07/11/2024

A Fleet Manager’s Guide to Choosing the Right Engine Oil

As a fleet manager, you’ve got enough on your plate, dealing with delivery schedules, compliance, driver needs, and of course, keeping every vehicle in your fleet in peak condition.

Let’s be honest—choosing the right engine oil is another task on top of all the things you’re already juggling. But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. At Millers Oils, we’re making it easy to pick the perfect engine oils for your HGVs without the hassle, keeping your fleet running smoothly, efficiently, and most importantly­, on budget.

Why Choosing the Right Oil Matters

HGVs aren’t your everyday vehicles—they’re built to run long hours, carry heavy loads, and handle more stress, they need a specialised oil that can take the heat:

  • High Oxidation Resistance: With engines running hot, you’ll want oil that won’t break down under high temperatures.
  • Durability Under Heavy Loads: HGV engines put oil through its paces, so you need one that stands up to arduous conditions. Without proper lubrication, friction between engine components can lead to erosion and accelerated wear.
  • Extended Lifespan: HGVs put engine oil through more wear and tear, so oils need to handle higher temperatures and tougher conditions than regular vehicle oils.

In short, the right oil means better performance, fewer repair bills, and a longer lifespan for your engines. Choose the wrong oil, and you’re looking at reduced fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and more unscheduled stops than your delivery schedule can handle.

Key Considerations When Choosing Engine Oil for HGVs

Think of Oil as a Component, Not a Commodity

Oil isn’t just a fluid top-up; it’s an essential component of your engine. Engine oils like Millers Oils Truckmaster range are formulated specifically for HGVs to ensure compatibility and reliability.

Follow Manufacturer Specs and Standards

Not all lubricants are equal. Sticking to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) recommendations and industry specifications means you’re choosing an oil that meets the standards for your engines based on stringent manufacturer testing.

Match Oil to Vehicle Use

HGV fleets don’t all have the same workload. Some vehicles are on long motorway hauls, others on urban routes with frequent stops, and the load they carry varies too. Different driving conditions and loads place unique demands on your oil, so pick one designed to handle the type of work your fleet does.

Adjust Drain Intervals Based on Use

Some HGVs can go longer between oil changes, while others may need more frequent servicing. Setting oil drain intervals to match usage helps maintain engine protection without overdoing it on maintenance. Protected by Millers Oils Oil Analysis optimises drain intervals and keep engines in top condition. Learn more here.

Invest in Quality Engine Oil: Choose Truckmaster for Your Fleet

When it comes to protecting your fleet, high-quality oil isn’t an extra—it’s a necessity. Millers Oils Truckmaster range is formulated to keep up with the demands of commercial vehicle engines, delivering top-notch performance even in the toughest conditions. Here’s what you can expect with Truckmaster:

  • Enhanced Engine Protection: Powered by our Dynamic Fluid Technology, a unique blend of advanced additives that provide superior lubrication, Truckmaster engine oils manage contaminants, prevent corrosion, and maintain a strong seal between moving parts, keeping your engines in top shape.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Truckmaster reduces friction, which means less fuel consumption. Over thousands of miles, these fuel savings add up, benefitting both your budget and the environment.
  • Extended Oil Drain Intervals: Designed to maximise your drain interval, your fleet will benefit from fewer oil changes, reduced waste, and less unnecessary downtime.
  • Reduced Maintenance and Repair Costs: With better protection for engine parts, Truckmaster helps minimise wear, lower the risk of breakdowns, and extend engine life.
  • Warranty Compliance: Peace of mind that vehicles remain under warranty, and it’s also backwards-compatible with older Euro 5/4 models: A versatile choice that simplifies inventory and ensures every engine in your fleet gets the protection it needs.

The Bottom Line: Quality Oil Pays Off

Choosing the right engine oil isn’t just a routine task, it’s a strategic decision that boosts fuel efficiency, reliability, and overall cost savings. By investing in a quality engine oil like Millers Oils Truckmaster range, you’re setting your fleet up for peak performance, every mile of the way.

And if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. We’re always happy to help keep your fleet in tip-top shape – because at the end of the day, we all know that keeping your vehicles running smoothly means keeping your business running smoothly too.

Learn more about Protected by Millers Oils here. 

Learn more about Regular Oil Changes for your Fleet here.