Alfa 147 Ts Engine?

Q: I am wondering what the collrctive wisdom is regarding engine oil for the Alfa 147 TS engine. I rang my dealer and was told Mobil 1, another 147 owner told me his delaer only recommends synthetic oil after 10000k of running and a UK dealer said that Selenia 20K is the only oil for Alfa Romeo. Anyone else got some info? And why should Mobil 1 not be suitable until after 10000ks of running when it meets Alfa Romeo specs?

A: As a matter of fact, Alfa Romeo UK do not recommend using synthetic oil at all. We were advised this on a technical training course. It is to do with the way that synthetic oil burns off in use - and we know how much oil an Alfa uses! I have also heard the same information from a customer that also owns a Renault, and they advise the same. Apparently when a synthetic oil burns off in use, only the additive content is consumed, the synthetic base oil does not. After a few top ups you end up with a diluted oil, with is more base oil than additives. I always end up in this daft argument about what's best, synthetic or mineral? Personally I think you have to consider the purpose for which synthetic oil was designed - racing! It is designed to be used in a constant high stress environment, and does not protect an engine as well as a decent mineral oil in normal every day use.

Discuss It!

Most Popular Articles

More