Is Kirkland Synthetic Oil Any Good?
When it comes to synthetic oils, many consumers are looking for high-quality products that offer superior performance and longevity, especially in tough driving conditions. One brand that has recently garnered attention is Kirkland Synthetic Oil, which is sold by Costco. But is it any good?
Quality and Certifications
Kirkland Synthetic Oil is made by Warren Petroleum Products, a well-known company in the synthetic oil market. This company is recognized for its expertise and has been a supplier to major retailers for years.
The oil comes with two certifications: ILSAC GF-6 and Dexos1 Gen 2. The ILSAC GF-6 certification is the starburst symbol that indicates the oil meets the requirements set by the International Lubricant Standards and Approval Committee for gasoline engines. This certification ensures that the oil is suitable for use in all U.S. and Asian vehicles.
Additionally, the Dexos1 Gen 2 certification is specific to General Motors vehicles. This certification means that the oil has passed rigorous testing and meets GM's stringent requirements for fuel economy and emissions.
Supplier Background and Reliability
Costco, known for its premium and private label products, likely sources its Kirkland Synthetic Oil from a supplier with vast experience in synthetic oils. While I haven't personally used this brand, my curiosity about it has been piqued.
Besides Warrior Products, Warren Petroleum also produces Mag1 oil, and it is believed that Kirkland and Super Tech are the same blend. This consensus suggests that Kirkland Synthetic Oil is a high-quality product with a proven track record.
Performance and Price
From the information available, it appears that Kirkland Synthetic Oil is indeed a good quality oil. Warren Distribution, the company behind these private label synthetic oils, is recognized as the largest manufacturer of such products.
When combined with its certification and reputation, Kirkland Synthetic Oil offers a great balance of performance and price. For me, I would have no second thoughts about using it in my personal pickup, even though I change my oil every 7000 miles.
According to Ricard Widman's analysis, the oil meets the standards of a typical formulated oil. The starburst symbol on the oil indicates that it has passed the base requirements set by US and Japanese automakers. This means that the oil is of a good quality and is suitable for various applications.
Conclusion
Based on the certifications and the reputation of the manufacturer, Kirkland Synthetic Oil appears to be a good product. It is certified and meets the stringent requirements for modern engines. While it may have slightly higher consumption compared to top-tier synthetic oils like Mobil1, it still offers excellent performance at a competitive price.
Before using any synthetic oil, it's important to check the viscosity required by your vehicle's manufacturer. Make sure to follow their guidelines to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your engine.