FAQ
TL;DR: For a Golf III 1.6 with LPG, 10W40 and 10,000 km oil-change intervals work; “good price, quality too.” Stick to reputable semi-synthetics and change on time. [Elektroda, marek49ae, post #17017337]
Why it matters: Choosing the right oil and interval helps older LPG engines stay quiet, clean, and reliable for daily use.
Quick Facts
- Typical pick: 10W40 semi-synthetic was recommended by the parts supplier for this setup. [Elektroda, Loaderer, post #17017817]
- 5W40 can be used if the engine is tight and not consuming oil. [Elektroda, majster-klepka07, post #17017823]
- For older/high‑mileage units, high‑mileage oils (e.g., Valvoline MaxLife) were suggested; avoid mineral 15W40. [Elektroda, majster-klepka07, post #17017465]
- Budget approach: Lotos 10W40 was advised for a 25‑year‑old, high‑mileage Golf. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #17035402]
- Brand mentions: Valvoline praised; Orlen Platinum noted as cheaper; some advise avoiding Elf/Total. [Elektroda, leoleoleoleo, post #17101828]
What engine oil works best for a Golf III 1.6 with LPG?
Users report success with 10W40 semi-synthetic in LPG engines, changed every 10,000 km. One example is Elf Evolution 900 10W40 used across several LPG cars with good results. Prioritize timely changes over chasing exotic blends on older engines. [Elektroda, marek49ae, post #17017337]
Can I use 5W40 instead of 10W40?
Yes, if the engine is sealed and not burning oil. As one expert put it: “you can flood even 5W40 if your engine is in good condition.” Monitor consumption after the switch. If usage rises, return to 10W40. [Elektroda, majster-klepka07, post #17017823]
Should I avoid 15W40 mineral oil here?
Avoid mineral 15W40 for this application. A seasoned member recommends high‑mileage semi‑synthetic instead and calls 15W40 “tar.” High‑mileage blends can help condition seals in older engines. [Elektroda, majster-klepka07, post #17017465]
Is Valvoline a good choice for this engine?
Yes. It was praised for lubrication and noise damping, with positive reviews and fair pricing. Valvoline MaxLife and similar semi‑synthetics are common picks in older, LPG‑equipped engines. [Elektroda, matej6159, post #17017238]
Are budget oils like Lotos 10W40 acceptable for a high‑mileage Golf?
Yes. One approach for a 25‑year‑old car is to use affordable 10W40 like Lotos and change on time. The logic: keep costs low while ensuring fresh oil and filters. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #17035402]
Is Orlen Platinum (Platinum Classic/10W40) a sensible cheaper alternative?
A user recommended Valvoline first, but noted Orlen Platinum as a cheaper option. This can balance cost and performance on an older engine if changed regularly. [Elektroda, leoleoleoleo, post #17101828]
Should I avoid Elf/Total oils?
One user reported PCV clogging and “mayonnaise” on Elf 10W40 in a Citroen 1.8 8v LPG, which ceased after switching oils. Treat this as an edge case, not a rule. [Elektroda, leoleoleoleo, post #17102512]
Is Elf/Total still fine if I change oil regularly?
Another member ran Elf/Total in a Peugeot 1.1 with annual changes and frequent short trips of 2–3 km without issues. Regular intervals matter more than brand debates. [Elektroda, Romek T., #17104074]
How often should I change oil on a Golf III 1.6 with LPG?
A practical interval shared by users is every 10,000 km with a filter. Short trips or heavy city use may justify even shorter intervals. [Elektroda, marek49ae, post #17017337]
Does an LPG engine require a special “LPG” oil?
Not necessarily. Users successfully ran standard 10W40 semi‑synthetic in various LPG cars with good results. Focus on quality and timely changes. [Elektroda, marek49ae, post #17017337]
How do I clean and re‑oil a sponge/cone air filter?
- Remove the filter and clean it per product instructions, then let it dry.
- Lightly oil it with a dedicated foam filter oil (e.g., K2 spray).
- Reinstall after excess oil drains to avoid MAF contamination.
“Cone is not exchanged; it is soaked with an appropriate agent.” [Elektroda, majster-klepka07, post #17017852]
Which oil should I use for a foam/mesh air filter?
Use a dedicated foam filter oil designed for sponge/mesh elements. The thread cites Castrol Foam Air Filter Oil, which specifies foam and mesh compatibility. Avoid engine oil or WD‑type sprays. [Elektroda, majster-klepka07, post #17017924]
My oil looks very dark—what should I do first?
Change oil and filter immediately, then consider an affordable 10W40 for the next interval. After a short run, reassess consumption and cleanliness before upgrading. Older engines benefit more from fresh oil than premium labels. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #17035402]
What did the original poster finally choose?
The OP filled with Valvoline to balance cost and performance and closed the topic satisfied. [Elektroda, Loaderer, post #17106880]
What is LPG?
LPG is liquefied petroleum gas, a propane‑butane fuel stored under pressure and used in spark‑ignition engines. It burns cleanly and can reduce deposits when tuning and fueling are correct. [“Liquefied petroleum gas”]
What is the PCV system, and why does it matter?
PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) routes blow‑by gases from the crankcase back to the intake. A clogged PCV can cause sludge, moisture “mayonnaise,” and idle issues. Clean ventilation helps oil stay cleaner longer. [“Positive crankcase ventilation”]
