Can You Mix Different Brands Of Oil [Explained]

We found this question can you mix different brands of oil on different forums, especially from those who mix different oil brands in an emergency situation. Now, they want to know whether it could damage the engine or not. If it’s an emergency case, it’s better to mix different oils than not have enough oil in the engine. 

On the other hand, we never recommend you to mix different brands of oil. To explore the reasons behind it, continue to read. 

Can You Mix Different Brands Of Oil [Know A-Z]

This is a type of confusing question. So, the answer would be a little bit controversial. We don’t recommend you mix different brands of oil. Every oil manufacturer uses unique additives. And this use of various percentages of components can cause the oil to separate and break down the viscosity. 

In other words, mixing different oils from different brands might not be fully compatible with each other. In short, it’s not a good idea to mix different brands of oil. On the flip side, you can mix oils from different brands if you wish. In this case, you need to make sure the oils from multiple brands use the same viscosities and API ratings. 

For example, you can mix both oils with the same SAE 5W-40 viscosity and API SN from two different brands like Amsoil and Royal Purple. Indeed, you don’t need to think about brands. What you need to consider are the API grades and the viscosity ratings. 

Lastly, we want to tell you not to mix different brands of oil unless you are in an emergency situation. Try to stick with the same brand and don’t change the oil grades back and forth.  

If you pour the mix of different oils into your brand, change the oil with the right oil whenever you return to your home. And don’t forget to change the filter as well

Can You Mix Different Brands Of Synthetic Motor Oil

The short answer is- No. 

We don’t prefer you to mix different brands of synthetic motor oil. Every synthetic oil has dozens of proprietary chemical additives to maintain alkalinity & viscosity and prevent corrosion & breakdown. Chemical additives in one brand of oil can react with the additives in other oils, making those additives less functional. 

As the chemicals and formations are proprietary and changing constantly, it’s typical to predict which synthetic oils will interact with other oils of brands. That’s why we recommend you to not mix different brands of synthetic motor oil unless mixing the oils is the only option. 

What Happens If You Mix Two Different Brands of Engine Oil

Mixing oil brands will not be an issue unless you don’t mix oils with different viscosity grades and API ratings. However, we suggest you not blend different brands of oil though it doesn’t pose any harm to your engine. 

Keep in mind, oil is not just oil anymore. Many additives are in the oil to prolong engine life, improve lubrication, and resist corrosion. Some of these additives may react with other oils from different brands. So, it’s not advisable to mix oil from different brands though it doesn’t damage the engine. 

FAQs:

Is it OK to mix different brands of engine oil?

Typically, it’s not ok to mix different brands of engine oil. However, if the viscosity grade and API rating are the same, you can mix the oils and pour them into your engine. 

Can you mix 2 different brands of synthetic oil?

No, you can’t mix 2 different brands of synthetic oil. Each brand uses unique additives, and the additives in the oil will not be compatible with other brands’ oil. 

 Is it OK to mix engine oil viscosities?

No, it’s not okay to mix engine oil viscosities as they will not be compatible with each other. 

Conclusion

We hope you get the answer to this question: Can you mix different brands of oil? No, you can’t blend different brands of oil as all of them have unique additives. And they will never be compatible with each other. 

However, you can mix different oils if you wish. In this case, ensure the oils have the same viscosity and API rating. But our recommendation is to not mix oils. Instead of mixing oils, always take extra quarts of oil with you. 

About John M

John contributed as a technical head at an automobile company just 2 years after his post-graduation in Automobile Engineering. He loves to lead a free life, so he left his job & started blogging. Now, he does research on every automotive problem, part & product and seeks a better solution & best products & shares his findings with his readers to help them as well as to minimize their struggle.

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