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Factory motor oil..is that a Castrol 5W30 synthetic?

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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 08:44 PM
  #1  
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I noticed that my oil reading on my dipstick is smack in the middle of the ribbed
area..Im assuming that I should add about 1/3 quart oil.

Im still at 7.5kmiles so the original factory oil with breakin fluid is in the
motor.

Is it okay to just add any synthetic Castrol (dealer emphasized CASTROL!)
synthetic 5w30?

Thanks, I did a search, but wasn't sure if im reading the right oil. :smile:
 
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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 09:08 PM
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>>I noticed that my oil reading on my dipstick is smack in the middle of the ribbed
>>area..Im assuming that I should add about 1/3 quart oil.
>>
>>Im still at 7.5kmiles so the original factory oil with breakin fluid is in the
>>motor.
>>
>>Is it okay to just add any synthetic Castrol (dealer emphasized CASTROL!)
>>synthetic 5w30?
>>
>>Thanks, I did a search, but wasn't sure if im reading the right oil. :smile:


Factory oil with breakin fluid........there's break in fluid?


Embossed on the valve cover of my MC is "MINI recommends Castrol".
I'd say that it should be fine to use Castrol Synthetic.


R.E.

 
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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 10:50 PM
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resmini- thanks. yes, i believe there is break-in fluid mixed in the oil
on all new engines including the MCS. :smile: unless mini doesn't use it...
 
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Old Feb 21, 2004 | 05:27 AM
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Ken,

I just checked out your web page.....pretty neat. :smile:


R.E.
 
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Old Feb 21, 2004 | 06:03 AM
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Hey Ken,
I remember this topic before and some have said that you can mix oils together no problem. I was not aware of any special break in fluid added to the oil, but I'm no expert. I think I heard of that being used many years ago, but not sure if that is used anymore. Engines nowadays are much better made with finer tolerances so breakin period is really short now, so that may not be needed anymore. I had the dealer change my oil at 1200 miles or so (after breakin) and will change it again at 5k and thereafter every 5k. I know that oil change intervals have been discussed in detail here, and it may be overkill, but who cares. I'll just take that extra margin of benefit, if it exists. It's only money and I don't put that many miles on my car anyway. After almost 4 months I have 1900 miles. So I won't need to change it that often.

Yeah your website is really awesome!
 
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Old Feb 21, 2004 | 07:14 AM
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resmini- thanks for checking it out. :smile: i'll have more picts with my R90's
pretty soon after it gets warmer. :smile: Yah, im not
sure about the breakin fluid either as my MA didn't mention anything about
it. On the other cars that i have/had, they had breakin fluid (aluminum
engines) so i always waited until the factory maintenance interval to do
the first oil change.
 
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Old Feb 21, 2004 | 07:47 AM
  #7  
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I remember reading somewhere that its actually some grade of Castrol Syntec that isnt availale in the US (except from the dealer). Supposedly its slightly different/better.

--
Cheese

 
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Old Feb 21, 2004 | 07:56 AM
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From: bham,al.
i know some folks hate amsoil, but on one dealers site was an article about syntec . ive used it for years, but no more.heres the link.http://www.oilsandlube.com/synthetic...ts_all_new.htm
 
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Old Feb 23, 2004 | 04:02 PM
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There are different kinds so it may be the case. German Castrol is a synthetic in a true sense prior to the change in the definition of synthetic. And the US version of Castrol Syntec is a really refined natural oil, which some dont like because by definition a synthetic should be oil created by man not a heavily filtered natural oil.

At any rate there are 2 versions of Castrol Syntec out there so the original oil may very well be a different or better oil.
 
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Old Feb 23, 2004 | 04:21 PM
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I remember awhile back someone here said that the dealer does use the "good" Castrol synthetic, i.e., actual synthetic. But I would check to be sure before using any Castrol synthetic as to which it is. I will change my oil every 5K miles at the dealer, so whichever they use, I'm not worried as it shouldn't matter with that frequency of oil change.
 
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Old Feb 23, 2004 | 06:39 PM
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Thanks for the info. I haven't driven my MCS for over a week...will buy
the bestest Castrol Synthetic i can find at the auto parts store this week.
I hope I can take her out by Thurs or Friday. :smile:


 
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Old Feb 23, 2004 | 07:21 PM
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im sure there are other opinions out threr, but id think about amsoil,redline, or mobile1 before syntec IMHO.
 
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Old Feb 26, 2004 | 08:31 AM
  #13  
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Here is the REAL skinny of the Mini Oil.
The formulation is called Castrol SLX and it is suppossed to be 0-W30.

The thing is, this is as close to a "super oil" as you can get.
there are two versions, the GM (General Motors) approved one and the plain jane one.
The GM one ; Formula SLX GM 0W30 is a "factory fill" fluid approved for use and in actiual use in most if not all GM plants in Europe. While it has the usual approvals (read "oil performance tests" carried out in VERY SERIOUS testing labs) it has an extra layer of approval in that GM sets a tougher spec.

The plain jane SLX is no dog either, not at all. As well as having credentials to meet all plain jane specs (API, ACEA (Europes "API&quot it also carries awesome credentials in the form of Long Drain Approvals from BMW (LL01) - up to 30K Kilometers drain interval, VW (502 00/505 00/503 01) and Mercedes Benz (229.3)

All these numbers mean the oil has gone through some pretty serious and stressful testing and is certified and verified to easily does what it claims it can do.
Are there competitiors, sure, equivalents yes.
You want to look though, specifically for the BMW LL01 approval on the can. If it don't have it, don't use it.
Castrol Syntthec 0W30 carries these specs in the US. No other grade of synthec carries them........
 
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Old Feb 26, 2004 | 09:33 AM
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If the Mini comes with Castrol Synthec 0w30 per the BMW(LL01) spec, why does BMW state 5w30 for the Mini?
 
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Old Feb 26, 2004 | 10:00 AM
  #15  
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don't remember where I saw it, but there was a lot of discussion some time ago the upshot of which was that Castrol Synthetic isn't really 100% synthetic. Mobil 1 is and that what goes in my baby. Perhaps there are others out there, but I can easily get my hands on Mobil 1 and have read reviews substantiating its virtues.
 
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Old Feb 26, 2004 | 03:18 PM
  #16  
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>>If the Mini comes with Castrol Synthec 0w30 per the BMW(LL01) spec, why does BMW state 5w30 for the Mini?
Let me get back to you on that.........perhaps I am in error......perhaps it comes from the factory w/ 0w30 (factory fill) and 5w30 is available here.

 
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Old Feb 26, 2004 | 03:26 PM
  #17  
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>>don't remember where I saw it, but there was a lot of discussion some time ago the upshot of which was that Castrol Synthetic isn't really 100% synthetic. Mobil 1 is and that what goes in my baby. Perhaps there are others out there, but I can easily get my hands on Mobil 1 and have read reviews substantiating its virtues.

Sythetic is as synthetic does.......there are two types of base oils which can be accurately be termed synthetic. Mobil 1, a GREAT OIL, is formulated with something called a polyalphaolefin- comes from crude but don't ask me more than that. It has tremendous oxidative qualities and super flow characteristics when cold.

The other type of base oils are called NBO (non-conventional base oils, and these are specially refined cuts of hydrocarbon streams, obviously also from oil (crude). The properties of these (also called type III and IV) base oils are equivalent to the polyalphaolefins. Another kind is something called polyinternal olephins but this is too long already.....

There was a bit oif a p...ing contest between a couple of brands that shall remain unnamed, over the use of the term synthetic. Legal fur flew and the courts settled it by allowing both types of fluids to be called synthetics.
Bottom line for the Mini: Look for the BMW approval on the can. Mobil I should have it as well.

 
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Old Feb 27, 2004 | 10:30 AM
  #18  
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Just came back from the dealership with a quart of their oil to top off. On the label, it says Castrol 5W/30 and specially blended for Mini. I did asked the service manager if it is same as the Castrol that I could buy at the local shop and he said that it is a different blend but could use that if I want to.
 
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Old Mar 1, 2004 | 02:19 PM
  #19  
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>>>>If the Mini comes with Castrol Synthec 0w30 per the BMW(LL01) spec, why does BMW state 5w30 for the Mini?
>>Let me get back to you on that.........perhaps I am in error......perhaps it comes from the factory w/ 0w30 (factory fill) and 5w30 is available here.
>>

this action item is still outstanding. This to let y'all know I am still working on it.

Should have the bottom line here shortly (famous last words)
 
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Old Mar 1, 2004 | 08:46 PM
  #20  
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>>I noticed that my oil reading on my dipstick is smack in the middle of the ribbed
>>area..Im assuming that I should add about 1/3 quart oil.
>>
>>Im still at 7.5kmiles so the original factory oil with breakin fluid is in the
>>motor.
>>
>>Is it okay to just add any synthetic Castrol (dealer emphasized CASTROL!)
>>synthetic 5w30?
>>
>>Thanks, I did a search, but wasn't sure if im reading the right oil. :smile:


One thing interesting I found was that while it says on the intercooler shroud and in the owners manual that "MINI recommends Castrol", in my service/warranty manual where it talks about topping off, it says use Mobil 1 or other equivalent 5w30 synthetic. Perhaps this is because stating Mobil 1 insures that it gets topped off w/ synthetic?

 
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Old Mar 2, 2004 | 09:11 AM
  #21  
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No, it has to do with the fact that the BMW-powered Williams F-1 team probably inked their deal with Castrol AFTER the Owner's manual was printed....
 
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Old Mar 3, 2004 | 09:42 PM
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>>No, it has to do with the fact that the BMW-powered Williams F-1 team probably inked their deal with Castrol AFTER the Owner's manual was printed....


Interesting. That would explain the mention of Mobil 1 in the Service manual while Castrol is printed in the owner's man. Anyone else notice this?
 
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Old Mar 3, 2004 | 09:51 PM
  #23  
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I just did an oil change myself using OEM MINI 5W30 MINI oil. Total cost was $27 for the parts, 5 quarts @ $4/quart and $7 for the filter. :smile:
 
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Old Mar 3, 2004 | 10:32 PM
  #24  
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MINI and BMW endorse Castrol oil but that is not your only choice. Any Full synthetic oil 5W-30 weight will work.

Many MINI owners choose:
Redline
Amsoil
Mobil 1

Some will change oil every 3000 miles no matter what. I am changing oil every 5000-6000 miles or roughly half way between the scheduled warranty covered oil changes.

First time around I used Mobil 1 and next time I have Amsoil in 5W-30.
I always top off oil with the same brand and weight as the oil currently in the MINI.

SAE 5W-30 grade oil provides a higher level of protection against viscosity breakdown than conventional oils. It exceeds the API service SL, SJ and SH, the requirements of ILSAC GF-3 API Certified Gasoline Engine Oils and meets Energy Conserving standards.

From Castrol oil's site at http://www.castrolusa.com/expert/ae_...id=18§ion_id=3
"Among the many performance advantages that synthetic lubricants offer is their ability to remain stable at high temperatures (under which conventional oils can begin to breakdown) and remain fluid at very low temperatures (under which conventional oils begin to thicken). This provides optimum lubrication at extreme temperatures, reduces wear and tear, and makes for a cleaner, more efficient engine. Synthetics are sometimes mixed with conventional oils to produce a cost-effective middle ground between the two, referred to as a "blend." However, while blends and conventional oils are both capable lubricants, there is no contest when it comes to which type of oil does the best job. For the highest level of engine protection, synthetics like Castrol Syntec come out on top every time. "

Castrol makes more than one synthetic oil.
There is the fully synthetic Castrol Syntec
http://www.castrolusa.com/products/d....asp?prod_mp=1

Castrol Syntec Q & A
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Question: Why are synthetics better than conventional motor oils?

Answer: Synthetic formulas can be engineered to meet tough performance targets, as well as wider range grades, that can't be delivered with conventional motor oils. The use of synthetics helps keep engines cleaner longer.

Question: How is SYNTEC better than leading conventional motor oils?

Answer: Independent tests prove that SYNTEC provides superior engine protection and performance:

* For Stability & Endurance under extreme conditions (heat ,load, speed) that can cause conventional oils to break down more quickly
* Powerful Additive Package that neutralizes corrosive particles preventing them from grouping together and forming sludge.
* A level of protection that Outperforms Leading Conventional Oils, passing severe industry torture tests.

Question: What grades is SYNTEC available in?

Answer: SYNTEC is available in the following grades: 0W-30, 5W-20, 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40, 5W-40, 5W-50, 20W-50

Question: What oil change intervals are recommended for SYNTEC?

Answer: Motor oil serves many purposes. Its primary function is to lubricate and protect, but it also keeps your engine cool and running clean. By changing your oil frequently, you remove by-products of combustion such as acid, soot, abrasives, water and unburned fuel. All of these substances can have damaging effects on both the performance and life of your engine.

You should check your owners' manual for their recommended oil change service. However, we recommend for ultimate protection that you change your motor oil every 3,000 miles (or 3 months).

Question: How does SYNTEC bond to engine parts?

Answer: SYNTEC's unique chemical esters bond to engine parts. A thin oxide coating exists on the surface of metal components that can develop a positive charge due to electron localization. SYNTEC's unique chemical esters are designed to take advantage of this effect.

The attraction between the positive charge of the engine surface and the esters that have a negative charge creates a layer of ester component that is attracted and held to the surface of the metal. In effect, a layer of lubricant becomes affixed to the engine surface creating a long-lasting protective film.

Question: Should over the counter oil additives be used with SYNTEC?

Answer: You may use SYNTEC if an oil additive was previously used. However, we do not recommend additional over the counter additives or engine treatments. SYNTEC contains state-of-the-art additives and is specifically engineered to afford complete and superior protection. In addition, car manufacturers do not recommend the use of supplemental oil additives.

Question: Is Syntec fully compatible with other oils?

Answer: This superior product is compatible with all conventional and part synthetic oils and you may switch to SYNTEC at any time. It is not necessary to flush your engine. If you used an oil additive with your conventional oil you can use SYNTEC. However we do not recommend nor feel it is necessary to use oil additives because SYNTEC is specially formulated to provide your engine with superior protection.

Question: Can Syntec Full Synthetic be used in a rebuilt engine?

Answer: With current engine technology, a break-in period is not necessary. You can use synthetics immediately. In the past, it was recommended that conventional motor oil be used for your first oil change to allow for some controlled wear to help break-in the new engine.

And the synthetic blended- Castrol Syntec Blend

Castrol Syntec Blend Q & A
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Question: What are the benefits of CASTROL SYNTEC BLEND?

Answer: SYNTEC BLEND Part Synthetic is the only motor oil that is a proprietary blend of Castrol conventional oil and SYNTEC molecular components. Its synthetic blend formula provides added protection versus conventional oils for severe driving conditions. These conditions are defined in car and truck owner's manuals as stop and go traffic, towing & hauling, frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, and even idling -- conditions that you face every day

Question: When should I use Syntec Blend Part Synthetic Motor Oil?

Answer: SYNTEC BLEND is the only part-synthetic product that is a proprietary blend of Castrol conventional base oils and SYNTEC molecular components. Unlike some other products on the market that are made for specific vehicle types, we've developed SYNTEC BLEND because we understand that it's not WHAT you drive, but HOW you drive.

On-going research shows that most consumers operate their vehicles under what manufacturers describe as severe driving conditions such as stop and go traffic, frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, or towing and hauling. Castrol SYNTEC BLEND provides an added level of synthetic protection against the stress these conditions place on an engine.

Question: Wouldn't it be better (or just as good) if I mixed Syntec with GTX?

Answer: Although all the oils are compatible, this is not the way we make Syntec Blend - it is fully formulated in its own right with conventional GTX base stocks and Syntec molecular components to achieve its unique properties.

----------
In the MINI if you use castrol, use Syntec only. This info is for comparison only.
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Old Mar 4, 2004 | 11:07 AM
  #25  
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Yep, I got me the Syntec OUT. :smile: Was like $5 or something for the bottle.


 
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