, but try to buy premium oils, since you really shouldn’t try to save money on it.

6.0 Oil Change Guide

Performing regular oil changes might not be the most entertaining activities, but it is necessary if you want to give your engine the conditions it needs. Here, we would like to give you a brief step by step instructions on how you should change the engine oil. Read it if you want to be sure that you are doing it correctly.

Step 1: If you drove the vehicle, turn it off, and let the engine cool for a while. Once the engine is cold, find the oil plug, often located at the bottom of the oil can. Most plugs can be removed with 19 mm wrench (use closed end of the wrench). Unplug the pan and let the oil drain.

Step 2: Top of your engine should have an oil filter on it, often located on the passenger’s side of the engine’s filter housing. Use proper tools to remove the socket. Remove the oil filter (together with filter cap) entirely from the pan. Pully it vertically, so that you don’t damage the tube (the one that slides in the filter)

Step 3: Pull the cap off the oil filter body. First, replace the cap’s O ring, and then replace the removed cap filter with the new one. Now that you assembled the new filter, it is time you place the filter in the housing (you will probably hear the clicking sound once appropriately installed). You should lubricate the cap’s O ring before you install the new filter.

Step 4: By the time you prepare the new filter, the old oil should probably be drained by now. Clean the plug, and reinstall everything, with new filter and drain plug in place. Once everything is clean and in place, you can start pouring new oil into the fill neck.

Step 5: Use the oil measurement dipstick to see whether or not you poured enough oil. It is always best to add little by little oil so that you don’t overdo it. Now start the engine and observe; see if there are any leaks or other technical issues. If everything is in order, turn the engine off, wait for it to cool down, and recheck the oil level. Add more oil if needed. That’s it!

Conclusion

Powerstroke 6.0 needs exceptionally durable, high-pressure oil to protect it from wear, oxidation, rust, extremely cold or hot temperatures. We recommend that you use only premium oil for Powerstroke engine, due to its operating nature and design flaws (the most significant issue being high friction and heat).

Using a quality 5W-40 or 15W-40 oil will give your engine everything it needs: protection, maintenance (cleaning), lubrication, heat-protection, fuel efficiency, and many other benefits. Make sure that you buy enough of the right oil, the one that is compatible with your driving style.

Aside from buying adequate oil, you have to perform regular oil changes (and oil filter replacement). These two things, purchase of premium oil and regular oil changes will ensure that your Powerstroke 6.0 serves effectively for a very long time.