If you're looking for a 0W20 oil with greater strength and capability for high performance, look no further. The 0W20 viscosity has become the base standard for a number of manufacturers, including BMW*. The thinner viscosity is essential for fuel economy but also vital for the frequent Stop/Start cycles in traffic and stop lights. Normal BMW or off-the-shelf oils are going to be good but leave some extra performance on the table. This is where Red Line excels!
Modern oils are thin with low viscosities at all temps. They also have additive packs that help manufacturers achieve extremely long oil change intervals. Performance and strength is not a primary goal, leaving the door open for better oil. Red Line excels at producing oil that maintains its molecular strength even at elevated temps and pressures - perfect as a high-performance oil for high-performance driving (track, autox, backroads, etc).
Red Line 0W20 is SL/SM/SN+/SP and ACEA A5/B5/C5 rated. It's also compatible with BMW's LL-14 and LL-17FE+ “LongLIfe” oil formulas. These are characteristics published by the oil manufacturers and Red Line products share or exceed the minimum standards. The latest factory oils are engineered for efficiency and include additives to enhance lubrication, reduce emissions, and improve fuel economy. Red Line uses a higher quality base stock for its oil products that is superior at withstanding higher temperatures and stress than other oils. Redline oil has higher levels of ZDDP (zinc and phosphorous) and a higher HTHS rating so it does a better job of lubricating, protecting, and sealing in the hotter environments our turbo engines are capable of. This is especially important as engines accumulate mileage and wear as a thinner oil won't be able to provide extra levels of protection. Red Line Oil includes the appropriate levels of anti-wear additives and ash content to ensure compatibility with factory emissions equipment.
Red Line Oil has proven over many years of use in our own track vehicles, race cars, and street cars/trucks to provide unmatched long-life protection. The more we learn about this product versus other competitors, the more we like it - Red Line exceeds our demanding standards. With many manufacturers shifting focus to high efficiency oil formulas, the need for a high performance motor oil is greater than ever.
*the factory 0W20 is the official factory recommendation for all 4-cylinder turbo engines from 2012, excluding hybrid, mild-hybrid, and PHEV models which would have a 0W12 as the factory “first-fill”. These hybrid models also have 0W20 as a factory-approved alternative.
