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How to Choose the Best Engine Oil for Your Mercedes Benz

If you own a Mercedes-Benz, you probably know it's a high-performance vehicle that requires top-quality fluids to keep running smoothly and efficiently. Two of the most important fluids for your Mercedes-Benz are engine oil and AdBlue.

Engine oil is crucial as it lubricates, cools, cleans, and protects the engine from wear and tear. AdBlue, on the other hand, is used explicitly in some Mercedes-Benz models as a diesel exhaust fluid that helps reduce harmful nitrogen oxide emissions from the exhaust system.

Here, we'll guide you on choosing the best engine oil for the Mercedes Benz model based on its year and mileage.

What is the best engine oil for Mercedes-Benz?

To ensure peak performance and protection for your Mercedes-Benz engine, it's recommended to use a synthetic oil that meets the manufacturer's specifications and approvals. Synthetic oils offer superior resistance against oxidation, thermal breakdown, and sludge formation compared to conventional oils. They provide enhanced engine protection and performance.

Additionally, synthetic oils have a lower viscosity, promoting smoother flow and reducing friction and drag within the engine.

You can determine the quality, performance, and compatibility of the engine oil for your Mercedes-Benz by checking for the appropriate API (American Petroleum Institute) classification, ACEA (Association des Constructeurs Européens d'Automobiles) classification, and MB (Mercedes-Benz) approval number.

API classification

The API classification for motor oils consists of S for gasoline engines and C for diesel engines. The second letter denotes the performance level of the oil, with higher letters indicating better performance. For instance, SN exceeds SL in performance, and SP exceeds SN. Additionally, the API classification specifies whether the oil is suitable for vehicles equipped with catalytic converters or diesel particulate filters.

The ACEA classification is a system composed of two letters and a number. The letters indicate the type of engine, with A representing gasoline engines, B for diesel engines, C for engines with catalytic converters or diesel particulate filters, and E for heavy-duty diesel engines. The number in the classification denotes the oil's performance level, with higher numbers indicating better performance. For instance, A3/B4 has a higher performance level than A3/B3.

The Mercedes-Benz approval numbers are three digits long. For gasoline engines, the approval number is 229. For diesel engines, it's 228, and for engines with catalytic converters or diesel particulate filters, it's 226. The last digit of the approval number indicates the level of oil performance, with higher digits indicating higher performance.

To determine the best engine oil for your specific Mercedes-Benz model and year, you can refer to your owner's manual or check a sticker located under the hood of your car. Alternatively, you can use our personalized simulator tool to determine which type of oil is recommended for your vehicle.

Here are some examples of the best engine oil for Mercedes Benz models:

• If you have a 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class with a gasoline engine, you can use a Mobil 1 European Car Formula 0W-40. This oil has an API classification of SN/CF, an ACEA classification of A3/B4, and an MB approval number of 229.5.
• For a 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class with a diesel engine and a diesel particulate filter, Castrol EDGE 5W-30 C3 is recommended. This oil has an API classification of SN/CF, an ACEA classification of C3, and an MB approval number of 229.51.
• Lastly, for a 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class with a gasoline engine, Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 is suitable. This oil has an API classification of SN/CF, an ACEA classification of A3/B4, and an MB approval number of 229.5.

What is AdBlue, and why do I need it?

AdBlue is a diesel exhaust fluid used in select Mercedes-Benz models with BlueTEC technology. This innovative system reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by injecting AdBlue into a catalytic converter. AdBlue is a mixture of urea and water that reacts with NOx in the exhaust, converting it into harmless nitrogen and water vapor.

The use of AdBlue is necessary for certain Mercedes-Benz vehicles to meet emission standards set by the European Union (Euro 6) and the United States (Tier 2 Bin 5). Failure to utilize AdBlue when required will trigger a warning message on your dashboard, and your engine will not start once the AdBlue tank reaches zero.

You can find out if your Mercedes-Benz model needs AdBlue by checking your owner's manual or using our personalized simulator. You can also look for a blue cap next to the fuel filler cap on your vehicle.

How to choose the best AdBlue for Mercedes-Benz?

When it comes to choosing the best AdBlue for Mercedes, selecting a product that meets the manufacturer's specifications and approvals is essential. These standards are set by organizations such as ISO (International Organization for Standardization), DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung), and VDA (Verband der Automobilindustrie). They ensure that the AdBlue you use is high-quality, pure, and compatible with your vehicle.

For example, the ISO standard for AdBlue is ISO 22241. It covers various aspects, including physical and chemical properties, handling procedures, storage requirements, and transportation guidelines. The DIN standard for AdBlue is DIN 70070, which outlines quality requirements and test methods. Lastly, the VDA standard for AdBlue is VDA 278. It specifies the approval process and certification mark.

The ideal AdBlue for Mercedes-Benz vehicles must possess three certifications: ISO 22241, DIN 70070, and VDA 278. Look for these certifications on the label or packaging of the AdBlue product you choose. Alternatively, you can acquire AdBlue from a trusted Mercedes-Benz dealership or consider using BlueDEF Diesel Exhaust Fluid as a reliable alternative that meets all these certifications.

How to add AdBlue to Mercedes-Benz?

Incorporating the best AdBlue for Mercedes is a simple process that involves following these straightforward steps.

• Begin by opening the fuel filler door on your vehicle and locate the blue cap, which is located next to the fuel filler cap.
• Unscrew the blue cap and insert the nozzle of the AdBlue container or dispenser into the filler neck.
• Please fill up the AdBlue tank until it reaches its maximum capacity or until you hear a clicking sound from the nozzle, indicating that it is complete.
• Once you have finished filling, screw back on the blue cap and close the fuel filler door.
• Finally, turn on the ignition and wait for a few seconds until the AdBlue warning message disappears from your dashboard.

If you receive a message on your Mercedes-Benz dashboard stating "Refill AdBlue at Workshop" or "AdBlue Check Additive See Operator's Manual," it means that you need to add AdBlue to your vehicle. It is essential to regularly check the level of AdBlue in your car and refill it as necessary. Generally, a full AdBlue tank can last approximately 10,000 to 15,000 miles.

Conclusion

In summary, it is crucial to choose the best engine oil for Mercedes in order to ensure optimal performance and comply with environmental standards. To select the appropriate synthetic oil, refer to your owner's manual or use the recommended API, ACEA, and MB classifications.

For BlueTEC models, AdBlue is necessary to meet emission standards. Make sure to choose AdBlue with ISO 22241, DIN 70070, and VDA 278 certifications and follow the simple steps to add it to your vehicle. By following these guidelines and using approved products, you can keep your Mercedes-Benz running smoothly, efficiently, and in line with environmental regulations.