Best Diesel Motor Oils of 2025

David Davis Avatar
David Davis
Last Updated: Jan 6, 2025

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Diesel motor oils are specially formulated lubricants designed to meet the unique needs of diesel engines. These oils are designed to provide superior performance and protection against wear, deposits, and other harmful contaminants that can compromise engine performance and longevity. Diesel motor oils come in a variety of grades and viscosities to meet the needs of different types of diesel engines, from light-duty pickups to heavy-duty commercial vehicles. Whether you're a truck driver, fleet manager, or diesel engine enthusiast, choosing the right diesel motor oil is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly and efficiently.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Shell Rotella T4 Triple Protection Conventional 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil Cover #TOP 1
Shell Rotella T4 Triple Protection Conventional 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Chevron Delo 400 XLE 15W-40 Oil Cover #TOP 2
Chevron Delo 400 XLE 15W-40 Oil
ftb score rating icon 9.8
AC Delco DexosD 0w-20 Oil Change Kit For Duramax Diesel LM2 Cover #TOP 3
AC Delco DexosD 0w-20 Oil Change Kit For Duramax Diesel LM2
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Diesel Motor Oils

#TOP 1

Shell Rotella T4 Triple Protection Conventional 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil

550045126
Amber/Brown
1 Gallon
Shell Rotella T4 Triple Protection Conventional 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil Cover
Shell Rotella T4 Triple Protection 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil, 1 Gallon

Shell Rotella T4 Diesel Engine Oil is a high-quality 15W-40 motor oil designed to provide exceptional protection for diesel engines. With its advanced Triple Protection technology, this oil safeguards your engine against wear, deposits, and oil breakdown. Its advanced additive technology ensures superior engine cleanliness and enhanced deposit control throughout the oil drain interval. The oil's increased shear stability ensures better viscosity control and optimal engine oil pressure. Additionally, it offers enhanced protection against oil oxidation, resulting in more efficient operation. With its exceptional wear protection, Shell Rotella T4 Diesel Engine Oil prolongs the life of your engine, making it suitable for a wide range of heavy-duty engine applications, from diesel pickup trucks to tractors to tractor trailers.

What We Like
High-quality
Economical
Keeps oil pressure up
Good for various vehicles
Contains zinc for engine cleanliness
#TOP 2

Chevron Delo 400 XLE 15W-40 Oil

257004470
Chevron Delo 400 XLE 15W-40 Oil Cover
Delo 400 XLE Heavy Duty Synblend Diesel Engine Oil 15W-40, 1 Gallon, Pack of 1

Chevron Delo 400 Oil is a premium synthetic blend designed specifically for heavy-duty diesel engines, including those that meet 2017 greenhouse gas regulations. Its advanced Isosyn technology ensures longer oil life and enhanced wear protection, which means you can enjoy extended engine performance. The oil is certified clean, meeting OEM cleanliness standards, helping you reduce maintenance costs and minimize downtime. With excellent control over piston deposits and turbocharger protection, this oil ensures that your engine components remain in top condition, providing peace of mind and reliability on the road.

What We Like
Long oil life
Enhanced wear protection
Certified clean
Excellent deposit control
#TOP 3

AC Delco DexosD 0w-20 Oil Change Kit For Duramax Diesel LM2

10-9277 X7 & PF66 X1
AC Delco DexosD 0w-20 Oil Change Kit For Duramax Diesel LM2 Cover
AC Delco DexosD 0w-20 Engine Oil and Oil Filter Change Kit For 3.0L Duramax Diesel LM2

The AC Delco DexosD 0w-20 Oil Change Kit is the perfect choice for those who want to keep their Duramax Diesel LM2 running smoothly. This kit includes 7 quarts of synthetic oil and 1 PF66 filter. The oil exceeds ILSAC GF-5/API standards for protection against deposits, wear, and low speed preignition, making it especially suitable for turbocharged engines. It also meets ILSAC GF-5 and API Service Classification requirements, ensuring it is suitable for use in modern engines. With this kit, you can rest assured that your engine will be protected and running efficiently.

What We Like
Exceeds ILSAC GF-5/API standards for protection against deposits, wear, and low speed preignition, especially for turbocharged engines.
Meets ILSAC GF-5 and API Service Classification requirements, suitable for use in modern engines.
Includes 7 quarts of synthetic oil and 1 PF66 filter, providing everything needed for an oil change.
#TOP 4

Mobil 1 Turbo Diesel Truck Oil

Mobil
Mobil 1 Turbo Diesel Truck
Gray
1 Gallon
Mobil 1 Turbo Diesel Truck Oil Cover
Mobil 1 Turbo Diesel Truck Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-40, 1 Gal

Mobil 1 Diesel Truck Oil is specially formulated for modern diesel engines, offering extended drain intervals and outstanding performance. By using this oil, you can experience potential fuel savings while ensuring your engine operates smoothly. It meets or exceeds the rigorous standards set by major truck manufacturers, making it suitable for mixed fleet operations. Additionally, it is recommended for high-performance diesel applications, including low-emission engines, which helps you maintain compliance with environmental regulations. This oil also protects your engine by minimizing sludge buildup at low temperatures and deposits at high temperatures, ultimately extending the life of your vehicle.

What We Like
Long drain intervals
Enhanced engine performance
Suitable for mixed fleets
Reduces engine deposits
#TOP 5

Valvoline Premium Blue Extreme Diesel Engine Oil

774038
1 GA, Case of 3
Valvoline Premium Blue Extreme Diesel Engine Oil Cover
Valvoline Premium Blue Extreme SAE 5W-40 Full Synthetic Diesel Engine Oil 1 GA, Case of 3

Valvoline Premium Blue Extreme Diesel Engine Oil is a full synthetic motor oil that provides excellent wear protection, resists oxidation and fights deposits & sludge, protects during cold start-ups while controlling soot, and offers advanced fuel economy. It also has a unique 5,000 miles oil drain extension and is exclusively endorsed and recommended by Cummins. This American-made and formulated motor oil is perfect for heavy-duty applications and can maximize engine life and improve performance.

What We Like
Provides excellent wear protection in heavy-duty applications
Resists oxidation and fights deposits & sludge
Protects during cold start-ups while controlling soot
Offers advanced fuel economy
Has a unique 5,000 miles oil drain extension
#TOP 6

Schaeffer 9000CK4-006S Diesel Engine Oil

Schaeffer Manufacturing
9000CK4-006S
1 Gallon
Schaeffer 9000CK4-006S Diesel Engine Oil Cover
Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. 9000CK4-006S SynShield OTR Plus Full Synthetic Diesel Engine Oil 5W-40, 1-Gallon Bottle

The Schaeffer Diesel Engine Oil offers excellent benefits for your diesel engine. It ensures fuel efficiency while providing durability, so you can drive confidently without worrying about your engine’s performance. With superior cold weather startability, you can expect reliable operation even in chilly conditions. This oil also withstands higher temperatures better than conventional oils, which means it’s built to handle tough driving situations. Additionally, its keep-clean performance helps break down soot and disperse deposits, keeping your engine cleaner and running smoother. These features make it a smart choice for any diesel engine owner.

What We Like
Fuel efficiency
Cold weather performance
High heat resistance
Deposit dispersion
#TOP 7

Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 5W-40 Diesel Engine Oil

550045347-3PK
1 Gallon
Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 5W-40 Diesel Engine Oil Cover
Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 5W-40 Motor Oil, 1 Gallon (3 Pack)

Shell Rotella Diesel Engine Oil is a full synthetic 5W-40 oil that offers exceptional protection and performance for a wide range of heavy-duty engine applications. With Triple Protection Plus technology, this oil protects against wear, deposits, oil breakdown, and improves low-temperature flow. It also provides enhanced fuel economy capability of 1.5 percent without compromising engine protection or durability. The multi-functional dispersant additives offer an enhanced level of protection against the effects of soot, dirt, and other contaminants. Additionally, this oil has increased shear stability for better viscosity control and optimal engine oil pressure. With its better cold-cranking properties and low-temperature pumpability, it ensures critical engine parts are reached faster. The ergonomic design of the case makes it easy to handle and pour. Lastly, its advanced low ash formulation helps protect the exhaust catalysts and particulate filters found in low-emission vehicles.

What We Like
Proven performance and reliability
Works well in a variety of vehicles
Great value for money
#TOP 8

Mobil 1 Delvac 1300 Super 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil

Mobil
TRVAL58394
Mobil 1 Delvac 1300 Super 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil Cover
Mobil 1 112786 Delvac 1300 Super 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil - 4 Gallon Pack

If you're looking for a high-quality diesel engine oil, the Mobil 1 Delvac 1300 Super 15W-40 Diesel Engine Oil is an excellent choice. Designed for diesel engines requiring 15W-40 engine oil, this product will help extend your engine's life thanks to its unique additive system. With 128 fluid ounces in each bottle, you'll have plenty of oil to keep your engine running smoothly. Whether you're a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, this motor oil is a great option to consider.

What We Like
Extends engine life
Plenty of oil volume
High-quality additive system
#TOP 9

Shell Rotella T5 15W-40 Synthetic Blend Diesel Engine Oil

550045348-3PK
Amber/Brown
3-Pack
Shell Rotella T5 15W-40 Synthetic Blend Diesel Engine Oil Cover
Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Blend 15W-40 Motor Oil, 1 Gallon (3 Pack)

The Shell Rotella T5 15W-40 Synthetic Blend Diesel Engine Oil is a high-quality motor oil that offers exceptional protection and performance. Its Triple Protection Plus technology provides protection against wear, deposits, and oil breakdown. The oil is perfect for on-highway fleets, construction, and agricultural machinery, and diesel pickup trucks. It delivers improved low-temperature flow, controls engine deposits, and helps extend oil drain intervals. The oil has an ergonomic design for easy handling and pouring, making it a go-to for those who value convenience and effectiveness.

What We Like
Triple Protection Plus technology for exceptional protection against wear, deposits, and oil breakdown
Ideal for a wide range of heavy-duty engine applications, including on-highway fleets, construction, and agricultural machinery, and diesel pickup trucks
Improved low-temperature flow and extended oil drain intervals for optimal performance
Controls engine wear 37 percent better than the maximum wear requirements in API CK-4 engine wear tests
Ergonomic design for easy handling and pouring
#TOP 10

Valvoline All Terrain 15W-40 Heavy Duty Diesel Engine Oil

894015-EA
1 GA
Valvoline All Terrain 15W-40 Heavy Duty Diesel Engine Oil Cover
Valvoline All Terrain 15W-40 Heavy Duty Diesel Engine Oil 1 GA

Valvoline Diesel Engine Oil is a high-quality motor oil designed to provide excellent wear protection in heavy-duty applications. It is specially formulated with high-quality base oils and special inhibitors to resist oxidation and fight deposits. This oil is specifically designed to protect heavy-duty diesel engines under extreme load regimes and severe idle time. It is perfect for use in harsh environments experienced in construction, mining, agriculture, and more. With Valvoline Diesel Engine Oil, you can be confident that your engine will be well-protected, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.

What We Like
Excellent wear protection
Resists oxidation and fights deposits
Designed for heavy-duty diesel engines
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which oil is best for a diesel engine?

7 Best Synthetic Oils for Diesel Engines. #1 – Motul 8100 X-cess Synthetic Engine Oil.#2 – Shell Rotella T6 Heavy Duty Diesel Synthetic Oil.#3 – Lucas Oil CJ-4 Synthetic HD Motor Oil.#4 – Schaeffer SynShield Synthetic Plus Diesel Engine Oil.#5 – Liqui Moly Diesel High Tech Synthetic Motor Oil.

2. Is 15W-40 oil only for diesel engines?

15W40 oil changes less with change in temperature. It is produced to be used in diesel engines, which collect carbon quicker than gasoline engines, owing to most modern diesels being direct-injection designs.

3. Is 5W40 good for diesel engines?

AMSOIL's official stance is that their 5W-40 synthetic diesel oils are safe and perfectly suited for year-round use under all conditions and loads. Naturally, 5W-40 is highly recommended for winter use, but there is absolutely no downside to using it in summer as well.

Editor's Notes

During our diesel motor oil research, we found 24 diesel motor oil products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 296,883 customer reviews through our big data system to write the diesel motor oils list. We found that most customers choose diesel motor oils with an average price of $41.53.

The diesel motor oils are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of diesel motor oils, including Shell Rotella, Chevron, ACDelco, Mobil, Valvoline. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
David Davis Avatar

David Davis has rich experience as a mechanic and a general repairman in the automotive industry. It has given him plenty of knowledge in automobile repair, auto parts, and all kinds of tools. In his spare time, he enjoys assembling and disassembling parts for cars.