🛢️ Cómo elegir los mejores aceites de motor: Guía de compra completa

Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen Analista Senior de Producto
7 min read Updated December 21, 2026
💡 Quick Answer

Complete motor oils buying guide. Learn what features matter, compare top products, and find the best motor oils for your budget.

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Table of Contents

Motor Oils: Viscosity Ratings, Synthetic vs Conventional, and Engine Protection

Motor oil lubricates engine components, reduces friction, and protects against wear. Understanding oil specifications helps select appropriate motor oil for your vehicle.

Viscosity Explained

SAE ratings indicate flow characteristics.

5W-30, 0W-20, etc.

W = winter performance.

Second number = operating temperature viscosity.

Conventional Oil

Refined from crude oil.

Adequate for many vehicles.

Lower cost.

More frequent changes typically needed.

Synthetic Oil Benefits

Engineered molecular consistency.

Better temperature performance.

Extended drain intervals possible.

Higher cost justified for many uses.

Full Synthetic vs Blend

Full synthetic: all synthetic base.

Synthetic blend: mix with conventional.

Blend offers partial benefits at lower cost.

Full synthetic for maximum protection.

API and ILSAC Ratings

Certification of oil quality.

Current: API SP, ILSAC GF-6.

Backward compatible.

Look for current ratings.

Manufacturer Specifications

Check owner's manual requirements.

BMW, Mercedes, VW have specific specs.

Using wrong oil can void warranty.

Match manufacturer requirements.

Climate Considerations

Cold climates: lower W number.

Hot climates: appropriate operating viscosity.

Multi-grade oils cover range.

Match to your typical conditions.

Change Intervals

Conventional: 3,000-5,000 miles typical.

Synthetic: 7,500-15,000 miles possible.

Follow manufacturer recommendations.

Severe driving shortens intervals.

High-Mileage Oils

Formulated for older engines.

Seal conditioners reduce leaks.

75,000+ mile engines.

May extend engine life.

Brand Considerations

Major brands (Mobil 1, Castrol, Pennzoil, Valvoline).

Quality largely consistent among majors.

Meeting specifications matters most.

Don't overpay for brand.

DIY vs Shop Changes

DIY saves money.

Proper disposal required.

Shop convenient for many.

Oil change places use adequate products.

Practical Recommendations

For most modern vehicles, manufacturer-specified viscosity in quality synthetic ($25-40 for 5 qts).

Check owner's manual for required specifications before purchasing.

High-mileage formulas for older engines with 75,000+ miles.

Don't exceed recommended change intervals regardless of oil type.

Frequently Asked Questions

¿Qué debo buscar al comprar aceites de motor?

Los factores clave incluyen la calidad de construcción, las revisiones de los usuarios y la relación calidad-precio. Las opciones de primer nivel como Mobil Mobil 1 High Mileage Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-2 (4.8★ de 50.187 comentarios) demuestran cómo se ve la calidad en esta categoría.

¿Cuánto cuestan los aceites de motor normalmente?

Los precios oscilan entre $6 y $34, con la mayoría de las opciones de calidad alrededor de $24. Las opciones de presupuesto por debajo de $ 10 funcionan para uso ocasional, mientras que los modelos premium de más de $ 36 ofrecen una mejor durabilidad y características.

¿Qué aceites de motor son más populares en este momento?

El aceite de motor sintético completo Mobil 1 High Mileage 5W-20 está actualmente en el mejor valor con 4.8★ de 50.187 revisiones verificadas. Consulte nuestra comparación completa en /Best/Motor-Oils para conocer todas las mejores selecciones.

⚖️ Quick Comparison

Product Price Rating Key Feature
$27.97
★★★★★ (4.8)
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$19.97
★★★★★ (4.8)
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$26.97
★★★★★ (4.8)
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