How is Shell engine oil graded?
2 Answers
Shell has 5 color-coded packaging categories, which are: Gray Shell, Blue Shell, Yellow Shell, Red Shell, and White Shell. The details are as follows: 1. Shell passenger car engine oil belongs to the Helix series: Helix HX2, HX3, HX5, HX6, HX7, HX8, Ultra Helix, and PurePlus Ultra Helix, with grades increasing from low to high. 2. Shell has 5 color-coded packaging categories: Each color represents different uses and grades, and is designed for vehicles of different levels. 3. The five categories are: Gray Shell, Blue Shell, Yellow Shell, Red Shell, and White Shell. Gray Shell includes Ultra Helix and HX8, both of which are fully synthetic oils; Blue Shell is semi-synthetic oil; Yellow Shell is divided into HX6 and HX5, where HX6 is semi-synthetic oil and HX5 is mineral oil; Red Shell HX3 and White Shell HX2 are mineral oils.
I've been researching cars for many years. Shell's oil classification mainly focuses on viscosity grades and performance grades. The viscosity grade follows the SAE standard, such as 5W-30 or 0W-20. The number before the 'W' indicates Winter performance—the smaller the number, the smoother the cold start. The number after, like 30, represents the high-temperature protection grade—the larger the number, the better the protection. The performance grade uses the API system, such as SN or SP, with SP being the latest standard offering stronger anti-wear performance. Shell also categorizes its oils into series. In the Helix series, Ultra is a fully synthetic oil suitable for high-performance cars, while HX is semi-synthetic and more economical. Choosing the right oil depends on the viscosity recommended in your car's manual, and your driving habits also matter. If you drive at high speeds often, a thinner 0W oil can save fuel. Regular oil changes are crucial—typically every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers—to extend engine life.
