What are the best oil additives?

What are the best oil additives?/Oil additives are chemical compounds that improve the lubricant performance of base oil (or oil “base stock”). The manufacturer of many different oils can utilize the same base stock for each formulation and can choose different additives for each specific application. Additives comprise up to 5% by weight of some oils.[1] Nearly all commercial motor oils contain additives, whether the oils are synthetic or petroleum-based. Essentially, only the American Petroleum Institute (API) Service SA motor oils have no additives, and they are therefore incapable of protecting modern engines.

If you want, your engine to perform likes the Champ it’s meant to be then you should think of using oil additives. Yes, the regular oil will work fine as long as you stick to the manufacturer’s recommendation. This includes correct grade, right volume, and timely changes. However, as you probably know, the oil will disintegrate over time. It will become thinner and lighter and will break down due to contaminants. What this means is that the lubricating characteristics will be undermined. This leads to increased friction, which in turn causes more tear & wear. Besides, there is a higher risk of engine damage.  That’s why we would like to introduce you to the best oil additives.

Using an additive helps to improve the functionality, viscosity, and characteristic of the oil. It also introduces protective elements that will safeguard the engine components. The engine will run smoother and better; it will be less noisy, will have less pollution, and will also be less affected by contaminants and corrosive compounds in gasoline, diesel and other fuels. Finding the best product can be a challenge. There are so many types, you will get different grades, and you may have insufficient knowledge to identify a good one from a not so good type.

Best Oil Additives For 2020

The Best Oil Additive
  • Liqui Moly Cera Tec Friction Modifier.
  • Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer.
  • Genuine Ford Fluid XL-3 Friction Modifier.
  • Red Line Break-In Oil.
  • BG MOA Oil Supplement.
  • Rev X Fix Oil Treatment. See More Reviews.
  • Lucas Oil Stop Leak. See More Reviews.
  • BestLine Premium Synthetic Engine Treatment.

XL Nanolube Engine Oil Additive & Nano Treatment; Reduces Oil Burning

#12 XL Nanolube Engine Oil Additive & Nano Treatment; Reduces Oil Burning

The XL Nanolube oil additive is okay for both diesel and gasoline engines. It can be used in different engine capacities, whether a small hatchback, midsize saloon, SUV, light truck, van, heavy-duty commercial trucks and more. Also, it works with many oil types including normal and synthetic oils. By adding it to the engine oil, it provides better lubrication for smoother running.

You will notice lesser emissions, smoother operation, cooler running, and minimal noise. If your car has dry starts, then this will be a thing of the past. It also helps to eliminate smoke and oil burning. Thanks to its good dispersion, it easily blends with the oil and helps it penetrate the pistons, piston rings, rods, and other parts better. This product is available in a nice capacity, and you require a little volume.

Reason To Buy It
  • Capable to work with many different types of oils
  • Presents excellent lubrication in the engine
  • No smoke and oil burning during operation
  • Effortlessly blends with the oil

XADO 1 Stage Atomic Metal Conditioner Revitalizant For HEAVY DUTY DIESEL

#11 XADO 1 Stage Atomic Metal Conditioner Revitalizant for HEAVY DUTY DIESEL

If you have witnessed a drop in power, a sluggish performance, or some smoke coming from the exhaust, then its time you used an additive. This particular one is fit for most vehicles, whether sedans, SUVs, vans, light trucks or heavy-duty vehicles. It has a special formulation that provides extras protection to the engine parts. Furthermore, it is made of superior compounds that retain their integrity for a long time.

Due to this, it will also work with synthetic oils, which have a longer lifespan. The additive has a smooth consistency for better penetration and blends easily with any oil. What’s more, you need a small amount to see some improvements. The engine will rev better, produce lesser smoke, start better, and run smoother.

Reason To Buy It
  • Boast a smooth consistency
  • Lower generation of smoke during operation
  • Suitable for long-lasting use
  • Provides additional protection to the engine parts

ZDDPPlus ZDDP Engine Oil Additive Zinc & Phosphorus 2 Bottles

#10 ZDDPPlus ZDDP Engine Oil Additive Zinc & Phosphorus 2 Bottles

Extend the performance and life of your engine by using the ZDDPPlus Engine Oil Additive. This pack comes with two bottles containing 4 ounces. This is suitable for 4 to 6 quarts of oil. The product comprises cleansing and lubricating compounds such as zinc and phosphorus. The elements help to eliminate gunk, stains, pollutants, grease, dirt, varnish and other compounds from the engine’s interior. Thanks to this, the moving parts will be free of damaging compounds hence better operation.

In addition to its cleaning properties, it also improves the lubrication. The products blend well with the oil to improve the viscosity. This allows the oil to penetrate deeper and better. Consumers who have used this product say that the engine becomes more responsive and seems to strain less. There is also an improvement in the starting, power, torque, and emissions decline.

Reason To Buy It
  • Convenient for 4 to 6 quarts of oil
  • Presents excellent lubrication
  • Flawless working of engine is observed

Liqui Moly (20002) Cera Tec Friction Modifier – 300 Ml

#9 Liqui Moly (20002) Cera Tec Friction Modifier - 300 ml

Coming in a 300 ml bottle, the Liqui Moly (20002 Cera Tec Friction Modifier) is designed for all types of commercially available motor oils. These include standard, synthetic, gasoline (petrol) as well as diesel. The product gets good reviews of the nice constantly, which improves any kind of oil. In fact, consumers and experts state that you will see improvement almost instantly. This may come in the form of better power, improved mileage, better starts, lower emissions, and more.

It is very resilient and will withstand different temperatures both low and high. The product maintains it stood performance even under high loads since the vital compounds don’t break down easily. Other than the normal oil, this additive is also appropriate for synthetic engine oil.

Reason To Buy It
  • Can easily sustain different temperatures
  • Suitable for synthetic engine oil
  • When added in the engine, it will show a boost in power and mileage
  • Comes in a 300 ml bottle
You Might Also Read  Why Dogs Are Better Than Cats? - 5 Reasons

 REV-X Stiction Fix Oil Treatment – Two 4 Fl. Oz. Bottles

#8 REV-X Stiction Fix Oil Treatment - Two 4 fl. oz. Bottles

Anyone searching for high-performance engine oil addictive should go for the REV-X Stiction Fix Oil Treatment. It works with any engine oil, both standard as well as synthetic oil. Furthermore, it is okay in a diesel or gasoline engine. The product is safe for standard as well as high-performance engines.

It enhances the flow of the oil in the engine for superior performance. This means the parts move better and faster. On top of that, it has protective agents that will eliminate varnish, gunk, clogs, dirt and other things. These two bottles offer you 4 fluid ounces and will treat 12 quarts of oil. Other reasons why this product is good to include eliminating noisy tappet noise, knocking, cold start issues, and Stiction in HEUI Injectors.

Reason To Buy It

  • Makes the flow of engine smooth
  • Effectively eliminates cold start issues
  • Can flawlessly work with standard and also synthetic oil
  • Engine’s part will move flawlessly and efficiently

 Archoil AR9100 Oil Additive (16oz) For All Vehicles – Powerstroke Cold Starts

#7 Archoil AR9100 Oil Additive (16oz) for All Vehicles - Powerstroke Cold Starts

Available in a 16-ounce bottle, the Archoil AR9100 Oil Additive prevents cold starts, smoke, tapping or knocking sounds. The product also helps to clean injectors for better performance and improved mileage. It’s suitable for any commercial motor oils such as normal, synthetic, diesel and gasoline (petrol). Consumers claim that the positive effects are noticeable within a short time and this includes improved power, better no smoke, and reduced noise.

The additive is fit for low and high temperatures and puts up with demanding situations pretty well. These include long-distance driving, heavy machinery, high temperatures, or extremely cold conditions. It is also safe for other parts including seals and rubber.

Reason To Buy It
  • Suitable for long-distance riding when added in the engine
  • Recommended to be used for rubber and seals
  • Presents enhanced mileage benefits

Lucas Oil LUC10131 Pure Synthetic Oil Stabilizer – 1 Gallon

#6 Lucas Oil LUC10131 Pure Synthetic Oil Stabilizer - 1 Gallon

If your car has sluggish performance, emits some smoke from the exhaust, or has dry starts, then you certainly need an additive. This one from the Lucas brand is ideal for sedans, SUVs, vans, light trucks and heavy-duty vehicles. It offers protection to the engine parts against t friction, varnish, contaminants, and other harmful elements. Furthermore, the ingredients retain their integrity for long-lasting performance.

The Lucas Oil LUC10131 Pure Synthetic Oil Stabilizer comes in 1 Gallon and is all right for most needs. Other than normal oil, it is also suitable for synthetic oils. The product boosts performance, provides smooth operation and you need just a small capacity/volume to experience the improvements.

Reason To Buy It
  • Engine’s parts will stay protected against harsh elements
  • Its 1 Gallon capacity is sufficient to meet different needs
  • Boost in performance of the engine
  • Effective by just using a small proportion

Marvel MM13R Mystery Oil – 32 Oz

#5 Marvel MM13R Mystery Oil - 32 oz

One of the best oil additives, The Marvel MM13R Mystery Oil is ideal for diesel and gasoline engines. It works in different engines such as small hatchback, midsize saloon, light truck, SUV, heavy-duty commercial trucks and more. The product is suitable for normal and synthetic oils and comes in a nice 32-ounce bottle. It improves the lubrication for seamless running as well as protecting the moving parts.

You will observe better running, minimal emissions, cooler running, and reduced noise. Also, the additive gets rid of dry starts, smoke, and excessive oil burning. It easily mixes with the oil for better penetration. Furthermore, it prevents the buildup of carbon, varnish, and gumming effect.

Reason To Buy It
  • Its 32-ounce bottle s suitable for long-term use
  • Enhances lubrication for flawless operation
  • Suitable for diesel and gasoline engine both
  • Eliminates diesel and gasoline engine

Lucas LUC10130 Synthetic Oil Stabilizer. Quart

#4 Lucas LUC10130 Synthetic Oil Stabilizer. Quart

Coming from one of the renowned brands when it comes to oil additives, the Lucas LUC10130 Synthetic Oil Stabilizer will improve the functionality and performance of the engine. The product is fit for diesel and gasoline engines, whether small, medium or, large. According to the manufacturer, this product allows the engine to run smoother, quieter, and cooler. What’s more, it extends life by as much as 50%. This is thanks to the protective elements found inside the additive. Other notable benefits from using the product include minimal dry starts, lower oil consumption, smoother ride, and reduced noise.

Reason To Buy It
  • Can work seamlessly for diesel and gasoline engines both
  • Includes protective elements in the formula
  • Reduced oil consumption in the engine

TriboTEX Oil Additive Car Engine Treatment: Add To Engine Oil

#3 TriboTEX Oil Additive Car Engine Treatment- Add to Engine Oil

TriboTEX Oil Additive Car Engine Treatment is based on a revolutionary technology that seeks to enhance engine performance and life. The product is fit for most oil types and will work well in both gasoline and diesel vehicles. The product comprises synthetic nanoparticles that infiltrate deep inside the moving parts. In so doing, it eliminates particles that may be hindering movement, contaminants, dirt, varnish and more. Additionally, the compounds improve the lubrication, and this allows for smoother running.

Other than providing better lubrication and protection, the compound also reverses wear. This happens when the active compounds embed themselves on the pitting or small scratches.

Reason To Buy It
  • Resist wear & tear in engine
  • Excellent improvement in lubrication of the engine
  • The included synthetic nanoparticles penetrate deep inside the moving parts
  • Conveniently fit for most oil types

Lucas 10001 Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer – 32 Oz.

#2 Lucas 10001 Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer - 32 oz.

Add life to your engine oil as well as the engine by using this oil additive by Lucas. The high-grade product should work with all oil types including synthetic oils. You can use it in your small car, SUV, CUV, pickup truck, as well as heavy-duty trucks. It’s made following advanced technology and boasts of superior compounds. They will not only eliminate dirt, clogs, gunk, carbon, and other things, but will help the engine run seamlessly. It also helps to lower oil consumption as well as increasing gas mileage. This is due to the better lubrication and removal of harmful components. It is safe for seals and rubbers and may, in fact, stop leaks.

Reason To Buy It
  • The engine will be able to run flawlessly
  • Implements advanced technology and includes superior compounds
  • Guarantees reduced oil consumption
  • Discards accumulation of different kinds of dirt
You Might Also Read  Best Car Covers - Types and How To Buy It

AI Innovations LUC10002 Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer, 1 Gallon

#1 AI Innovations LUC10002 Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer, 1 Gallon

The best oil additive, AI Innovations LUC10002 Lucas will improve and stabilize engine oil. It is fit for light to heavy-duty oil and doesn’t interfere with the characteristics or functionality. Instead, it boosts the performance, and this is evidenced by an improvement in power, response, torque, and other things.

Situations that may call for this product to be used include excessive ticking noise, knocking, smoke, especially during startup, noisy engine, or some oil burning smell. It does require lots of experience or skill to use. Simply follow the instructions found on the pack. The oil stabilizer comes in a 1-gallon container.

Reason To Buy It
  • Excellent boost in torque, performance, speed, and power of the engine
  • The pack comes with all necessary instructions
  • Suitable for light and heavy-duty oil
  • Its 1-gallon container will last longer

Why Buy Oil Additives

  • Prevent Rust – When you mix oil additive with motor oil, it refines the lubrication and reduces friction. Keep in mind that rust is one of the leading causes of deterioration in older engines.
  • Improve engine performance – Usually, when an engine is burning too much oil, it will slow down. Additionally, when the oil in your car’s engine is too runny, like water, it will distort the performance of your engine. However, oil additives contain oil stabilizer elements that help thicken the oil and enhance engine performance.
  • Clean the engine – There are some engine oil additives that have detergent characteristics. This would be helpful to unclog impurities that are stuck between the engine parts, reducing the extreme friction. Alternatively, oil additives can also be used to regulate temperature.
  • Stop excessive smoke – If you’re driving a car that coughs too much thick, black smoke like it’s being strangled, oil additives may solve the problem. The oil additive acts by reducing the engine oil loss that causes excess smoke to blow out of your exhaust pipe. It also reduces engine noise.
  • Prevent oil leakage – A top-quality engine oil additive should be able to seal small scratches and micro cracks to stop oil leakage. In the long run, this could save you a lot of money that would have been used to constantly replace the leaking oil.

Types of Oil Additives

  • Antioxidants – Oxidation causes engine parts to deteriorate when exposed to oxygen. Hence, antioxidant oil additives do the exact opposite by acting like a protective layer to slow down the oxidation process and prevent corrosion of the engine parts. Also, such types of oil additives are capable of prolonging the lifespan of the engine oil.
  • Detergents – The objective of detergent oil additives is to get rid of impurities accumulating in the engine components. Moreover, detergents are alkaline in nature, and they’re used to neutralize the acidity level of the engine oil and avoid unwanted deposits that would otherwise form when exposed to high temperatures.
  • Viscosity Modifiers – When blended with regular oil, viscosity modifiers play a role to prevent the oil from becoming thinner or watery after exposure to high temperatures. Alternatively, viscosity modifiers improve oil fluidity at low temperatures, which helps to boost fuel economy and reduce wear. Most top-rated oil additives that are sold contain viscosity modifying elements.
  • Friction Modifiers – A friction modifier serves the purpose of decreasing the friction between metal surfaces in the engine. In retrospect, friction-reducing engine treatment indirectly enhances fuel economy and could also be used as an anti-wear agent. Most synthetic oil additives that you can find on the market will typically include anti-friction formula.
  • Anti-Foaming Agents – Anti-foaming oil additive contains chemicals that inhibit foam and air bubbles in the engine oil. Otherwise, if the foam bubbles don’t burst, they would speed up the oxidation process, which would ultimately lead to corrosion. In most cases, you will need a very low concentration of anti-foaming agent to get the job done.

How Do Oil Additives Works

There are many different engine oil additives available, working in a range of ways:

  • Anti-oxidants – These stop oxygen from reacting with component materials, reducing corrosion and sludge formation.
  • Anti-wear agents – Anti-wear agents attach to metal surfaces and stop metal parts from wearing against one another. Usually dormant, they react when metal surfaces touch, forming a soapy film that reduces friction.
  • Extreme pressure additives – Similar to anti-wear agents, extreme pressure additives react with component metals to create a film that stops adhesive wear. Activated by high loads and contact temperatures, they are a common fixture of gear oils.
  • Viscosity index modifiers – These stop oil from thinning out at higher engine temperatures. Made from polymers, they become larger as they heat up and thicken oil, before shrinking in size as conditions cool down, ensuring viscosity at a wide temperature range.
  • Anti-foaming agents – These chemicals have low interfacial tension, meaning they can enter the walls of bubbles, dilute and split them. As well as tackling foaming, they can also reduce oxidation as they remove the presence of air.
  • Detergents – Detergents clean the engine of deposits and sludge, as well as counteracting any acids that form within the engine and oil. They are the foundation of the oil’s alkalinity, noted by the oil’s base number.
  • Friction modifiers – Chemicals that lower the friction between engine components, Friction modifiers are typically used in transmission systems and help improve fuel economy, increase component lifetimes and reduce deposit formation.
  • Pour point depressants – An oil’s pour point refers to the lowest temperature at which it stays fluid. Pour point depressants allow oils to flow at lower temperatures, reducing the ability of wax crystals to form large, solid structures.
  • Dispersants – Dispersants stop soot particles from forming large deposits within engine oils. Comprising a polar particle that seeks out soot and an oil-soluble tail, they blanket pieces of soot and stop them from sticking together or to components, spacing them out within the oil, until the deposits are removed during the next oil change.
  • Emulsifiers – Used in fluids combining water and oil such as metalworking fluids, emulsifiers are chemicals that stop oils and water from separating by binding the two together.
  • Demulsifiers – Demulsifiers change the interfacial tension of lubricants to stop the formation of water-oil solutions. They are used in applications where there is a large amount of water or steam present during operations.
  • Tackifiers – Tackifiers stop lubricants from being propelled off components as they move – particularly rotational movement. They are usually used in the most viscous oils
  • Biocides – Biocides stop bacteria from growing within lubricants, keeping them clean from contamination and safeguarding their performance.
You Might Also Read  What Is Charcoal Grills ? Types and How To Buy It

Guide to Buying the Best Oil Additives

The opinion on oil additives depends on the person you ask. Though there are some that strongly advocate the products others are more reserved. We encourage you to form your own opinion! As a result, we have put together this buyer’s guide to help explain what you can expect to get with the top oil additives on the market.

Understand the Types of Oil Additives

There are different types of oil additives. You should get to know what type before settling on a specific product.

  • Complete Engine Treatment – The oil additive prevents friction. It forms a protective barrier around engine parts to eliminate excess heat.
  • Engine Break-In Oil Additive – The additive is combined with engine oil to protect the camshaft lifters in your vehicle. It can also lubricate the valve train.
  • Engine Oil Stop Leak – The type of oil additive mainly stops leaks in engines by sealing the part that is causing the leak.
  • Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer – The oil additive mainly reduces friction. It enhances the lubrication inside the engine to make it run smoother.
  • High Mileage Oil Stabilizer – As the name suggests, it protects the engine against wear and tears on older vehicles.

Learn about the Chemicals in the Additive

There are a couple of chemicals that are essential to a good oil additive for your car engine:

  • ZincZinc in oil additives acts as a performance booster. It mostly benefits older engines.
  • Phosphorous – Phosphorus limits metal-to-metal friction in engines. The chemical prolongs the life of the engine. The best oil additives are generally blended with zinc and/or phosphorous.
  • EPA Certification – Some oil additives reduce harmful emissions. Basically, when fuel economy has improved the level of emissions is reduced. Oil additives that are known to reduce harmful emissions have EPA certification. It also indicates that the oil additive doesn’t contain any harmful substances. There is an alternative called PEA certification that indicates the same eco-friendliness. So, if you want to make an environmentally-friendly purchase, refer to the EPA and/or PEA certification.
  • Engine Model – The product should explain on the label what it is designed to support. Some additives are designed for gas, while others are diesel. Some can assist with both types of engines. It is very important to understand if the additive is compatible with your make and model. Check the user’s manual of your vehicle to find out what type of engine it has to make sure the oil additive is compatible.
  • Double Check to Make Sure the Oil Additive is Effective –  Companies that produce oil additives may guarantee it works for all types of engines. However, your user manual is a better source of verification compared to the promise from the manufacturer or label on the bottle. The user manual will indicate what type of oil additives you can use for the engine. It may even list chemicals to avoid in order to narrow down your search.
  • Where You Live Matters – Some oil additives can’t withstand certain conditions. Cold weather is notoriously hard on oil and additives. However, most are able to withstand hot temperatures, even extreme heat. So if you live in a very cold place you may find some products are ineffective, or even damaging to the engine.

Final Thoughts

Like many people, you probably overlook the value of oil additives. And because of this, you stick to the one the manufacturer recommends. While this is okay, you can make it even better by also using an additive. The compound will not affect the existing oil in any way. In fact, it will make it better in regards to viscosity, durability, heat dissipation, resistance to contaminants and other things. To help you pick the best, we evaluated the popular types and managed to distinguish the very best from the rest. By using one of these best oil additives that were mentioned in the review, there is no doubt that your engine will perform better, have lower emissions, and will last a long time.

Data Source