New SQ/ ILSAC7

[NewKid]

Would a plain Jane full synthetic rated at API SQ be as beneficial as a platinum version (Pennzoil Ultra Platinum for example) rated at API SP?
I realize that longevity may be an issue but otherwise?

Thoughts?

 

[kschachn]

What does "platinum" get you?

 

[Rand]

No answer or any answer can be correct.. bad question.
Extremely generic (best oil) question for someone who has been here almost 5 years.

Ask questions that can be answered.

 

[Urshurak776]

Not sure this can be quantitatively answered.

 

[Pablo]

Would a plain Jane full synthetic rated at API SQ be as beneficial as a platinum version (Pennzoil Ultra Platinum for example) rated at API SP?
I realize that longevity may be an issue but otherwise?

Thoughts?

No difference. At all.

But not even sure what your question means really.

So the answer remains, no difference.

 

[GW.]

Pennzoil claims Pennzoil Ultra Platinum is their highest performing oil, surpassing SQ.

Thread 'Pennzoil Q&A - Engine Operation and Motor Oil Performance - Answers'

Nov 19, 2025

BITOG Pennzoil Technical Q&A with Sean Nguyen

Q: What makes Pennzoil Ultra Platinum™ better than Pennzoil Platinum®, specifically in the 5W-30 grade, and what benefits might a user experience from switching?

A: Pennzoil Platinum’s Full Synthetic line of motor oils is designed for complete protection, without compromise. Every bottle of Pennzoil Ultra Platinum™ and Pennzoil Platinum® is formulated to offer complete protection and maximize performance.
Pennzoil Platinum® is our top-tier synthetic motor oil which maximizes engine protection and gives you peace of mind between...

• wwillson
• Replies: 15
• Forum: Passenger Car Motor Oil (PCMO) - Gasoline Vehicles

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[skyactiv]

I spotted SuperTech Full Synthetic 5W30 API SQ at a Walmart this morning in a 5 QT jug.

 

[jghall00]

The odd thing is that many people here don't like to run extended intervals. So we're often discussing premium EP oils, but changing them using the same 5,000 mile interval. In that situation, I just don't see the value in going with a more expensive oil. I've been using Magnatec -> GTX -> Edge, but I might switch to Supertech Euro if the price ever makes it worthwhile. I was running 7,000 to 9,000 mile OCI using the premium stuff. But given what I've learned about soot particles and timing chain wear I think the the best thing to do is run something with an appropriate certs and weight and change every 5,000 miles.

 

[JavierH19]

There's no way some cheap syn oil like kirkland or supertech will be so upgraded with SQ that they'll somehow match SP rated Pennzoil Ultra Platinum. Not to say that kirkland or st is bad they're great for the price but there's no way SQ is that much of an update.

 

[Patman]

The odd thing is that many people here don't like to run extended intervals. So we're often discussing premium EP oils, but changing them using the same 5,000 mile interval. In that situation, I just don't see the value in going with a more expensive oil. I've been using Magnatec -> GTX -> Edge, but I might switch to Supertech Euro if the price ever makes it worthwhile. I was running 7,000 to 9,000 mile OCI using the premium stuff. But given what I've learned about soot particles and timing chain wear I think the the best thing to do is run something with an appropriate certs and weight and change every 5,000 miles.

The value is that the better oils (even when changing every 5k) will keep your engine cleaner (especially the piston rings)

 

[jghall00]

The value is that the better oils (even when changing every 5k) will keep your engine cleaner (especially the piston rings)

That might be true in the case of Valvoline Restore and Protect, but it's the only one I'm aware of that claims to clean rings. Any good quality synthetic should go 5,000 miles without leaving deposits. I've gone much longer and my valvetrain was in excellent condition when I pulled the cover.

 

[Patman]

That might be true in the case of Valvoline Restore and Protect, but it's the only one I'm aware of that claims to clean rings. Any good quality synthetic should go 5,000 miles without leaving deposits. I've gone much longer and my valvetrain was in excellent condition when I pulled the cover.

That’s engine dependent though. In some engines an entry level synthetic (and even a mid tier one) changed every 5k isn’t quite enough to keep the rings perfectly clean (hence the reason why many engines end up consuming more oil as they approach 100k)