Members, Not interested in anything other than Shell and only 5W-30 (not 0W-30). The only light shed on the matter of choice has been reducing the build up of deposits in turbochargers and intake valves through a difference in viscosity index improver polymer. The question is then - because I can't find an answer or sufficient information to enable making a choice - Shell Helix Ultra AV-L or Shell Helix ECT C2/C3 and why one is the better option for a 2012 Superb Tdi 170hp with 103,000 miles?

Thanking you in advance for your experienced, knowledgable input.

Hi there, it's an interesting question you ask and I would like to know the answer too, but out of curiosity, why not use 0w30 oil? as from what I understand is it should flow better at low temps and therefore protect the engine and turbo better on cold start up.

 

To be honest, regarding your question about shell AVL or ECT, they are probably both more than good enough. I have used both when servicing my family's golf 1.6tdi, we had it for 120k miles, it was driven like it was stolen most of the time and only had the oil changed every 20k miles yet there were no problems with the engine or turbo, didn't  use a drop of oil, somehow. I also used shell helix ultra (whichever was available/cheapest) in previous car for the past 5 years and never had any trouble from the engine and also received some hammer, it was a 1.4mpi fabia and I used to tow a 800-1000kg with it, when going up steep hills I'd drop it into 2nd or 3rd gear and hold my foot to the floor. That car now has over 100k on the clock and is still working, hardly burns any oil (maybe 0.5l every 5000 miles).

 

The bottom line I think is, there is no need to worry, either one is probably more than good enough. 

 

I hope this was of some use to you.

Done the service using using ECT 5 - 30. As is it I never stress engines until they are warm anyway and after changing the gearbox thermostat my oil is up to 65 before the junction a short distance down the road now and soon I'll be back in Spain.

7 hours ago, Name said:

Done the service using using ECT 5 - 30. As is it I never stress engines until they are warm anyway and after changing the gearbox thermostat my oil is up to 65 before the junction a short distance down the road now and soon I'll be back in Spain.

Even Shell themselves recommended 0w30 as their Premium for fuel economy and 5w30 as Standard 

This is for a CFFB engine though 

You can put you r Reg in and see what comes up 

Data sheet is below 

ECT.pdf

Edited 4 February, 20224 yr by DEL80Y