Engine oil is responsible for the quality of the entire system. If a mistake is made in the selection process, an improper composition will not only not have a positive effect on the mechanisms, but may also destroy them. Therefore, each owner of the vehicle seeks to purchase the highest quality products from well-known brands.
One of the most popular formulations is Shell Helix 10W-40 oil (semi-synthetic). Reviews about this tool can be found in various sources. Experienced motorists, mechanics and technologists will help to understand whether it is worth pouring such a tool into the system of your car.
general characteristics
Characteristics of Shell Helix 10W-40 engine oil testify to the decent quality of the presented product. This is one of the most common series for cars. The product is produced on a semi-synthetic basis. This significantly reduces the cost of production.
Due to the special processing of the feedstock, Shell Helix lubricants are highly clean. This has a positive effect on the performance of the product. The acceptable cost of oil and high performance make it in demand today.
The composition of the oil includes unique components. Thanks to this approach to production, Shell guarantees reliable protection against damage and abrasion of parts. According to the manufacturer, their lubricants are able to serve engine systems better than competing formulations.
Varieties
The presented category of lubricants includes only 3 products. This is XH7, XH6, Plus. Each of them has slight differences. Technology does not stand still. The Shell company is constantly developing new formulas, improving the existing compositions of its oils.
The funds listed are semi-synthetic consumables. Shell Helix 10W-40 oil (semi-synthetic) is sold in various containers . The price of 1 liter is 260 rubles. For a 4 liter canister, you will need to pay 950-1150 rubles.
The Shell Helix XH6 series costs a bit more. 4 liters of lubricant can be purchased for 1500-1600 rubles. Plus series can be purchased for 1350-1550 rubles. for 4 liters This is the average cost. Therefore, Shell semi-synthetics are in demand today.
Oil base
Automobile oils, as you know, can consist of mineral or synthetic components. In the first case, the compositions obtained in the course of oil refining are applied. This is a less fluid means for the motor. Such oil must be changed frequently. It is intended for old-style motors.
Synthetics are made entirely from artificial substances. This is a fluid, effective tool that is used in engines of a new type. The cost of synthetics is higher than that of mineral oils. For comparison, the popular Shell Helix Ultra 10W-40 oil , which belongs to this group of compounds, will cost the buyer 2150-2250 rubles. for 4 liters
When mineral and synthetic components are combined, semisynthetics are obtained. She possesses the qualities of both of her constituents. Such funds are used almost universally. When choosing a product, it is necessary to take into account the recommendations of the manufacturer.
Viscosity grade
Presented oils have certain viscosity indices. This tool can be used in most of the territory of our country. The composition, which is classified as SAE 10W-40, is operated at temperatures from -20 to +35 º. In this case, the tool can provide high-quality protection of motor parts.
If in the region lower temperatures are observed in winter, it is necessary to choose a different class of oil viscosity. For example, for the coldest regions of the Russian Federation, it is recommended to purchase Shell Helix 0W40. Such oil does not freeze even in frost -35 º.
In the heat, too fluid grease simply drains from metal surfaces. Her layer is thinning. Tears of the oil film may appear. Therefore, the viscosity should be high enough so that in the heat and at high loads, the rubbing parts get good glide.
Differences of the presented compositions
As already mentioned, only 3 types of lubricants apply to Shell Helix 10W-40 semi-synthetic engine oils . Each of them has its own distinctive features.
The XH7 series is manufactured using special technology. The composition includes a certain list of additives, which provides special protection for passenger cars from premature destruction. The tool has received approval for use in engines "Fiat", "Renault", "Volkswagen".
The XH6 series has received a new additive composition. Thanks to them, the oil has improved characteristics. However, it cannot be mixed with other analog formulations. XH6 is approved for use by BMW, Audi, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes, Volkswagen.
The Plus series is designed for a wide range of engine designs.
XH7 Oil
The characteristics of the Shell Helix 10W-40 engine oil of the XH7 series indicate the possibility of its filling in gasoline and diesel engines with a fuel injection system, gas recirculation, as well as with a catalytic converter. Also, the presented tool is used in turbocharged engines with an intermediate cooling system.
XH7 oil effectively removes various contaminants from metal surfaces, fights against traces of oxidation. Due to its unique composition, the product can be used for a long time without requiring replacement. It effectively fights traces of corrosion, prevents mechanical damage.
When using this substance, the consumption of gasoline or diesel fuel is significantly reduced. Even with increased loads, this composition provides high protection for engine systems. The motor is quieter, more stable.
XH6 Oil
If we consider the qualities inherent in Shell Helix synthetics, it becomes clear that its basis contributes to the quality protection of the engine from adverse influences. Semi-synthetics has some features of mineral oil. To improve the quality of such formulations, Shell adds a special list of additives to the base oil.
The components in XH6 are special. They have high detergent, dispersant, anti-friction qualities. However, due to their special formula, the presented agent is not recommended to be mixed with other oils. Foreign additives coming into contact with XH6 components can cause an unpredictable reaction.
To ensure stable operation of the motor after pouring in the case of the presented means, it is necessary to thoroughly flush the system before this. In this case, the functioning of the lubricant will be full.
Oil Plus
The Plus series is one of the best among Shell Helix 10W-40 oils (semi-synthetic). Expert reviews indicate that it can be used in various designs and models of motors.
The presented oil is suitable for turbocharged engines. Also, a similar tool is used in designs with a large number of valves. In injection engines that run on gasoline, the presented tool is also used. In addition to the listed varieties of Plus Series oils, it is allowed to fill in diesel and gasoline engines.
In such conditions, the oil fulfills the functions assigned to it in full. It provides good sliding of moving elements, quickly getting to all parts of nodes and mechanisms. High-quality protection is carried out even under high loads and adverse environmental conditions.
How to distinguish a fake?
In some cases, users leave negative reviews about the oils presented. This is caused by the acquisition of a fake. Poor composition, which is made by unscrupulous manufacturers, can harm the motor system. It will need to be repaired or replaced completely. To avoid this, you need to learn how to distinguish the Shell Helix fake.
Each series is produced in a canister of a certain color. So, the XH6 series is presented in yellow containers, XH7 - in blue-green cans. Semi-synthetic oils Plus are produced in gray or graphite canisters (the shade may be darker or lighter). If the color of the canister is different, this is definitely a fake. In no case should such a tool be poured into the crankcase of the engine of your vehicle.
It is also necessary to pay attention to the presence of the Shell PurePlus Technology logo. Forging such a sticker is quite difficult. Therefore, on fake compositions it is not. The mirror sticker indicates the originality of the composition.
In order not to become a victim of fraud, it is necessary to purchase lubricants from trusted suppliers. They necessarily have all the necessary documentation, quality certificates for all products.
Consumer Reviews
Reviews about Shell Helix 10W-40 oil (semi-synthetic) are mostly positive. 80% of users note the high performance of the presented product. Negative reviews are associated with the purchase of a fake or the wrong choice of oil.
Experts strongly advise you to carefully study the instructions of the vehicle manufacturer before buying oil formulations. It clearly indicates what characteristics service facilities should have. If selected incorrectly, the engine may fail.
Drivers note that when using Shell Helix, the motor starts to run quieter. The vibration level is reduced. The engine runs at full power, picking up speed faster.
The system is kept clean. In severe frost, starting the engine is easy. This is a quality tool. Its popularity today remains unchanged at a high level.
Having examined the features of Shell Helix 10W-40 oil (semi-synthetic), reviews of experts and experienced drivers, it is possible to note the high quality of the product. Lubricants fully comply with high requirements and standards, reliably protect the motor from adverse effects.