Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 is a premium fully synthetic engine oil designed for modern gasoline and diesel engines. It is manufactured by Shell, one of the leading oil companies in the world. This oil features Shell's unique PurePlus Technology, which uses natural gas as a feedstock to produce a crystal-clear base oil with virtually none of the impurities found in crude oil.
Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 is formulated to provide exceptional wear protection, minimize sludge build-up, and resist oil breakdown even under extreme driving conditions. It meets or exceeds the latest performance specifications set by major automakers for their newest models. The advanced full synthetic formula allows for extended oil change intervals compared to conventional oils.
Overall, Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 is engineered to deliver exceptional engine protection and performance across a wide temperature range, making it an ideal choice for modern vehicles. This review will take a deeper look at the key features and benefits of this premium motor oil.
The Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 engine oil meets or exceeds specifications from all the major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). This makes it suitable for use in a wide range of vehicles from European, Japanese and American manufacturers.
Specifically, Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 is approved for use by:
Having all these approvals means you can rely on Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 to provide exceptional performance and protection for your engine, regardless of the make or model of your vehicle. The oil is designed to meet the latest standards and specifications of leading automakers worldwide.
In addition to the 5W-40 variant, there is also the Shell Helix Ultra Professional AG 5W-30 - 5 Litres, which offers advanced engine protection and fuel efficiency tailored for modern vehicles. This fully synthetic oil is formulated to not only meet but exceed the stringent requirements set forth by manufacturers to ensure optimal engine performance. With outstanding thermal stability and resistance to oxidation, it provides long-lasting protection, contributing to a cleaner engine and extended oil life.
The Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 is a fully synthetic motor oil, which means it is made from synthetic base oils rather than the conventional mineral oils. Synthetic oils have many advantages over their mineral counterparts:
Better low-temperature properties - synthetic oils flow easier when cold, allowing for easier starting and faster lubrication at start-up. This reduces engine wear.
Higher resistance to oxidation - synthetics experience less breakdown over time, allowing them to last longer between oil changes without forming sludge or deposits.
Improved high-temperature properties - synthetics maintain their viscosity and film strength better under high heat. This reduces oil burn off and provides better lubrication.
Lower pour point - the temperature at which oil stops flowing is much lower for synthetics. This improves flow in cold weather conditions.
Higher viscosity index - viscosity changes less with temperature fluctuations in synthetics. This means more stable oil pressure through hot and cold cycles.
The fully synthetic formula is a key factor that allows Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 to provide exceptional performance and protection beyond conventional oils. The synthetic base fluids and advanced additives work synergistically to maximize all-around benefits.
Another excellent option is the Shell Helix Ultra Professional AJ-L 0W-30 - 5 Litres, designed for high-performance engines. This oil offers outstanding protection and efficiency, particularly for modern vehicles. Its advanced formulation provides excellent fuel economy while ensuring superior engine cleanliness and reduced wear. Ideal for both gasoline and diesel engines, this product is a great choice for drivers looking to maximize their vehicle's performance and longevity.
Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 motor oil provides maximum engine performance and protection. It is formulated with exclusive Shell PurePlus Technology, which converts natural gas into crystal-clear base oil with virtually none of the impurities found in crude oil. This innovative process results in a motor oil of the highest quality that helps protect critical engine parts.
The advanced active cleansing agents in Shell Helix Ultra actively lock away harmful performance-robbing deposits. Keeping your engine clean can provide sustained protection against wear. Tests show Shell Helix Ultra can help engines maintain performance by protecting against power loss over time.
By helping to reduce friction in your engine, Shell Helix Ultra allows for better fuel economy. The lower viscosity and advanced friction modifiers help increase engine efficiency. In industry tests, Shell Helix Ultra performed on average 3.2% better for fuel economy compared to reference oils.
The synthetic formulation also provides enhanced protection from wear at start-up and under high temperatures. Shell Helix Ultra resists oil degradation and provides protection in the most extreme driving conditions. Overall, it delivers exceptional performance and protection for modern multi-valve gasoline and diesel car engines.
Shell Helix Ultra with PurePlus Technology is suitable for extended oil drain intervals. Most motor oils need to be changed every 5,000-7,500 miles. However, Shell claims that Helix Ultra can go up to 15,000 miles or 12 months between oil changes without losing effectiveness.
This is possible because of the advanced PurePlus Technology used to produce the synthetic base oil. The molecules have virtually zero impurities, allowing the oil to better withstand oxidation and thermal breakdown over time. As motor oil degrades from heat and contaminants, it loses viscosity and lubrication properties. But Helix Ultra maintains its performance for longer drain intervals.
The extended drain interval can save on time and money spent on frequent oil changes. Just make sure to follow the proper maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle. The extra mileage capacity gives flexibility if you accidentally go over the change interval by a few thousand miles. Overall, Shell Helix Ultra offers excellent protection and longevity between scheduled services.
One of the key benefits of Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 is its ability to improve fuel efficiency. This motor oil is engineered with Shell's unique PurePlus Technology, which uses natural gas as a feedstock to produce a purer base oil with virtually no impurities. The result is an oil that flows more freely at low temperatures while still providing excellent protection at high temperatures.
This improved viscosity performance helps reduce friction in the engine, allowing moving parts to move more freely. Less friction equates to less energy lost, meaning you can travel farther on the same amount of fuel. Independent testing has shown that Shell Helix Ultra can provide up to 1.7% fuel economy improvement compared to lower quality oils. So you'll be able to save money at the pump by using this oil.
The low-friction properties also aid engine performance, allowing your car to reach optimal operating temperature quicker. Once warmed up, the engine will run smoother and more efficiently. So Shell Helix Ultra is a great choice if you're looking to maximize mileage out of every tank of gas.
One of the standout features of Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 is its excellent cold start performance. This oil has a low viscosity that allows it to flow easily even in extremely cold temperatures. The advanced formula contains special additives that prevent the oil from thickening too much when cold.
This gives two key benefits for cold weather operation:
Fast lubrication at start up - The low viscosity means the oil can quickly circulate through the engine right after you turn the key. This provides immediate lubrication to critical components like the valvetrain to prevent wear.
Reduced engine drag - Thick oil creates more friction and drag inside an engine, making it harder to crank and start in cold weather. The excellent cold flow of Helix Ultra minimizes this drag so you don't have to crank as long when starting the car.
Overall, the cold start performance of this oil makes it ideal for regions with cold winters. Your engine will turn over easier on those frosty mornings and quickly build oil pressure for protection. This can help extend the life of your engine.
Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 motor oil features excellent oxidation stability, which means it effectively resists oil breakdown over time. Most engine oils experience oxidation, which reduces the oil's lubricating properties and allows sludge build-up. But this fully-synthetic oil is engineered to combat oxidation even under high temperatures.
The oil contains an exclusive additive called PurePlus Technology, which limits oxidation by strengthening the oil molecules. The enhanced molecular structure maintains the oil's viscosity and reduces deposits and sludge, even after prolonged use. Shell states that Helix Ultra oils tested in engines can last up to 3 times longer than the industry standard when it comes to staying in grade.
So you can rely on Helix Ultra 5W-40 to retain its high performance for extended oil change intervals, providing long-lasting protection for your engine. The oil withstands high heat and resists thickening and deposit formation. This exceptional oxidation stability allows you to maximize mileage between oil changes without worrying about the lubricant breaking down prematurely.
One potential drawback of Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 is its higher cost compared to conventional motor oils. This premium synthetic oil is approximately twice the price of basic conventional oils. The 1 liter bottle retails for around £15-20, whereas a conventional oil may only cost £8-12 per liter.
For some motorists watching their budgets, this higher initial cost may be difficult to justify. The potential fuel savings and extended oil change intervals offered by Shell Helix Ultra will offset some of the extra cost over time. But the upfront price increase could deter buyers who are seeking the cheapest option.
The advanced full synthetic formula and specialized additives that provide Shell Helix Ultra's performance do come at a cost premium. For drivers seeking maximum engine protection and performance, the extra cost may be worth it. But budget-focused consumers may be reluctant to pay the higher price over a basic conventional oil.
So the price is really the main potential drawback or negative of Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40. Drivers will need to assess if the benefits of reduced wear, better fuel economy, and longer oil change intervals justify the premium cost. For many, the advanced lubrication will be worth the extra investment. But for some cost-conscious buyers, it could be seen as an expensive oil change option.
Overall, Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 is one of the top synthetic engine oils on the market. It meets strict industry specifications and is approved for use in many late-model European vehicles that require a high-quality motor oil.
The key benefits of Helix Ultra 5W-40 are its exceptional thermal and oxidation stability. It holds up extremely well under high heat and resists thickening over time. This allows it to provide outstanding protection throughout long drain intervals, minimizing wear and deposits.
In addition, Helix Ultra has superb low-temperature capabilities. It flows easily when cold for fast lubrication at start-up and has a high viscosity when hot for strong film strength under severe driving conditions. The oil also delivers potential fuel economy savings compared to lower quality oils.
With advanced full synthetic base oils and additive technology, Helix Ultra 5W-40 is an excellent choice for modern gasoline and diesel engines, including turbocharged and direct injection engines. It meets or exceeds the requirements for many OEM specifications.
Overall, Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 is highly recommended for drivers looking for a top-tier full synthetic motor oil that excels in all areas - engine protection, longevity, fuel efficiency, and extreme temperature performance. It provides peace of mind that your engine is well protected for the long haul.
Features of Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40, 1 Litre | |
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Price | £16.43 |
Brand | Shell |
Item Model Number | 5W40 |
Item Weight | 910 g |
Manufacturer | Shell |
Viscosity | 5W-40 |
Vehicle Service Type | Car |
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Model | Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 - 1 Litre | Comma Syner-G Full Synthetic 5W40 - 1 Liter | Lucas Oil Synthetic SAE 10W-30 Outboard Engine Oil - 946ml | Carlube Triple R 0W-20 Fully Synthetic Engine Oil 1L | Motul X0Clean FE 5W30 C2 C3 - 1 Litre |
Brand | Shell | Comma | Lucas Oil | Carlube | Motul |
Item Model Number | 5W40 | SYN1L | 40661 | KEA001 | - |
Item Weight | 910 g | 500 g | 872 g | 940 g | 1.4 kg |
Manufacturer | Shell | Comma Oil & Chemicals Ltd. | Lucas Oil Products Inc | Tetrosyl Ltd | Motul |
Viscosity | 5W-40 | 5W-40 | 10W-30 | 20W50 | - |
Vehicle Service Type | Car | Car | Water Scooter | Car | - |
Price | £16.43 | £12.64 | £16.71 | £18.97 | £21.69 |
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Model | Shell Helix HX8 ECT 5W-30 - 5L | Shell Helix Ultra ECT C3 5W-30 - 5 Litres | Shell Helix Ultra Professional AG 5W-30 - 5 Litres | Shell Helix Hybrid 0W20 - 5L | Shell Helix Ultra Professional AJ-L 0W-30 - 5 Litres | Shell Rimula R3 Turbo 15W-40 - 5L |
Brand | Shell | Shell | Shell | Shell | Shell | Shell |
Item Model Number | - | ACSHEECT5W305L | 1285005 | 5011987081055 | - | 550045021 |
Item Weight | 4.42 kg | 4.41 kg | 4.46 kg | 4.6 kg | 5 kg | 5 kg |
Manufacturer | Shell | Shell | SHELL ESPAÑA S.A | Shell | Shell | Shell |
Viscosity | 5W-30 | 5W-30 | 5W-30 | 0W 20 | 0W-30 | 15W 40 |
Flash Point | 300 Degrees Celsius | - | - | - | - | - |
Vehicle Service Type | Car | Car | Car | Car | Car | Car, Truck |
Price | £48.96 | £53.53 | £49.53 | £67.07 | £69.6 | £37.96 |