Off-Brand Synthetic Oils

[Al]

First off neither Syntech or your oil is a "True" synthetic-as was mentioned. I'm sure the oil will do fine for you and is likely better than most conventional oils. And as far as mixing the 5W and 10W..you would probably be better off with the 5W in Michigan,. But if you are happy mixing-have at it

Now that the new specification for new oils is in (GF-4)-the days of buying a no-name Group Synthetic (for me) would seem like a waste. In some cases (like Mobil DriveClean and Conoco oils) you are getting a Group III oil for a buck and a half or less.

 

[Blue99]

Fred & Al have provide some good commentary and my only additional comment regarding AutoTrend is that it actually is an API SL licensed oil.
API License # 2172 - Wholesale Merchandisers, Inc

As far as mixing the 5W & 10w30's, the group III's generally have very good cold crank ratings and this mix should provide good winter weather performance.

 

[Norm Olt]

The fact that the oil also caries a CF rating is impressive enough for me... Especially at $2.59 per quart.

Compare it to 10w30 Delo, if you can find any.

Cheers

 

[Triple_Se7en]

First-time poster so I say "Hello"!

Now I'll step right into the fire... oops... I mean oil!
I done sumthin' a few days ago that was spur of the moment. My 99' Chevy S-10 4.3 always tasted Castrol Syntec 5-10w-30. It has 75,000 on it & now I've gone ahead & purchased 24 bottles of "AutoTrend" Full Synthetic ... sold by Meijer Thrifty Acres.

I purchased twelve 5w30s & twelve 10w30s because I prefer equal oil vicosities that create 7-1/2W-30. Don't ask me why I do this... all my GMs seem to like it though.

Anyways, this off-brand AutoTrend stuff says it meets or exceeds NA & Euro warranties
API SL/CF ILSAC GF-3 ACEA AI-98 Corvette, Viper and previous class' SJ, SH.

It was on sale for $2.59 & since I was accustomed to paying $4.79 for Castrol Syntec, I thought I'd try it. Now I need to either try alot of it (24) ...or find a new home for all them plastic puppies...lol.

Any info on this product would be appreciated.

 

[TallPaul]

Probably as good as the NAPA synthetic I bought for $2.69 a quart on sale. Does it say who bottles it? The Meijer brand oil is bottled by Citgo.

 

[WeyounDS9]

Of all the specs you mentioend the ACEA and the Corvette GM4718M spec are the most relevant.
In order to meet those specs these oils must have a certain resistance to oxidation, they must meet a maximum Noack volatilty, stay in grade standards etc.

The Syntec meets those specs as well. a off-brand synthetic is likely a group III syn.

I would say you got some pretty good oil (for the price), but nothing to write home about either.

Fred..