Best Oil For Volvo – ASTM Test Comparison

What’s the best oil for Volvo? AMSOIL Signature Series 5W30 vs Castrol EDGE Professional A5 5W-30 – Our Unbiased Comparison – How do they COMPARE?

Intro

The purpose of this post is to compare the best available alternative 100% synthetic motor oil to the factory recommended full synthetic motor oil. You can make your own choice on what you choose to use in your vehicle using this unbiased ASTM test based guide as a reference.

Do you love your vehicle and want the best mechanical protection available on the market? AMSOIL is right for you. Our unbiased industry standard ASTM tests provide complete transparency in how our synthetic motor oil performs against leading motor oil brands. The result, protection that blows the doors off of industry standards.

My name is Gino and I have a relentless passion for seeking out the utmost highest quality products available for our vehicles. Never settle for “good enough”. If it’s not the absolute best I will never use it in my 2015 Volvo V60 Polestar. The answer is clear once you use the best available, you will never think about using anything else. I spent the past year researching, collecting data and learning all the weak points and limitations the factory recommended lubricants have in our vehicles. My main objective was to document the potential problems I discovered, learn why these problems exist and find the definitive solution to solve, upgrade and prevent any possible problems in the future.

NOTE: The motor oil compared in this article is for engines that require 5W30, ACEA A5/B5. If you have a 4 Cylinder Engine that requires 0W20 Volvo VCC RBS0-2AE CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE or SHOP BY VEHICLE YEAR to find the correct oil for your vehicle.

Overview

I compared AMSOIL Signature Series 100% Synthetic 5W-30 vs. Castrol EDGE Professional Full Synthetic 5W-30 motor oil which is what Volvo recommends for P3 Platform cars in the owners manual. I wanted to figure out what motor oil is truly the best for our cars. After reading and hearing peoples opinions on which motor oil is better I learned that going based on peoples opinions of “this oil is better than that oil” is completely inaccurate, subjective and possibly bias. There is only one way to know what the best motor oil is and that’s only possible with using verified unbiased ASTM Test data. I did all the extensive research using ASTM test data to compare head-to-head Volvo recommended Castrol Edge Professional to AMSOIL Signature Series to every popular motor oil that meets Volvo A5/B5 specifications and I found the one and only winner. This motor oil blows the doors off of the Volvo recommended oil and outperforms its competition. Take a look at the data below and see for yourself. Remember AMSOIL meets Volvo A5/B5 Specifications. I conveyed my research in a simplistic way so that anyone can click and learn about the different ASTM tests and what they mean. I made it easy to learn and understand the most important data points that determine the performance and quality of a synthetic lubricant.

Conventional oils were incapable of providing the extreme-temperature protection required of jet aircraft. Only synthetics could deliver the protection needed to withstand supersonic flight. Every jet engine in the world can only survive with 100% Synthetic Oil. AMSOIL was the first to utilize synthetic jet engine lubrication technology in vehicles.

You have a high performance vehicle and you have a large investment into it and you want to yield maximum performance and enjoyment out of your vehicle. Don’t settle for standard “Full Synthetic” oil. Most car manufacturers recommend the same oil for their vehicle lineup, most likely because of a corporate contract. There’s no differentiation between a base model and a higher performance vehicle in the eyes of a corporate oil contract but there is a difference. Just because it’s “recommended” does NOT automatically make it the absolute best motor oil you can use in your engine. Castrol meets engine requirements. AMSOIL meets and greatly exceeds the required engine requirements. I proved this by comparing ASTM Test data from other oil manufacturers head to head with the “Recommended” motor oil in this article. I can speak with experience. Your motor oil should match the performance of your vehicle. Don’t settle for less. Consider upgrading to AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Oil Here’s why….

AMSOIL Vs. Castrol Edge Professional:

AMSOIL is 100% Synthetic vs. Castrol is Full Synthetic

AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Motor oils DO NOT contain conventional mineral oil or paraffins (wax). AMSOIL motor oils are formulated using molecularly uniform synthetic base oils that slip easily over one another and are free of unwanted materials. This provides better friction-reduction, optimum fuel efficiency, maximum film strength, and extreme-temperature performance conventional lubricants just can’t touch. AMSOIL lubricants help reduce energy lost to friction, maximize fuel economy which helps reduce greenhouse gases (CO2) emissions. AMSOIL offers superior wear protection in extreme temperatures. AMSOIL keeps engines 81% cleaner² (5 times cleaner) than conventional oil by better resisting the formation of deposits.

Full Synthetic motor oils could contain conventional base oils. The base oils used in conventional oils contain molecules of different sizes and weights as well as unwanted materials, like wax. This typically requires more energy to circulate throughout your engine, which can reduce fuel economy. Conventional mineral oils degrade when exposed to high temperatures and high forces.

AMSOIL provides 100% Protection Against Low-Speed-Pre-ignition vs. Castrol did not publish there test results (This is a hot topic in the lubricant industry because LSPI can destroy pistons and connecting rods)

AMSOIL Total Base Number is (12.5%) which delivers 11% more acid-neutralizing power compared to Castrol Edge Professional (11.2%) (Higher-TBN oils are able to neutralize a greater amount of acidic materials, which results in improved protection against corrosive reactions)

AMSOIL Noack Oil Volatility, % weight loss is (6.7%) which is 59% lower compared to Castrol Edge Professional (12.3%) (Lower oil volatility offers reduced oil burn-off, keeps valves clean, and reduces air pollution from exhaust emissions. When comparing motor oils the industry maximum limit is 15%. (When choosing an oil, the lower the Volatility percentage the better)

AMSOIL High-Temperature/High-Shear Viscosity cP is (3.11) which provides 3.9% better protection for bearings and other components under extreme shearing forces and high-temperature operation vs. Castrol Edge Professional (2.99).  (A temperature of 302° F (150° C) is necessary because bearings and other components require the greatest protection during high-temperature operations) (The higher the test result, the greater the level of protection offered by the oil)

AMSOIL CCS Viscosity is (3968) which 19% lower compared to Castrol Edge Professional (4775) (The CCS Viscosity Test simulates an engine’s ability to turn over at cold temperatures. (The lower the CCS Viscosity the better for cold weather start-up)

AMSOIL Pour Point is (-50°C / -58°F) which is 10% lower in extreme cold temperatures compared to Castrol Edge Professional (-45°C / -49°F) (lubricants with lower pour points may also aid in increased fuel economy, energy efficiency, and ease of starting)

AMSOIL Signature Series Overview

AMSOIL was founded on innovation, beginning with our introduction of the World’s First API-qualified synthetic motor oil in 1972. By ignoring conventionally accepted limitations and refusing to stop short of success, we set a new benchmark for lubricant performance. These same principles guide our product development today, resulting in Signature Series Synthetic Motor Oil. Signature Series is not only the best oil we have ever made, it’s also better than any competitive oil we have tested. Some may claim that Signature Series is over-engineered. Perfect. It is not for everyone. It is for those who want the absolute best engine protection, and it delivers.

AMSOIL is Engineered for enthusiasts seeking maximum protection and performance. Precision-formulated with cutting-edge technology and a longstanding devotion to making the world’s best motor oil. The result: engine protection that blows the doors off the highest industry standards.

Differences Begin at the Molecular Level

Although you might know that synthetic oils outperform conventional oils, you might not understand why.

AMSOIL Synthetics don’t contain the impurities and molecular irregularities inherent to conventional oils. AMSOIL Synthetics pure, uniform molecular structures impart properties that provide wear protection, extreme-temperature performance and fuel efficiency conventional lubricants just can’t touch – all of which help you save money with vehicles that run better and last longer.

Engine Protection

Only a microscopic film of oil separates metal surfaces in your engine from touching and causing wear. AMSOIL synthetic motor oils form a more durable fluid film than conventional oils due to their resilient synthetic base oils. They reduce wear and help you maximize engine life.

Extreme Temperatures

Extreme Heat – 5x Cleaner Engines in Hot Conditions

Vehicle manufacturers are altering engine designs to keep pace with increasingly strict fuel economy standards, resulting in engines that run hotter than ever. The average operating temperature is up to (112°C) 235°F, and even hotter under heavy loads. This heat can quickly break down oil, leading to oxidation, sludge, and deposits. Recent tests show AMSOIL keeps engines 81% cleaner² (5 times cleaner) than conventional oil by better resisting the formation of deposits.

Extreme Cold – 39% Easier & Faster Cold Starts

When the temperature drops, motor oils thicken and move slower, causing parts of your engine to remain unprotected for a short period of time. AMSOIL is more fluid at cold temperatures than the tested conventional oil, giving you 39% easier and faster cold starts. AMSOIL motor oils Do not contain paraffins (wax) and stays fluid in temperatures of -58F (-50C) and lower. This means it can reach vital components faster, providing more immediate engine protection and reduced wear.

Maximize Fuel Economy

The base oils used in conventional oils contain molecules of different sizes and weights as well as unwanted materials, like wax. This typically requires more energy to circulate throughout your engine, which can reduce fuel economy. Conversely, AMSOIL synthetic motor oils are formulated using molecularly uniform synthetic base oils that slip easily over one another and are free of unwanted materials. AMSOIL lubricants help reduce energy lost to friction, maximize fuel economy which helps reduce greenhouse gases (CO2) emissions.

53% Less Oil Consumption

If enough motor oil is consumed, eventually there may not be enough to reach all the complex parts of your engine, which can potentially cause damage. AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 showed 53% less oil consumption³ than the tested conventional oil, requiring less frequent top-offs.

Environmental Conservation

AMSOIL synthetic motor oils are designed to reduce emissions, last longer, and reduce fuel consumption – all features that help prevent pollution. They resist volatilization (burn-off) better than conventional oils, which cuts tailpipe emissions, while extended-drain AMSOIL synthetic oils generate less waste oil and packaging waste since motorists use less oil throughout the year.

AMSOIL Guarantee

You can also be confident that using AMSOIL synthetic lubricants or practicing extended drain intervals will not void your new vehicle or equipment manufacturer’s warranty.

AMSOIL Signature Series Performance & Benefits – Verified by ASTM

AMSOIL synthetic lubricants provide: 

• 75 percent more engine protection against horsepower loss and wear than required by the industry standard, extending the life of vital components like pistons and cams.
• 72 percent better turbocharger protection than required by the GM dexos Gen 2 specification.
• Superior thermal durability that resists breakdown and keeps pistons 40% cleaner than required by industry-standard test even after doubling the length of the industry-standard test.
• 50 percent more detergents² vs. AMSOIL OE Motor Oil to help keep oil passages clean and promote oil circulation.
• 90 percent better protection against sludge.
• 100 percent protection from LSPI. Protects Pistons from Low-Speed Pre-Ignition which can destroy pistons and connecting rods. 
• 66 percent better cold-temperature performance for easier starting, better fuel economy, improved oil flow, and reduced wear.
• Maintain viscosity under extreme temperature fluctuations and shearing forces.
• Does NOT contain paraffins (wax) and stays fluid in temperatures of -58F (-50C) and lower.
• Keep equipment cooler than conventional lubricants, and oxidation resistance is improved.
• Limits Oil Consumption uniform molecular structure that limits evaporation and keeps it where it’s needed most – protecting your engine.
• Develops a strong fluid film that keeps metal surfaces separated.
• Robust anti-wear additives further reduce wear in metal-to-metal contact regions for maximum engine life.
• Trusted by professional engine builders.
• Ideal for turbos & direct injection.
• Long-drain additive system are inherently stable to resist oxidation and neutralize acids over longer periods.
• Guaranteed protection for up to 25,000 miles (40,200 km), 700 hours of operation, or one year, whichever comes first. 
• Pure uniform molecular structures which impart properties that provide better friction-reduction.
• Optimum fuel efficiency
• Maximum film strength
• Extreme-temperature performance conventional lubricants just can’t touch. 
• Reduce air pollution (CO2) from exhaust emissions due to lower volatility, while Industry testing confirms AMSOIL synthetic lubricants and fuel additives increase fuel economy.
• Environmental Benefits – AMSOIL innovation has prevented millions of gallons of waste oil from entering the supply stream.
• Cost Savings/Reduced Maintenance Costs
• Maximizes fuel Efficiency and oil Economy
• Greatly reduces or even eliminates failures
• Innovation
• AMSOIL Guarantee You can also be confident that using AMSOIL synthetic lubricants or practicing extended drain intervals will not void your new vehicle or equipment manufacturer’s warranty.

Benefits of Using AMSOIL 2022

Best Synthetic Motor Oil Comparison ASTM Test Charts – all compared oils meet A5/B5 Specs

AMSOIL Engine Flush Before and After Test Pictures

ASTM Test Transparency

AMSOIL

AMSOIL provides all of the most important ASTM Test results on every lubricant on their website. You can find all of the ASTM Test results on the product page under “Technical Specifications” > “Data bulletins”. Simple, straightforward and easy to find all the test numbers. 100% Transparency, nothing to hide.

Castrol

Castrol has some ASTM test results listed on their website, but they did not list some of the most important ones in my opinion. Since Castrol did not list all of their ASTM results, I had to email them directly to specifically ask them for the tests that are missing on their Product Data Sheet. The ASTM test results that were NOT listed on Castrol’s website were: 1. Total Base Number (TBN) ASTM D2896 2. Noack Volatility, % weight loss (ASTM D5800) 3. High-Temperature/High-Shear Viscosity cP (ASTM D5481) 4. Flash Point °C (°F) (ASTM D92) 5. Fire Point °C (°F) (ASTM D92). They did provide me the test numbers when I asked for them. These test numbers are very important to be able to compare the quality and performance of one motor oil to another motor oil. It’s up to the oil companies if they want to share how well their motor oil performed on each ASTM test on their website. I find it suspicious that they wouldn’t post the most important ASTM Test results. If there numbers were amazing I’m sure they would post them, but maybe they don’t want people to see how their oil performed during ASTM Testing because regular people would be able to compare them to other oil brands.

AMSOIL shows all the ASTM numbers. I put my trust in a company who has nothing to hide.

The other oil brands distract you with marketing tactics that make you feel a certain way and usually use made up meaningless words on their oil bottles but remember, these same companies won’t show their ASTM test results to back their own words they put on their own oil bottles.

The choice is yours AMSOIL proudly shares ALL of their ASTM test results vs. Other oil brands don’t.

Why Noack Oil Volatility % Matters

It’s very interesting that Volvo chose to use motor oil with high volatility. The industry limit is 15%. Volvo recommended Castrol is 12.3% vs. AMSOIL is 6.7% which is half of Castrol. If they had chosen a motor oil with lower volatility one of the greatest benefits would be reduced tailpipe emissions. 

Low volatility % also reduces engine oil consumption and reduces the amount of “crankcase oil vapour” that gets drawn into the intake via engine vacuum from the PCV system. This reduces or eliminates oil residue coating the inside of your intercooler, throttle body, intake manifold, and on the intake valves. This also helps to maintain the perfect air to fuel mixture in your cylinders because you eliminate having to burn “crankcase oil vapours” which in turn maximizes your power output. Oil vapour reduces your octane rating because it has to burn with the fuel that was injected. As you know oil is harder to burn so it’s mixed with fuel for emission reasons, that oil is not as combustible as fuel so it has the potential to ignite when it was not supposed to. Pre-ignition or “detonation” is when the air/fuel mixture in the cylinder ignites before the spark plug fires. PCV Oil vapour reduces efficiency and causes increased emissions since oil vapour is hard to ignite it burns dirty. Less oil vapour being burned means that the catalytic converter substrate also benefits from not getting poisoned. Catalyst poisoning occurs when the catalytic converter is exposed to exhaust containing substances that coat the working surfaces, so that they cannot contact and react with the exhaust. Reduced emissions output is important for a vehicle’s emission system, the vehicle manufacturer, and the environment!  

ASTM test data provided by the oil manufacturers.

Technical Properties ASTM Tests	AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 (ASL)	Castrol EDGE Professional Volvo A5 5W-30	Liqui Moly Special Tec B FE SAE 5W-30
Base Oil Group	100% Synthetic	Full Synthetic	Fully Synthetic
Ability To Prevent LSPI	100% Protection Against LSPI	NOT LISTED by Castrol	NOT LISTED by Liquid Moly
Total Base Number (TBN) ASTM D2896 (mg KOH/g) NOTE: The HIGHER THE NUMBER THE BETTER	12.5	11.2	11.7
Kinematic Viscosity @ 100°C, cSt (ASTM D445) (mm2/s)	10.3	9.5	NOT LISTED by Liquid Moly
Kinematic Viscosity @ 40°C, cSt (ASTM D445) (mm2/s)	59.7	53	NOT LISTED by Liquid Moly
Viscosity Index (ASTM D2270)	162	162	160
CCS Viscosity cP (Cold Crank Simulator) (ASTM D5293) (@-30°C/ -22°F) NOTE: The LOWER THE NUMBER THE BETTER FOR WINTER	3968 @-30°C/ -22°F	4775 @-30°C/ -22°F	<= 6600 @-30°C/ -22°F
Pour Point °C (°F) (ASTM D97) NOTE: STAYS FLUID AT LISTED TEMPERATURE	-50°C (-58°F)	-45°C (-49°F)	-41.6 °C (-43 °F)
Flash Point °C (°F) (ASTM D92)	220°C (428°F)	NOT LISTED by Castrol	223°C (435 °F)
Fire Point °C (°F) (ASTM D92)	240°C / 464 °F	NOT LISTED by Castrol	NOT LISTED by Liquid Moly
Noack Volatility, % weight loss (ASTM D5800) NOTE: Industry Limit Is 15%. The LOWER THE NUMBER THE BETTER	6.7%	12.3%	9.7%
High-Temperature/High-Shear Viscosity cP (ASTM D5481) NOTE: The HIGHER THE NUMBER THE BETTER	3.11	NOT LISTED by Castrol	3
Product Data Sheet / Technical Information Website Link	https://amsoilcontent.com/ams/lit/databulletins/g2880.pdf	https://msdspds.castrol.com/bpglis/FusionPDS.nsf/Files/7B7E0533D7F46E418025833E00659310/$File/BPXE-B6EDXH.pdf	https://pim.liqui-moly.de/pdf/en_US/liqui/14/P004847
ACEA Standards	ACEA A5/B5 API SP (Resource Conserving), SN PLUS, SN	ACEA A1/B1, A5/B5	ACEA A5 • ACEA B5
Applications and APPROVALS	GM dexos1 Gen 2 (supersedes LL-A-025, 6094M and 4718M); ACEA A5/B5, A1/B1; Honda HTO-06; Ford WSS-M2C946-B1, WSS-M2C946-A, WSS-M2C929-A; Chrysler MS-6395; ILSAC GF-6A, GF-5, GF-4	API SN/CF ILSAC GF4 Meets Ford WSS-M2C913-C Jaguar Land Rover engine oil specification STJLR.03.5003	• API SL • BMW Longlife-01 FE
Service Life	Normal Service – Up to 25,000 miles (40,200 km), 700 hours of operation, or one year, whichever comes first, in personal vehicles not operating under severe service. Severe Service – Up to 15,000 miles (24,140 km), 700 hours of operation, or one year, whichever comes first. Severe service conditions include commercial or fleet vehicles; excessive idling; or frequent towing, hauling, plowing, or driving in dusty conditions. • Modified engines (non-stock), racing vehicles, and vehicles using alternative fuels (E85, CNG, propane, etc.) are excluded from extended drain interval recommendations. • Change at the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended drain interval outside U.S. and Canada. • AMSOIL Oil Filters are designed for extended drain intervals. Do not exceed 12,000 miles (19,312 km) or one year with other brand filters unless longer intervals are recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.	Use oil change intervals as per manufacturer.	Use with extended oil change intervals as per manufacturer.

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