Not trying to start yet another oil thread. Just passing on what the official Porsche dealer (OPC) told me earlier today.

For oil changes, I'd supply my own oil and filter. As per the usual, I provided Mobil 1 5W-50. The service advisor called to indicate that for 997.2 engines, Mobil 1 0W-40 is more suitable. 5W-50 is for 996s and 986s. Funnily enough, an OPC at another town used Mobil 1 5W-50 as their default oil for 997.2.

So, even Porsche dealers can't agree on a single oil approach/recommendation!

EDIT: should say 0W-40 and not 50! Apologies :-)

 

Not surprised!

I didn’t even know there was a 0w-50 out there.

EDIT: Wait, is 0-50 racing oil? If so, nobody should advise racing oil for street use, as I understand racing oil to be quite a bit different than street oil.

 

I’ve been selling synthetic oil for over 20 years and have never seen an 0W-50 by any oil company. And I’ve never seen that viscosity specified by an auto manufacturer. Inquiring minds would like to know.

 

I didn't know that 50 weight oil was recommended in any 9a1. I thought 40 weight was the max (0-40 or 5-40)

 

Viscosity info for my ‘09 Carrera: Above -13F 5W-40, 5W-50. All temps 0W-40.

 

Y'all correct, should be 0W-40 and not 50, have edited my original post.

 

I agree, you can run 0-40 or 5-50, both are valid approved weights. Not much difference between the two. If you live in cold climates and drive in the winter, 0-40. For hot summer temps, 5-50 is fine. I read the spec sheets for oil I chose and make weight decisions on that. Sometimes the cold pour temps of one 0-40 is similar to a 5-50 because the brand is different.

 

you can mix these two also if you want a 2.5w-45

 

09 C2S 113k mi

I’ve only ever used 5w40. Motul 8100 X-cess and Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech.

 

My 996 Indy runs a race team in addition to a large shop servicing many 996s. He only runs 0W40. In race and street 996 and 986.

He said the lifters dont like the 5W50.

25 plus years Porsche experience and a great shop.

Oil is a difficult subject.

For me, I do like the super special virgin oil coming from somewhere in IRAN, or is it IRAQ. Anyway its really expensive and you cant buy it in less you are part of the "club". Sorry. I dont agree with my Indy so i am in the club. Nothing but the best for my ride.

 

The picture below is taken directly from a Porsche 997.1 user manual. Mobil 1 5W50 is Porsche A40 approved, it's right there on the back label.

 

2009 C2S 139k miles

Where do you get Mobil 1 5W 40? I can't find it at all. I would buy and use it. It is denoted as an approved oil for my 997.2.

Peace
Bruce in Philly

 

When I used to run mobil, I would get it at Walmart

 

Oil analysis taken six months and two thousands miles ago.
This isn't Mobil 1, but it's my oil of choice. Porsche approved.

AMSOIL 5W-40 European Car Formula. Approved by Porsche for spec A40.

 

Porsche A40 Approved Oil List