Product Spotlight: Oils and lubes

Castrol

Castrol Vecton Long Drain 10W-30 CK-4, featuring unique System Pro Technology, is an advanced part-synthetic heavy-duty engine oil. Conforming to the latest engine oil specifications, it can be used in diesel engines where API CK-4 or CJ-4 and lower requirements are specified. This oil is specifically engineered to deliver longer life, enabling longer service intervals even under severe operating conditions.

System Pro Technology delivers a 45% extra performance reserve compared to industry standards that fight oil breakdown by helping to control oxidation, reduce deposits, and neutralize harmful acids.  

Citgo

Citgo’s Mystik JT-6 Heavy Duty SynBlend 460 No. 2 is a single-solution synthetic blend grease designed for commercial vehicle applications, helping fleets simplify maintenance, reduce downtime, and protect equipment in harsh conditions.

The NLGI No. 2 is designed for fifth wheels, chassis, trailers, and off-road equipment. According to the manufacturer, the formula delivers high load-carrying capacity, water resistance, and reliable performance from -5°F to 350°F. It stays in place even under direct spray or vibration, reducing misapplication and minimizing inventory clutter.

Key features of the grease include extreme pressure protection, superior washout resistance, and an extended service life of up to 3 times. A 10-oz. squeeze tube for on-the-go fifth wheel lubrication is available (no grease gun required). 

Irving Oil

Irving Oil’s IDO Premium Plus CK-4 meets API CK-4 standards for 2017+ diesel engines. It is fully backward compatible with CJ-4, CI-4 Plus, CI-4, and CH-4, making it suitable for mixed fleets. Advanced additive technology protects cams, tappets, rings, cross heads, and injector screws. According to the manufacturer, the product enhances fuel economy, improves emissions control, and increases oxidation resistance. Regular oil analysis allows for extended drain intervals. IDO Premium Plus CK-4 is OEM-approved and certified.

Liqui Moly

Liqui Moly’s Special Tec AA SAE 10W-30 diesel is a fully synthetic, low-viscosity premium motor oil specifically designed to meet the high demands of modern Asian and American diesel engines. The manufacturer states that the additive technology offers optimal wear protection and engine cleanliness while also minimizing oil and fuel consumption, thereby achieving maximum engine efficiency. It is said to be well-suited for engines with diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and turbochargers. 

Lubrication Specialties

Hot Shot’s Secret Premium DEFender is a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) additive that dissolves existing DEF crystal buildup while preventing new deposits from forming in tanks, pumps, and injectors. Left untreated, DEF crystals can restrict flow, clog injectors, and cause expensive SCR repairs.

DEFender works to keep the entire DEF system clean and free flowing, extending component life and ensuring reliable emissions performance. By preventing crystallization and corrosion, it also helps reduce unplanned downtime and repair costs, delivering immediate and long-term value for fleets.

The manufacturer says that with DEFender, operators can maximize DEF efficiency, maintain compliance, and keep trucks on the road where they belong—working, not waiting for  repairs to be performed.

Petro-Canada

Petro-Canada Lubricants, an HF Sinclair brand, recently launched Duron UHP 10W-30, an ultra-high-performance synthetic heavy-duty diesel engine oil designed to meet the demands of modern heavy-duty engines. According to the manufacturer, this low-viscosity engine oil delivers up to 1% improved fuel economy compared to an SAE 15W-40, helping fleets reduce costs and lower their total cost of ownership.

Combining fuel efficiency and ultra-high protection, Duron UHP 10W-30 safeguards engines against harmful sludge, deposit buildup, and wear, increasing durability and reliability over time. It has been designed to exceed engine warranty requirements for the SAE grade and API CK-4 specification and has been formulated to meet and exceed many OEM engine requirements. Duron UHP 10W-30 demonstrates engine protection, cold temperature performance, and oxidation stability.  

Phillips 66

Phillips 66 claims its Guardol ECT (Emission Compatible Technology) synthetic blend diesel engine oil disperses soot effectively, protecting against abrasive wear and soot-induced oil thickening. For enhanced oxidation resistance and protection against engine wear, it is fortified with the company’s exclusive Liquid Titanium additive.

Guardol ECT protects newer low-emission diesel engines and older diesel engines. It is specially formulated to protect exhaust aftertreatment systems. According to the company, it is resistant to viscosity and thermal breakdown at high temperatures, and it protects against the formation of sludge and varnish.

Applications include on-highway diesel trucks equipped with EGR and exhaust aftertreatment systems to meet 2007/2010 emissions standards as well as older diesel equipment with conventional, non-EGR engines or ACERT engines. Guardol ECT has 18 OEM certifications.

Royal Purple

Royal Purple Duralec Super Diesel Motor Oil is a high-performance synthetic oil specially formulated for diesel engines equipped with modern emissions systems, including DPFs, catalytic converters, EGR, and SCR. Compatible with ultra-low sulfur diesel fuels in North America and Europe, Duralec Super is designed to protect critical components, extend oil change intervals, and boost fuel efficiency. According to the manufacturer, extreme temperatures do not affect its performance; it resists heat breakdown and reduces cold-start wear. Key advantages include greater wear protection, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced corrosion protection.

Shell

Shell Rotella’s T5 10W-30 premium synthetic blend heavy-duty diesel engine oil is formulated with Triple Protection Plus technology to deliver enhanced engine protection, fuel economy, and low-temperature performance. Designed to meet the demands of modern diesel engines, T5 10W-30 is said to help control wear, reduce deposits, and extend engine life. Its low-ash formulation supports emissions system compatibility, helping maintain fuel efficiency and compliance with environmental standards.

The manufacturer states that it can offer up to 2% fuel savings compared to conventional 15W-40 oils without sacrificing durability. Shell Rotella T5 10W-30 is for both on- and off-road applications, supporting longer oil drain intervals and reliable performance under harsh operating conditions.

U.S. Lubricants

U.S. Lubricants’ Thrive line is engineered to meet the evolving demands of commercial fleets. According to the manufacturer, its heavy-duty diesel engine oils deliver oxidation control, enhanced wear protection, and improved fuel economy, making them suitable for severe-duty applications, such as refuse trucks, fire apparatus, and long-haul tractors. As the industry prepares for the 2027 PC-12 specification shift, Thrive is gearing up to align with future performance standards, offering formulations that exceed API CK-4 and FA-4 requirements.

With a focus on sustainability and reliability, Thrive oils are blended in ISO 9001:2015 certified facilities and tested in the manufacturer's in-house lab to ensure consistent quality. Thrive is said to provide the protection and efficiency needed to stay ahead of regulatory changes and operational challenges, regardless of temperature or load.

Valvoline

Valvoline states its Premium Blue One Solution Gen2 is the industry’s first tri-fuel solution, formulated for use in diesel, gas, and natural gas engines. According to the manufacturer, Premium Blue exceeds API CK-4 standards for wear protection, piston deposit reduction, oxidation resistance, and more while also carrying all major OEM approvals.