AMSOIL USE

How many out there with Gen 2 4.0s are using AMSOIL 5W-30? I have always used Mobil1 5W-30 Full Syn in my 1998 Tacoma 3.4 (253K on it now). When we picked up my wife's 2011 4Runner, the dealership was installing 0W-20 AMSOIL in it. I went with that on the first two oil change cycles since they were covering it. After I found they had come up short on the last change (apparently installed 6 qts instead of the 6.6 qts called for), I decided to do all the oil changes on it myself moving forward. This was the first time I had let the dealership do the PM given the warranty terms in the purchase. I switched to Mobil 1 0W-20 for my first change at home. It's now getting harder to find the Mobil1 0W-20 in 5 QT units locally. Walmart quit stocking it so O'Reilly has it at a higher price. I decided to order the AMSOIL directly online. If you opt into their membership program, the per unit price drops 25% so the overall price comes very close to Mobil1. I'm considering using it on my 2015 Tacoma as well to maximize my membership ($10 for 6 months or $20/yr). I noticed the 4Runner oil was noticeably a little darker after changing to Mobil1. It was actually very hard to see on the stick before given its so light. It has 53K on it now and we purchased it with 26K. I know there are camps for all the different brands out there, just wandering how many have opted for the AMSOIL. And those who have experimented with both types over time. I was hesitant given the limited availability of AMSOIL but the price point is comparable so I figured I would try it for a few cycles. I chose their XL series, not the Signature line. The XL is what is suggested for the recommended 10K intervals. I change it at about 7.5K just because I feel better about it...no other reason. Their OE series is slightly less expensive but the dealership started with XL so I followed suit. Thanks for any insights that can be shared from other's experiences.

Side note....Got my first up close look at a Tan 2016 Tacoma TRD OR yesterday at the dealership. I like the look other than the grill work. The price was listed at above $38K. Glad I opted to grab my 2015 TRD OR back in Jan at about $10k less (granted I don't have the 4WD). The salesman was showing off the tail gate design of all things. Does look heavier in design. The one thing that got my attention was the fact they have added sound dampening to the door panels. I can not believe how loud my TRD is inside compared to the wife's 4Runner. I know apples and oranges...but given it's a new truck it was hard to believe.

Thanks...

 

+1!

 

I also use it. I use the signature series at 15,000 mile intervals. I got my 2006 a year or so ago and switched to it. I could not be happier. I did an oil analysis after the first run and the report looked really good and even said I could have went a little longer on the oil. I am at 150,000+ now. I got the truck when it was in the low 120's. Seems to start and crank better to me also, especially for the cold winters. I can try to find the oil analysis report that I received if you are interested.

 

WHICH Amsoil? I doubt the dealer installed the Signature Series version for a "free" oil change - that is expensive oil!

I use the signature series in all my vehicles, after having used Mobil 1 for over 30 years. Mobil 1 is still excellent, I just like the Amsoil better.

 

I use it.

 

If you really want to know which is better, do some Blackstone testing after an equal OCI with both oils rather than ask the internet. You'll know for sure then.

 

I use signature and change 2X a year. Probably overkill but I'm OCD on fluids in the truck.

 

Found this article online of testing different motor oils. That are offer off the shelf at any auto supply store. Even tho it was done in 06 it was very interesting how they tested them. Royal Purple R51 came on top at $38 for 5 qt jug. Tho I still like my $17.50 Walmart oil. http://www.animegame.com/cars/Oil Tests.pdf

 

Given the age of the labels, not much in that article applies anymore. All the major manufactures have changed their formula's a few times in the last ten years.

 

Yea Dino oil is old, the same as this 9 year old article I agree. If you find a newer article on the subject please share it with us.

 

I use AmsOil 5w-20 (signature series) in my 2.7L 4cyl. I change it once a year, I only drove 6000 miles last year. I opted for 5w-20 rather than 0w-20, either is specified. It doesn't get that cold here and I've never liked thin runny oil . Tacoma use about 1/4 quart or less in 6000 miles.

I used 10w-40 in my 220D diesel mercedes, it started right up after sitting for 3 days in below freezing weather.

I've been using AmsOil for a long time, I'm a lifetime dealer (they don't sell lifetime dealerships anymore). I've always been happy with AmsOil, engines are always clean inside. Engine sludge is formed from degraded oil, no sludge with AmsOil. I originally switched to AmsOil after seeing all the sludge in engines run on regular oil.

I used AmsOil wheel bearing grease on my bicycle instead of that wimpy white grease bicycles are supposed to use. I thought it peddled easier but as it took me several days to tear it all down and put it back together I wasn't sure. We regreased my friend's bottom bracket (the thing the peddles turn in) and he said it was noticabley easier to peddle.

Due to US Government regulations oil labeled "full synthetic" or whatever doesn't have to be 100% synthetic. AmsOil clearly identifies the oil they make that isn't 100% synthetic but others don't. So buyer beware.

 

Pennzoil Platinum is also full synthetic, just FYI.

 

I don't care where the oil comes from! As long as it gives me protection at a reasonable coast, and I can get it local.

 

Thanks for all the feedback.

To answer one of the replies above. The dealership wasn't performing the changes for free. It was part of their program to get the "warranty for life" coverage. I could have used any certified service. I was using the Infinity dealership because they threw in some coupons for free changes on dino which offset the cost of the synthetic. I asked if the used Mobil1 products, they use the AMSOIL XL version instead. After noticing 6 Qts on the last bill instead of 7 Qts, I looked closer at the dipstick to discover they were a little low. Calls for 6.6 Qts. I then opted to do all the service myself like I have always done for my 98 Tacoma SR5. After reading lots of information on AMSOIL, I got the impression it may perform a little better long term. I have no issues with Mobil1. It has served me well for 15 yrs. Like others, I change on 5K just as added insurance. Gives me a chance to check everything else for wear and tear as well. Like anything in this world, you can read all you want on a subject but nothing beats real world feedback from those who have used the products first hand. This forum is a great source for that. Even some testing can be misleading depending on how it is setup and who is behind the test. Again...thanks to all.