Cummins pickup truck engines are known for their unmatched durability, reliability, and legendary power.
It’s not surprising that many truck owners prefer Cummins over PowerStroke or other diesel engines. Whether you own a 2,500 or 3,500 Dodge Ram pickup, you’ve probably experienced the thrills and spills of driving it.
Along with regular service and maintenance, using the right engine oil will improve efficiency and performance. However, finding the best oil for your truck can be tedious, especially when there are plenty of options on the market.
So, to save you some hassle, I’ve discussed the nitty-gritty of oils and shortlisted the top five options that you can consider. Hello, everyone! I’m Stacy Smith, and I’m back with an interesting guide to help you choose the best oil for Cummins 6.7.
Let’s dive in, then!
Top 5 Oil For Cummins 6.7
1. Quaker State 10W-40 Conventional Motor Oil
A durable wear protection oil is every driver’s best friend, and this one by Quaker State is mine. This 10W-40 helps the engine survive regular trips from stop-and-go driving to high-state highway operations.
Product Highlights
Formerly known as Quaker State Advanced Durability, this motor oil leaves no stones unturned to make your journey safe and smooth. Thanks to its thick viscosity of 10W-40, it is an excellent option for softer start-up protection. It can tolerate high temperatures up to 104°F, so you can never go wrong with this oil if you drive in warmer places.
Furthermore, it protects the engine against corrosion caused by toxic acids produced by engine impurities which is impressive. It also provides protection from daily wear and tear, so you can rest assured that your engine will last longer than it should.
What’s particularly impressive is its ergonomic design, as the bottle is equipped with a handle, making it easy to use. It meets the requirements of API SN and other categories, ensuring better sludge control, seal compatibility, and other benefits.
What’s There To Like About It?
Not to deny, my husband and I love off-trail rides and hit the roads on my Dodge Ram every Summer vacation. Thus, I searched for motor oils to help my engine survive such wear and tear, making my journey smooth and enjoyable. That’s when I stumbled upon this powerful formulation from Quaker State, and honestly speaking, it didn’t disappoint me.
Also, I appreciate that it is available in multiple sizes, from one-pack to six-pack options.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
The only downside is that the spout of the bottle is too broad, so you’ll have to be careful while pouring the oil, or you’ll spill it. Having said that, I suggest using a funnel to prevent spillages; Other than that, it’s a bang for the buck!
Pros and Cons of Quaker State 10W-40 Conventional Motor Oil
Pros
Cons
- 10W-40 motor oil provides durable wear protection and reduces engine wear
- Helps engines survive daily commutes from high-speed highway operation to repetitive, stop-and-go driving
- Provides corrosion protection against harmful acids generated by engine contaminants
2. Valvoline Premium Blue Heavy Duty Engine Oil
If you’re looking for a “one-solution formula,” this heavy-duty engine oil from Valvoline can be the right pick for you. Designed for diesel and natural gas engines, it is an excellent choice for both on-road and off-highway use.
Product Highlights
Made with special dispersive polymer technology, this engine oil supplies advanced soot control with the least buildup, providing outstanding protection against corrosion and wear.
Unlike other motor oils, it is highly versatile as it can be used in diesel, gas, and natural gas vehicles, making it your go-to pick for your needs. Its TBN retention value is excellent, so it can neutralize all types of pollutants. And the best part is that it is highly efficient even after multiple uses, which speaks volumes about its quality.
Since it is available in four sizes, you get options to choose the one that suits your needs and driving. Besides, the company offers it in two styles, so double-check the style to ensure ordering the correct one.
The icing on the cake is that it is the only oil that has been endorsed and recommended by Cummins.
What’s There To Like About It?
Last year, my family and I went off-road trails at Barnwell Mountain, and that’s when my father gave me Valvoline motor oil for my trip. Honestly speaking, its excellent wear protection, oxidation resistance, and superior deposit performance make it one of the best oils for Cummins 6.7 engines.
What’s more, I appreciate that it keeps the motor silent and the engine smooth, making my rides enjoyable.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Though there isn’t much to complain about this versatile product, the brand doesn’t offer it in packs. That’s what gave it the second spot on my list against Quaker State, which provides oil in six-pack options.
Pros and Cons of Valvoline Premium Blue Heavy Duty Engine Oil
Pros
Cons
- Valvoline Premium Blue Engine oil is The Only One exclusively endorsed and recommended by Cummins
- Strong shear stability provides stay-in-grade performance
- Outstanding wear protection
3. Cummins Onan 15W-40 Oil
Here’s another engine oil that will lubricate the engine properly and ensure smooth functioning, so you can go about your adventures hassle-free. Thanks to its potent additives and solvents, it prevents deposits and buildups in the engine.
Product Highlights
First off, this 32-ounce fluid has a viscosity of 15W when cold and 40 when hot, which means it has an excellent soot dispersancy and protects the engine against corrosion and wear. Thus, it will increase the longevity of your engine and help it survive daily use.
In addition to that, it is a factory-tested oil, so you can rest assured that it is safe for use in the Cummins 6.7 engine. It contains strong solvents to offer maximum protection to your engine, which is why it keeps the engine safe from the accumulation of toxic substances. Thus, it ensures that all the engine components are clean, so you won’t face issues while driving your car or truck.
But it doesn’t end here; it prevents oxidation damage because of which your truck engine may function more smoothly and accurately.
What’s There To Like About It?
In addition to its thick viscosity, the claim to reduce consumption and engine wear caught my eye, so I decided to buy one. Having used it for quite some time, I can confidently say that it’s one of the best oils I’ve ever bought for my husband’s off-highway trips.
Staying true to its claims, this premium-quality fluid spares no effort to protect your engine against regular wear and tear. And since it is exclusively designed for Cummins engines, it reduces oil consumption efficiently.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Despite being an excellent pick, you might have to reconsider this lubricant if you’re on a budget. It is costlier than its counterparts, but its features justify its price, so if you can spare the extra cash, go for it. Else, you can go for Valvoline or Quaker State because they are less expensive than Cummins Onan engine oil.
Pros and Cons of Cummins Onan 15W-40 Oil
Pros
Cons
- Conventional non-synthetic oil
- Specially formulated to reduce consumption and engine wear due to high temp oil oxidation
- 32-oz. bottle
4. Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 15W-40 Oil
From motorcycles to tractors, Shell Rotella oil is right up your alley to keep your engine safe from daily wear and tear. Overall, this low-emission, low-ash motor oil is ideal for all modern engines, so you can give it a go without second thoughts.
Product Highlights
Thanks to its Triple Protection Plus technology, this full synthetic oil protects the engine against oil breakdown, deposits, and wear, so it can last a few more years. It also contains multifunctional dispersant additives which prevent corrosion, remove sediments that may lead to sludge, and enhance lubrication.
Unlike other conventional SAE 15W-40 oils, it improves fuel economy performance and maintains its durability. And it can be used for a wide range of vehicles, from semi-rigs to tractors, so it’s a highly versatile lubricant you can get hold of.
Another noteworthy aspect is its low-ash formulation that comes in handy for controlling obstruction in the engine, resulting in engine stress and excessive oil burning. It reaches critical parts of the engine faster because of its superior cold-cranking properties and low-temperature pumpability.
Last but not least, the oil comes in a one-gallon bottle that is ergonomically designed, making it user-friendly.
What’s There To Like About It?
If you’re looking for a lubricant that will come in handy for construction, agriculture, and pickup trucks, this full synthetic motor oil is for you. Despite being affordable, it performs reasonably well by preventing sludge and deposit formation in the engine.
Even though it reduces fuel consumption, it doesn’t tamper with its durability or protection, which is the cherry on the cake.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Though not a detrimental flaw, my only gripe is that the brand sends three one-quart bottles on every order. Surely, it is excellent for those who commute daily, but it might be too much for those who hardly use it. So, if you’re an occasional driver, I suggest going for Cummins Onan or Valvoline oil for your bakkie.
Pros and Cons of Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 15W-40 Oil
Pros
Cons
- Full synthetic 15W-40 diesel engine oil with Triple Protection Plus technology protects against wear, deposits, and oil breakdown
- Formulated to deliver increased protection against oxidation and enhanced deposit control/cleanliness
- Better cold cranking properties and low-temperature pumpability (compared to conventional and synthetic blend 15W-40 motor oil)
5. Triax Fleet Supreme ESP 10W-30 Oil
Here’s another full synthetic oil that promises to protect your truck engine for up to 25,000 miles. With a viscosity of 10W-30, it can withstand hot temperatures excellently without compromising performance.
Product Highlights
Equipped with CRP organic, metallic, and Moly plating technology, this oil provides unsurpassed protection against oxidation and wear and is stable at high temperatures compared to other products.
Additionally, it offers unparalleled turbo-charged protection, and its high-oxidation resistance restrains oil from burning after the car is turned off. Besides Dodge Ram, it is compatible with class-8 heavy-duty highway trucks and other diesel lorries.
Also, when it comes to keeping your engine clean, Triax doesn’t disappoint in that front either, thanks to its cutting-edge dispersal and ash control system.
Whether a one-gallon bottle or a five-gallon pail, you can easily choose your options because the brand offers its oil in three sizes. It lasts up to 25,000 miles for pickup trucks and 80,000 for class-8 semi-trucks, which is impressive.
Overall, its high-efficiency detergent system, oxidation resistance, and outstanding drain interval make it a bang for the buck!
What’s There To Like About It?
Rarely do we come across engine oils that are reasonably priced without compromising on quality and performance. Even though it’s easy on the pockets, it delivers unmatched performance, ensuring you enjoy your ride up to 25,000 miles without worries.
Not only that, but it also tries its best to make sure your engine runs smoothly and quietly, so you can have a peaceful journey.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Though I faced no issues with the product itself, I didn’t quite like the quality of the container because it’s quite delicate. This means you’ll have to be careful while storing it, or else it may leak, making it unsuitable for traveling. So for off-trail rides, I prefer taking Shell Rotella oil because its container is hardy and can withstand extreme temperatures.
Pros and Cons of Triax Fleet Supreme ESP 10W-30 Oil
Pros
Cons
- WHY TRIAX: Quieter engine operation, lower operating temperature, 4-6% MPG Improvement, faster and smoother turbo spooling, exceptional cold start properties down to -45 F. Outperforms leading brand motor oils by a wide margin.
- FRICTION MODIFIED: Boosted with Nano-Boron and Moly friction modifiers for significantly improved wear protection over any other diesel engine oils. EXTREME WEAR Protection - Up to 48% lower wear than learning OEM and industry standards due to a much lower friction coefficient (50% lower or better) than the competition.
- LONGEST DRAIN INTERVALS: Capable of drain intervals exceeding 100,000 miles for highway trucks (semis) and 30,000 miles Super Duty Pickups.
Buyers Guide
Out of the zillions of options, these were the best oil for Cummins 6.7 that you can get your hands on. Even though knowing the top options helps greatly, picking one is certainly a task. And honestly, it is normal to get confused when you don’t know the nitty-gritty of engine oils.
When I was looking for engine oil for my new pickup truck, I spared no effort to search for the best options on the market. Other than viscosity, I looked into their performance, efficiency, and their ability to keep the engine clean.
So, after considering all these aspects, I’ve shortlisted a few important factors that you need to pay attention to while buying the best oil for your engine. Let’s take a look.
1. Types Of Oil
Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution for engine oil. Basically, the market is flooded with three types of oil - conventional, fully synthetic, and synthetic blend.
Though you can go for any of the three options, you should fully know them before choosing one.
To begin with, conventional oil is the cheapest option recommended for older models of Cummins 6.7 engines. Though its low price tag may tempt you to use it, I suggest you avoid going for it because it damages the engine gradually.
On the other hand, synthetic oil is artificial, which keeps your engine in good condition, and you won’t have to go through the hassles of changing it frequently. However, bear in mind that it comes with an expensive price tag, so you’ll have to fork out extra cash.
And if you don’t want to damage your vehicle or overspend money, synthetic blend oil is your best bet. You get the perks of both conventional and synthetic packed in one bottle, making it a cost-effective option for you.
2. Manufacturer Recommendation
The next important factor to consider is manufacturer recommendation because the needs of every engine are different from the others. So before you start shopping for engine oil, I suggest going through the manual to know the specifications of your engine. After going through it, you will learn more about the model, which will let you narrow down the options.
3. Viscosity
Ideally, viscosity implies the texture of your oil, which is another crucial factor in choosing the right oil for your bakkie.
Thin viscosity oils flow better, while thick oils keep all the engine components well lubricated. So, which viscosity oil will be the right pick for your Cummins 6.7? Frankly, you should go for oil that is neither too thick nor too thin because it affects the durability of your engine and fuel efficiency.
Usually, the viscosity rating of the oil is mentioned on its bottle, so don’t forget to check it before purchasing. For those unversed, the SAE rating you see on the container is the viscosity rating which tells you how thick or thin the oil is.
So, before making a decision, make sure you check the viscosity rating, check it with the manufacturer’s recommendation, and then order it. Having said that, I suggest going for either 10W-30 or 15W-40 oil because they can withstand hot temperatures and protect your engine against corrosion and wear more than other oils.
4. Powerful Additives
To keep your engine functioning smoothly, you should opt for oil packed with plenty of additives. Not only do they keep your engine safe from daily wear and tear, but they also prevent corrosion, enhancing its longevity.
Moreover, some conventional oils are created with multi-additives formulas featuring friction modifiers, pour point depressants, corrosion inhibitors, and antioxidants. Surely, you’ll find it slightly challenging to get your hands on the oil having all the additives, but it isn’t impossible.
To make it easy for you, I suggest considering the needs of your engine and then buying the oil.
5. Price
Before shopping, prepare a budget because it will prevent you from overspending. Of course, you want to treat the engine with the best oil without compromising quality, but that doesn’t mean you’ll have to shell out thousands of dollars.
Thankfully, there are plenty of reputed brands that offer high-performing oils at reasonable prices. Simply prepare a budget and look for oils that fit your price range, and I’m sure you’ll make an informed decision.
6. Brand Reputation
As you already know, there are tons of brands on the market claiming to sell the best oils for Cummins 6.7 engines. Since oils maintain the engine, enhance longevity, and prevent deposits and buildups, you should be careful about the brand you go for.
And to be on the safe side, I suggest you go for brands with a good reputation on the market because they don’t compromise on quality. Contrarily, you may get products at a lower cost from unknown brands, but you should avoid doing so because low-quality products damage the engine.
Frequently Asked Questions
By and large, fully synthetic oil is considered best for Cummins 6.7; however, if you can spend a bit more, choosing a synthetic blend will be your best bet.
It mainly depends on the oil you use, but generally speaking, you can consider changing it after 3,000 to 7,500 miles.
My Final Recommendation
So, are you ready to prepare the Cummins 6.7 engine of your Dodge Ram 3,500 for off-road driving? Not to deny, the right oil can make your journey smooth, safe, and enjoyable while prolonging the life of your engine.
With that, I’ve reached the end of my review-based guide on the best oil for Cummins 6.7. I hope you enjoyed reading the reviews and were able to pick the right oil for your vehicle. But before wrapping up, I’d like to share some of my favorites from the list.
Clearly, Quaker State 10W-40 Conventional Motor Oil is my all-time favorite because of its performance and viscosity. However, if you’re looking for an oil that offers outstanding oxidation resistance, you can never go wrong with Valvoline Premium Blue Heavy Duty Engine Oil.
And it’s a wrap for today; until next time, goodbye and take care.