Every car owner knows that engine oil plays a vital role in running a vehicle smoothly. It is responsible for oiling the moving parts. Like typical engine components, it is extremely important to upgrade your oil additive to enhance the performance of your vehicle.
Engine oil additives are designed to improve the performance of all the running elements in your car’s engine oil. Additionally, it helps control all sorts of common issues that arise due to engine oil. Engine oil additives can eliminate the impurities between the metal components, thus controlling friction.
What Is The Engine Oil Additive?
It is quite common for the engines of traditional and older cars to malfunction. One of the reasons is poor engine oil performance. If your engine oil does not offer the best and smooth ride, then you could choose to restore the strength and efficiency of the engine oil by using oil additives. Note that the oil additives are not designed as a replacement for the engine oil. They rather get mixed with the main engine oil and improve its performance.
The main benefit of an oil additive is the smoother functioning of the engine oil. When added to the oil, these additives reduce friction, corrosion, and wear and wear. The rust inhibitors prevent corrosion and keep your engine oil and other components in good condition. The built-in oil stabilizers in the additives stabilize the engine components.
1. Sea Foam SF-16 Motor Treatment
If you are looking for an easy-to-use and the top-rated oil additive for an older car engine, then Sea Foam SF-16 Motor Treatment, 16 oz is the best option. The model comes packed in a simple kit. The unit is compatible with both the 2-cycles and 4-cycles car engines. This means you can use this oil additive for the engines of the truck, cars, hatchbacks, boats, and even tractors. The application process is quite straightforward. You only have to add the formula to the engine oil. Make sure it works for the older engines that have been used for more than 250,000 miles.
The manufacturer has used petroleum in this solution. Sea Foam SF-16 Motor Treatment, 16 oz can eliminate the accumulated dirt and deposits on your engine’s components. It is also effective in softening the solid debris to remove it smoothly from the surface. This ultimate motor treatment solution can be used to remove all kinds of impurities and contaminants.
Performance
It happens to be an EPA-certified formula. This means Sea Foam SF-16 Motor Treatment, 16 oz is an eco-friendly product. Performance-wise, Sea Foam SF-16 Motor Treatment reduces the engine’s noise and boosts its performance. You can use it for both gas and diesel engines. However, the product must not be used on new engines (that have not been driven 5000 miles yet).
This EPA-certified oil additive can prevent moisture in fuel, lubricates the car engine components, clean the engine oil, and keep your engine in a tip-top condition. The formula is available at a cheap price. Make sure the formula is specifically used for older engines.
Features
- Used for gas and diesel engines
- Designed for old engines
- EPA-certified
- Improves fuel economy
The Pros
- Works well for old engines
- Lubricate all components
- Versatile
- Universal compatibility
- Prevent contamination and other impurities
- Eco-friendly product
The Cons
- It is flammable
2. Archoil AR9100 Engine Oil Additive
Archoil AR9100 Engine Oil Additive happens to be one of the versatile formulas that work on all types of engines. The solution is compatible with gas and diesel engines. However, it is best to check the compatibility of the solution with your specific car model before making a purchase. This additive could be combined with any synthetic oil. Besides, it is compatible with transmission and engine oil.
The presence of Nanoborate in the formula makes the additive the best detergent. So, in addition to improving the fuel efficiency and the overall engine performance, this oil additive keeps all the running components free of contaminants and impurities. In fact, its cleaning properties can remove even the toughest and stubborn deposits from your vehicle’s engine.
Performance
The solution has proven an effective formula for heat and friction. It reduces the engine sound and promotes the lifespan of the components in the engine. Archoil AR9100 Engine Oil Additive is known for allowing your engine oil to withstand the extreme weather conditions effortlessly. Moreover, it boosts the performance of the fuel, saving you quite a few bucks on excess fuel consumption. The formula inhibits elements that lead to corrosion and premature wear and tear of the engine oil.
Overall, it is an effective option for older engines. Make sure you check your vehicle and the compatibility of the additive with your car’s engine before making a purchase.
Features
- Prevents corrosion and wear
- Reduces engine noise
- Improves fuel economy
- Universal compatibility
- Extends the life of the engine components
- Reduce friction and eliminate contaminants forming on the surface
The Pros
- Versatile unit
- Durable
- Multi-functional
- Protects your engine
- Support smooth and convenient ride
The Cons
- No cons that we know of
3. BestLine 853796001049 Premium Synthetic Engine Oil
BestLine is one of the trusted brands. The company has introduced a versatile and durable car engine additive oil that is compatible with almost all types of gasoline engines. That being said, you can use this oil additive in your cars, motorbikes, truck, etc. The solution forms a strong layer of lubricant surrounding the engine.
Basically, it coats all the essential and running components of the engine with the lubricant. This promotes fuel efficiency and reduces friction due to metal-to-metal interactions.
Formula And Performance
The additive improves the fuel economy. It is mainly recommended for car owners with a gasoline engine. All you need to do is pour the entire can of the BestLine 853796001049 Premium Synthetic Engine Oil into the car engine oil every time you change the oil. The unit forms a layer of lubricant on the engine components, which help prevent friction. Now that it controls the friction, it automatically inhibits corrosion and wear.
Also Read: The Best Oil Filters
The additive works wonders for older car engines, however, you could also use it on a new vehicle given that it has covered at least 5,000 miles. It is your ideal option for improving fuel efficiency. Despite being the EPA-certified additive, the BestLine 853796001049 Premium Synthetic Engine Oil produces emission.
Features
- Compatible with cars, bikes, and trucks
- Used mainly for gasoline engines
- Improves fuel economy
- Prevents friction
- A suitable option for older and brand-new engines
- EPA-certified
- Avoids engine overheating
The Pros
- Universal compatibility
- Easy to pour
- Offers a smooth ride
- Prolong the life of your engine components
- Reasonable price
The Cons
- The additive can cause emission
4. REV X Two 4 Oz Stiction Fix Oil Treatment
The brand has advertised this product as the “Original Stiction Fix”. Well, it is absolutely true that this oil additive lubricates all parts of your engine without exposing them to chemicals. This makes the product the most suitable option for older engines. If your engine components have been deteriorating due to excess friction, then REV X Stiction Fix Oil Treatment will be your best investment.
This small engine oil upgrade can improve fuel economy and save you hundreds of dollars in the long run. The formula does not contain zinc and any other chemical compound. As the name suggests, this unit prevents stiction. This formula is an effective option for all kinds of engines. REV X Stiction Fix Oil Treatment is an ideal option for mechanics and car owners who want to prevent friction without adding chemicals to the engine oil.
Performance
The additive can enhance the performance of your car engine. It can lubricate the running parts of your engine and prevent stiction, which results in deterioration and premature wear. The additive is compatible with most types of lubricants, but it is mainly used with hydraulic lubricants. Safety-wise, there is nothing to worry about as REV X Stiction Fix Oil Treatment is a chemical-free formula. It does not contain Moly, Teflon, Graphite, and other chemical compounds.
Features
- Chemical-free oil additive
- Works with all types of lubricants
- Controls stiction
- Increases the life of your engine oil
- Blend with almost all engines
- Boosts fuel economy
The Pros
- Effective option for all cars
- Safe
- Easy to use
- Durable
- Multi-functional
The Cons
- It is a little expensive
5. Genuine Ford Fluid XL-3 Friction Modifier Oil Additive
Launched by Ford Company, the main quality of this oil additive is to control engine noise. The product is especially recommended for car owners with a Ford engine. But, the model works with different types of engines. However, it is still best to check the compatibility of the additive with your specific model to ensure that your car engine will give a decent performance.
Being an OEM product, it goes without saying that Genuine Ford Fluid XL-3 Friction Modifier Oil Additive contains an amazing formula. The can of this oil additive features a tapered neck applicator, which is specially designed to help car owners pour the solution into the engine oil seamlessly. The solution lubricates the engine components and prevents friction between metal parts.
The additive offers great compatibility with Ford vehicles. Genuine Ford Fluid XL-3 Friction Modifier Oil Additive will reduce the loud noise of the engine and running components. The model might be quite rare, but it definitely surprises you with its excellent properties and anti-friction quality. Coming to the drawbacks, it has an unpleasant odor. Make sure you put on a mask when applying the formula. Moreover, do not confuse Genuine Ford Fluid XL-3 Friction Modifier Oil Additive for a dust or contaminant removal formula.
Features
- OEM product
- Tapered neck applicator for smoother application
- Reduces friction
- Lubricates the engine components
- Compatible with Ford vehicles
The Pros
- Easy to apply
- Extends the life of the engine components
- Offer smooth and hassle-free ride
- Blends well with the engine oil
- Reasonable price
The Cons
- Some users have complained that the formula stinks.
6. BG MOA Part #110 Engine Oil Supplement
Another effective engine oil additive for older engines is BG MOA Part #110 Engine Oil Supplement. It can work on both natural and synthetic engine oil, however, we suggest you check the compatibility of the model with your car manual before buying it.
The interesting fact about this model is that it is manufactured by an aftermarket supplier. Its best quality is the temperature resistance. Even if you expose the additive to an extremely high temperature, rest assured it will perform well. In fact, BG MOA Part #110 Engine Oil Supplement is specifically designed for engines with overheating issues. The formula slows down oxidation, which could make the oil thinner over time. Besides, it also avoids the thickening of the engine oil.
Performance
The product gives a wonderful performance in a hot temperature. However, you need to be a little careful if the temperature drops below freezing. BG MOA Part #110 Engine Oil Supplement is not a multi-functional product. It is not designed to improve the engine oil. It rather works only when your engine is struggling. You could use it on both the older and brand-new vehicles. It guarantees the longevity of the engine components by reducing friction.
You can use it for the engines that have covered at least 1,000 miles. Make sure that the brand doesn’t offer the engine protection against rust and natural wear.
Features
- Protect the oil from hot temperature
- Prevents engine overheating issues
- Controls oxidation
- Works on synthetic and natural oils
- Used for old and new engines
The Pros
- Controls friction
- Affordable
- Universal compatibility
- Versatile
- Recommended by mechanics
The Cons
- Not a suitable option for protection against rust and natural wear
- Not recommended for people who live in cold areas
7. Liqui Moly 2009 Anti-Friction Oil Additive
Another effective and affordable car engine oil formula for older engines is Liqui Moly 2009 Anti-Friction Oil Additive. This German-manufactured oil additive is mainly used to prevent friction between the metal components in the engine. A high concentration of molybdenum is used to prepare this advanced and quality oil additive formula. There is no doubt this liquid solution can resist all kinds of temperatures quite efficiently.
Liqui Moly 2009 Anti-Friction Oil Additive is especially known for its anti-friction properties. It has been extensively used to control friction and extend the life of the running components. This oil additive solution can lubricate the surface that leads to friction. As compared to other products mentioned on this list, Liqui Moly 2009 Anti-Friction Oil Additive will be your ideal option for older engines, especially for engines with friction issues.
As mentioned on the can, the manufacturer changes this solution every year to keep it up-to-date with the latest trends. Additionally, the solution is quite effective in reducing the loud engine noise. What we did not like about this product is its inability to eliminate contaminants and debris from the surface of the components. So far, it is only good at reducing friction.
Features
- A perfect option for Prius engines
- Used for friction issues
- Prevents engine noise
- Develops a strong film of lubricants on the surfaces that are prone to friction
- Offer reliable performance
The Pros
- Affordable
- Last for years
- Strong formula
- Control friction
- Extend the life of your vehicle and engine components
The Cons
- It can’t be used as a detergent that could remove all sorts of impurities from the engine surface.
8. Gumout 510016 Fuel System Cleaner
Due to combustion, the dust and dirt particles are accumulated on the surface of the engine components. As a result, these particles reduce the efficiency of the engine oil. That’s when the Gumout 510016 Fuel System Cleaner comes into the picture. As the name suggests, it acts as the engine oil detergent that eliminates all sorts of impurities from the engine oil. By keeping the engine oil clean, Gumout 510016 Fuel System Cleaner extends the life of the engine and its components.
Besides, it helps improve the fuel economy. The unit is specially used to clean ports, fuel injectors, intake valves, and other essential engine parts seamlessly. For the best results, make sure you pour the Gumout 510016 Fuel System Cleaner after driving for 3000 miles. The formula has to be poured into an almost empty gasoline tank. Once you have poured the solution, add approx 21 gallons of gasoline to the tank.
Features
- Prevents dirt particles
- Clean all the running components of the engine
- Boost the engine oil durability
- Must be used every 3000 miles
- An effective engine oil treatment
The Pros
- Multi-functional engine oil additive
- Simple application
- Detergent cum oil stabilizer
- Affordable
- Improves fuel economy
The Cons
- ·The formula works for only petrol cars
9. AI Innovations LUC10002 Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer
AI Innovations LUC10002 oil treatment is compatible with different vehicles. It can be used for transmission oil and engine oil. Despite being available in a large container (1 gallon), the formula is sold at an affordable price. The solution not only helps offer smooth ride experience, but it increases the life of the engine oil. AI Innovations LUC10002 is not a replacement for the engine oil.
It has to be mixed with the oil for the best results. The company guarantees a smooth engine performance and extended life of the engine components. With Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer, you don’t have to worry about the overheating issues. Just a small amount of this effective oil additive can help enhance the performance of your engine and improve its efficiency. Besides, it works wonders for car engines that have been losing excess oil. All you got to do is pour this advanced solution into the engine oil and see the results.
Designed specifically for older engines, this unit is compatible with most types of vehicles. The best quality of this oil stabilizer is its fuel efficiency. This engine oil treatment can reduce the amount of oil consumed by the engine, hence saving you a lot of bucks on fuel consumption. Overall, the unit ensures that your engine runs smoothly in all weather conditions. However, the formula goes a little sticky in the colder months.
Features
- Prevents dry starts
- Improves fuel economy
- Controls engine overheating and excess oil loss issues
- Prolong the life of your engine
- Reduces engine noise
The Pros
- Durable
- Cost-effective solution
- Universal compatibility
- Available in a large container
- Ideal option for older vehicles
The Cons
- It gets quite sticky in winter
10. Red Line Break-in Oil Treatment
16 oz ensures that you are able to use the oil additive two times. The solution contains a significant amount of zinc and phosphorus compounds, which are a must in all types of oil additives. However, you need to use only the recommended amount of Red Line Break-in Oil Treatment in your engine. Make sure you double-check the car manual to know the suitable amount of zinc and phosphorus content in the oil.
It is important to note that zinc can be quite harmful to your vehicle. Excess amounts of zinc can deteriorate the small running components of the engine for good. Overall, Red Line Break-in Oil Treatment is especially recommended for car owners who are facing friction issues in the engine. The product is only used for reducing friction by lubricating all components of your engine. Do not expect it to be multi-functional.
Features
- 16 ounces bottle
- Can be used twice
- High levels of zinc and phosphorus
- Reduces friction
- Lubricate all components
The Pros
- Enhances the engine performance
- Strong chemical solution
- Durable
- Reasonable price
- Compatible with different vehicles
The Cons
- Excess zinc and phosphorus can damage small parts.
A Guide To Buying Engine Oil Additives
In order to choose the best product, it is important to understand the common types of chemical compounds in oil additives. Before you make a purchase, check the chemical compounds of the engine oil additives. It will help you know which option will be the best for your car.
Zinc: If your oil additive consists of zinc, then it is available as a performance booster. Zinc is an ideal chemical compound for engine oil additives. It works wonders for older models, i.e. the traditional cars. Make sure you check the recommended amount of zinc usage and do not exceed the limit.
Phosphorus: Phosphorus and Zinc happen to be the two most common oil additives found in the engine. Basically, Phosphorus is used to enhance the vehicle’s performance by preventing unnecessary wear and tear.
Now, this leads us to an important question “how can the chemical compounds found in the oil additives benefit you”? Here is how oil additives can improve the performance of your vehicle.
Reduces Friction
Interactions between the metal components in your car engine can lead to deterioration. By reducing the friction between these materials, the oil additive can extend the life of the important metal components running in your car’s engine. Besides, it prevents wear and tear from metal-to-metal friction.
Increase MPG
Now that you are upgrading the engine oil, you will notice a 2 MPG increase as soon as the oil changes. This reduces the unnecessary pressure in your motor and saves you hundreds of bucks in the long run.
Rust Inhibitors
Not only do you need to protect your engine from chipping away due to friction, but it is equally important to keep your engine components from corrosion. Ensure a smooth and comfortable drive and extend the durability of your engine with oil additives.
Remove Impurities
Some additives are known for their detergent properties that help clean the metal components. They unclog all the dirt and debris stuck between these running parts and prevent friction. Now, you don’t have to worry about the impact of unclean components on your engine’s performance.
Control Too Much Smoke
Does your car produce excessive black smoke? Well, oil additives can be your ideal solution to the thick and black smoke. Basically, the excess amount of smoke is produced because of the engine oil loss. As a result, the thick black smoke is released from the engine’s exhaust pipe. The additives not only prevent the smoke, but it can help control the unnecessary engine noise.
Control Leakage
Oil leakage is one of the most common issues in engine oil. The good news is you don’t need to take your car to the automobile servicing store frequently. With the right oil additives, your car will not suffer oil leakage. Usually, car owners get their engine oil replaced if it is leaking. However, the additives are designed to repair the minor scratches and gaps that may cause leakage.
Common Types Of Oil Additives
Detergents
As the name implies, the main purpose of using detergent oil additives is to remove all sorts of impurities and dirt collected on the engine components. Since detergents are mostly alkaline, they can control the acid levels in the engine. This protects the engine from debris, dirt, dust, and other accumulated particles.
Antioxidants
Antioxidant oil additives are used to decelerate the oxidation. It builds a strong layer that avoids corrosion and keeps your engine healthy and active for years. Basically, oxidation leads to corrosion and premature wear and tear of the components around your engine oil. If you choose the additive oils rich in antioxidants, then you can rest assured that your engine oil will last for years without showing any sign of deterioration.
Friction Modifiers
Metal components in your engine are prone to friction. A friction modifier is designed specifically to control the friction level between metal components. Not only does it protect the components from chipping away, but friction modifiers save your fuel economy and improve the durability of your engine oil. Most engine oil additives available on the market feature friction modifiers.
Anti-foaming Agent
Manufacturers have started to design oil additives containing an anti-foaming formula. Such solutions consist of strong chemicals that prevent bubbles and foam in your car engine oil. Foam and air bubbles in the oil can cause significant damage to the engine oil as well as the running components in the engine. If the bubbles do not burst, they will accelerate oxidation that can result in corrosion. Car owners do not need to buy a solution rich in anti-foaming agents. Only a small concentration of this formula will suffice.
Viscosity Modifiers
Your engine oil tends to lose its thickness and consistency when it is exposed to extremely high temperatures. As a result, the oil gets as thin as water. To avoid this issue, viscosity modifiers can be mixed with your car additive oil. These additives can maintain the oil fluidity and keep the engine oil from getting thinner over time. Moreover, it improves the fuel economy and prevents premature wear. Before you make a purchase, check if the oil additive contains viscosity modifiers.
Tips For Selecting The Best Type Of Oil Additive
Oil additives blend well with the engine oil and improve your vehicle’s overall performance. It reduces wear, promotes smooth driving, eliminates impurities from the components in the engine, and prevents oxidation and corrosion. If you would like to upgrade your vehicle and improve its efficiency, then oil additives should be your first and cheapest investment. If you are not certain about the best quality oil additives on the market, you have come to the right place. In this post, we have mentioned a few important factors you need to take into consideration when buying engine oil additives.
Climate Adaptability
Despite being designed to resist almost all weather conditions, only a few units can withstand freezing temperatures. Some oil additives cannot handle the high temperature. There is a good chance they will lose their consistency if exposed to extreme temperatures. The best model is the one that can withstand almost all temperatures efficiently. Climate adaptability is especially important for those who live in places that receive either extremely hot or below-freezing temperatures.
Compatibility
It is important to note that only a few oil additives are compatible with all types of vehicles and engine oil. Most will be compatible with synthetic engine oil and specific types of engines only. To ascertain the best and most suitable oil additives for your vehicle, take a look at your car manual. The manual will also tell you the specific chemicals that must be avoided in the car engines. Of course, you have many options that are compatible with all types of car engines.
Chemicals
As mentioned above in the article, most brands add zinc and phosphorus to oil additives. Zinc is especially recommended for older vehicles since it enhances engine performance and extends its life. Phosphorus, on the other hand, can control metal-to-metal friction. You should look for a model that contains both zinc and phosphorus.
EPA Certification
Nowadays, both consumers and manufacturers are shifting to eco-friendly products. So, it makes sense to choose an eco-friendly oil additive that could reduce emissions. Such units will also be EPA-certified. Since oil additives are known for improving the fuel economy, they can reduce emissions. However, do not trust the manufacturer’s word. Check if the product is EPA-certified. An EPA certification indicates that the formula does not contain chemicals.
Also Read: The Best Portable Air Compressors
Uses
Oil additives might be a small investment, but this upgrade in your car engine oil can offer several benefits. There is no denying car additives have multiple uses. First of all, they lubricate the active components of your engine. Oil additives can enhance the engine performance, remove debris and dirt accumulated on the surface of the engine and other components, slow down oxidation, prevent wear and corrosion, stop leakage, and maintain the consistency of the engine oil.
Bottom Line
This small investment can boost your vehicle’s parts and engine components. You should add the best quality engine oil additive to your car maintenance kit. Pour the whole bottle of the additive into the engine oil. Don’t forget to check the car manual before buying the additives.
FAQS
- What is Viscosity in Oil Additives?
Viscosity helps you measure the overall performance of your engine oil. Your engine needs to have a balanced level of viscosity in order to function appropriately. It is important to note that the viscosity can be influenced by the current temperature. Most oil additives available on the market have the potential to change the viscosity of the engine oil. This means the engine oil will not run like water.
- Does Oil Additives Work?
Oil additives have proven to be a great solution to a range of engine oil issues. They can extend the life of all types of engines (even the older models). It can prevent corrosion, natural wear and tear, and a broad range of issues on your engine oil. Besides, the right oil additive can boost the performance of your engine by reducing friction between metal components. Oil additives do not replace your main engine oil. They are rather combined with the engine oil for the best and efficient performance.
- Can Oil Additives of Different Brands be Mixed?
No, never mix the oil additives of different brands. Even if they feature the same viscosity level, mixing different types of oil additives is a big NO. You should rather stick to the type of oil additive recommended by your car manufacturer. Check your car manual to know the best additive for your engine.
- Is there any difference between Fuel Additives and Oil Additives?
Yes, fuel additives and oil additives are completely different. It is the engine oil additives that circulates throughout the engine and makes all the components run. As these components are lubricated, they use fuel to run the vehicle. There is not a lot you could do to improve fuel or gasoline to boost your vehicle’s efficiency and performance.
Fuel additives are available for vehicles. However, their use is limited to protecting your engine components from corrosion and rust. Only a few models have the potential to lubricate the components in the engine and boost fuel efficiency. - Can Additives Damage Your Engine?
Oil additives are designed to enhance the performance of older engines. They are extensively used to avoid friction and improve fuel economy. Oil additives do not damage your car engine as long as the brand you choose does not contain harmful chemicals.
In fact, not using the best quality oil additives can lead to engine damage. Those who drive their vehicles every day need an effective oil additive to ensure a smooth and convenient ride.