Observing the following points is important for the correct application of engine and gear oils in MB vehicles:
1 MB specification of the engine/gear oil
2 SAE-grade (viscosity)
3 Maximum oil change interval
1 MB specification of the engine oil
Generally only engine oils or gear oils with MB approval are allowed for use in MB vehicles. The MB approval can be recognized via the MB specification stated on the container (e.g. 229.3 or 229.51).
The engine oil and gear oil specifications approved for an MB vehicle can be found in the operator's manual or MB Sheets 223.2 or 231.3.
2 SAE-grade (viscosity)
The SAE-grades (for overview, see Sheet 211.0) specify the viscosity characteristics of the lubricating oil. Specifying the SAE-grade defines the viscosity at low and high temperatures.
The prescribed SAE-grades, as stated in the MB Sheets 224.1/224.2 and 231.1/.2/.3, must be observed.
3 Maximum oil change interval
The quality of the lubricating oil is continuously reduced in operation. The more stressful the operating conditions for the engine oil (in particular high temperatures and high fuel entry), the faster the decrease in oil quality.
A modern engine oil consists of a highly complex mixture of base oil and additives. Additives are oil-soluble agents for protection against scuffing and wear, for neutralization of acid combustion products and for the prevention of sludge and deposits to name but a few examples.
The additives reduce in continuous operation. The base oil is also subject to continuous chemical aging. This limits the service life of the engine oil. The performance limits are reflected in the specified oil change intervals.
The maximum oil change intervals specified in the vehicle's operator's manual must therefore be complied with.