I have a 96 220C with only 62,000 miles.. bought new and always used synthetic oil. Usually bought what was on sale but always full syn.

I've decided to become more rigorous and want to know if I would be better off using the recommended Mobil 1 0-40 at this point or should I use the Mobil 1 10-40?

Where I live the 0-40 is available only in quarts at $8 while WalMart is selling the 10-40 (and the 0-30 FE for $22 for 5 quart bottles.

I will pay the extra if it matters but don't want to if it doesn't. Anyone got a well qualified opinion on this?

thanks in advance.

 

There is a special reason for 0 W40.The 0 is the weight.Your engine is still in pretty much new condition.Do not use 10 W40 as it is heavier and puts more weight than your engine requires at this point.

 

I do not believe a 96 202 said 0-40. I don't think they even made 0-40 in 1996.

Whatever your book says, use. Use Mobil 1 Gold Cap, whatever weight you decide on. Buy at WalMart. 27 bucks for a 5 qt jug, unless on sale. I've not found it cheaper anywhere.

ps - 10-40M1 has almost 50% more zddp in it than 0-40. Probably not a point of interest in a Benz engine, but those with high valve spring pressures, this is significant.

 

I've never found 0-40 Mobil 1 at WalMart. Wish I could but they simply don't carry it in Minnesota.

As to OEM, you may be right about 1996, but OEM specs that Mercedes puts out now for the 96 220C is 0-40.

 

Try autozone.I know they carry it.

 

you can go to the service manager and request the oil. State to him how much business he is losing due to not having the oil that Mercedes recommends. That not only would a customer buy the oil, but since he is already in the store, would probably spend more on other products. And might have the store do oil changes. Which cost a premium over the regular oil changes. Thus bringing more money into the store. Even get the oil change guy to chime in how many Mercedes owners leave because they don't carry the oil and cannot offer the change service.

This worked for me in SC. Now the oil is stocked. If you still can't get it then the next best thing is 0-30.......