I have a 2015 wrangler with a naturally aspirated Pentastar 3.6L V6. I get
pre-ignition knock when the engine is at around 2k while going up hill. The
manual states 87 octane fuel is required, but when I switch to 93 octane
the knock goes away. I know the Pentastar engines have been horrible in
terms of reliability since they were introduced in 2011, do you think it's
wise to stick with 93 octane since the dealerships refuse to fix the
problem unless you get a check engine light?
+nelson4568 Thanks for the question. First - do whatever you can to reduce/prevent the ping or knock. It will eventually destroy your engine. Make sure you are getting clean, fresh fuel, and get Top-Tier fuel if available. I'd also try Mid-Grade fuel (around 89-90 octane) and check your results. No since spending more on fuel than necessary. But what you are experiencing probably isn't the Low Speed Pre-Ignition I talk about in the video. In many cases, LSPI destroys the engine almost immediately - making it so detrimental. But as I mention in the video, the vapors from your engine oil, that travel thru the PCV system, can contribute to uncontrolled detonation of any type. Using a low volatility oil, that emits less vapors when heated, like AMSOIL Signature Series (5W-20 in your case) will help reduce this risk. It will also keep your engine clean and reduce friction for long engine life.
+DaBossk Thank you for the critical feedback. Please send me the link to your video on this topic that is more entertaining! I'll be happy to watch it and provide feedback to you as well. Cheers!
Short answer - no. AMSOIL Signature Series oils are formulated from the highest quality base stocks available for automotive oil. This gives them a higher viscosity index rating (which measures the oils ability to resist thinning when hot), and Signature Series oils also have a lower volatility rating (which measures % of evaporation when heated). AMSOIL XL and OE lines of oil are very high quality, but they can't match Signature Series. If I had a turbo gas direct injected engine, I'd use Signature Series. If you live in a warmer climate, I'd even consider moving to the 10W-30 grade Signature - it has even better numbers on the volatility, which contributes to LSPI.
"Best oil on the market" type of statements can be very misleading, unless you provide justification, and compare similar products. Wayde's Veloster Turbo calls for a 5W-30 engine oil. AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 has a Viscosity Index of 166 (higher is better); a NOACK volatility of 6.9% (lower is better); and a Total Base Number of 12.6 (higher is better). I don't believe Motul has an oil that is approved for use in emission-controlled vehicles that meets or exceeds these specifications, which are important in helping prevent LSPI.
I own a veloster turbo (1.6T gdi). These cars have seen random low mileage
catastrophic engine failures (as reported on forums). I wonder if lspi
caused the failures?
I don't have the details, but if they are turbo gdi, LSPI could definitely be a problem. Modern engines rarely fail, so it has to be something drastic. I'd definitely use an oil that has a very high Viscosity Index and low volatility rating. These oils are more stable and less prone to contributing to LSPI. AMSOIL Signature Series fits this description very well.
Bolt on Turbo's
Ignition DVD takes a look at GCG's range of direct bolt on turbos for Japanese cars. Featured in issue 017.
it's either apocalyptica (finland) on four cellos or fourplay (aus) with
cello 2 violas and a violin. i'd guess apocalyptica but.. aussie vid,
aussie artist?