Truck Motor Oil – Basics, Specifications and Selection Guide
Essential information about commercial vehicle motor oils: Viscosities, specifications (ACEA E, API CK-4), Low SAPS and how to choose the right oil for your fleet.
What is Truck Motor Oil?
Truck and heavy-duty motor oils are designed for highly stressed diesel engines in commercial vehicles, construction and agricultural machinery. They ensure lubrication under continuous load, neutralize soot and acidic combustion products, and protect against wear with long change intervals and varying operating profiles.
- Stable viscosity and shear stability under continuous load
- Soot carrying capacity and detergent/dispersant packages
- Corrosion and oxidation protection at high temperatures
- Compatibility with exhaust aftertreatment (DPF, SCR)
In Brief
For truck engines, durability, Low-SAPS compatibility and OEM approvals matter. Oil selection affects costs, availability and fleet lifespan.
Viscosity Classes according to SAE
Typical for commercial vehicles: 5W-30, 10W-40, 15W-40 – depending on climate, OEM requirements and operating profile.
5W-30
Modern fuel economy oils for Euro 6, often Low SAPS. Extended intervals with appropriate approvals.
10W-40
Proven all-rounder for mixed fleets with robust protection and good temperature stability.
15W-40
Classic choice for older engines, reliable in dusty/hot conditions.
Specifications and Approvals
The following standards are particularly important for truck oils:
- API CK-4/FA-4: Current US standards for high-performance diesel motor oils.
- ACEA E6/E7/E9/E11: European standards for heavy-duty applications.
- OEM approvals such as MB 228.x, MAN 3275/3477/3677, Volvo VDS-4.5, Scania STO: Manufacturer requirements for fleet operation.
Low-SAPS formulations are essential for DPF/SCR systems. Pay attention to the exact approval for your engines.
Tip
For mixed fleets, an approval check is worthwhile to reduce product variety and simplify logistics.
Request Fleet ConsultationOil Types and Additive Packages
For commercial vehicles, oxidation stability, TBN reserve and soot carrying capacity matter.
Mineral Oil
Robust and proven, often for older engines and simple operating profiles.
HC-Synthesis Our Focus
Excellent price/performance ratio for modern heavy-duty diesels with near fully synthetic quality.
Full Synthesis (PAO)
Highest stability at extreme intervals and temperatures.
Low SAPS
Protects particulate filters and catalytic converters – essential for Euro 6 fleets.
Maintenance, Change Intervals and Tips
- Plan service intervals according to OEM and telematics data (load profile, fuel quality).
- Use oil analysis (TBN, viscosity, wear metals) for extended intervals.
- Only use approvals that explicitly permit the engine/exhaust aftertreatment.
- Replace oil and fuel filters regularly; dispose of used oil in compliance with regulations.
Avoid Common Mistakes
- Wrong SAPS class for DPF/SCR
- Mixing incompatible specifications
- Exceeded change intervals without analysis
- Lack of coordination in mixed fleets
Frequently Asked Questions about Truck Motor Oil
Briefly and practically answered for fleet managers and workshops.
What is the difference between CK-4 and FA-4?
Are long oil change intervals safe?
Low SAPS – when necessary?
Would you like to purchase Truck Motor Oil or optimize your fleet?
We develop concepts for freight companies and municipalities – with appropriate approvals and efficient supply chains.