Selecting the right engine oil is not just a formality, but the key to a long life of your car engine. In a world full of marketing promises, the German brand is a big deal. RAVENOL It stands out for its conservative approach to quality and the widest range of products. The RAVENOL oil selection catalog may seem like a complex maze to a beginner, but it is in this variety that the key to perfect maintenance lies.
Unlike a mass market, where you can find an average solution for everyone, you will find specific formulas for specific nodes. Catalogue allows you to weed out the excess and find the canister that meets the strict tolerances of the manufacturer of your car. Error in the selection can be expensive, so we will analyze the structure of the range in detail.
In this article, we will not just list the articles, but teach you to navigate the nomenclature, understand the difference between synthetic bases and correctly interpret the requirements of the manufacturer. RAVENOL develops modern engines to meet the environmental requirements of Euro 6 and aboveThis makes them relevant to the newest models.
Structure and philosophy of the RAVENOL catalog
All products of the company are strictly structured by types of base oils and application areas. It is not a chaotic set of names, but a clear system where every letter and number counts. Understanding this logic allows you not to look at the table every time, but immediately see the right product on the shelf. The main division occurs by the type of base: mineral, semisynthetics and synthetics.
Particular attention should be paid to the lineup USVO Ultra Synthetic Vehicle Oil. These are products based on PAO (polyalphaolefin) technologies. They are characterized by the highest thermal stability and almost complete absence of evaporation. For turbocharged engines, this is a critical parameter, as turbine It operates in extreme temperature conditions.
You can also find the HCS and VMP series in the catalog. The first is focused on protection against wear in severe conditions, the second is on compatibility with exhaust gas neutralization systems. If you have a modern diesel with a particulate filter DPFThe VMP marking cannot be ignored. This will lead to a rapid breakdown of expensive ecology.
- 🛢️ USVO - pure synthetics based on PAO for maximum loads.
- 🛡️ VMP Low ash content for systems with particulate filters.
- ⚙️ HCS - hydrocracking base with a reinforced additive package.
⚠️ Attention: Do not mix the oils of different series without extreme necessity. While RAVENOL guarantees compatibility of base oils within the brand, blending additive packages can change the final properties of the mixture, reducing its protective characteristics.
The main principle of choice is compliance with the manufacturer's tolerances, not just SAE viscosity.
How to use the selection table by car brands
To simplify the lives of car owners, the company has developed detailed cross-reference tables. They allow you to find the right oil, starting from the make and model of the car. However, blindly following a table without understanding the context can lead to errors. The table gives recommendations, but does not take into account the mileage, climate and driving style of a particular instance.
When working with the catalog, first find the section corresponding to your manufacturer. Next, follow the chain: engine model -> year of release -> required tolerance. Often, different specifications may have been required for the same engine in different years of production. For example, old engines. VAG The new ones were required to be admitted 502.00 and the new ones were switched to the more viscous 504.00/507.00.
It is important to pay attention to the column "Recommended viscosity". In the catalog it is indicated according to the classification SAE. If you live in a region with harsh winters, the standard 5W-30 recommendation can be replaced by 0W-30 or 0W-40 for easier cold start-up. A table is a base that needs to be adapted to fit.
Below is an example table of the popular models and the required RAVENOL specifications:
| Car | Engine. | Required tolerance | Recommended product of RAVENOL |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 3 Series (F30) | 2.0 Diesel | BMW Longlife-04 | RAVENOL VMP 5W-30 |
| VW Golf 7 | 1.4 TSI | VW 504.00 / 507.00 | RAVENOL VSI 5W-30 |
| Mercedes C-Class (W205) | 2.2 CDI | MB 229.51 / 229.52 | RAVENOL FEE 5W-30 |
| Toyota Camry | 2.5 Hybrid | API SN / ILSAC GF-5 | RAVENOL HFE 5W-20 |
Decoding tolerances and specifications
The catalog of RAVENOL oil selection is full of abbreviations that frighten many drivers. However, admission This is a guarantee that the oil has passed the tests on a particular engine. Without this confirmation, the product cannot be recommended by the car manufacturer. There are general specifications (ACEA, API) and factory tolerances (OEM).
European Association ACEA It divides oils into categories A/B (gasoline/diesel), C (green for catalysts) and E (heavy diesel). For passenger cars, the most relevant series are C3 and C5. They provide engine protection and do not harm exhaust cleaning systems. Ignoring the ACEA class can lead to clogging of the catalyst.
Factory tolerances, such as MB 229.5 or GM Dexos2They're more stringent. They often include ACEA requirements, but add their own nuances. For example, Mercedes tolerances often require increased oxidation resistance, and Ford tolerances require special friction properties for fuel economy. In the RAVENOL catalog, these codes are always listed on the label.
What is the difference between ACEA A3/B4 and C3?
The A3/B4 class is focused on maximum engine protection and often has a high content of sulfate ash. The C3 class (Low SAPS) has a reduced ash, phosphorus and sulfur content, which is critical for cars with particulate filters (DPF) and catalysts. Using A3/B4 instead of C3 can quickly kill the environment.
When choosing a product, make sure that the canister has the same tolerance code as that specified in your service book. The phrase “fit for” on the label is less meaningful than the official approval. RAVENOL is proud to have its products licensed directly from the carmakers.
Specialized lines: VMP, HCS, VSI
Having figured out the tolerances, it is worth delving into specific product lines. Each of them is designed for certain tasks. Linea VMP Vehicle Motor Protection is designed for modern engines with gas neutralization systems. The low ash content allows particulate filters to regenerate without problems, maintaining permeability.
Series HCS It is a choice for those who appreciate the time-tested hydrocracking technologies. These oils have excellent cleaning properties and well protect against wear in the urban cycle. They often have a more affordable price while maintaining a high base quality. For mid-life aspirated engines, this is often the best choice.
Linea VSI The new oils are synthetic oils developed specifically for the Volkswagen Group, but are also applicable in other vehicles where appropriate tolerances are required. They provide stable oil pressure and protection of turbochargers. The choice between these series depends on the age of your car and the state of its environmental systems.
- 🚗 VMP For new cars with DPF/GPF filters.
- 🔧 HCS - reliable protection for mileage engines.
- 🏎️ VSI A specialised solution for the VAG Group.
⚠️ Attention: If your car does not have a particulate filter, using VMP oils is optional, but it will not hurt. However, switching from Low SAPS (VMP) to Full SAPS (A3/B4) in a filtered car is strictly prohibited.
When switching from one type of oil to another (e.g. mineral to synthetic), flush the engine with RAVENOL washing oil or use the shortened replacement interval (500 km) method.
Oil viscosity and climatic conditions
The catalog offers various viscosity options, and the choice here depends not only on the recommendations of the plant, but also on the operating conditions. Parameter SAE indicates the fluidity of the oil at different temperatures. The figure before the "W" (Winter) indicates the behavior of oil in the cold, and the figure after - about the density at the operating temperature of the engine.
For Russian winters, oils with an index are most relevant 0W. They retain fluidity at temperatures up to -35°C and even lower, providing rapid pumping to the rubbing vapors in the first seconds after launch. Oils. 5W They thicken at -30°C, which can be critical for Siberia or the Urals. In summer, the second parameter that ensures the strength of the oil film is more important.
If you are operating a car in constant traffic jams and high loads, it makes sense to consider products with slightly higher high-temperature viscosity (for example, 40 instead of 30), if the manufacturer allows it. This will provide a thicker film, but may slightly increase fuel consumption. The balance between protection and cost-effectiveness is your choice.
☑️ Pre-purchase check
Protection against counterfeiting and authentication
The popularity of the RAVENOL brand has spawned many fakes that can cause irreparable damage to the engine. The company has implemented a complex system of protection that must be checked at every purchase. Each canister, whether 1 liter or 5 liters, has a unique code. This ensures the legality of the product.
Checking can be carried out through the official website or mobile application. Enter the code listed on the label and the system will confirm authenticity. If the code is not readable or the system reports multiple checks, you are most likely in front of a counterfeit. Buy oils is only from official dealers or in large proven chains.
Pay attention to the quality of printing and packaging. RAVENOL monitors the standards, so the curved seams of the canister, blurred text or the absence of a protective membrane under the lid should alert. Also check the date of bottling: although modern oils have a long shelf life, it is better to take a fresh product.
⚠️ Attention: Never buy oil for spills or in transparent bottles without labels. This is a guaranteed fake, the composition of which is unknown even to the seller. Saving 200 rubles can lead to major repairs of the engine.
What if the code doesn't break through?
If the code doesn’t break through the first time, try entering it carefully, without errors. If the system says that the code has been checked many times in different cities, it is a sign of forgery. Contact the RAVENOL official in your area for clarification.
Replacement and maintenance intervals
Even the best quality RAVENOL oil requires timely replacement. The product catalog does not abolish the laws of physics and chemistry. In urban cycle conditions characterized by short trips and traffic jams, the interval of replacement should be reduced. The plant’s recommendations “once in 15,000 km” are relevant for ideal road conditions, but not for the metropolis.
The optimal interval for maintaining the health of the engine is considered 7-8 thousand kilometers or 250 hours. During this time, the additive package manages to develop its resource, and the oil accumulates wear and oxidation products. Regular replacement is the cheapest way to extend the life of a motor.
Also, don’t forget to change the oil filter every time you change the oil. The use of a quality filter compatible with the selected oil is mandatory. Cheap filters can not withstand the pressure or pass dirt, negating all the advantages of expensive products. lubricant.
Can I mix Ravenol oils with other brands?
Technically, all motor oils are compatible with each other, as they must meet common standards. However, mixing different additive packets can lead to unpredictable chemical reactions. It is better to add oil of the same brand and series. If this is not possible, add a minimum amount of other quality oil and make a complete replacement with washing as soon as possible.
How often should I check the oil level?
Check the oil level at least once a month or before each long trip. On some modern engines, oil carbon monoxide can be invisible visually, but critical for the work of hydraulic compensators and phase rotators. Always check the level on a cold engine or 10-15 minutes after stopping on a flat surface.
Does the choice of oil affect the car warranty?
Yeah, straight. If you use oil that does not meet the tolerances specified in the service book (even if it is of high quality), the dealer has the right to refuse warranty repair of the engine. Always choose a product that has the official approval of the manufacturer of your car, and keep checks and quality certificates.