Can i use lawn mower oil in car engine?

Joined
Jun 28, 2012
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43
Location
Cincinnati, OH
Just curious, I did not look up the specific details of the garden oil, is this a detergent or non-detergent oil? Many of the small engines use non-detergent oils. On a frequent enough OCI in a car engine it probably is OK, but I think detergent oils are a much better choice. Also agree that even the modern synthetic blends are very good oils for relatively low cost.
 
Joined
Sep 23, 2008
Messages
11,050
Location
Ontario, Canada
Here is info of the Mobil garden oil that i have been thinking. It says it meets the SJ spec, so for an engine requiring at least SG, i think that might work, but im not sure since its "garden" oil. 🤔
The oil you linked to from Mobil, I'd have no worries about running it in your old car. API says SJ is good for 2001 and older engines. I also would run a synthetic too if that's what I had on the shelf.
My only concern would be -20C or lower starts, as a -36 pour point isn't great. If you are doing lots of -20C starts then I'd look for a 5W30, to be easier on oil pump and starter, and to help get the engine lubricated quickly.
 
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