Can my Lexus 2016 NX 200t 2.0l turbo using Mobil 1 ESP 0w-20 ?

[MetalSlug]

I think I got the European oil bug lol.

I like switch over to European ( Mobil 1 ) on my Lexus. As title say , can I use the Mobil 1 ESP 0w30 .

One thing I did note is on back of Mobil 1 5w30 ESP labels many different spec.
but in 0w20 it’s only label API-SP

 

[cammyfive79]

Yes. ESP 0W-20 has one of the more stringent approvals for a 0W20 - MB 229.71. Other than a boutique (maybe), it is one of the best choices that is readily available and inexpensive if you decide to use a 0W-20. Many folks here use ESP 0W-30 and have great feedback.

 

[edyvw]

I think I got the European oil bug lol.

I like switch over to European ( Mobil 1 ) on my Lexus. As title say , can I use the Mobil 1 ESP 0w30 .

One thing I did note is on back of Mobil 1 5w30 ESP labels many different spec.
but in 0w20 it’s only label API-SP

As far as your engine is concerned, you can use 20W60 Motul 300V Le Mans.
So, you will be fine. I don't know whether you want to use 0W30, 5W30, or 0W20 ESP?
Either way, they have more stringent requirements to meet in order to get certain approvals.
I would definitely use ESP 0W20 over other ILSAC 0W20 oils off the shelf.

 

[oilstained]

If I had, I would be confident to use.

 

[The Critic]

If you want an API licensed 0W20 that is also an Euro Oil, use Castrol Edge Extended Performance 0W20. It is MB 229.71 approved:

https://msdspds.castrol.com/bpglis/...77B782080258C2F003EE800/$File/wepp-ddufff.pdf

 

[AKhan87]

If you want an API licensed 0W20 that is also an Euro Oil, use Castrol Edge Extended Performance 0W20. It is MB 229.71 approved:

https://msdspds.castrol.com/bpglis/...77B782080258C2F003EE800/$File/wepp-ddufff.pdf

100%

 

[silversport]

Mobil 1 ESP X2 0W-20 is API approved...API SN or above listed currently as well as MB 229.71

https://www.mobil.com/en/lubricants/for-personal-vehicles/our-products/products/mobil-1-esp-x2-0w-20

 

[Blagoje]

Here are two things I noticed when comparing the two 0w20 specs, which for the most part are very similar except for these two:

M1 ESP 0W20
Flash point: 235
Pour point: -51

Castrol EP 0W20
Flash point: 203
Pour point: -42

 

[cheesepuffs2]

Here are two things I noticed when comparing the two 0w20 specs, which for the most part are very similar except for these two:

M1 ESP 0W20
Flash point: 235
Pour point: -51

Castrol EP 0W20
Flash point: 203
Pour point: -42

Isn't that not apples to apples though? The direct comparison would be Mobil 1 ESP vs Castrol Euro Car or Mobil 1 EP vs Castrol EP.

 

[Blagoje]

Isn't that not apples to apples though? The direct comparison would be Mobil 1 ESP vs Castrol Euro Car or Mobil 1 EP vs Castrol EP.

MB 229.71 Apples to apples

Commonly available at Walmart Apples to apples

We are talking in this thread about the two products being alternatives to one another apples to apples

 

[The Critic]

Mobil 1 ESP X2 0W-20 is API approved...API SN or above listed currently as well as MB 229.71

https://www.mobil.com/en/lubricants/for-personal-vehicles/our-products/products/mobil-1-esp-x2-0w-20

Not true - Exxonmobil clearly states meets/exceeds "API SN Plus engine test requirements," which does not equate to an approval.

API database confirms this -- it is not licensed for API SN or above.

https://www.mobil.com/en/lubricants/for-personal-vehicles/our-products/products/mobil-1-esp-x2-0w-20

On the other hand, Castrol EP 0W-20 is API licensed for SP and SQ:

https://engineoil.api.org/Directory/EolcsResultsDetail?accountId=-1&companyId=10104&resultsUrl=https://engineoil.api.org/Directory/EolcsResults?accountId=-1&serviceCategories=SQ

 

[Klutch9]

Here are two things I noticed when comparing the two 0w20 specs, which for the most part are very similar except for these two:

M1 ESP 0W20
Flash point: 235
Pour point: -51

Castrol EP 0W20
Flash point: 203
Pour point: -42

The ESP has slightly lower KV100. Maybe it’s just slightly thinner overall. In real life I don’t think the pour point and flash point differences matter. It’s thought that the Edge EP has little or no PAO, while the ESP has some. But both have a slew of Euro approvals, and are both great oils. I decided to go with Edge EP 0w20 because of the 229.71 approval, plus it’s actually API licensed (for warranty and such). Also has Dexos1. It’s no slouch.

 

[silversport]

I stand corrected...not API approved...just listed as meeting or exceeding the requirements...

when I bought my 5 quart jug I saw the ACEA C6/API SP printed on the back as approvals when in fact they are listed as "meets requirements of..."

Bill

 

[Blagoje]

In another recent thread I asked about whether or not an API certification even matters, from more perspective please see the thread linked below:

D

Thread 'Mobil1 ESP question'

Jun 1, 2025

I've been looking into Mobil1's ESP line and am trying to understand it. I understand that it was developed to protect emission systems components in both gasoline and diesel vehicles, having originally been developed for European cars, according to M1's website. That said, it doesn't seem to have an API certification, but the PDS states it meets various API test "requirements."

Does this mean it should be safe to use in cars that call for an API SP rated oil? It has an excellent cSt of 12.0 on its 0w-30. Contemplating using it in the wife's HEV.

• Dimitrius James
• Replies: 28
• Forum: Passenger Car Motor Oil (PCMO) - Gasoline Vehicles

• 
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If it does matter to you just use an API certified oil say during warranty.

 

[DirectRejection]

That is a very solid engine/SUV. I would go for mega durability aligned oil. ESP 0W20 would be a starting point.

My friends moved to Phoenix. They bought their ~ '21 NX 200t once the lease ended. I recommended HPL 10W20. Better than the rest IMHO.