AMSOIL vs Mobil 1: which oil really protects your engine?
Most drivers trust what they see in ads, and Mobil 1 has long claimed, “Nothing Outperforms Mobil 1.” But is that really true? After more than 20 years of trying various motor oils, I can confidently say: AMSOIL has exceeded every expectation I had. It not only gave my engine peak performance but also saved me money, time, and stress.
Are you trying to choose between AMSOIL and Mobil 1?
Let’s break it all down with independent test results, industry standards, and real-world experience, especially relevant for drivers in the United States and Canada.
Yes. Independent lab tests show AMSOIL consistently outperforms Mobil 1 in wear protection, thermal stability, deposit control, LSPI protection, and oil longevity. AMSOIL delivers longer drain intervals, more peace of mind, and better protection under harsh conditions.
| Test Category |
AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 |
Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-30 |
| Total Base Number (TBN) |
12.6 |
9.1 |
| NOACK Volatility |
5.8% |
9.3% |
| Four-Ball Wear Test |
0.40 mm |
0.61 mm |
| TEOST 33C (Deposit Test) |
7.0 mg |
28.2 mg |
| LSPI Protection |
100% (zero events) |
Risk of LSPI in turbo engines |
| Oil Drain Interval |
Up to 25,000 miles / 1 year |
Up to 10,000 miles |
These results are from ASTM-certified independent labs, following industry-standard procedures such as D6335 (TEOST), D4172 (Wear), and D5800 (Volatility).
Understanding the Key Differences
1. TBN (Total Base Number)
TBN indicates how well an oil neutralizes acids that cause engine corrosion. AMSOIL’s higher TBN gives it a longer effective life, protecting your engine even under extended drain intervals.
2. NOACK Volatility Test
This test measures how much oil evaporates at high temperatures. AMSOIL’s lower volatility means less oil loss, better lubrication retention, and fewer emissions — especially useful for hot climates or turbocharged engines.
3. Four-Ball Wear Test
This test simulates metal-on-metal contact. AMSOIL leaves a much smaller wear scar, proving its superior anti-wear protection, especially for high-performance engines.
4. TEOST 33C (Turbocharger Deposit Test)
In today’s turbocharged engines, carbon deposits can kill performance. AMSOIL stays ultra-clean, scoring just 7 mg of deposits vs Mobil 1’s 28.2 mg. That’s 4x better deposit control.
5. LSPI Protection
Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI) causes catastrophic piston damage in modern direct-injected engines. AMSOIL achieved zero LSPI events in GM’s Dexos1 Gen 2 engine test. Mobil 1 has had documented LSPI risks in similar tests.
Real-World Benefits You’ll Notice
- Smoother cold starts even in harsh Canadian winters
- Quieter engine operation due to superior film strength
- Fewer oil changes, saving both time and money
- Improved fuel economy through reduced friction
- Less sludge and varnish, keeping your engine clean
AMSOIL Exceeds Global Industry Standards
AMSOIL Signature Series oils meet or exceed specifications for:
- API SP / SN Plus (Current U.S. standards)
- ILSAC GF-6A (For improved fuel efficiency and engine life)
- ACEA A3/B4 (European high-performance engines)
- GM dexos1 Gen 2 (Critical LSPI protection)
- JASO MA / MA2 (For motorcycles and V-Twins)
Here’s what makes AMSOIL so good….
✔ High TBN Detergents
AMSOIL’s high-TBN formulation neutralizes engine acids before they cause damage, crucial for engines that run hot or go extended miles between oil changes.
✔ Superior Additive Packages
Top-tier detergents, dispersants, anti-wear agents, and friction modifiers ensure AMSOIL remains stable under heat, pressure, and shear — outperforming budget-focused formulations.
✔ Shear-Stable Viscosity
Many oils thin out under stress. AMSOIL uses naturally shear-resistant base oils and VI improvers that resist molecular breakdown.
✔ Anti-Foam and Oxidation Resistance
Air bubbles can collapse oil films under pressure. AMSOIL’s anti-foam agents prevent this, ensuring reliable protection even during aggressive driving or towing.
Why I Recommend AMSOIL
I’ve tried nearly every big-name synthetic oil over the years, including Mobil 1, Castrol, and Liqui Moly. But none came close to the performance and peace of mind AMSOIL gave me.
- My engine runs cooler and smoother
- Oil stays cleaner for longer
- Fewer breakdowns and better fuel mileage
Whether you’re maintaining a high-mileage daily driver, a turbocharged pickup, or a weekend cruiser, AMSOIL delivers unmatched protection.
Where to Buy AMSOIL?
You can purchase AMSOIL online directly from the official site or through authorized dealers across the US and Canada.
I highly recommend joining the Preferred Customer Program, which gives you:
- Up to 25% off retail prices
- Exclusive promos and free shipping deals
- Access to factory-direct support
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use AMSOIL in a vehicle that’s always used Mobil 1?
Absolutely. AMSOIL is fully compatible with Mobil 1. Just drain the old oil completely and switch to AMSOIL for your next change.
Q: How often do I need to change AMSOIL?
Signature Series allows for up to 25,000 miles or 1 year between changes (with a high-quality filter), depending on your driving conditions.
Q: Will AMSOIL void my warranty?
No. AMSOIL meets or exceeds all OEM requirements and will not void your vehicle’s warranty under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
From lab tests to real-life driving, AMSOIL proved itself far superior to Mobil 1 in every critical category.
It’s the oil I trust in my own vehicles and the one I confidently recommend to every driver who wants maximum engine life, fewer repairs, and true long-term savings.
Ready to make the switch? Try AMSOIL today, your engine (and wallet) will thank you.
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- AMSOIL vs Castrol
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