Ron Ananian The Car Doctor™ compares two bottles of Mobil 1™ 5W-30 motor oil, which appear identical at first glance but are not interchangeable. He highlights the importance of reading the certification labels on the back of the bottle — especially for Dexos® approval, which is critical for GM vehicles.
Both bottles are Mobil 1™ 5W-30 Full Synthetic: same brand, same viscosity. However, one is Dexos™1-certified, and the other isn’t. Dexos1™ Gen2 is General Motors’ engine oil specification. It is required for most modern GM vehicles to ensure proper engine protection, fuel economy, and warranty compliance.
The non-Dexos bottle is suitable for Ford and Chrysler, but not for GM vehicles.
You can’t rely solely on the viscosity grade, you must check the certification labels. The additive packages vary between oils, even if the numbers on the front match.
Ron’s Tech Tip:
“Not all 5W-30 oils are the same. Always read the back label for certifications like Dexos, especially if you’re working on a GM vehicle.”
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Hello. Nice video. I have a 2024 Rav4. Which oil would you recommend? Thanks!
I think that's irrelevant.
Great info, never thought of the differences in the engine oils according to make. I own a 2003 Trailblazer and 2004 Sierra pickup, both use 5W-30 (full synthetic, high mileage additives), but for those earlier year GM vehicles, the Dexos 1 spec is not required.
This is absolutely sound advice, Ron. I love your work and I've been listening for 20 years at this point, I think. I always learn something or am reminded of a great point regarding automobiles. Thank you.