Oil Question: Get Answers Now!

'Something that has been on my mind for a long time: Is it really necessary to use the specific oil recommended for PD (Porsche Direct Fuel Injection) engines? It's not about the money, but there are many other very good and high-quality oils available that don't meet the 505.01 standard. Are there any known cases of engine failures that occurred because a different oil was used, even though it was of very high quality but didn't meet this standard? I would really be interested to know.'

Hi!

You definitely need PD oil, which is now more readily available for purchase. Using other types of oil can damage the camshaft.

Best regards,
Uwe

An oil that only meets the 505 00 specification, for example, cannot withstand the surface pressures common in PD engines to the same extent. In my opinion, it doesn't matter what viscosity you use, whether it's 10w40, 0w40, or 0w30, or what brand name is on it (ABC or XYZ), as long as it meets the standard specified in the owner's manual. For PD engines, that standard is 505 01 for non-longlife oils and 506 00/506 01 for longlife oils. Anything outside of that standard should not go into my engine! Even if it's a well-known brand, because there have been reports of more worn camshafts, etc.

While this might not be entirely relevant, who guarantees that what's in the canister is actually what's stated on the label? For example, the ADAC (German automobile club) sometimes conducts random spot checks on fuel. The results aren't always satisfactory.

I can't imagine any company taking such a risk! It's very difficult, if not impossible, to prove that regular gasoline was used instead of premium gasoline if it happened once, and then later there's increased wear or damage. Perhaps some gas station operators might be susceptible to pressure in such situations.
The oil has been in the engine for a while. If there's a camshaft failure in a PD engine, I would definitely consider the last oil change.

Best regards,
Uwe