German brand Ravenol has been specializing in the production of high-quality lubricants for more than 70 years, but even experienced car owners sometimes get lost in the diversity of its catalog. Ravenol oil selection - this is not just a choice between “synthetics” and “semi-synthetics”: the tolerances of the car manufacturer, the viscosity characteristics of SAE J300, and even climatic operating conditions. A mistake in selection can be costly: from increased fuel consumption to engine overhaul after 50 thousand km.

In this article we will look at Ravenol official catalog 2026, let's learn to decipher type markings Ravenol VSI 5W-40 or Ravenol HLS SAE 10W-60, and we’ll show you how to avoid common selection mistakes. We will pay special attention compatibility with Russian conditions - from frost to dusty roads. For convenience, we present table of analogues popular oils and interactive testing tools.

Let us warn you right away: if your car is under warranty, using oil without dealer approval may void the warranty. Always check the service book - even if the Ravenol catalog offers a "one-size-fits-all" solution.

1. How to use the Ravenol catalog: step-by-step instructions

Official oil catalog Ravenol is available on the manufacturer's website, but its interface may seem overloaded. Here search algorithm for precise selection:

1. Select the type of equipment: car, truck, motorcycle or special equipment. For most readers the section is relevant Passenger Car Motor Oils.

2. Please indicate the make and model of your car — the catalog supports selection by VIN code (optional Vehicle Search). This is the most reliable method, as it takes into account engine modification.

3. Check the year of manufacture: Some models have different oil requirements depending on the year. For example, Volkswagen Golf IV 1.8T until 2001 requires oil with approval VW 502.00, and after - VW 505.01.

If selection by VIN not available, use manual filter:

  • 🔧 Engine type: gasoline (Petrol), diesel (Diesel) or hybrid.
  • 📏 SAE Viscosity: from 0W-20 for new engines up to 20W-50 for the worn out.
  • 🏷️ Manufacturer's approvals: for example, MB 229.5 for Mercedes or BMW LL-04.
  • 🔥 Specifications: API SN, ACEA C3 etc.

Make sure that the viscosity matches the climate (for example, 5W-30 for central Russia)

Check the tolerances with the service book (especially for turbocharged engines)

Check for the presence of the "Low SAPS" label for vehicles with a diesel particulate filter (DPF)

Pay attention to the production date of the oil (shelf life - 5 years in a closed container) -->

⚠️ Attention: The Ravenol catalog may offer several oil options for one model. For example, for Toyota Camry 2.5 (2018+) fit and Ravenol SSV 0W-20, and Ravenol VPD 5W-30. In this case, focus on dealer recommendations and operating conditions: for urban cycles with frequent traffic jams, it is better to choose oil with improved cleaning properties (ACEA C2/C3).

2. Decoding the labeling of Ravenol oils

Oil name Ravenol always contains key information about its properties. Let's look at an example Ravenol VSI 5W-40:

  • VSI - oil series (Very Strong Improved, an improved formula for modern engines).
  • 5W-40 — viscosity according to SAE:
    • 5W — low-temperature viscosity (the oil remains fluid until -35°C).
    • 40 — high temperature viscosity (suitable for hot climates).

Other popular series Ravenol and their purpose:

SeriesDecodingFor which enginesFeatures
SSVSuper Synthetic TechnologyPetrol/diesel, including turboEnergy saving, for long replacement intervals
HLSHigh Performance Low SAPSDiesels with diesel particulate filter (DPF)Low content of sulfur, phosphorus, sulfated ash
VPDVariable Performance DieselModern diesel engines with the system AdBlueCompatible with Euro 6
RMORacing Motor OilSports and tuned carsIncreased thermal stability, anti-friction additives

⚠️ Attention: Oil series HLS (for example, Ravenol HLS SAE 5W-30) don't fit for older diesel engines without a particulate filter. Their formula is optimized for systems DPF/GPF, and in “regular” engines can cause increased wear.

If the marking contains abbreviations like C3 or SN, these are the specifications for ACEA and API accordingly. For example:

  • 🔹 ACEA C3 — oil with low ash content, for engines with a catalyst.
  • 🔹 API SN - modern standard for gasoline engines (replaces SM).
What does "Low SAPS" mean in Ravenol oils?

Oils with markings Low SAPS (Low content of sulfated ash, phosphorus and sulfur) designed for vehicles with exhaust gas treatment systems: particulate filters (DPF), catalytic converters (TWC) and systems AdBlue. Using “regular” oil in such engines leads to clogged filters and failure of expensive components. Example: Ravenol HLS SAE 0W-20 suitable for Mercedes-Benz OM654 (diesel, Euro 6d).

3. Selection of Ravenol oil by car make: examples

For convenience, we have collected compatibility table popular car models and oils Ravenol. Focus on the year of manufacture and engine type:

Make/ModelYearEngineRecommended Ravenol oilTolerances
Volkswagen Passat B82015–20232.0 TDI (150 hp)Ravenol VPD 5W-30VW 507.00, ACEA C3
Toyota RAV42019–20262.5 petrol (203 hp)Ravenol SSV 0W-20API SN, ILSAC GF-5
BMW 5 Series (G30)2017–20263.0 diesel (265 hp)Ravenol HLS SAE 5W-30BMW LL-04, ACEA C3
Lada Vesta2015–20261.6 petrol (106 hp)Ravenol LLO 5W-40API SL/CF, Renault RN0700
Hyundai Tucson2020–20261.6 Turbo (177 hp)Ravenol VSI 5W-40API SP, Hyundai/Kia MS-6

For Russian realities important to consider:

  • 🌡️ Climate: in northern regions (below -30°C) give preference to oils with index 0W (for example, Ravenol SSV 0W-20).
  • ⛽ Fuel quality: for engines running on HBO or low-octane gasoline, choose oils with enhanced detergent additives (series VSI).
  • 🛣️ Operating conditions: For frequent trips on dusty roads, reduce the replacement interval by 30%.

Ravenol SSV 0W-20|Ravenol VSI 5W-40|Ravenol HLS 5W-30|Other Ravenol oil|I don’t use Ravenol-->

⚠️ Attention: For cars with mileage over 150 thousand km not recommended switch to low-viscosity oils (for example, 0W-20). Optimal choice - 5W-40 or 10W-40 with a high content of extreme pressure additives (series RMO).

4. Typical mistakes when selecting Ravenol oil

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes. Here TOP-5 errorsthat lead to engine problems:

  1. Ignoring manufacturer's tolerances. For example, fill Ravenol VSI 5W-40 in Mercedes W205when required MB 229.51 (not 229.5). The difference of one character can cost a turbine repair.
  2. Switching to "universal" oil. Oil type Ravenol Universal 10W-40 suitable for old carburetor cars, but absolutely not suitable for modern turbo engines.
  3. Climate failure. Oil 15W-40 thickens at -20°C, making cold starts difficult. For Siberia this is a critical parameter.
  4. Mixing oils of different series. For example, Ravenol HLS (Low SAPS) and Ravenol RMO (for racing cars) have incompatible additive packages.
  5. Buying a fake. Fake oils Ravenol often sold in non-original containers with typos in the labeling (for example, "ACE A C3" instead of "ACEA C3").

Compare the label with the official photos on the website ravenol.de. The original container has:

1) Holographic sticker with logo on the lid.

2) Production date (format DD.MM.YYYY) at the bottom of the canister.

3) Serial number, which can be checked through the feedback form on the website.-->

⚠️ Attention: If after changing the oil to Ravenol did you notice increased waste consumption (more than 1 liter per 10 thousand km), this may indicate:

  • Unsuitable viscosity (oil too thin for a worn engine).
  • Incompatibility with seal materials (relevant for older cars).
  • Counterfeit - counterfeit products often lack thickening additives.

5. Analogs of Ravenol oils: when can they be replaced?

Sometimes original oil Ravenol difficult to find or seems overpriced. In such cases, it is permissible to use certified analogues, but with mandatory compliance:

  • 🔹 Matches SAE viscosity.
  • 🔹 Availability all required approvals (for example, VW 502.00).
  • 🔹 Belonging to one ACEA/API class.

Examples of replacement (taking into account tolerances):

Ravenol oilTolerancesAnalogs (brand + model)
Ravenol SSV 0W-20API SN, ILSAC GF-5Mobil 1 ESP 0W-20, Liqui Moly Special Tec AA 0W-20
Ravenol VSI 5W-40VW 502.00/505.01Castrol Edge 5W-40 LL, Motul X-Clean 5W-40
Ravenol HLS 5W-30MB 229.51, ACEA C3Shell Helix Ultra ECT C3 5W-30, Total Quartz INEO ECS 5W-30

⚠️ Attention: Oil change Ravenol HLS (Low SAPS) to normal (for example, Lukoil Luxe 5W-30) in a vehicle with a particulate filter (DPF) will lead to his clogging already after 20–30 thousand km. The cost of replacing a filter is from 50 thousand rubles.

If you are in doubt about choosing an analogue, use online selection services:

6. How to buy original Ravenol oil: tips

The auto chemical market is flooded with fakes, and Ravenol - is no exception. Here safe shopping rules:

  1. Buy only from authorized dealers. The list of partners in Russia is published on the website ravenol.ru. Avoid markets and unverified online stores.
  2. Check the packaging:
    • The lid should be sealed in foil with a logo.
    • The label is matte, with a clear font (no blurry letters).
    • The production date is stamped on the bottom of the canister (not a sticker!).
  • Require a quality certificate. Official suppliers have documents for each batch.
  • Compare price. Average cost of a 4-liter canister Ravenol VSI 5W-40 — 3,500–4,000 rubles. A price below 2,500 rubles should alert you.
    • 💡

    The only reliable way to check the originality of Ravenol oil is to ask the seller quality certificate for a specific batch. The document must indicate: batch number, production date, laboratory test results.

    ⚠️ Attention: Fake oil Ravenol often has:

    • 🔴 Cover without a protective membrane.
    • 🔴 Label with typos (for example, "RAVENOLL" instead of "RAVENOL").
    • 🔴 The smell of gasoline or no smell at all (the original smells of a light chemical aroma).

    7. Answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ)

    Can Ravenol be mixed with other oils?

    Mixing is allowed only in emergency cases (for example, in case of a leak on the highway), subject to:

    • Same SAE viscosity (for example, 5W-40 with 5W-40).
    • Coincidences basic basis (synthetic with synthetic, semi-synthetic with semi-synthetic).
    • No conflicting additives (do not mix Low SAPS with regular oils).

    After mixing be sure to change the oil and filter at the first opportunity. Adding more than 15% of other oil requires a complete change.

    What is the Ravenol oil change interval?

    Official recommendations Ravenol for passenger cars:

    • Gasoline engines: 15,000 km or 1 year (whichever comes first).
    • Diesel engines: 10,000–12,000 km.
    • Turbocharged/direct injection: 8,000–10,000 km.

    For Russia, adjust the interval taking into account:

    • Fuel quality (reduce by 20–30% when using AI-92).
    • Operating conditions (city cycle with traffic jams = minus 30% to the interval).
    Is Ravenol suitable for vehicles with LPG?

    Yes, but an oil with increased resistance to high temperatures is required. Recommended series:

    • Ravenol VSI 5W-40 — for gasoline engines with 4th generation LPG.
    • Ravenol RMO 10W-40 — for engines with mileage >150 thousand km.

    ⚠️ Important: When running on gas, the oil oxidizes faster. Reduce replacement interval by 30% (for example, instead of 15 thousand km - 10 thousand km).

    What should I do if the Check Engine light comes on after replacing it with Ravenol?

    Possible causes and solutions:

    1. Unsuitable viscosity: For example, 0W-20 into an old engine with large gaps. → Drain the oil, flush the system and fill with the recommended viscosity (5W-40 or 10W-40).
    2. Sensor incompatibility: Some oils Low SAPS may cause false alarms of the pressure sensor. → Check the error with a scanner (for example, P0520).
    3. Fake: The counterfeit product may have the wrong density. → Compare the viscosity of the new oil with the standard (spill test through a funnel).

    If the error does not disappear, contact the service for diagnostics. Perhaps the problem is not in the oil, but in an engine malfunction (for example, wear on the oil scraper rings).

    Where to buy Ravenol cheaper: in Russia or abroad?

    Price comparison (at the beginning of 2026):

    OilVolumePrice in Russia (₽)Price in Europe (€)Price with delivery (₽)*
    Ravenol VSI 5W-404 l3 800–4 20035–404 500–5 000
    Ravenol SSV 0W-204 l4 000–4 50040–455 000–5 500
    Ravenol HLS 5W-305 l5 500–6 00050–556 500–7 000

    *Calculated taking into account delivery (2,000–3,000 RUR) and possible duties.

    Conclusion: It is profitable to buy in Europe only when ordering from 20 liters (for example, for a service station). For personal use, it is cheaper to buy from official dealers in Russia.