Apart from gardening and spending time with my dogs, I'm a proud owner of a Toyota Corolla, which I bought last winter.
Whenever I get time, I like to hop in and take her out for a spin, sometimes going camping or simply driving around town because it's relaxing. All was going well until the car failed to start one winter morning. This got me worried, and as a new car owner, I started to panic.
I called my husband for help, and he recommended that I should change the engine oil. But having no knowledge about which oil would be best, I researched a while before choosing a suitable product.
Thankfully, the new oil worked just fine and fired up my engine in no time. Hi! I'm Stacy, and it's time to go for a ride, as today I'll share my findings on the best oil for Toyota Corolla.
Top 5 Oil For Toyota Corolla Reviews
1. Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy
Keeping your Toyota Corolla engine performing at maximum efficiency is challenging, especially when fuel economy takes a hit. To solve that problem, this product comes with advanced engine protection to keep the car running just like when it was new.
Product Highlights
As with most Mobil 1 engine oils, this product features a unique triple action formula suitable for hybrid and advanced car engines to guarantee greater performance, cleanliness, and protection. When the critical parts are safe and in top-notch condition, your car will run for 10,000 miles without any oil change.
I was especially pleased that it controls oxidation, maintaining perfect viscosity levels to prevent oil breakdown. As a result, it satisfies the ILSAC GF-6 criteria so that you won't have to worry about low-speed pre-ignition.
And since the timing chain doesn't deteriorate even under harsh conditions, the engine stays clear for far longer. It reduces maintenance as there's hardly any sludge buildup and extends engine life by several years.
Even after regular use, you'll find that the oil protects the internal components from overheating or freezing, having temperature resistance ranging from 500 degrees to - 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
What's There To Like About It?
The low viscosity formula caught my eye since it performs the dual function of enhancing fuel economy and improving engine performance. You can use it for all types of engines, such as supercharged or turbocharged, as it reduces oxidation and oil breakdown.
I was pleasantly surprised when there was no sludge buildup, even while driving through several miles of dirt road. In fact, I’ve had no problem starting the car in extreme temperatures and have hardly had to change the oil in the past year.
What's There Not To Like About It?
Despite guaranteeing long engine life, I recommend that you check the oil level after every ride to monitor wastage due to burning. Since the viscosity is slightly low, some portion of the oil may burn or disappear without you even realizing it. But the good news is that this doesn't affect the performance, so you won't face any engine issues.
Pros and Cons of Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy
Pros
Cons
- Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy full-synthetic motor oil 0W-20 is low-viscosity to help improve fuel economy.*
- Utilizes Mobil 1’s signature Triple Action Formula to deliver outstanding engine performance, protection, and cleanliness
- Helps protect critical engine parts for up to 10,000 miles between oil changesm,** controlling oxidation to prevent oil breakdown and maintaining excellent viscosity
2. Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic
Valvoline is well known for offering a wide range of lubricants, antifreeze, and engine oils to keep car engines in top shape. I love that this product comes with anti-wear additives, offering greater gear protection compared to other engine oils.
Product Highlights
There's a lot to like about this product, especially its incredible temperature resistance and viscosity retention properties, as they allow you to drive at optimum capacity even in harsh climates. Since it's a synthetic product, it flows evenly throughout the engine, protecting the various components from damage.
On that note, you'll like its antioxidant formula, which reduces oil breakdown and manages friction 10 times better than other products. I found that the manufacturers have passed the oil through the IIIH engine test to prevent 25% more deposits and control sludge buildup by using extra engine detergents.
That, combined with the innovative anti-wear additives, help provide an added layer of protection to lower engine fatigue and wear and tear by 40%. Even more pleasing is that this oil comes in hot and cold variants, depending on the climate you reside in.
What's There To Like About It?
Having used it myself, I can assure you that demanding weather conditions won't affect the engine performance because the oil comes with extra detergents. These detergents keep the surface of the internal components clean so that the oil can flow smoothly to reach every part.
This protective layer is further enhanced with its antioxidant formula and low viscosity retention. As a result, you won't encounter any issues while hauling, towing, or constantly stopping in traffic.
What's There Not To Like About It?
Compared to the Mobil 1 Advanced Economy engine oil, you may have to change the oil more frequently, and it won't last 10,000 miles like the former. But the more annoying problem is the position of the top handle, which is slightly awkward and makes it difficult to pour the oil. So, be careful and plan your oil changes accordingly.
Pros and Cons of Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic
Pros
Cons
- ADVANCED PROTECTION AGAINST the four main causes of engine breakdown: wear friction heat and deposits
- 40% BETTER WEAR PROTECTION vs. industry standard as tested in the Sequence IVB engine test
- 25% BETTER DEPOSIT PROTECTION with superior engine cleaning detergents as tested in the GMOD engine test
3. Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic
The Pennzoil engine oil is packed with features such as friction protection and keeps your car engine running smoothly with its extreme temperature resistance. I was pleasantly surprised when I found minimal wear and tear in the internal components.
Product Highlights
This oil is best known for its engine protection properties and its innovative production technique, for which the manufacturers have used natural gas. The brand ensures high-temperature protection in all conditions through a unique gas-to-liquid conversion method that turns natural gas into base oil.
The oil flows faster or slower based on external conditions and lubricates all parts of the engine. Even more impressive is that it doesn't evaporate quickly and keeps engine deposits to a minimum to reduce wear and tear.
In other words, the horsepower of the vehicle remains intact, and you can drive 550 miles extra compared to a dirty engine. And after a long drive, the pistons are particularly clean, so it meets the ILSAC GF-6 criteria.
The only aspect where it misses out compared to the Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic oil is antioxidants, which ensure that the latter provides better mileage.
What's There To Like About It?
As a gardener, I look for environment-friendly products, and this engine oil fits the bill perfectly. It's a carbon-neutral oil, and the unique manufacturing practice ensures that it has received Natural Based Carbon credits to offset CO2 emissions.
Also, the bottle's ergonomic design makes it convenient to pour the oil, after which you can enjoy an extended mileage with its enhanced engine protection. There are hardly any harmful deposits, and it keeps the engine clean to reduce friction.
What's There Not To Like About It?
Quite a few people have reportedly found black deposits at the bottom of the jug, and you will have to filter them out before pouring the oil. Luckily, this doesn't impact engine performance, even though you might experience more engine noise when reaching high speeds on the freeway.
Pros and Cons of Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic
Pros
Cons
- Full synthetic 0W-20 engine oil that is made with natural gas and designed for complete protection for top engine performance
- Helps extend engine life and protects for up to 15 years or 500,000 miles, whichever comes first. Guaranteed* (see Warranty Information in Product Description).
- Provides better fuel economy (based on the latest industry standards)
4. Castrol Edge 0W-20
Usually, I don't purchase engine oils based on the product description, but I was intrigued about the Castrol Edge's ability to guarantee optimum engine performance. It performs well on most counts and delivers enhanced sludge protection.
Product Highlights
While driving my Toyota Corolla, the main concern is the harmful deposits that reduce engine power, but this oil provides 42% greater protection. Its full synthetic blend reduces the wear and tear of the internal components and ensures that the engine performs at optimum capacity compared to traditional synthetic oils.
What stands out is the fluid titanium technology which delivers fantastic performance at high temperatures so that oil flows smoothly and lubricates all engine parts. Even after long drives through harsh terrains, I don't have to worry about sludge deposits due to its advanced formula.
In technical terms, it reacts in the metal-to-metal contact points based on external factors like pressure to prevent engine issues. I also found that it's less volatile than other options on the market and guarantees more fuel economy, which is justified by its 0W-20 rating.
What's There To Like About It?
Its fluid titanium technology is the best feature since it controls deposit formation and improves engine performance by 42%. Similarly, the oil offers 10 times better high-temperature resistance, 1.6 times better sludge protection, and 6 times better wear protection.
Most pleasing of all is that it flows smoothly through the different engine parts and lubricates the various contact points to minimize friction. It also has essential antioxidants for enhanced engine performance in all conditions.
What's There Not To Like About It?
The only gripe we have against this product is that it lacks the ergonomic design of the Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic, which makes it challenging to refill the engine. I feel that an easy pour spout would be ideal for pouring the oil without tiny amounts dripping down the sides.
Pros and Cons of Castrol Edge 0W-20
Pros
Cons
- 3X stronger against viscosity breakdown than leading full synthetic, based on Kurt Orbahn test in 5W-30 grade
- 10X better high temperature performance, as measured in Sequence IIIH engine test vs. API SP test limit
- 6X better wear protection, Protection for 10,000 miles between oil changes
5. Toyota Genuine Synthetic Oil
If you're looking for oil specifically designed for a Toyota engine, you can't go wrong with this synthetic oil. It has low viscosity and can cold start even in freezing temperatures, making it a favorite for many customers.
Product Highlights
As seen by its API rating, this advanced full synthetic motor oil enhances engine performance by improving fuel economy. It comes with the necessary detergents and anti-wear additives to protect the vital engine components and ensure the various parts function smoothly.
As a result, it runs for 10,000 miles without an oil change, and you won't have to worry about sludge formation or harmful deposits wearing out the metal parts. Speaking of which, the additives come with rust-resistant properties so that the engine is as good as new even after several rides.
After conducting numerous tests, Toyota has certified this oil for use, and its low viscosity doesn't change even when the external conditions vary. I have heard from friends that they have no problem starting their cars even under freezing temperatures.
The only advantage the Castrol Edge 0W-20 has over it is the fluid titanium technology which creates a protective film on the engine surface.
What's There To Like About It?
Choosing an oil with low viscosity is one thing, but this product retains its thickness even after long hours on the road. The antioxidants reduce oxidation and keep the oil from turning thick to lubricate all the engine parts.
Moreover, having undergone several tests, you won't face issues with mileage or friction as it forms an added protective layer along the contact points. You also need to change the oil only after 10,000 miles, thanks to its rust-resistant and anti-wear additives.
What's There Not To Like About It?
It's not particularly pocket-friendly compared to other products, and you may have second thoughts about purchasing it. But for exceptional engine performance and long life, I can assure you that it will be worth the investment, especially considering that the internal engine components won't require much maintenance.
Pros and Cons of Toyota Genuine Synthetic Oil
Pros
Cons
- Mobil 1 0W-16 is a low viscosity, advanced full synthetic motor oil
- Help to deliver outstanding engine protection and enhanced fuel economy benefits to keep your engine running like new
- Mobil 1 0W-16 meets or exceeds the requirements of the industry's toughest standards and outperforms our conventional and synthetic blend oils.
Buyers Guide
After reading my review of the top five products, do you feel more confident about choosing the best oil for Toyota Corolla? You might be zeroing in on a product as I speak, but hang on a minute!
Although my reviews were pretty comprehensive(even if I say so myself), I’ll be the first to admit that you need more information to make a suitable purchase. That’s why I’ve prepared this buyer’s guide, where I discuss the essential aspects of engine oils in detail so that you can also explore options outside this list.
1. Viscosity
Every engine oil has a fixed viscosity which determines the stress-bearing capacity of the product. Most people are under the impression that choosing a thicker oil is good for their engines, but it depends on external factors like temperature and pressure.
When you live in a warm climate, it would be best to opt for a thin oil, whereas in cold temperatures, thicker oils keep the engine running smoothly. The manufacturers usually add a viscosity grade on the package, such as 0W-40, where 0W stands for viscosity and 40 means thickness of the oil at 212 degrees Fahrenheit.
0 means that the oil is extremely thin and perfect for cold starts even in freezing temperatures, while a higher value makes it ideal for hot weather.
2. Oil Type
All the products I have reviewed are synthetic oils, and I’ll explain the reason while discussing the different types of engine oils.
A. Conventional Oils
These oils are mostly suitable for light vehicles and are available in multiple viscosities. I found that you will have to change the oil and filters frequently, just after 4,000 miles, to keep the engine in top shape. At the very least, most car owners will have to change the oil at least twice a year.
B. High-Mileage Oils
When you use your car daily, it would be best to opt for high-mileage oils that can last 75,000 miles. They contain special conditioners that allow the oil to flow smoothly into the seals for the various components to retain their shape and flexibility.
I also noticed that they have higher viscosities, but the crankshaft may crack or split in low temperatures in old vehicles.
C. Synthetic Oils
I prefer synthetic oils as they are suitable for most modern engines and can withstand regular use even when the temperature fluctuates. The only problem is that they are slightly expensive, and some people opt for synthetic blends rather than fully synthetic oils. But even then, the former provides adequate engine protection by controlling sludge deposits and oil breakdown.
3. Oil Additives
Before purchasing, it’s crucial to check the oil additives in the formula, so I’ve listed down some common components any premium-quality oil should have:
A. Anti-Wear Additives
The primary purpose of any oil is to offer engine protection for which anti-wear additives prove useful. They create a protective film on top of the metal surfaces and contact points to protect against oil breakdown.
B. Detergents
Much like detergents for clothes, oil detergents keep the engine clean to reduce maintenance and remove harmful deposits that may affect performance. This ensures that the components won’t deteriorate due to rusting.
C. Foam Inhibitors
Many oils have foam inhibitors because the crankshaft produces foam which affects lubrication. But the inhibitors cause the foam bubbles to collapse to keep the engine running at optimum capacity.
D. Dispersants
Dispersants work much like detergents but are more adept at removing solid particles to prevent sludge formation or acidic reactions inside the engine.
E. Antioxidants
When emissions are high, the engine temperature increases, and that’s where antioxidants prove useful to thin the oil. They prevent oxidation which would have increased viscosity to reduce oil flow.
4. Price
I have mentioned that synthetic oils are a bit pricey, but I would still recommend using them in your Toyota Corolla. In other words, it’s worth paying the money for engine oils that offer excellent wear protection, reduce sludge formation, and retain viscosity even in fluctuating conditions.
So, save up money and buy a suitable product without compromising quality. While you might be tempted to opt for less expensive products, remember that they can’t match the performance of synthetic oils.
5. Oil Standards
You should check the oil standard and rating to ensure that it will deliver the best results based on your driving performance and the external environment. Check for ILSAC, ACEA, and API ratings since they guarantee the quality of the oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Even though most oils have a shelf life of 2-5 years, you should know that this is for unused oils. Once you open the cap, the oil starts degrading if left unused, and it would be best to refill the engine oil within one year.
Storing engine oils is easy, and you need a plastic container to pour the oil, but make sure that it doesn’t have any leaks. Also, the container should be clean and rust-free so that you can use the oil again before it loses its integrity.
Ideally, you should store the oil at temperatures between 40 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the outside temperatures don’t fall in this range, the oil viscosity will change despite the additives in the formula.
My Final Recommendation
Even though I’m a fledgling car aficionado, I hope you found my guide useful.Â
I may not know everything, but I’m extremely passionate about keeping my vehicle in top shape. That’s why you can conveniently choose an engine oil based on this article.Â
Let me also tell you about my favorites, among which the Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy oil has the edge over other products. It offers enhanced engine protection that reduces oxidation to deliver long mileage.Â
Meanwhile, the second spot goes to the Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic oil, as it’s quite effective in reducing wear and tear, provided you’re comfortable with a little less mileage.Â
It’s now time for me to sign off, as I’ll have to clean my car!Â