A car in our time is still not a luxury, but a means of delivering its owner to the desired destination. The only problem with a car is that its maintenance is sometimes not cheap, and repairs, especially of the engine, can significantly shake the family budget. Accordingly, every effort is required to ensure that it works for as long as possible. One of the most important keys to success is the use of quality engine oil.

One of the best is the oil reviews about which, as well as its main characteristics, we will today consider on the pages of this article.

Basic information

For some reason, it so happened that for the entire time of the presence of this brand on domestic market she always remained aloof, as there were practically no catchy advertisements or frankly flattering reviews about him. But in last years ELF products have become more and more persistent to win the domestic consumer. Even such "veterans" as Mobil and Motul are beginning to lose ground in some areas.

The manufacturer is also "pushing" on the possibility of filling the engines of cars that are used in particular difficult conditions... Suitable not only for a leisurely ride in a dense city stream, but even for those who like to storm the vastness of the country, where, as you know, there is no smell of roads as such. Even if you like a desperate, sporty ride, excellent choice oil "Elf 5W40" will be for you. Reviews indicate that even in this mode of operation, your car is not in danger.

The oil change interval has also been significantly increased. Unlike other eloquent producers, Elf really developed oil, in full accordance with the recommendations of the most famous automobile concerns... Of course, in any case, we believe that before pouring new oil into a car, you need to visit the website of its manufacturer and clarify all the nuances of compatibility.

In general, Elf 5W40 oil (reviews confirm this) can be safely poured into the engines of any car. This is confirmed by its SL class, which speaks of full compliance with all applicable standards in this area.

The main advantages of oil according to the manufacturer

Let's summarize. According to the manufacturer himself, his products have the following advantages:

Excellent in all operating modes. A guarantee of high purity of all its components due to a special additive package, which has always favorably distinguished Elf engine oils.

The components of the oil itself are completely resistant to oxidation, the product retains all its qualities even under very severe operating conditions.

Even a cold winter start is greatly simplified with the maximum possible preservation of the engine resource: this is achieved thanks to a special formula that allows the oil to warm up quickly and immediately begin to lubricate the engine components.

Even with extended drain intervals, the grease does not turn into a jelly-like "something" and does not damage the engine.

Specifications

At 15 ° C it has a density of 1298 g / cm3 (0.8526).

The viscosity index at 40 ° C is 445 mm2 / s (85.11).

At 100 ° C, this characteristic changes little: 445 mm2 / s (14.05).

Freezes at temperatures below -39 degrees Celsius.

"Flash" - 92 ° C.

The total base number is 2896 mgKOH / g (10.1).

Important! In general, experienced motorists say that only two indicators are important to us: pour point and base number. In the first case, it should be noted that it is quite enough if in your region the winter ambient temperature rarely drops below -35 degrees Celsius. If you live in areas closer to the north, where this temperature occurs regularly, it is better to choose another lubricant.

As for the base number of 10.1, this value indirectly indicates that the oil will indeed be a good idea to clean the engine. Given the characteristics of the fuel at most of the gas stations in our country, this characteristic is extremely important. This is what makes Elf 5W40 engine oil different. The characteristics, however, say little, unless the most important indicators are summarized in simple language.

Decoding important indicators

What is pour point? Simply put, in this state, the oil loses its fluidity, turning into a homogeneous, amorphous mass. This indicator is tested simply: the grease is poured into a test tube, which is installed in a thermostat with artificial ice... Temperature values \u200b\u200bare read every few minutes.

Important! The pour point must necessarily be five to seven degrees below the threshold at which the oil is still capable of pumping. You need to know that the hardening of most lubricants occurs for a rather trivial reason: the precipitation of wax crystals.

This is especially true for oils obtained from cheap crude oils. Normal manufacturers necessarily add special additives to their products that prevent this phenomenon. Actually, due to this, the Elf 5W40 oil shows excellent results up to temperatures of -35-36 degrees Celsius.

Alkaline number... This value indicates the total potential resource. The fact is that in any oil that is operated for any length of time, a significant amount of oxidation products is formed. To neutralize them, manufacturers use specific additives. The lower the base number, the faster the grease will degrade. If you bought cheap oil, or you operate your car in a large city and forget to change the lubricant in time, then the car engine can quickly fail.

To find out this very number, manufacturers use potentiometric titration. Simply put, the base number in this case is the ability to neutralize a certain weight volume of acid added to the oil.

It must also be said that Elf 5W40 oil is not a purebred synthetic, but a hydrocracking lubricant. Many motorists are also impressed by the fact that the manufacturer does not stoop to "miraculous ceramic dust" or other "nanotechnological" additives, which indirectly indicates the seriousness of the company.

That is why in recent years, motor oil "Elf 5W40" has been found more and more often on the shelves of automobile stores. We will now analyze the reviews about him in more detail.

So what are users saying?

In our stores you can find cans of one, four and five liters. Everything is done neatly, but sometimes motorists complain that it is impossible to make out the date of oil production. As a rule, we get the French version. Very often there are canisters, the instructions for using the lubricant on which are printed with rather rough ones. Apparently, the French are saving on translators.

Of course, there is no frankly unreadable nonsense, so you will probably figure it out with the recommendations from the manufacturer. We can say that Elf is quite “serious” oil, despite these minor flaws.

Experienced chauffeurs also note that there are no cardboard boxes on the neck under the lid. But the latter sometimes causes severe irritation, since the "plug" is sometimes glued in such a way that after opening the canister you will definitely not be able to stay with clean hands. The filler neck itself, which almost all Elfs are characterized by, is extremely commendable. Unlike all foreign and imported counterparts, there is a kind of telescopic "rod" with which it is easy to fill oil in any conditions.

Many people note that due to this "nice little thing" when changing the lubricant, it is possible to remain practically clean, and such a container is extremely convenient for periodically adding oil.

Important note

Motorists, however, strongly advise you to use funds for which there was elf oil 5W40. Reviews indicate that a large amount of dirt washed out with additives simply cannot be removed from the engine in another way.

Double opinion

What else is characterized by motor oil "Elf 5W40"? Reviews about it are twofold: some users claim that the engine starts to run softer. On the contrary, other motorists ardently prove that the engine makes noticeably more sounds.

Let's figure it out: most often negative reviews come from motorists who live in the northern regions. Please note that in the article we have repeatedly come across recommendations not to use "Elf" in areas where in winter the ambient temperature regularly drops to -35 degrees Celsius and even lower. Elf 5W40 oil is not adapted to such conditions, what can you do ... In general, in this case it is better to buy ordinary synthetics.

At such temperatures, Elf - the oil is not very good, since due to the significant density, the process of lubricating the engine is greatly complicated. Unsurprisingly, after launch, it starts to work "hard". In general, carefully read the manufacturer's recommendations!

Elf Evolution

Elf Evolution engine oil stands apart. How do motorists respond to this variety? It should be noted here that the company places particular emphasis on the use of this lubricant in heavy climatic conditions... Judging by the proclamation, it can be successfully poured into cars that are operated in the conditions of our North. Is it really?

Alas, this time the French were cheating a little. Indeed, a greater number of additives have been added to the composition of this brand, which, in theory, are not bad at resisting the rapid thickening of the lubricant, even with very low temperatures ambient air. But in practice, they do not do it very well.

Drivers from northern cities unanimously assert that Elf Evolution 5w40 oil frankly behaves badly at temperatures from -25 degrees and below! That is, it manifests itself worse than its “colleague in the shop”! What is the reason for this paradox is not known for certain.

In fairness, let's not forget about the fakes. Only a completely naive buyer can think that a fake lubricant from a well-known foreign concern will not interest anyone. As studies by many domestic experts show, there are at least 15-23% of engine oil counterfeits on the market. Among the popular brands that are especially often counterfeited is Elf. Of course, the use of such ersatz has an extremely negative effect on the condition of the engine of your car.

Therefore, buy lubricants exclusively from certified major stores. Yes, this advice is very banal, but, unfortunately, it has not lost its relevance at all. Only in this case can you keep high performance characteristics engine of your car.

But there is also a positive point. It is connected with the operation of a car in urban conditions: motorists believe that this motor oil 5w40 "Elf" actually saves up to 7% of fuel. And this recognition from motorists who are forced to spend several hours in traffic jams every day is worth a lot!

A little about dreamers

In principle, not all reviews should be heeded. And this applies not only to negative, but also to some positive characteristics... So, some "experts" complain that after pouring this grease ... the engine power does not increase! We think it is not worth reminding all the time that all the eloquent admonitions of some unscrupulous manufacturers about "restoring the engine" or "increasing engine power" are fairy tales that should not be paid attention to.

We have also already said that the manufacturer of "Elf" commands respect precisely because it does not give such ridiculous promises to customers. And certificates from large automobile concerns also inspire a lot of trust and respect.

So, what can we say finally about Elf 5w40 oil? Its characteristics allow us to speak with a clear conscience of its high quality and suitability for use in many climatic and operating conditions. In any case, Elf is definitely no worse than many of its counterparts from other manufacturers. Finally, I would like to wish everyone a good road and quality oil!

Most Russian motorists are aware that Renault cars are assembled in Russia, and at two plants at once - in Moscow and Togliatti. therefore vehicles Renault is so popular. This fact gave fame to another product of French origin - Elf 5W40 engine oil, as well as its counterparts with a viscosity of 5W-30.

The modern Elf Evolution family

In 2014, the Total concern, which is the owner brand Elf, decided to change the series of oils produced. Now Elf motor oil is organized into only two groups - Evolution and Sporti. In turn, Evolution is subdivided into several families.

In addition to the names, the design and shape of the canisters have also changed. The labeling has also changed. Since the changes have occurred recently, you can find the old model Elf 5W40 engine oil on sale.

Are there any differences between old and new products

For comparison, let's take an earlier product - Elf Excellium NF grease with a viscosity of 5W 40, as well as a new grease - Evolution 900 NF 5W40. You can immediately see that there are no differences in the specifications. Both lubricants have an A3 / B4 rating from the European Association of Automobile Manufacturers (ACEA). The American API classifier has defined the SL / CF category.

There are differences in the OEM tolerances that lubricants have. For old Elf 5 - approvals from MV (Mercedes, Chrysler), VW (Volkswagen, Seat, Audi, Skoda), BMW (BMW, Mini), GM (General Motors, Opel, Saab, Chevrolet, Vauxhall), Porsche. Lubricant 900 NF 5W-40 has only been approved by VW, MB and Porsche. Discounts can be made if the product is relatively new, other approvals will be obtained later.

Laboratory testing and compositional analysis

Detailed analysis suggests that the dynamic and kinematic viscosities of Excellium NF and Evolution 900 N are within the SAE standard for 5W-40 viscosity-temperature levels. The viscosity indices of both oils are practically the same, at the level of 170 and 172. This value confirms the good thermal stability of both lubricants. That is, they do not thicken at low temperatures and do not turn into liquid at high temperatures.

The pour point of the new oil is only 2 degrees lower - minus 42 ° С. The old sample is 40 degrees below zero. The flash point, which indirectly characterizes the volatility, in Excelum is 5 degrees lower than that of Evolution, is 229 ° C. Both characteristics are at a good level, confirming the information that little lubricant is consumed for waste.

The base number (TBN) is the same, has a good indicator - 10.1 mg KOH per 1 g. This means that both motor fluids neutralize well the acidic environment formed during fuel combustion. The worse the quality fuel mixture, the more acid compounds enter the engine.

Over the course of operation, the base number is spent on combating these harmful emissions, preserving the basic properties of the oil. When its level becomes critical, the engine oil should be renewed. Here is one of the main reasons why russian conditions the lubricant needs to be changed more often - we have poor quality fuel.

The presence of phosphorus and zinc in both oils informs about the presence of antiwear additives ZDDP - the best at the moment. The package of detergents, neutralizing and dispersing additives is also approximately the same and strong - it is based on compounds of magnesium and calcium salicylates.

Summing up the above, it can be argued that the difference between both oils is quite small - most likely, the new mixture has a base oil that is more purified from impurities. In general, both lubricants are very good for Russian engines. If you change them every 7-8 thousand kilometers, the engines will feel good.

The new 900 SXR oil and its features

In addition to two NF lubricants, the French released another oil - Elf Evolution 900 SXR with viscosities 5W30 and 5W40. Both products have in common the fact that they are created specifically for the engines of the automaker Renault, they have OEM approval from him. Engine oil viscosity 5W30 is poured into new power units, and the lubricant composition 900 SXR 5W40 is applied to engines with a mileage of more than 100 thousand kilometers. At this level of wear, the more low-viscosity oil begins to be consumed more for waste. For larger gaps between parts, a more viscous engine mixture is better suited.

conclusions

Obviously, Total cares about the quality of its engine oils, releasing them for new and worn out power units... Elf products with a viscosity of 5W40 are well suited for a large Russian fleet of vehicles with solid mileage.

Have a favorite car? Buy a quality French lubricant, Elf oil. The products are familiar on many continents, from Europe to the United States. The Elf brand was founded by the French oil and gas corporation Total S.A., one of the four world leaders in terms of production. The concern was founded back in 1924. Since then, the name and management team have changed many times, but the strategy has remained unchanged: car oils, lubricants, liquids, fuel. The total staff of employees is more than 115 thousand people, representative offices in 125 countries of the world, oil reserves of more than 12 billion barrels.

The presence on the domestic market is not limited to autochemistry. Joint development of oil and gas fields led to the full-scale operation of the filling station network. High-quality fuel is in demand among car owners. In addition, Elf is a regular sponsor of international rally competitions. Only trusted and reliable partners can be entrusted with this. So, let's read it once.

Oil characteristic

Excellium 5w40 oil is a fully synthetic fluid designed for refueling in automotive vehicles. Given the fact that there is no clear distinction, the grease is considered to be all-season. Main consumers:

• light transport;
• minibuses with full weight no more than 3.5 tons;
• minivans;
• turbocharged, biturbo power units;
• sports cars, equipment with installed high-speed engines.

The manufacturer has worried in advance about how to "please" the formula cars and simply modern cars. Now owners should not waste time looking for lubricants, they just need to buy Elf nf 5w40 synthetic oil. According to opponents, this is a kind of marketing ploy designed to increase sales. Time will tell who is right and who is wrong. But the preponderance is towards the first option.

The production uses a special technology and a complex of protective additives. The pressure indicator is kept secret temperature regimeat which manufacturing takes place. The so-called "firm secret". It is only known that the formulation of polarization under the influence of a magnetic field is involved. Thus, it is possible to completely control the composition at the level of molecules and atoms. Final product: extremely durable protective film, fluidity, viscosity. A complete set for preserving the rubbing surfaces of a car engine.

Elf oil benefits

disadvantages

No significant shortcomings in the course of laboratory tests were identified. The price factor is more important. Say, the cost is too high. It is strictly forbidden to pour oil of this marking into the internal combustion engine of heavy, cargo vehicles. The explanation is simple: Elf Excellium nf is not intended for low-speed motors. There is a separate type for this type of transport. Other markings can be found at official points of sale.

Green light from world leaders in manufacturing

A lot of counterfeit

A large number of counterfeits hinder the stable and dynamic growth of the brand. It will not be possible to fully eradicate this disease, you should not indulge yourself. But, keeping tightly controlled is always possible by improving security technologies. Expansion of certified points of sale. Reducing the cost of Elf products. Increase in turnover. To carry out active informative activities among the population.

Fun fact: after racing car finished driving on the track, the engine fluid is drained from the engine, for example, the elf 5w40 excellium. The resulting mining is given for filtration to absorb small metal particles, rubber, rubber. Ready mix goes on sale for two-stroke engines marked (working off). Waste is not suitable for passenger vehicles due to partial loss of protective substances. The service life of such a mixture is equal to the standard one.

Completion

But a number of positive laboratory indicators described above directly indicate high quality product Elf 5w40. By purchasing another 4 liter canister of the original Elf, you will significantly extend the life of your vehicle. Trying it for the first time, start with a mineral base, gradually progressing to 5w40 synthetics. Improvements in engine performance are felt after two months of active use. Experience quality products from the French oil brand Total. Long, trouble-free ride for you. All the best.

In this section, drivers are presented with reviews of car owners about Elf engine oil. The information is collected on the basis of real impressions of motorists based on surveys. If you have any experience using Elf, share it with others by submitting your feedback through the comment form. It will be published immediately after moderation.

Dimonych, Opel Astra

On the Elf 5W30, the evolution has already covered over 40,000 km. The car is used on the highway and around the city in about the same degree. I change the lubricant every 10 thousand. Satisfied!

vyacheslav 10, Renault Espace 4

I use Elf engine oil all the time. There were no complaints or flaws in the car. The only drawback that I noticed is its darkening. For the sake of comparison, I took Moli for testing, but it is more expensive.

As a result, I consider Elf normal, and those people who claim that their lubricant mixture does not darken at all are lying, since the lightness of the component indicates a clear sign of a fake composition or the death of the engine.

Sergey, Volkswagen Golf

Traveled a little, until the first frost. On cold days, the butter turned to mush. Before that, I used Komma 10W40 for more than 3 years - this did not happen.

AUTOMATIC 26, Volkswagen Vento

I did not like. The cost is average, but the quality indicators of the composition leave much to be desired - it burns out, quickly darkens, thickens in the cold. I skated on Elf 5W40 for three years, changed it every 7000 km.

Each time the car drove worse than the previous one. After removing valve cover - I was in shock, everything was in soot and soot. I had to rinse everything in order to fill in something else. In general, little good, did not suit me.

Vyacheslav, Renault Symbol

There have been two Simbs in my lifetime. I fill in exclusively ELF 5W40 synthetics. Never had to add. Enough from replacement to replacement. The oil does not darken, the car starts up easily even in the cold season. I am 100% satisfied with the quality of the lubricant.

Yuri, Renault Sandero

My choice is 5W30 synthetics. I've been driving for about 5 years. I did not notice any shortcomings. The oil practically does not turn black and does not need to be added. Serves stably for 10 thousand, everything is fine.

Eugene, Renault Logan

I have been using Elf for a very long time, probably about 8 years. The car eats grease neatly, starts up in the cold with a half turn. I recommend old workhorses as more modern powertrain configurations require something different.

AUTO4603, VAZ 21074

So I decided to leave my honest review. From the very beginning of the acquisition of the car, semi-synthetics 10W40 were poured into the seven. I purchased it only in proven places, avoiding the possible acquisition of low-quality composition.

During the period of long-term operation, it revealed both advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include affordability for the average consumer. There are more minuses, among them - a rapid darkening and the appearance of an emulsion under the hood. I would like to say that the quality of the oil is below average. ELF did not meet my expectations.

Glory, Renault

The car runs all-season on ELF synthetics. I try to make a replacement every 15,000. I never refilled it. I am satisfied with the oil, both in quality and in price.

www.www, Renault Symbol

I've been sitting on Elf for 8 years. I change it periodically, depending on the mileage or the period of work. After the expiration date - the oil is always transparent, during the operation period I have never added it.

Ilya 02, Mazda 626

My swallow is simply not killable. Works with a bang, despite the mileage (287 thousand km). I use it in various modes, pouring only Elf synthetics. During the entire operation of the machine, the lubricant did not fail and showed itself only on the good side.

In winter, the car starts without unnecessary hesitation. The oil does not leave a large carbon deposit, has an excellent additive package and perfectly washes the interior of the engine. I am pleased to be using this brand.

Bob30, Ford Scorpio

At first, I poured Hado into the car, but over time I stopped liking it. Traction was lost, the motor began to work unstably. On the advice of friends, I decided to change the old oil to ELF. I drove 8 thousand and so far without any complaints, the machine feels good.

Ivan, VAZ 2110

I have been using Elf oil for the second year already. I work in a taxi myself. There were no problems with the engine. I have already clocked 170,000. Replacement every 10,000 km. I'll give you a solid four!

Vladimir

7 thousand and start to top up, black oil. I'll try Coma

The largest French company Total, which produces various lubricants, today produces products under the Elf brand that are interesting in terms of value for money. One of these products is Elf 5W40 Evolution 900 NF engine oil.

This oil is the cheapest of the Evolution 900 line. On the one hand, it is less “charged”. On the other hand, the scope of its application, as well as the list of approvals and approvals, is wider than that of specialized greases from this line, developed for engines of Renault cars.

Below we will analyze specifications of this oil and reviews of car owners to understand, it is somewhat worthy of attention and whether it is really worth the money.

Characteristics and their applied significance

The main characteristics of the Elf Evolution 900 NF 5W 40 engine oil are provided by Total.

Let's make a brief analysis of them:

• Kinematic viscosity. The main indicator for all lubricants for internal combustion engines is viscosity at operating temperature engine. This temperature is conventionally taken as 100 ° C. The viscosity at 100 ° C temperature is 14.3 mm2 / s (cSt). Quite an acceptable figure for the SAE 5W-40 class. But somewhat lower than that of more expensive greases of this series. At 40 ° C, the viscosity is markedly higher: 87 mm2 / s (cSt).
• Pour point. Shows when the minus temperature is reached lubricant will become plastic and stop flowing. The product in question loses its fluidity at a frost of –36 ° C. This theoretically fits into the framework indicated by the standard, but objectively not enough for oils of the 5W-40 class.
• Flash point. The temperature at which Elf Evolution 900 NF 5W 40 engine oil will flare up when heated without using an open flame is 220 ° C. On average 10 degrees lower than other products in this series.
• Alkaline number. Directly responsible for detergent and dispersant properties. For the product under consideration, this indicator is traditionally high, as for the entire line: 10 mgKOH / g.

In addition to the noted parameters posted in the technical documentation on the official website, independent laboratory studies were carried out for Evolution 900 NF 5W 40 oil.

According to their results, it is clear that a hydrocracking base was taken as a base. Additives are a somewhat leaner Infineum package.

The oil is rich in calcium and ZDDP extreme pressure component. There is less boron than other greases from the same family. The viscosity index, derived experimentally, is 172 units.

Elf 5w40 evolution 900 nf engine oil performance review - video

Also, these studies have shown that the pour point of the oil is much lower than the manufacturer indicates, and is at around -42 ° C. Most likely, the manufacturer made a mistake in the specification or deliberately reinsured himself by underestimating the real capabilities of his product.

Packing and scope

Elf Evolution 900 NF 5W40 synthetic engine oil is available in a practical set of containers of the following volumes: 1, 4, 5, 60 and 208 liters. This approach to packaging allows you to purchase the required amount with minimal overpayments.

Elf 5W40 Evolution 900 NF 5W40 items for quick search are as follows:

• 1 liter - 194875;
• 4 liters - 194873;
• 5 liters - 194872;
• 60 liters - 194785;
• 208 liters - 194796.

The scope is determined by specifications, tolerances and approvals. The main ones in terms of determining the applicability are the tolerances for international classifications:

• ACEA: A3 / B4;
• API: SL / CF.

The SAE viscosity grade guarantees pumpability of the oil at low temperatures down to -35 ° C, and cranking crankshaft down to –30 ° C. In summer, the oil can be freely operated without harming the motor at positive temperatures up to 40 ° C.

For diesel engines according to the tolerances, everything is standard. The oil is suitable for any engine with any power system, but without particulate filters. In terms of applicability in gasoline internal combustion engines there are small restrictions.

Also, catalysts for cars with an environmental standard of EURO-5 and higher may suffer with prolonged use of this oil.

The oil has several approvals from car manufacturers:

• VW 502.00 and 505.00;
• PORSCHE A40;
• MB-Approval 229.3.

It is important to understand that these standards apply not only to the specified brands, but to the entire range of vehicles subject to this standard.

For example, VW 502.0 approval includes many engines of Seat, Skoda, Audi and some other brands subordinate to the VAG concern.