Technical Conclusion
Analysis of Trident Professional 5W-30 dexos2 Oil
The label on Trident Professional 5W-30 dexos2 specifies compliance with VW 50200/50500 standards. However, the actual data indicates that the oil does not meet these specifications.
Specification Requirements
VW 50200/50500 Standard:
- Sulfated Ash Content: Should be between 1.0% and 1.5%.
- Total Base Number (TBN): Should be more than 10.
Actual Values of Trident Professional 5W-30 dexos2:
- Sulfated Ash Content: 0.7797% (below the required 1.0% to 1.5% range).
- Total Base Number (TBN): 8.93 (below the required 10 range).
Consequences for Buyers
- Inadequate Engine Protection:
- Low Sulfated Ash: Critical for maintaining engine protection, particularly in high-performance engines. A lower ash content may lead to increased wear, corrosion, and deposit formation, especially in high-stress conditions.
- Shorter Oil Life:
- TBN and Acid Neutralization: The TBN of 8.93 indicates limited ability to neutralize acids. This could result in faster acid buildup, reducing oil effectiveness and requiring more frequent changes, particularly in harsher conditions.
- Risk of Warranty Issues:
- Non-Compliance with Manufacturer Requirements: Using oil that does not meet specified standards could void warranties on critical components, potentially leading to costly repairs.
- Potential Engine Deposits and Clogging:
- Insufficient Detergent and Dispersant Additives: A lower sulfated ash content may indicate inadequate cleaning agents, risking deposit buildup, reduced performance, and higher emissions over time.
Conclusion
Trident Professional 5W-30 dexos2 oil does not fully meet the requirements of the VW 50200/50500 standard due to its lower-than-required sulfated ash content and borderline TBN. As a result, buyers using this oil in vehicles requiring VW 50200/50500-compliant oil may face:
- Reduced engine protection
- Shortened oil life
- Potential warranty issues
- Risk of engine deposits
It is highly recommended to use oil that strictly adheres to the specified standards for optimal engine performance and longevity.