Ready to unleash the full potential of your 5.9 Cummins engine? The secret lies in choosing the right oil.
Dive into our comprehensive guide to discover the best oil for 5.9 Cummins engines, tailored to enhance performance and longevity.
Through expert insights, make an informed choice and propel your vehicle to its peak performance. Say goodbye to mediocre oils and hello to roaring rides!
5 Best Oils For 5.9 Cummins Reviews
The best oil for a 5.9 Cummins engine is Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 5W-40 Diesel Engine Oil. It offers excellent protection against wear, deposits, oil breakdown, and boasts enhanced fuel economy performance, making it a top choice for this engine type.
| Product | Valvoline Premium Blue | Shell Rotella T6 | Schaeffer SynShield | Royal Purple Synthetic | Mobil 1 Delvac 1300 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viscosity | 15W-40 | 15W-40 | 15W-40 | 15W-40 | 15W-40 |
| Oil Type | Synthetic Blend | Full Synthetic | Synthetic | Synthetic | Synthetic Blend |
| Ash Content | Low | Not specified | Low | Not specified | Not specified |
| Engine Protection | Exceptional | Excellent | Unparalleled | Outstanding | Ultimate |
| Fuel Efficiency | Promotes better fuel efficiency | Improved fuel efficiency | Improved fuel efficiency | Noticeable power and fuel efficiency gains | Better fuel economy |
| Cold Weather Performance | Smooth startup | Reliable cold starts | Reliable cold starts | Handles extreme temperatures | Smoother, safer, and faster cold start-up |
| Overall Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.2/5 |
1. Valvoline Premium Blue One Solution SAE 15W-40
Valvoline Premium Blue One Solution SAE 15W-40 is an excellent choice for maintaining 5.9 Cummins diesel engines, delivering top-notch performance and protection.
Key Features:
All-in-One Formula:
Specifically beneficial for 5.9 Cummins engines, this versatile oil is well-suited for various diesel engines including trucks and construction machinery.
Simplify your oil selection with this all-encompassing solution, reducing garage clutter.
Superior Protection:
Providing robust protection against wear, heat, and deposits, it enhances the longevity of your 5.9 Cummins engine.
Whether on long journeys or in harsh conditions, rely on this oil for smooth engine operation.
Cold Weather Performance:
Its 15W-40 viscosity rating ensures commendable cold weather performance, flowing smoothly at startup and minimizing engine wear. No more concerns about sluggish starts on cold mornings.
Fuel Efficiency:
Engineered to boost fuel efficiency, Valvoline Premium Blue One Solution is a cost-saving and eco-friendly choice for your 5.9 Cummins engine, reducing fuel costs and environmental impact.
Trusted Brand:
With over 150 years in the automotive lubricant industry, Valvoline’s legacy of quality and innovation is evident in this product, ensuring your 5.9 Cummins engine remains in prime condition.
What We Like: 👍
- Versatile all-in-one formula suitable for 5.9 Cummins.
- Exceptional protection extending engine life.
- Reliable performance in cold weather.
- Promotes better fuel efficiency.
- Backed by a reputable brand with a rich history.
What We Don’t Like: 👎
- Higher price point compared to other engine oils.
- Availability might be an issue at local stores, necessitating advance purchasing planning.
2. Shell Rotella T6 Engine Oil
Rev Up Your Engine with Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil! Unleash the power of your vehicle with this high-performance engine oil.
Key Features
Full Synthetic Formula: Shell Rotella T6 is crafted with a full synthetic formula that provides exceptional lubrication and protection for your diesel engine. Its advanced composition reduces friction, which leads to better fuel efficiency and engine life. You’ll love how smoothly your engine runs!
Multi-Viscosity: This oil is designed with a versatile 15W-40 viscosity rating, making it suitable for a wide range of temperatures. Whether you’re dealing with a scorching summer day or a freezing winter morning, your engine will start reliably and perform optimally.
Triple Protection Plus: Shell Rotella T6 offers triple protection plus technology, which means it provides excellent protection against wear, deposits, and oil breakdown. Your engine will remain clean and reliable, ensuring peak performance mile after mile.
Enhanced Fuel Economy: Thanks to its low viscosity nature, this oil improves fuel economy. You’ll enjoy more miles per gallon, saving you money in the long run. It’s a win-win for your vehicle and your wallet.
Versatile Application: Whether you have a heavy-duty truck, a diesel pickup, or even a diesel passenger car, Shell Rotella T6 is suitable for various diesel engines. It’s a one-size-fits-all solution for your diesel-powered needs.
What We Like 👍
- Excellent engine protection
- Improved fuel efficiency
- Versatile for different diesel engines
- Reduced engine wear and deposits
- All-season performance
What We Don’t Like 👎
- Not suitable for gasoline engines
- Pricier than conventional motor oils
3. Schaeffer SynShield 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil
Keep your diesel engine running smoothly with Schaeffer SynShield 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil. It’s more than just oil; it’s engine life insurance.
Key Features
Advanced Durability: Schaeffer’s SynShield oil offers unmatched engine protection. Its advanced formula reduces wear and tear, extending your engine’s life. You’ll appreciate the peace of mind knowing your engine is well-protected, even in demanding conditions.
Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: This oil’s friction-reducing properties help your engine operate more efficiently. You’ll experience improved fuel economy, saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint.
Cold-Start Performance: Schaeffer SynShield ensures quick and reliable cold starts. No more struggling with sluggish starts on frosty mornings. You’ll love the smooth and easy ignition.
Exceptional Cleansing: It keeps your engine clean by preventing deposits and sludge buildup. You’ll notice a cleaner, more efficient engine, resulting in smoother performance.
Universal Compatibility: Whether you have a fleet of trucks or a single diesel vehicle, Schaeffer SynShield is compatible with a wide range of diesel engines, making it a versatile choice for all your needs.
What We Like 👍
- Unparalleled engine protection for peace of mind.
- Improved fuel efficiency saves you money.
- Reliable cold-start performance, even in harsh winters.
- Keeps your engine clean and running smoothly.
- Compatible with various diesel engines, reducing the need for multiple oil types.
What We Don’t Like 👎
- Limited availability in some regions may require ordering in advance.
- The price point is slightly higher than some competing brands, but the quality justifies the cost.
4. Royal Purple Synthetic Diesel Oil
Upgrade your engine’s performance and longevity with Royal Purple Synthetic Diesel Oil. It’s more than just oil; it’s an investment in your vehicle’s health and power.
Key Features
Exceptional Lubrication
Royal Purple’s high film strength reduces metal-to-metal contact, ensuring smooth engine operation and extending component life. You’ll appreciate the reduced wear and tear, translating to a longer-lasting engine.
Increased Horsepower and Fuel Efficiency
The advanced synthetic formula optimizes engine performance, unlocking hidden power and improving fuel efficiency. Feel the extra horsepower when you hit the accelerator, and enjoy fewer trips to the pump.
Superior Temperature Resistance
Royal Purple handles extreme temperatures like a pro. Whether it’s scorching summer heat or freezing winter cold, this oil maintains its viscosity, keeping your engine well-protected under all conditions.
Extended Oil Change Intervals
Thanks to its superior stability and resistance to breakdown, you can extend your oil change intervals. Fewer trips to the mechanic mean more money in your pocket and less hassle.
Cleaner and Smoother Operation
Royal Purple’s advanced detergents keep your engine clean, preventing harmful deposits and sludge buildup. Your engine will run smoother and last longer, ensuring peace of mind on the road.
What We Like 👍
- Outstanding lubrication for engine longevity.
- Noticeable power and fuel efficiency gains.
- Handles extreme temperatures like a champ.
- Fewer oil changes save time and money.
- Keeps your engine running cleaner and smoother.
What We Don’t Like 👎
- It’s a bit pricier than conventional oils.
- Not widely available in all auto shops; you might need to plan ahead for purchases.
5. Mobil 1 Delvac 1300 Super SAE Motor Oil
The Mobil 1 Delvac 1300 Super motor oil is a heavy-duty oil that is known to provide ultimate protection against engine wear.
Its synthetic blend formula offers the best performance within a reasonable price tag.
Features:
Extended Oil Drain Intervals: The synthetic blend formula of the Mobil 1 Delvac 1300 super motor oil offers excellent oxidation stability. This means it will not thicken, and lose its chemical properties over time. This gives you a long time to drain and change the oil of your 5.9 Cummins.
Outstanding Wear Protection: Hydro-processed base stocks and advanced oil additives in the formula ensures this oil stays the same in cold weather. So, when you start your truck at freezing temperature, it’ll reach the critical lubrication points and provide a smoother, safer, and faster cold start-up for the engine.
Similar Viscosity Through The year: Motor oils need to maintain similar viscosity even when the weather changes to maintain optimal performance. As you know, the engine wears out the most at the start. With increased and extremely hot weather, the viscosity decreases.And with freezing temperature the viscosity increases. But with the Delvac 1300 engine oil, you don’t need to face this issue as its viscosity remains unchanged all year.
Pros
- Perfect for cold and freezing temperatures
- High oxidation stability and low volatility ensures optimal performance
- Controls soot build-up in an excellent way
- Provides longer gasket life and better fuel economy
Cons
- It’s not a full synthetic formula
How To Choose The Right Oil For 5.9 Cummins?
Check Oil Viscosity
Oil viscosity is very important. It’s how thick or thin the oil is. High viscosity means the oil is thick.
Low viscosity means it’s thin. Thin oil flows easily. Thick oil flows slowly. Your truck’s manual will recommend the right viscosity.
For 5.9 Cummins, 15W-40 oil is often suitable. This oil works well in many temperatures.
Consider the Climate
Climate affects your oil choice. Some oils work better in cold weather. Others work better when it’s hot.
Cold climates need low viscosity oil. It flows better in low temperatures.
Hot climates need high viscosity oil. It won’t get too thin when it’s hot. Always consider the weather in your area when choosing oil.
Look for Oil Additives
Oil additives improve oil performance. They protect your engine better. Additives fight against rust and corrosion.
They also clean the engine. Choosing oil with additives is wise. They keep the 5.9 Cummins engine clean and safe.
But, too many additives can be bad. They can harm the engine. Read the oil label carefully. It will list the additives.
Synthetic or Conventional Oil
There are two oil types. Synthetic oil and conventional oil. Synthetic oil is man-made. It’s designed for high performance.
It’s good for extreme temperatures. Conventional oil is natural. It comes from the ground.
It’s cheaper than synthetic. Both have their benefits. The manual will help decide which one is right.
Refer to the Cummins Oil Specification
Cummins has its oil specification. It’s called CES 20081. Oils with this specification meet Cummins standards.
They are safe for the 5.9 Cummins engine. Using the right specification is vital. It ensures the oil will protect the engine.
Always check the oil label for this specification.
Analyze the Budget
Oil prices vary. Some oils are expensive. Others are cheap. Budget is important.
Decide how much you want to spend. High-quality oils may cost more. But, they offer better engine protection.
They might save you money in the long run. Cheaper oils might be fine. But, make sure they meet your engine’s needs.
Ash Content
Ash content refers to the deposits on the valve of the engine which can cause valve damage and even burning. Ash content can cause severe build-up, and decrease the performance of the engine entirely.
It is recommended by Cummins that the motor oil used on your 5.9 Cummins should have a low ash content.
They recommend using an engine oil with maximum ash content of 1.85%. Any higher than this will ruin your 5.9 Cummins drastically.
Any motor oil that is API CI-4, CK-4 certified has a low ash content.
FAQs About 5.9 Cummins Oil
Can I use 15W-40 oil in my 5.9 Cummins engine?
Yes, 15W-40 oil is a suitable choice for your 5.9 Cummins engine, as it provides commendable cold weather performance and engine protection.
Is Valvoline Premium Blue oil compatible with diesel trucks other than 5.9 Cummins engines?
Yes, Valvoline Premium Blue is versatile and suitable for various diesel engines, including trucks and construction machinery.
Does ash content in motor oil affect 5.9 Cummins engines?
Yes, high ash content in motor oil can cause valve damage and decreased engine performance in 5.9 Cummins engines, so it’s important to choose oil with low ash content.
Final Words
When it comes to choosing the best oil for your 5.9 Cummins engine, you have several outstanding options to consider.
All offer impressive engine protection, improved fuel efficiency, and cold weather performance.
Selecting the right oil depends on your specific needs and preferences, but any of these choices will help ensure the longevity and smooth operation of your engine.
Make sure to consider factors like viscosity, additives, and ash content to make an informed decision.
