Can I Use Car Motor Oil In My UTV or ATV?

Question: I was wondering if it is OK to use car engine oil in my ATV?

Our answer: Using a motor oil meant for car engines is not the best option for ATV’s or UTV’s. In the case of ATV’s with manual transmissions and wet-clutches, it can be disastrous. Even if your ATV does not have a manual transmission and wet-clutch, there are better options than automotive motor oil.

Wet-Clutch Risks

Automotive motor oils have friction modifiers which are a major problem for wet-clutches. Friction modifiers can permanently glaze clutch plates. This is only a concern in “shared sumps” where the engine and transmission use the same oil. Car motor oil should also be avoided in stand-alone transmissions.

ATV/UTV’s Without Wet-Clutches Or Manual Transmissions

Most modern ATV/UTV engines do not share oil with the transmission. Therefore wet-clutch compatibility not a concern when choosing a motor oil. However, we would still submit that using a dedicated powersports oil is a sound choice. Automotive motor oils have a different ingredient approach because they have to be compatible with today’s high-tech emissions componentry.

ATV’s and UTV’s do not have the same complex emissions equipment as cars. Therefore, ATV’s can use motor oil with a different formulation approach. Some oil makers such as AMSOIL can pack their ATV/UTV oils with high levels of zinc and phosphorus. This cannot be done with modern car motor oil. Automotive emissions components are not compatible with high levels of these additives.

The latest automotive motor oils are formulated with ashless additives, with much lower levels of zinc and phosphorus. Modern automotive motors oils do an exceptional job for their intended applications. Oils designed for powersports applications are equally effective in ATV and UTV’s.

Some ATV oils can also employ very robust anti-corrosion ingredients. Automotive oils generally do not place an emphasis on corrosion prevention.

What To Look For When Buying An ATV Or UTV Oil

If you can’t find an engine oil marketed for ATV/UTV applications, check the label for “JASO MA” or “JASO MA2” specifications. These standards were devised for motorcycle engine oils that have wet-clutch and transmission capability.

Despite being motorcycle oil specifications, the JASO specs are a good indicator that an engine oil is properly formulated for powersport applications.

AMSOIL ATV/UTV Engine Oils

AMSOIL offers a complete series of 100% synthetic ATV/UTV engine oils. Aside from world-class protective and performance capabilities, these oils also offer superb anti-corrosion protection. This feature is desirable for both wet operating conditions and for off-season storage.

AMSOIL Synthetic ATV/UTV 10W-40
The go-to product for any ATV or UTV requiring the popular 10W-40 grade.

AMSOIL Synthetic ATV/UTV 5W-50
Designed for Polaris ATV’s and side-by-sides. An upgrade over Polaris 5W-50 and 10W-50 engine oils.

AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Powersports Synthetic 0W-40
A versatile and robust powersports oil that can replace everything from 30-weight to 50-weights oils. Ideal for year-round use.

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