ACEA A5 oil is specified for my Kia Seltos. Is it OK to use a C3 oil instead. Is it true that an A3 or C3 oil will result in less engine wear at the expense of slightly higher fuel consumption?
ACEA A5 oil is specified for my Kia Seltos. Is it OK to use a C3 oil instead. Is it true that an A3 or C3 oil will result in less engine wear at the expense of slightly higher fuel consumption?
Hi Larry
My understanding is that ACEA A5 has the same wear performance limits as A3, so there is no advantage in moving on this basis.
A5 does have fuel economy criteria, which means that oils with this performance level will be formulated differently and also means that thicker oils (eg a 10w40) are excluded from being labelled A5.
Given the above, I do not see an advantage in moving to a A3 rated oil, if you continue to use the same oil grade (eg 5W30).
ACEA C3 is a different style of oil, formulated to be low ash, typically for use in vehicles with DPF's.
I will also add that if the vehicle is in warranty, that only the oil peformance level nominated by the warraty provider should be used.
Cheers
Costa
Penrite