DENSO MAF Sensor - DMA-0111 - Mass Air Flow Meter - Genuine OE Part

Important

Always Check this product is correct for your vehicle before purchase.

Customer Feedback

We're dedicated to customer satisfaction, that's why our feedback is so great.

Over 10 Years Online

Experience is premium in the automotive business, and we have loads of it.

Free Expert Advice

Our experts are happy to answer your questions on oil or anything else we stock.

Genuine Uk Stock

All shipped from the UK

No Leak Guarantee

Any damages, we replace, no quibbles

Free Shipping

Free UK Mainland Shipping on all listings

Express Shipping Available

Upgrade your purchase to priority handling

60 Day Returns

Quick and efficient returns policy


MAF SENSORS (MASS AIR FLOW METERS)
  • Glass film coated sensing elements reduces contamination and improves reliability
  • Platinum wire sensing element responds quickly to changes in air flow



In Brief:

  • Brand: Denso
  • Quantity: 1 Unit

Important

Always Check this product is correct for your vehicle before purchase.

Full Details:

AUTHORISED DENSO UK STOCKIST ✔ GENUINE OEM QUALITY PART

DENSO MAF Sensor - DMA-0111 - Mass Air Flow Meter - Genuine OE Part

Example application: TOYOTA LAND CRUISER (J12_) 4.0 (01/2003 - )

This part matches Original Equipment (OE) quality specifications which means that it is at least as good if not better than the original part the manufacturer supplied the car with.

DENSO created the world’s first plug-in mass air flow sensor in 1966 and their continued advancements in automotive technologies is leading the way for higher quality auto parts. The mass air flow (MAF) sensor detects the amount of air drawn into the engine and relays a signal to the engine control unit (ECU). The signal is used to calculate the proper amount of fuel to deliver to the engine. DENSO's improved designs in mass air flow sensors utilizes a unique structure that reduces exposure to the sensing unit. This helps to reduce sensor contamination for improved detection accuracy. DENSO also uses a fine platinum wire sensing element coated with a glass film to further protect it from contaminants, resulting in even higher reliability. Protecting the sensor from contaminants will help maintain performance accuracy and extend the life of the sensor. We also recommend that keeping a good working air filter will help. DENSO's mass air flow sensors are developed to meet the requirements of auto manufacturers across the globe.

DENSO First Time Fit® parts meet or exceed all manufacturer standards, mount properly with a minimum of installation issues, and provide years of reliable service.

If you need help choosing the correct DENSO MAF Sensor for your vehicle please contact us - we're happy to help!


Important for returns:

Due to the nature of this product and manufacturer imposed restrictions, if this part comes in a sealed plastic bag we cannot accept returns if that plastic packaging is opened.

Packaging will be clearly marked with: "Non-Returnable if packaging is opened" or similar.

This item is non refundable if the sealed plastic package is opened
for OE number22204-28010
QualityOE
Operating ModeElectric
Number of pins5

Customer Feedback

We're dedicated to customer satisfaction, that's why our feedback is so great.

Over 10 Years Online

Experience is premium in the automotive business, and we have loads of it.

Free Expert Advice

Our experts are happy to answer your questions on oil or anything else we stock.

Genuine Uk Stock

All shipped from the UK

No Leak Guarantee

Any damages, we replace, no quibbles

Free Shipping

Free UK Mainland Shipping on all listings

Express Shipping Available

Upgrade your purchase to priority handling

60 Day Returns

Quick and efficient returns policy

Benefits:

  • DENSO's First Time, First Fit plug-in type sensors for easy installations
  • Sensing element air bypass structure is designed for improved detection accuracy
  • Mass Air Flow sensor helps in delivering optimum combustion and emmissions

Compatible with the following OEM references:

HYUNDAI
  • 39310-82000
  • 39320-52000
LEXUS
  • 22204-0P020
  • 22204-0T020
  • 22204-0T030
  • 22204-0T040
  • 22204-0V010
  • 22204-0V020
  • 22204-28010
  • 22204-37010
MITSUBISHI
  • 1525A021
  • 1525A033
SUZUKI
  • 13800-54L00
  • 13800-55L00
  • 13800-68K00
  • 13800-80JA0
TOYOTA
  • 22204-0P020
  • 22204-0T020
  • 22204-0T030
  • 22204-0T040
  • 22204-0V010
  • 22204-0V020
  • 22204-28010
  • 22204-37010
VOLVO
  • 31380619

Fitment / Compatibility Details:

Aston Martin
  • Cygnet Petrol Hatch 1.3 1329cc 72KW 98HP 1NR-FE
Lexus
  • GS Petrol Saloon 250 2499cc 154KW 209HP 4GR-FSE
  • LFA Petrol Coupe 4.8 4805cc 420KW 571HP 1LR-GUE
  • LFA Petrol Coupe 4.8 4805cc 412KW 560HP 1LR-GUE
  • NX Petrol SUV 200t 1998cc 175KW 238HP 8AR-FTS
  • NX Petrol SUV 200t AWD 1998cc 175KW 238HP 8AR-FTS
  • RX Petrol SUV 200t 1998cc 175KW 238HP 8AR-FTS
  • RX Petrol SUV 200t AWD 1998cc 175KW 238HP 8AR-FTS
  • RX Petrol SUV 350 4WD 3456cc 221KW 300HP 2GR-FKS
  • RX Petrol SUV 350 AWD 3456cc 204KW 277HP 2GR-FE;2GR-FXE
Mitsubishi
  • ASX Diesel SUV 1.8 DI-D 4WD 1798cc 85KW 116HP 4N13
  • ASX Diesel SUV 1.8 DI-D 1798cc 110KW 150HP 4N13
  • ASX Diesel SUV 1.8 DI-D 4WD 1798cc 110KW 150HP 4N13
  • ASX Diesel SUV 1.8 DI-D 1798cc 85KW 116HP 4N13
  • ASX Diesel SUV 1.8 DI-D 4WD 1798cc 110KW 150HP 4N13
  • Lancer Diesel Hatch 1.8 DI-D 1798cc 110KW 150HP 4N13
  • Lancer Diesel Saloon 1.8 DI-D 1798cc 110KW 150HP 4N13
  • Lancer Diesel Saloon 1.8 DI-D 1798cc 85KW 116HP 4N13
  • Lancer Diesel Hatch 1.8 DI-D 1798cc 85KW 116HP 4N13
  • Outlander Diesel SUV 2.2 DI-D 4WD 2179cc 115KW 156HP 4HK;4HN
Subaru
  • Trezia Petrol Hatch 1.3 1329cc 73KW 99HP 1NR-FE;1NR-FKE
Suzuki
  • Grand Vitara Petrol Off-Road Vehicle 2.4 AWD 2393cc 122KW 166HP J24B
  • Grand Vitara Petrol Off-Road Vehicle 2.4 AWD 2393cc 124KW 169HP J24B
  • Kizashi Petrol Saloon 2.4 2393cc 131KW 178HP J24B
  • Kizashi Petrol Saloon 2.4 4x4 2393cc 131KW 178HP J24B
  • SX4 Petrol Saloon 1.6 1586cc 79KW 107HP M16A
  • SX4 Petrol Hatch 1.6 VVT 1586cc 88KW 120HP M16A
  • SX4 Petrol Hatch 1.6 VVT 4x4 1586cc 88KW 120HP M16A
  • SX4 Petrol Hatch 1.6 VVT 4x4 1586cc 82KW 112HP M16A
  • SX4 Petrol Saloon 1.6 1586cc 88KW 120HP M16A
  • SX4 Petrol Hatch 1.5 VVT 1490cc 82KW 112HP M15A
  • SX4 Petrol Hatch 1.6 VVT 4x4 1586cc 79KW 107HP M16A
  • SX4 Petrol Hatch 1.5 1490cc 73KW 99HP M15A
  • SX4 Petrol Hatch 1.6 VVT 1586cc 79KW 107HP M16A
  • SX4 Petrol Hatch 1.5 VVTi 1490cc 81KW 110HP M15A
  • SX4 Petrol Saloon 1.6 AWD 1586cc 79KW 107HP M16A
  • SX4 Petrol Hatch 1.5 VVT 4x4 1490cc 82KW 112HP M15A
Toyota
  • Auris Petrol Hatch 1.33 Dual-VVT-i 1329cc 74KW 101HP 1NR-FE
  • Auris Petrol Hatch 1.6 1598cc 97KW 132HP 1ZR-FAE
  • Auris Petrol Hatch 1.8 1798cc 108KW 147HP 2ZR-FAE
  • Auris Petrol Estate 1.3 1329cc 73KW 99HP 1NR-FE
  • Auris Petrol Estate 1.6 1598cc 97KW 132HP 1ZR-FAE
  • Auris Full Hybrid Estate 1.8 Hybrid 1798cc 100KW 136HP 2ZR-FXE
  • Auris Petrol Hatch 1.6 1598cc 91KW 124HP 1ZR-FE
  • Auris Petrol Hatch 1.3 1329cc 73KW 99HP 1NR-FE
  • Auris Petrol Hatch 1.6 1598cc 97KW 132HP 1ZR-FAE
  • Auris Full Hybrid Hatch 1.8 Hybrid 1798cc 100KW 136HP 2ZR-FXE
  • Auris Petrol Hatch 1.33 Dual-VVT-i 1329cc 73KW 99HP 1NR-FE
  • Auris Full Hybrid Hatch 1.8 Hybrid 1798cc 100KW 136HP 2ZR-FXE
  • Avensis Petrol Saloon 1.6 VVT-i 1598cc 97KW 132HP 1ZR-FAE
  • Avensis Petrol Saloon 1.8 VVT-i 1798cc 108KW 147HP 2ZR-FAE
  • Avensis Petrol Saloon 2.0 VVT-i 1987cc 112KW 152HP 3ZR-FAE;3ZR-FE
  • Avensis Petrol Estate 1.6 VVT-i 1598cc 97KW 132HP 1ZR-FAE
  • Avensis Petrol Estate 1.8 VVT-i 1798cc 108KW 147HP 2ZR-FAE
  • Avensis Petrol Estate 2.0 VVT-i 1987cc 112KW 152HP 3ZR-FAE;3ZR-FE
  • Camry Petrol Saloon 2.5 2494cc 133KW 181HP 2AR-FE
  • Corolla Petrol Saloon 1.3 1329cc 73KW 99HP 1NR-FE
  • Corolla Petrol Saloon 1.6 1598cc 97KW 132HP 1ZR-FAE
  • Corolla Petrol Saloon 1.6 1598cc 97KW 132HP 1ZR-FAE;1ZR-FE
  • Corolla Petrol Saloon 1.33 1329cc 74KW 101HP 1NR-FE
  • Corolla Petrol Saloon 1.6 Dual VVT-i 1598cc 91KW 124HP 1ZR-FE
  • IQ Petrol Hatch 1.33 1329cc 72KW 98HP 1NR-FE
  • LandCruiser Prado Petrol Off-Road Vehicle 4.0 V6 VVT-i 3956cc 183KW 249HP 1GR-FE
  • LandCruiser Prado Petrol Off-Road Vehicle 4.0 V6 VVT-i 3956cc 207KW 282HP 1GR-FE
  • LandCruiser Prado Petrol Off-Road Vehicle 4.0 V6 Dual VVT-i 3956cc 205KW 279HP 1GR-FE
  • Prius Plug-In Hybrid Hatch 1.8 Plug-in Hybrid 1798cc 100KW 136HP 2ZR-FXE
  • Prius Full Hybrid Hatch 1.8 Hybrid 1798cc 100KW 136HP 2ZR-FXE
  • Prius Plus Full Hybrid MPV 1.8 Hybrid 1798cc 100KW 136HP 2ZR-FXE
  • RAV4 Petrol SUV 2.0 1987cc 107KW 146HP 3ZR-FE
  • RAV4 Petrol SUV 2.0 4WD 1987cc 111KW 151HP 3ZR-FAE
  • RAV4 Petrol SUV 2.0 1987cc 116KW 158HP 3ZR-FAE
  • RAV4 Petrol SUV 2.0 4WD 1987cc 116KW 158HP 3ZR-FAE
  • RAV4 Full Hybrid SUV 2.5 Hybrid 4WD 2494cc 145KW 197HP 2AR-FXE
  • RAV4 Full Hybrid SUV 2.5 Hybrid 2494cc 145KW 197HP 2AR-FXE
  • RAV4 Petrol SUV 2.0 4WD 1987cc 112KW 151HP 3ZR-FAE
  • Urban Cruiser Petrol Hatch 1.33 1329cc 73KW 99HP 1NR-FE
  • Urban Cruiser Petrol Hatch 1.33 1329cc 74KW 101HP 1NR-FE
  • Verso Petrol MPV 1.6 1598cc 97KW 132HP 1ZR-FAE
  • Verso Petrol MPV 1.8 1798cc 108KW 147HP 2ZR-FAE
  • Verso S Petrol MPV 1.33 1329cc 73KW 99HP 1NR-FE
  • Yaris/Vitz Petrol Hatch 1.33 VVT-i 1329cc 73KW 99HP 1NR-FE
  • Yaris/Vitz Full Hybrid Hatch 1.5 Hybrid 1497cc 74KW 101HP 1NZ-FXE
  • Yaris/Vitz Petrol Hatch 1.33 VVT-i 1329cc 74KW 100HP 1NR-FE
  • Yaris/Vitz Petrol Hatch 1.3 1329cc 73KW 99HP 1NR-FE;1NR-FKE
Volvo
  • S80 Petrol Saloon 2.5 T Flex-Fuel 2521cc 147KW 200HP B 5254 T8
  • S80 Petrol Saloon 2.5 T Flex-Fuel 2521cc 170KW 231HP B 5254 T11
  • S80 Petrol Saloon 2.5 T 2521cc 170KW 231HP B 5254 T10
  • S80 Petrol Saloon 2.5 T 2521cc 147KW 200HP B 5254 T6
  • V40 Petrol Hatch T5 2497cc 187KW 254HP B 5254 T12
  • V40 Petrol Hatch T5 1984cc 157KW 214HP B 5204 T9
  • V40 Petrol Hatch T4 AWD 1984cc 132KW 180HP B 5204 T8
  • V40 Petrol Hatch T4 1984cc 132KW 180HP B 5204 T8
  • V40 Petrol Hatch T5 AWD 1984cc 157KW 214HP B 5204 T9
  • V40 Petrol Hatch T5 AWD 2497cc 187KW 254HP B 5254 T12
  • V70 Petrol Estate 2.5 T FlexiFuel 2521cc 147KW 200HP B 5254 T8
  • V70 Petrol Estate 2.5 T 2521cc 170KW 231HP B 5254 T10
  • V70 Petrol Estate 2.5 T FlexiFuel 2521cc 170KW 231HP B 5254 T11
  • V70 Petrol Estate 2.5 T 2521cc 147KW 200HP B 5254 T6

MAF SENSORS (MASS AIR FLOW METERS)
  • Glass film coated sensing elements reduces contamination and improves reliability
  • Platinum wire sensing element responds quickly to changes in air flow



About:

OPIE OILS was established in 1925 and has been trading on the Internet since 2004. In this time we have become the UK's largest independent online retailer of quality Oils and Fluids. We sell the most comprehensive range of quality and specialist oils for Cars and Bikes anywhere in Europe.

Available in our ebay shop are oils and fluids for all makes of cars and bikes, from the most extreme modern super cars and bikes to vintage cars and motorcycles. We stock engine oils, gear oils, differential and axle oils, brake fluids, power steering fluids, coolants and workshop products from Castrol, Mobil, Shell, Fuchs, Silkolene, Motul, Millers Oils, Millers Classic Oils and Red Line.

Unmatched Expertise, unrivalled Choice and great Value for money are what make Opie Oils the market leader.

OPIE KNOW OILS

Delivery:

Our products are delivered Free of charge, usually through Royal Mail or FedEx.

How long will it take to get my order?

After receiving cleared funds we will dispatch all orders within the time frame given on the item listing. The majority of items are held in stock and dispatched from our UK warehouse. UK delivery will take less than 7 working days (i.e. Monday to Friday inclusive), unless we contact you to advise otherwise. In case of Bank Holidays please allow an extra working day.

We may list products which are not held as stock and are special order items. In this instance delivery times may be longer, but we will advise you within one working day if this is the case. Some items may have a specific delivery lead time stated in the description which should also be observed.

Where can my order be delivered to?

Currently we usually only offer delivery throughout the UK. However, where items are eligible for eBay Global Shipping Programme, that will be displayed on the listing. As per eBay policy we can only send to the address that is entered on eBay checkout.

We regret that our couriers are not able to deliver to PO boxes, university campuses and military bases.

How will I know when my order will arrive?

You will receive confirmation once your order has been placed as well as a shipping notification on the day of despatch. Once we are notified of the tracking number, then we will update the dispatch details accordingly.

No Leak Guarantee

We send hundreds of parcels every week. No-one else specialising in the mail order of oils and fluids sends more - and we've been doing it for years. We know how to pack your parcel so that it reaches you safely.

We use high quality, custom made boxes to enable us to pack orders sensibly, offering optimum protection against courier damage.

If - despite our best efforts - any order is damaged, we'll replace it without question!

Returns:

We always want you to be satisfied with your order and pride ourselves on our customer service. If you wish to return goods, please note our returns policy and follow the directions below.

Cancellation and returns

You must obtain a Returns Authorisation Number before returning any goods. Please contact us for this. Please note that we ask for this to ensure any returns are dealt with quickly and efficiently.

Our cancellation policy does not affect your rights when we are at fault, e.g. if goods are faulty or mis-described.

You can cancel your contract before delivery, and up to 14 working days after delivery through distance selling regulations. To do this please message us through eBay. We will refund your money, including the original postage charges through PayPal, within 30 days.

If you cancel, you must return the goods to us at your own expense. You are responsible for the risk of loss or damage when returning items, so you should take out appropriate insurance cover to meet their values.

Faulty Goods

If there is a problem with the goods please contact us to discuss the matter further.

If the goods are found to be faulty within a reasonable time after delivery, you may reject them and claim a full refund.

If a fault is found later on or if you delay in making a complaint you will still be entitled to a replacement. If a replacement is not available, you may be able to claim part or full refund of your money.

Liability

It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that the goods are the correct fitment or application. We cannot accept responsibility for additional charges or consequential loss incurred if a product does not fit or does not give the desired results. Our liability is limited to the price paid for the goods only.

Making a Return

  1. We are happy to accept returned goods in the following circumstances:
    1. In the unlikely event we have sent incorrect goods (i.e. not what you ordered as shown on your order confirmation)
    2. When the goods are faulty or can be shown to be faulty within 6 months of purchase
    3. When the goods supplied do not fit your vehicle and we provided incorrect guidance to you as to which product/s were suitable. We ask that you return the goods in the original packaging, clean and resaleable.
    4. In any circumstance within 30 days of you receiving the goods. This is your 14 day right to cancel under the Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations 2000 plus an additional 16 days we offer to our eBay customers
  2. In any of the above circumstances, we will refund the cost of all monies paid, including the cost of the postage you paid for us to deliver the goods to you.
  3. We will additionally refund the cost of return postage to us in circumstances a, b and c above.
  4. However, if you are cancelling your contract with us under the Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations, you will need to return the goods to us at your expense.
  5. In all circumstances, we recommend that you obtain proof of delivery. If the goods are of a value exceeding 100 x the cost of a 1st class Royal Mail letter stamp, you should obtain insurance against loss.
  6. You must obtain a Returns Authorisation Number before returning any goods
  7. Please note, failure to follow the returns procedure may cause delay in your return, exchange or refund.
  8. Please return any goods with their original packaging to:

    Ebay Returns,
    Opie Oils,
    The Fuel Depot,
    Cardrew Industrial Estate,
    REDRUTH,
    TR15 1SS

Feedback:

At Opie Oils we believe in 100% customer satisfaction and are very proud to say that our feedback reflects this.

In the unlikely event that you are not 100% satisfied then please give us the opportunity to resolve any issues you may have before leaving feedback.

You can contact us through the eBay Messaging Service. We aim to respond to any correspondence within 1 working day.

FAQ:

Delivery / Returns Information:

How long will it take for my order to arrive?

We will aim to dispatch all orders within 1 working day of receiving cleared funds (Monday to Friday). The vast majority of items are held in stock and dispatched from our UK warehouse. UK delivery will take less than 7 working days (i.e. Monday to Friday inclusive), unless we contact you to advise otherwise. In case of Bank Holidays please allow an extra working day.

We may list products which are not held as stock and are special order items. In this instance delivery times may be longer, but we will advise you within one working day if this is the case. Some items may have a specific delivery lead time stated in the description which should also be observed.

Which Courier do you use?

The vast majority of orders sent to UK destinations are sent via FedEx. Smaller orders are despatched using Royal Mail. Deliveries will take place between the hours of 8 am to 6 pm. If you are out when the courier arrives, the courier will attempt delivery on the next working day and will leave a card to confirm.

FedEx and UKMail will normally attempt to deliver the item twice before returning the item to us. If your item is sent by Royal Mail and no one is in to take delivery, you will be left a card and your item will be held at a local Royal Mail depot for collection. Please ensure someone is present to sign for the item. Should the item be returned to us we will have to charge for re-delivery.

What is your Returns Policy?

Please see our returns information on the Returns tab.

How can I return items that I have ordered in error?

Please see our returns information on the Returns tab.

How do I get my Tracking No?

Once we are notified of the tracking number, then we will update the dispatch details accordingly.

To where can my order be delivered?

We can usually only offer delivery throughout the UK, however where a listing is elibible for eBay Global Shipping Programme you will see this on the listing.. As per eBay policy we can only send to the address that is entered on eBay checkout.

We regret that our couriers are not able to deliver to PO boxes, university campuses and military bases.

Oil Information:

Why is one synthetic oil so much more expensive than another?

There are three types of synthetic oils; Hydrocracked, Polyalphaolefin (PAO) and Ester oils.

Hydrocracked oils are not really synthetic at all; they are highly refined and modified mineral oils that (due largely to the outcome of a landmark court case) can legally be sold as synthetic oils. All cheaper oils and the 'synthetic' component of part-synthetic or semi-synthetic oils are hydrocracked mineral oils.

PAO synthetics are genuine, lab-made synthetic oils that are better lubricants than hydrocracked oils as they are built for their specific use, rather than the hydrocracked oils that are modified to perform a purpose.

Ester based oils are the top end of oil technology and give the best protection available. The ester content (usually ester oils are mixed with PAO oils) has several functions that are very useful. Esters are electrostatically charged so they stick to metal surfaces, meaning that when the vehicle is started, there is already a layer of oil present. They are also more stable at higher temperatures, making them ideal as performance lubricants. The ester content also helps to make those oils better lubricants in general.

Is it okay to mix oils?

Generally speaking, yes! Mixing oil brands, types (synthetic, semi-synthetic and mineral) and viscosities is fine. There are a few exceptions;castor and plant based (as used in some biodegradable oils) are not safe to mix with conventional oils. The only problem with mixing oils is that the quality of the better oil is diluted by the lesser one.

Do I need a diesel or petrol oil for my car?

In the case of cars with diesel particulate filters (DPFs/FAPs), they will often need an oil that meets an ACEA C specification, which relates to low ash oils. The ACEA specification of an oil is always written on the bottle (so long as it meets the spec!) The use of oils that do not meet the correct ACEA C specification can result in the particulate filter becoming blocked, an expensive repair.

Other than that, there isn't really such a thing as a diesel engine oil as the vast majority of oils are suitable for both petrol and diesel engines, regardless of how they are marketed. If you look at the specifications listed on an oil, there is usually an ACEA A and an ACEA B specification. The A refers to petrol engine specifications and B to diesel. You will see that the numbers next to the letters are either the same or very close, meaning that the oil is suitable for both types of engine.

Many car manufacturers have their own specifications and as long as the oil meets the relevant one, there is no need to consider the ACEA specifications as they will be part of the manufacturer ones.

How often should I change my oil?

The life of the oil is dependent on many factors.

Full synthetic oils last longer than semi-synthetics or mineral oils, so although they may cost more in the first place, a full synthetic can work out as a cheaper option in the long run. Many cars specify the use of full synthetic long-life oils and these may last over 20000 miles or up to 24 months.

If the car is used on track, the oil is subjected to far harsher conditions than motorway use. That may mean that a good track oil will have broken down sufficiently to need changing after 10 hours of use, whereas the same oil would be good for over 100 hours of use on motorways. Short journeys are very hard on the oil as it does not get the chance to get warm and flow properly as well as acceleration and deceleration making the engine work harder. Motorway use is the easiest condition for oil, the speeds are fairly consistent and rarely push the engine hard, there is plenty of air flow to help cool the engine and the oil has a chance to get up to temperature and flow properly.

Certain engines suffer from fuel dilution (fuel mixing with the oil) and that is one of the quickest ways that an oil can breakdown.

Should I use an oil additive?

Generally, no. Good quality engine oils already contain a complex additive pack including detergents and dispersants, anti-wear, anti-corrosion and anti-foaming additives. The only additives we sometimes advise using are the limited slip differential friction modifiers, for certain differentials, and engine oil additives to assist in the process of breaking in a new engine.

My engine burns oil - should I use a thicker one?

It depends on the engine, what sort of use it gets, how much oil is being used and type of oil being used.

Certain engines really prefer a specific grade of oil to operate optimally, others aren't so fussy. It's best to ask us if you aren't sure if your car can use a range of different viscosity oils.

Most car manufacturers consider it acceptable for an engine to burn a litre of oil every 1000 miles or in some cases, 1000km. While topping up the oil at that frequency may be annoying and possibly expensive, there is generally nothing to worry about.

Using a full synthetic oil may help to reduce oil consumption if a mineral or semi-synthetic oil is being used. Mineral based oils consist of a mix of different sized molecules and the smaller ones can evaporate and then burn relatively easily, increasing the rate of oil consumption. The molecules in synthetic oils are uniform, so they are less likely to evaporate and burn.

My car is only being used on the road - do I need a full synthetic oil?

It depends on the car. Certain manufacturers specify that oils must be synthetic to meet the warranty requirements, so by using a more basic oil, your warranty can be invalidated

If your car has a diesel particulate filter, all the oils that meet the ACEA C specifications are synthetic and by not using one of those, the filter will become blocked.

If a car requires a 0w-x grade of oil, then it must be a genuine synthetic oil as it is impossible to make an 0w viscosity oil from mineral oils.

Even in cars that do not need oil that meet the above criteria, most of the time a synthetic oil is a preferable option as they give better protection and last longer. This is very relevant in engines used on track.

Will using a certain oil help my engine to make more power?

When a top quality oil of the correct viscosity is used, a vehicle may actually have a higher power output at the wheels than with other oils. The 'gain' in power is actually a reduction of the power lost in the engine. Internal resistance due to pumping losses and viscous drag and friction is where power is lost and minimising those will lead to more efficient running. Using a good oil reduces the friction as well as increases the protection.

A common approach to lubricating a powerful engine is to use as thick an oil as is available, but that adds to the internal resistance as the engine has to work harder to move the oil. That can also lead to increased wear in the engine as the oil does not flow as well as the engine would like. Often an increase in the quality of the oil used rather than the viscosity will be sufficient for many modified cars and that will actually give better protection as well as a slightly increased power output.

What colour is oil?

Automotive oils are naturally clear, not the amber colour that people assume they are. The reason they are often amber coloured is due to a dye manufacturers add and is only added as people assume oils should be a certain colour.

There are many oils on the market that differ from the 'norm' and this is simply due to the addition of different coloured dyes. The dyes have no actual benefit to the oil, other than making it stand out as different to the rest.

Why does my oil turn black?

As well as lubricating an engine, another important feature of oil is that it cleans, removing combustion by-products from the engine and keeping them in suspension in the oil. This prevents the by-products from settling and building up as deposits in the engine.

Should I use an oil flush?

In the vast majority of cases, there is no need to flush the engine and flushing can be harmful. What can happen is the flush can loosen harmless deposits in the engine, but then not remove them. Your new oil goes in and after it gets warm and is flowing nicely, the bits which are loosened come off into the oil, so you end up with hard bits floating around in your oil - the last thing you want! If you really want to flush the oil system, the best thing you can do is drain out the oil that is in there, put in some basic mineral oil and run the car for a short while so the oil gets nice and warm. After running it, drain out the mineral oil and put in the correct oil.

What oil should I use to run in an engine?

A basic mineral oil should be used for running in as friction between the piston rings and cylinder linings is needed to allow the engine to bed in properly. If a synthetic oil is used, it prevents sufficient friction being generated and can lead to the bores becoming glazed. That causes a loss of power and increased oil consumption. We also sell specialist running in oil and trouble-shooting products to assist with running-in.

My garage recommends a brand of oil in my car, you recommend something different

So is our recommendation safe to use? Yes, absolutely. Garages often only stock one brand of oil, so they suggest that you should use that, but as we stock several brands, we often have something from a different manufacturer that will be as good if not better than the oil the garage uses.