What brand is the original Porsche engine oil?
2 Answers
Porsche's original engine oil brands are Mobil, Shell, and Castrol. The oil model recommended in Porsche's official manual is 0W40, and any oil model that meets these specifications can be used. The viscosity of engine oil changes with temperature, so special attention must be paid to its performance under both low and high temperatures. For example, in 5W-30, the first number indicates low-temperature fluidity. 5W means it can withstand low temperatures of -30°C. The smaller this number, the better the low-temperature fluidity, making cold starts smoother. The latter number represents the kinematic viscosity of the oil at 100°C. A higher value means the oil can maintain its viscosity index better at high temperatures, which can also be understood as better lubrication performance under high temperatures. The method for changing Porsche's engine oil is as follows: Wait for the engine temperature to drop, allowing the oil to flow back into the oil pan; Use a wrench to loosen the oil drain plug and place an oil pan to catch the old oil until no more oil flows out. Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds to allow the oil in the main oil passage to drain out; Use a special wrench to remove the oil filter; Apply oil to the oil seal of the new oil filter and tighten it clockwise by hand; Add the new oil through the oil filler cap on the engine valve cover, usually filling up to three-quarters of the bottle; Start the engine and let it run for 5 minutes, then check for any leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter. If there are leaks, repairs should be made; After stopping the engine, pull out the oil dipstick and check that the engine oil level is within the standard range.
When I took my Porsche in for maintenance as an owner, the technician mentioned that the OEM oil primarily uses Mobil 1, which is a custom-branded product specifically tailored for Porsche's high-performance engines. Models like the 911 or Cayenne require oils with certain specifications, such as the A40 certification, to prevent engine wear and improve fuel efficiency. Using non-compatible brands might void the warranty or degrade engine performance. I always stick to OEM oil during maintenance because it ensures stable viscosity, especially during high-temperature driving, making it safer. Of course, you can also purchase Porsche-approved Mobil oil separately at a more affordable price, but OEM oil is the most hassle-free option. Remember to change the oil regularly—typically every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers—and avoid exceeding the limit, as accumulated deposits can damage the engine. In daily driving, I always pay attention to these details to avoid costly major repairs.
