These Are 6 of the Best Synthetic Oils for Protecting Your Engine

Engine oil has evolved from a simple, brown goo refined from crude oil to a brilliantly engineered, meticulously developed blend of refined petroleum and sophisticated additives that retains its protective properties through many months and thousands miles of hard driving. Today’s highest-performing, longest-lasting engine oils are synthetics, which are typically engineered and manufactured from chemically modified petroleum components. What are the best synthetic oils?

How We Chose the Oils on This List

We looked to car manufacturers for guidance, because they don't want to take any chances with engine protection. We surveyed them to see which synthetic oils they pour into their most powerful high-performance engines. Those engines demand maximum protection, as they operate with huge internal stresses and potentially high oil temperatures that punish lubricants. If the following oils are good enough for their ultra-high performance cars, they're good enough for your car. Just be sure to use the viscosity (that's the "XW-XX" designation on the label) that is right for your vehicle.

When to Change Your Oil

Car and Driver suggests regular oil changes according to manufacturer recommendations, with the same brand and AE (Society of Automotive Engineers) viscosity as the factory fill. You can find that information in your owner's manual and, often, under the hood of your vehicle. Not all of the synthetics here will be available in the viscosity recommended by your car's manufacturer. Not to worry. The use of the oils on this list by car manufacturers indicates that they're all among the best you can buy.