Mobil 1™ Oil In Mower Engine Applications

You are likely here to find out if you can use Mobil 1™ brand oil in lawn mower engine applications safely. You may also want to know which oil type to use between 5W-30 vs 10W-30? Synthetic or non-synthetic?

I've performed small engine oil changes for over 25 years, and I'll do my best to answer your Mobil 1™ oil related questions, as they apply to lawn mowers and other small engines.

You know that using right oil in your mower is important, great start!

Did you know that the brand of oil isn't as important as regular oil changes themselves, not over-filling the engine with oil, and not tilting your mower the wrong way?

Mobil 1™ Oil in Lawn Mower Engine Applications

Mobil 1™ synthetic oil can be used in lawn mower engines, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

Manufacturer Recommendations

Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific lawn mower model, especially for mowers under warranty.

Some manufacturers approve of using synthetic oil in some push mowers, while others advise against it in their mowers.

Viscosity Grade

The viscosity grade determines how well oil flows at different temperatures.

For Mobil 1™ oil use in a lawn mower I recommend Mobil 1™ 10W-30 oil or Mobil 1™ Extended Performance 10W-30 oil.

The extended performance seems to make a difference on larger lawns with longer mowing sessions.

Consult your owner's manual to find the recommended viscosity grade.

Oil Change Intervals

Synthetic oils extend oil change intervals vs conventional oil.

The operating conditions of a lawn mower are different from those of a car, so you might still need to change the mower's oil more frequently.

This is especially true if the mower is used in dusty or extreme conditions.

Benefits

Synthetic oils typically offer better protection and performance compared to conventional oils.

They are less likely to break down under high temperatures and provide better engine lubrication.

Can You Use Mobil 1 5w30 In A Lawn Mower?

Yes, you can use Mobile 1 5W-30 oil in your mower engine, with some exceptions.

I don't recommend using 5W-30 mower oil in an older or worn mower engine because, being a thinner oil when cold, it will seep past the piston ring into the combustion chamber and burn.

I also don't recommend you use 5w-30 oil if the manufacturer specifications for a specific mower model specifically exclude 5W-30 oil. Don't void the warranty on a new mower by using an unapproved oil, always double check your manual.

What About 15W-50 Oil in a Mower?

Here's a little secret, I use 15W-50 oil in all of my old mowers. It doesn't leak much oil into the combustion chamber and gives a higher level of protection at working temp.

Caveat, I typically don't recommend it to others because it does stress the engine a little more (harder to circulate). I don't mind repairing my own small engines when they break.

Most small mower engines have plastic gearing to "splash" the crankshaft with oil, and I typically replace the gears with solid metal gears in my own mowers.

If you can do that as well should problems arise, you'll appreciate the protection 15W-50 oil provides too. Otherwise, stick with 10W-30, or the oil recommended for that specific model of mower by the manufacturer.

Does Synthetic Mobil 1 oil work in Briggs and Stratton Engines?

Absolutely, you can use any synthetic multi-viscosity oil from 5W-30 up to 15W-50. Briggs and Stratton have updated their website to say the following:

We have modified our engine oil recommendations to state that you may now use a synthetic 5W30 or 15W50 oil in all temperature ranges.briggsandstratton.com

Mobil 1™ Synthetic Oil Cost

Mobil 1™ synthetic oils are usually more expensive than conventional oils. Consider whether the benefits justify the higher cost for your specific lawn mower application.

Do you use your mower in extremely hot or dry climate? Do you mow for long periods at a time, perhaps 30 minutes of more? Do you mow a large area of land? etc.

The more demanding you are of your mower, the more benefit you will see from synthetic oil.

Does Mobil 1 Synthetic Oil Mix With Regular Oil?

Yes, synthetic oil is fully compatible with regular oil.

The problem with mixing expensive synthetic oils with regular oils is that it negates the added protection synthetic oil provides.

If you're going to pay more for fully synthetic oil it's best not to mix it with regular non-synthetic oil.

Environmental Considerations

Be mindful to properly dispose of used oil. Many auto parts stores and recycling centers accept used motor oil for proper disposal and recycling.

In Summary

Mobil 1™ synthetic oil can be used in lawn mower engines, but it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

Choose the appropriate viscosity grade for the specific operating conditions of your mower.