If you have spent your hard-earned money to buy a heavy-duty utility truck, then you have to think of a better way of maintaining its diesel engine to have it last for long. This is where the best synthetic oil for Ford 6.7 diesel comes in. unlike most contemporary oils; this one is designed with a great optimum viscosity that allows it to perform under a wide range of temperatures. Due to this impressive feature, this type of oil can work perfectly well for most 6.7 Powerstroke engines as it has the capacity to withstand the engine’s immense pressure.
Now, back to history, synthetic oils for diesel engines were first referred to as distillates or rather byproducts of petroleum refining. Since the compression-ignition (diesel engine) did not exist until 1892, this distillate was usually disposed of. But, after the discovery of the diesel engine, this petroleum byproduct immediately became a remedy to lubricate the engine’s moving parts to improve efficiency and performance.
Today, lubricating oil has become the lifeblood of your engine as it not only lubricates it, but also seals, cools, cleans, and protects your engine’s internal parts against wear and premature metal fatigue. Since this is not something you would like to cheap out on, this guide has offered to discuss 10 of the best engine oils for 6.7 power strokes to give you an idea of what the market has in store for you.
Contents
Best Synthetic Oils for Ford 6.7 Diesel: Editor’s Top Picks
Things to Consider When Choosing Synthetic Oil for Ford 6.7 Engine
Powerstroke engines are usually designed for heavy-duty utilitarian vehicles. For that reason, these types of engines generate a lot of heat due to the extreme conditions they normally work on. Since these vehicles are heavily depended on for towing, pulling, and performing other heavy-duty tasks on a daily basis, their engines require the best quality oil to keep up with the heavy task.
This is where the best synthetic oil for Ford 6.7 diesel comes in. according to Ford, the API CJ-4 motor oil category is what they recommend for their Powerstroke engines as it has an impressive viscosity rating of 10W-30. For heavy-duty turbocharged diesel engines, they recommend the 15W-40 oil.
Although these specifications are crystal clear, knowing the exact engine oil to buy for your specific diesel engine can be overwhelming. Although we’ve already discussed ten of the best oils you can depend on, learning about those factors you should look out for is really important. Due to that reason, this section has discussed several key factors you must consider before making your purchase.
1. Compatibility
The first factor you need to consider when buying engine oil is the rate of compatibility with most 6.7 Powerstroke diesel engines. Since most 6.7 diesel engines are equipped with modern emission systems, you need to ensure that the type of engine oil you’re getting is compliant with EGR, DOC, SCR, and DPF engine requirements. At least by doing this, you’ll get the right diesel engine oil that will keep your engine in tip-top shape regardless of the weather conditions.
2. Viscosity
Viscosity is a measure of a fluid’s resistance to flow when exposed to varying temperature conditions. Since your heavy utility vehicle is required to work even under extreme weather conditions, putting viscosity on the forefront when shopping for engine oil is very important. According to Ford, the best engine oil for normal 6.7 Powerstroke engines should have a viscosity rating of 10w-30 while those diesel engines working under extreme conditions should use engine oil with a rating of 15w-40.
Although that’s the case, you all know how diesel engine oils behave when exposed to varying temperatures. For instance, viscosity increases under low temperatures and decreases under high temperatures. So, to control this unusual characteristic, most manufacturers prefer to add additives to the base oil to make the oil more stable. Two of the main oil additives they use in their formulation include;
- Monograde Oils
These types of engine oil additives are the most popular. They’re usually categorized into two main sub-divisions that are the low-temperature viscosity and high-temperature viscosity grades. The low-temperature viscosity grades are usually indicated on the label as “w” like in the case of SAE 10w, 15w, or 20w. These oils usually thrive in winter conditions as they have thinner molecules that favor them under such low-temperatures.
On the other hand, high-temperature summer oils are indicated with whole figures without a “w” such as SAE 20, 30, and 40. For low-temperature winter oils, the lower the value, the higher the oil’s resistance to thermal breakdown while for high-temperature oils, the higher the number, the more resistant the oil is to thin.
- Multigrade Oils:
These types of oils are designed to thrive in both the winter and summer seasons. In short, they’re designed for all-year use for those living in conditions that experience extreme temperature fluctuations. These oils are rated as 5w-30, 10w-20, 15w-20, and 15w-40 among other ratings.
3. Engine Protection:
The primary task of considering diesel engine oil is to offer protection to your overworking engine. Now, an engine is considered the heart of any vehicle. It has multiple complex moving parts most of which glide against each other. This frequent metal-to-metal contact causes friction that can ultimately wear out your engine due to metal fatigue.
So, to keep these moving parts well lubricated, you need to get the right engine oil. But what’s the best oil for 6.7 Powerstroke diesel engines? First and foremost, you need to ensure the oil you’re getting is synthetic oil formulated to work with diesel engines. Secondly, the best engine oil should meet API classification, Ford WSS-M2C171-F1 specification as well as Cummins, Volvo, and Detroit diesel requirements.
4. Cleaning Performance:
This factor goes hand in hand with the additive package that’s present in your engine oil. When buying the best engine oil, always pay attention to the additive package to see how it combats common engine issues such as deposit buildup, acidity, oil oxidation, soot, and sludge formation. Since diesel engines generate high amounts of soot and heat, the oil should inhibit self-cleaning properties that help to boost engine longevity.
5. Fuel & Vehicle Economy:
Last but not least, you need to consider how your preferred engine oil impacts your engine’s fuel and vehicle economy. By buying the right diesel engine oil, you’re actually saving your engine from rapid wear in most of its moving parts. You’ll also improve fuel economy and also save the life of your filters as you won’t have to replace them more often.
Top 10 Best Engine Oils for 6.7 Power Strokes Reviews:
1. Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 5W-40 Diesel Engine Oil
When you hear of a diesel engine, what comes to mind is a heavy-duty utility vehicle such as a tractor or a truck. Since such engines require a high level of maintenance, getting the right diesel engine oil automatically becomes an inevitable task. The Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic Engine Oil is one of the biggest names you’ll hear the moment you ask for efficient engine oil.
Carefully formulated to work with all 6.7 Powerstroke engines, this engine oil uses its Triple Protection Plus technology to lubricate your engine’s moving parts while protecting it against possible wear and tear. Its synthetic fabrication coupled with a combination of advanced additives improves your engine’s fuel economy while protecting it against contaminant formulation.
Other than its excellent lubrication, protection, and composition, the Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic Engine Oil is highly compatible with your specific 6.7 power stroke Ford engine. Its advanced low-ash formation is a major boost as it controls soot buildup on your diesel engine saving you the hassle of having to worry about frequent DPF regenerations. So, whether you’re using your power stroke engine for towing, pulling, or any other utilitarian task, this synthetic engine oil is the ultimate answer for your engine’s excellent performance.
Pros
- It helps to improve fuel economy.
- Highly compatible with DPF and SCR power stroke systems.
- Careful formulation lowers the emission of harmful elements such as carbon.
- It handles engine pressure and temperature fluctuations quite well.
- Helps to keep your diesel engine clean.
Cons
- The bottles can leak slightly.
2. Valvoline Premium Blue SAE 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil 1 GA
The reason why we couldn’t get our eyes off the Valvoline Premium Blue SAE 15W-40 Diesel Oil is how Cummins has praised its performance, especially in its Dodge Ram Turbo diesel engine. Although Cummins engines have slightly less horsepower, we can’t doubt the performance of this engine oil on 6.7 Powerstroke Ford engines.
The first feature you’ll love about this engine oil is its great composition. Equipped with a strong blend of additives, this synthetic oil promises to protect your engine’s parts against wear, piston deposits, and soot-related issues to boost your engine’s performance for better fuel economy. Its Dispersive Polymer Technology (DPT) is another major boost that offers advanced protection to your engine to allow safer starts during extremely cold months or when temperatures are extremely high.
To make things even more interesting, the Valvoline Premium Blue SAE 15W-40 Diesel Oil is compatible with a wide range of diesel engine technologies from those that rely on Exhaust Gas Recirculation to those that depend on Diesel Particulate Filters. It’s also compatible with a large host of diesel engine manufacturers such as Mack, Navistar, Volvo, Detroit Diesel to Caterpillar.
Pros
- Offers outstanding engine protection against wear and oil oxidation.
- Allows a safer oil response under extreme weather conditions.
- Endorsed by leading engine manufacturers.
- Offers improved fuel economy.
- Improves the life of your engine.
Cons
- The packaging is quite poor.
3. Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Blend 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil
In case you’ve succeeded in buying engine oil to improve fuel efficiency, then the same will apply to Shell Rotella T5 to those looking to reduce engine wear. Equipped with an intelligent Triple Protection Plus technology, this engine oil has a synthetic blend that cleans your engine’s pistons to reduce the rate of engine wear. In fact, its synthetic blend technology has been found to offer 37% better protection than most SAE 15W-40 oils.
Other than reducing deposit buildup and rapid engine wear, the Shell Rotella T5 excels in improving the performance of your engine. By improving oxidation, preventing oil breakdown, and controlling oil viscosity under high temperatures, you’ll automatically experience a high fuel economy which is a great factor if you own a heavy-duty utilitarian vehicle.
So, whether your truck is intended for towing agricultural produce or pulling heavy equipment on a construction site, the Shell Rotella T5 is the best synthetic oil that will help maintain the performance of your truck’s 6.7 Powerstroke diesel engine.
Pros
- It excels in keeping your diesel engine clean.
- Has the capacity to resist breakage.
- Has surpassed API CK-4 engine wear requirements.
- Trusted and recommended by high-profile brands such as Volvo and Mercedes.
- Suits a wide range of engines.
Cons
- The sealing is not perfect.
4. Valvoline Premium Blue SAE 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil 1 GA, Case of 3
Earlier on, we discussed the Valvoline Premium Blue SAE 14W-40 Diesel Engine Oil which was available in one gallon. This time around, we’ve got yet another engine oil from the same brand which is the Valvoline Premium Blue SAE 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil. As one of the most approved diesel engine oil in the market, its efficiency and great authenticity are two major factors that will give you something to smile about the moment you get this pack.
One of the major selling points of this engine oil is its superb endorsement by Cummins following its impressive performance on their diesel engines especially the Dodge Ram Turbo Diesel Engine. This follows its Premium Blue Extreme formulation that’s aided by the Dispersive Polymer Technology. This gives the oil a special blend of additives that protect your engine’s moving parts against wear that’s usually caused by friction.
In addition to that, this oil aids in lowering piston deposits and soot-related issues. It also lowers the rate of engine malfunction during cold weather. By lubricating your engine effectively, this oil allows perfect engine performance while lowering fuel consumption to the minimum. The Valvoline 6.7 Powerstroke oil isn’t just designed for Ford diesel engines. It’s also an excellent choice for Volvo, Mack, Renault, Allison, and Caterpillar diesel engines due to its high compatibility.
Pros
- Comes in a case of three.
- Works with a wide range of engine types.
- Trusted and endorsed by Cummins.
- Works for both modern and traditional engine types.
- Protects your engine parts against rapid wear.
Cons
- The oil isn’t sealed properly.
- Quite expensive.
5. Genuine Ford Fluid XO-15W40-5QSD SAE 15W-40 Super Duty Diesel Motor Oil
If you’re driving a Ford diesel engine, don’t ask yourself why the Genuine Ford Fluid 15W-40 SAEDiesel Motor Oil has complied so well with Ford engine regulations. It’s because this oil is one of their own meaning it’s formulated to work with all engines that bear the Ford sticker. So, with this diesel engine oil, you rest assured that you’re getting nothing less than an authentic purchase.
But, the Genuine Ford Fluid 15W-40 SAE Diesel Motor Oil isn’t just for those motorists driving Ford diesel engines. In a bid to make their product known well beyond their own borders, Ford has added unique additives in their formulation to give this oil an extra boost that allows it to perform exceptionally well when used on other diesel engines. This super-duty formula has in fact gone beyond Ford’s expectations to meet API Service CJ-4 standards.
When it comes to engine performance, this synthetic oil is designed to support engines that rely on old and modern combustion technologies. Its great formulation reduces contaminants to the minimum. It also doesn’t produce any soot or sludge making it the best for modern engines that rely on ultralow sulfur fuel. While doing all these, it should be noted that this oil is fully-organic hence should be used on temperatures that don’t go below 20°F or 7°C.
Pros
- Perfect for all 6.7 Powerstroke diesel engines.
- It prevents soot and sludge buildup on your engine.
- Doesn’t discriminate between old and modern engines.
- It meets API Service CJ-4 recommendations.
- The 5-quart jug is a decent quantity.
Cons
- It’s quite expensive.
- Doesn’t perform well on temperatures below 20°
6. Valvoline Premium Blue Extreme SAE 5W-40 Full Synthetic Diesel Engine Oil 1 GA
The main reason why Valvoline Premium Blue Extreme SAE 5W-40 Engine Oil has enjoyed such a massive marketing advantage is due to its recommendation by several leading diesel engine manufacturers. In fact, its recent endorsement by Cummins as their trusted engine oil for all their engines has raised massive respect for this oil among most motorists especially those owning heavy-duty utilitarian vehicles.
Now, if you’re new here, you might be wondering what Valvoline has done to deserve such credit. Well, the secret lies in their secret formula that consists of an effective Dispersive Polymer Technology. This proprietary blend of unique additives is exactly what this engine oil uses to protect your moving engine parts from rapid wear caused by friction. It also prevents ring wear, piston deposits, and prevents any soot from developing.
More to that, this engine oil uses its superior synthetic formulation to provide faster engine response under hostile weather conditions such as extremely hot or cold weather. It also offers long engine functionality and a higher fuel economy. This engine oil is designed to work with old and modern engine designs making it not only a functional but also a versatile pick.
Pros
- Offers outstanding engine protection against a myriad of engine issues.
- Safe to use under any weather condition.
- Endorsed by leading diesel engine manufacturers.
- Compatible with a wide range of engine types.
- Helps to improve fuel economy.
Cons
- Not the best for motorcycle engines.
7. Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. 0700CK4-006S 15W-40 Diesel Oil
If you’re new to diesel oils, then the Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. 0700CK4-006S Diesel Oil is a name you might not have heard before. But, to those that know where the real value lies, then this engine oil is a familiar juice to your diesel engine. Although Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. is not a vocal brand like Ford, Shell, or Valvoline, its engine oil is among the best for those utility vehicles that work under harsh and extreme conditions.
While most engine oils use the Dispersive Polymer Technology, this one uses a very unique SynShield technology that has a modified formula to help reduce the rate of engine wear. In addition to that, Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. has added a blend of Micron Moly &Penetro to their oil composition to control the rate of oxidation when your diesel engine is working under extreme weather conditions.
Now, in case you dint know, Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. has three types of engine oils in their line. There’s the Durability Advantage which is the one we’re currently reviewing and there’s the OTR Plus and the Ultra Performance. The best thing about their engine oils is that they’ve met API CK4 requirements making them the best for all diesel engines regardless of whether they’re using the old or modern combustion technologies.
Pros
- Offers full engine protection against aeration and abrasive wear.
- Supports your engine against failure in extreme weather conditions.
- Synthetic plus formula offers excellent oxidation and prevents oil breakdown.
- Prevents formation of soot and piston deposits for enhanced engine cleanliness.
- Improves engine efficiency.
Cons
- This diesel engine oil is quite expensive.
- Not compatible with some engine designs.
8. Ford Genuine XO-5W40-5QSD SAE 5W-40 Full Synthetic Diesel Motor Oil
The Ford Genuine 5W-40 SAE Diesel Motor Oil is very similar to our previous Genuine Ford Fluid 15W-40 SAE Diesel Motor Oil in terms of its formulation and performance. Now, the reason why this synthetic motor oil has been so impressive over its organic oil counterparts is due to its impressive performance in low temperatures. Although organic oils are perfect, cold starting an engine using organic oil can be quite tricky as compared to if you’re using synthetic oil.
With that said, the Ford Genuine 5W-40 SAE Diesel Motor Oil has outperformed most generic oils in terms of its performance. Taking advantage of its full synthetic formulation, this oil has proved to be the perfect 6.7 Powerstroke oil type. It has excelled in both low and high-temperature conditions and has done exceptionally well in protecting your engine against wear and accumulation of deposits on moving parts.
Since it’s exclusively tested by Ford diesel engines, this synthetic oil has managed to meet all API service category CJ-4 requirements making it the best for high utility vehicles. It also has high compatibility though it thrives best when used on modern engines rather than old model diesel engines. It’s also made in the US meaning you’ll automatically get some value for your money.
Pros
- Thrives under cold climates.
- Protects your engine against rapid wear.
- It has high compatibility with most modern engines.
- Reduces piston deposits, soot, and emissions.
- Has met the required API certification.
Cons
- Doesn’t work well with older engine models.
9. Lucas Oil 10299-PK4 Synthetic 15W-40 CJ-4 Truck Oil
Our former Ford Genuine 5W-40 SAE Diesel Motor Oil has everything any motorist would wish for in any synthetic oil. The only problem, however, is how this oil underperforms when used on old diesel engines. Thankfully, with the Lucas Oil 10299-PK4 Synthetic Track Oil, things seem to change for the better as this engine oil has the ability to work on newer engines while maintaining stellar performance on older engines. In fact, it has gone ahead to perform impressively well on both diesel and gas-powered engines.
Now, the Lucas Oil 10299-PK4 Synthetic Track Oil is a synthetic oil with a weight of SAE 15W-40. This gives it a viscosity rating of 15 in cold weather and 40 under normal conditions. Since it doesn’t suffer from a thermal breakdown or any major oxidation, this diesel engine oil can extend your engine’s drain interval to 30,000 miles without any distortion.
The Lucas Oil 10299-PK4 Synthetic Track Oil is engineered with a special formulation that protects your interior engine parts to enhance its performance. It also helps to improve fuel efficiency while offering excellent compatibility by supporting a wide range of engine brands such as Caterpillar, Mack, Volvo, Cummins, and Navistar &Jaso among others.
Pros
- Available in gallon jug pack of 4.
- Special formulation prevents thermal breakdown and oxidation.
- Helps to lubricate your engine to minimize engine wear.
- Offers excellent fuel economy.
- Boasts of an increased engine mileage of 30,000 miles.
Cons
- Lucas Oil needs to improve its packaging.
10. Delo 400 SDE SAE 15W-40 Motor Oil
The Delo 400 SDE SAE 15W-40 Motor Oil might have appeared last in our list. However, this doesn’t mean that this oil is less superior than the ones we’ve mentioned above. Although it’s less vocal in the diesel engine oil department, this synthetic oil is no-nonsense when it comes to maintaining the condition of your engine.
In fact, one reason why Delo has outperformed most contemporary oils is due to its unique formulation. Equipped with ISOSYN Advanced Technology, this oil thrives in maintaining your engine to lower operating costs, provide excellent emission control and manage inventory costs which can all be a headache if you’re dealing with a poorly managed engine.
In addition to that, the Delo 400 SDE SAE 15W-40 Motor Oil is compatible with a myriad of engine technologies. Some of the engines that can be paired with this oil include 2017 greenhouse compliant engines, EPA 2010 compliant engines, and previous API Oil Service Categories diesel engines. For those using 4-stroke gas engines and turbocharged 4-stroke diesel engines, this synthetic diesel engine oil will never disappoint you whatsoever.
Pros
- Compatible with a myriad of engine categories.
- Perfect for both on-road and off-road vehicles.
- Offers superb fuel economy.
- Has met all the required low-emission engine requirements.
- Boosts engine performance and efficiency.
Cons
- Cases of thermal breakdown.
- Sometimes the gallons leak oil.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which Oil Does Ford 6.7 Engine Take?
First and foremost, Ford recommends the use of synthetic or fully synthetic oils for their 6.7 Powerstroke diesel engines. In this case, the 10W-30, 5W-40, and 15W-40 are some of the best diesel engine oils that have been recommended for 6.7 Powerstroke. These oils should also meet Ford’s FORD WSS-M2C 913 – C specification. However, before you proceed to get these oils, you need to consult your engine’s owner’s manual to guarantee that what you’re getting will definitely work for your specific engine type.
Q2: Which Engine Oil Weight is Best for Ford Diesel Engines?
Earlier on, we mentioned something to do with monograde and multigrade oils. This is a very important consideration you need to keep in mind when buying the best oil for 6.7 Powerstroke. According to top diesel manufacturers such as Cummins, Mack, and Ford, the best types of engine oils you need to consider for your engine are the 15W-40 oils and the 5W-40 oils. The former is best when used in warmer climates while the latter is specifically intended for extremely cold seasons.
Q3: How Often Should I Change Engine Oil?
Whether it’s a truck, a tractor, or any high utility car, conducting regular engine maintenance is really important if you want to prolong the life of your engine. But, how often should you schedule this? Now, thanks to technology, most modern trucks are equipped with special sensors that notify you when it’s time to schedule an oil change.
However, for those that are not equipped with this technology, scheduling an oil change after every 3,000 miles (for standard oils) and 5,000-6,000 miles (for synthetic oils) is really important. If you’re using full synthetic oil, then the interval can be raised to around 10,000 miles as these oils are considered the best for 6.7 Powerstroke diesel engines.
Q4: Who’s the Primary Manufacturer of Motorcraft 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil?
If you own a heavy-duty utility vehicle, then there’s no doubt you’ve come across this engine oil at some point. One of the burning questions you might have asked yourself is who owns this synthetic oil. Now, the Motorcraft 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil is owned by Ford Motor Company. This oil was specifically developed for applications on their Ford 6.7 Powerstroke engines. Following an impressive performance in most of these engines, other brands such as Cummins, Volvo, Mack, and Detroit Diesel went ahead to recommend it for their specific diesel engines.
Q5: What Do You Mean By 6.7 Powerstroke Engine?
Although we’ve discussed a lot about Ford’s 6.7 Powerstroke diesel engine, most people don’t know the full specifications of this engine. In a nutshell, this engine was developed by Ford and was officially introduced in the market in 2011. The engine is a 6.7L V8 turbocharged diesel engine that swallows around 13 quarts of oil. This engine has a net weight of around 970 lbs, a horsepower of 270-450hp, and an impressive torque of 675-935 lb-ft.
Final Verdict
As you can see, modern technology has brought in a lot of improvements across all sectors. One of those is the automotive sector where engines have become smarter. Despite being more efficient, most of these engines are striving to comply with global environmental requirements by lowering the amount of fumes they’re releasing into the atmosphere.
So, to guarantee efficiency, especially in heavy-duty utilitarian vehicles, the best synthetic oil for Ford 6.7 diesel is an absolute must if you wish to maintain consistent engine performance. Thankfully, this guide has discussed ten of the best synthetic oils you can count on. Besides, we’ve gone ahead to discuss some key factors you can count on before buying your preferred oil.
Since you’re now equipped with every bit of information regarding synthetic oils for 6.7 Powerstroke engines, we believe that you’re now able to buy the best oil that will guarantee maximum functionality and full engine protection.
