Comparison: Best Snow Blower Oil Type (Updated | Jan 2nd)
As winter’s first flakes begin to fall, ensuring your snow blower is ready for battle becomes crucial. The lifeblood of your machine? The right oil. Choosing between synthetic and conventional options can feel like navigating a blizzard blindfolded. But fear not! We’re here to clear the path and help you make an informed decision. In this guide, we’ll break down the best snow blower oil types, considering factors like cold-weather performance, engine protection, and value.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for ariens oem oil: Ariens 00091000 4 Cycle SAE 5W30 Sno Thro Oil 16oz by Ariens
- Best for powersmart engine oil: PowerSmart Snow Blower SAE 5W-30 Engine Oil – 20 Oz. (306090022)
- Best for husqvarna cold performance: Husqvarna 32-oz 4-Cycle 5W-30 Snow Blower Engine Oil 593153503
- Best for mtd cold weather formula: MTD Genuine Parts 28 oz. 4-Cycle Engine Oil
- Best for lucas synthetic snowmobile: Lucas Oil 10847 Synthetic 2-Cycle Snowmobile Oil – 1 Gallon
- Best for ariens 4-quart bundle: Ariens 000676 SAE 5W-30 Sno-Thro Engine Oil Quart (Pack of 4) and Fuel Treatment
- Best for stens non-stick spray: Stens 752-102 Snowblower Spray 11 oz. Size Snowblowers
- Best for ariens deluxe kit: Ariens Deluxe Snowblower 3-Pack Shear Bolt and SAE 5W-30 Sno-Thro Engine Oil
- Best for sno-way hydraulic fluid: Sno-Way 96005029 High Performance Snow Plow Hydraulic Fluid Oil 1 Quart
Product Comparison: Best Snow Blower Oil Type
Ariens OEM Oil
Ariens 00091000 4 Cycle SAE 5W30 Sno Thro Oil 16oz by Ariens
Ariens
Ariens 00091000 4 Cycle SAE 5W30 Sno Thro Oil is specifically formulated for Ariens snow blowers to ensure optimal performance in cold weather conditions. This 16oz bottle of premium oil provides excellent lubrication and protection for your snow blower engine during harsh winter operations. The 5W-30 viscosity rating ensures easy starts in freezing temperatures while maintaining proper film thickness at operating temperatures. As an OEM product from Ariens, this oil meets all manufacturer specifications and helps extend the life of your equipment. Regular oil changes with this specialized formulation will keep your snow blower running smoothly season after season, making it a reliable choice for winter maintenance.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- OEM specification
- Cold weather formula
- Easy engine starts
- Protects engine components
- Proper viscosity rating
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Premium price point
- Smaller 16oz bottle
- Brand-specific formulation
PowerSmart Engine Oil
PowerSmart Snow Blower SAE 5W-30 Engine Oil – 20 Oz. (306090022)
PowerSmart
PowerSmart Snow Blower SAE 5W-30 Engine Oil is designed specifically for PowerSmart snow blower engines, providing optimal lubrication and protection during winter operation. This 20oz bottle contains standard SAE 5W-30 oil that maintains proper viscosity in cold temperatures while ensuring adequate engine protection. The formula is compatible with all PowerSmart snow blower models and can be used with other brands of the same viscosity. Regular oil changes at the end of each season help prevent water contamination and engine damage. The precise 20oz capacity matches most PowerSmart engines, making it easy to measure without overfilling, which can cause white smoke issues during operation.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Perfect capacity match
- Affordable option
- Clear usage instructions
- Prevents overfilling
- Season-end protection
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited brand compatibility
- Basic formulation
- No synthetic options
Husqvarna Cold Performance
Husqvarna 32-oz 4-Cycle 5W-30 Snow Blower Engine Oil 593153503
Husqvarna
Husqvarna 32-oz 4-Cycle 5W-30 Snow Blower Engine Oil is a premium mineral oil specifically designed for most 2-stage 4-stroke snow blowers. This 1-quart bottle provides superior cold temperature performance, ensuring your snow blower starts easily even in freezing conditions. The 5W-30 viscosity rating offers excellent flow at low temperatures while maintaining proper lubrication at operating temperatures. Formulated to exceed API SJ specifications, this oil provides exceptional protection against wear, corrosion, and deposit formation. The larger 32oz size offers better value compared to smaller bottles and is sufficient for multiple oil changes. This Husqvarna oil is an excellent choice for maintaining your snow blower’s reliability and extending its service life.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Larger 32oz bottle
- Superior cold performance
- Exceeds API standards
- Works with many brands
- Excellent engine protection
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher initial cost
- Mineral-based formula
- May not fit all models
MTD Cold Weather Formula
MTD Genuine Parts 28 oz. 4-Cycle Engine Oil
MTD Genuine Parts
MTD Genuine Parts 28 oz. 4-Cycle Engine Oil is specifically formulated for snow thrower engines, ensuring optimal performance in harsh winter conditions. This premium oil provides easy cold-weather starting, reducing engine strain during those frigid morning startups. Its advanced formula protects against rust and corrosion, extending the life of your snow blower’s engine. The oil maintains viscosity across temperature ranges, providing consistent lubrication when you need it most. Perfect for MTD snow throwers but compatible with other 4-cycle snow blower brands as well. This 28 oz. bottle offers enough oil for most single oil changes, making it a convenient choice for winter equipment maintenance.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Cold weather performance
- Prevents rust formation
- Easy engine starting
- Brand-specific formulation
- Convenient bottle size
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Premium price point
- Limited to 4-cycle engines
- Not for extreme temperatures
Lucas Synthetic Snowmobile
Lucas Oil 10847 Synthetic 2-Cycle Snowmobile Oil – 1 Gallon
Lucas Oil
Lucas Oil 10847 Synthetic 2-Cycle Snowmobile Oil is a premium lubricant designed specifically for the demanding conditions of winter equipment. This gallon of high-performance oil features a special blend of synthetic oils that maintain viscosity in extreme cold, ensuring reliable operation when temperatures plummet. The formula contains exclusive detergents and lubricants that keep engines clean and running efficiently. While marketed for snowmobiles, this oil is excellent for 2-cycle snow blowers, providing superior protection against wear and carbon buildup. Its synthetic composition offers longer engine life and reduced smoke emissions compared to conventional oils, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious users.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Synthetic formula
- Extreme cold performance
- Engine cleaning additives
- Reduces smoke emissions
- Large gallon size
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher cost than conventional
- Only for 2-cycle engines
- May be overkill for occasional use
Ariens 4-Quart Bundle
Ariens 000676 SAE 5W-30 Sno-Thro Engine Oil Quart (Pack of 4) and Fuel Treatment
Ariens
Ariens 000676 SAE 5W-30 Sno-Thro Engine Oil Quart (Pack of 4) and Fuel Treatment is a comprehensive maintenance kit for Ariens snow blower owners. This package includes four quarts of premium 5W-30 engine oil specifically designed for Ariens 4-cycle Sno-Thro models, ensuring optimal performance in winter conditions. The oil provides excellent lubrication at startup and maintains protective film under operating temperatures. The included 3-n-1 Advanced Fuel Treatment treats up to 10 gallons of gasoline, stabilizing fuel during storage, cleaning the fuel system, and preventing ethanol-related issues. This complete package offers everything needed for seasonal maintenance, making it perfect for preparing your snow blower for winter or storing it during off-season.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Complete maintenance package
- Brand-specific formulation
- Includes fuel treatment
- Seasonal protection
- Convenient multi-pack
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher initial cost
- Brand-specific compatibility
- More than needed for smaller engines
Stens Non-Stick Spray
Stens 752-102 Snowblower Spray 11 oz. Size Snowblowers
Stens
Stens 752-102 Snowblower Spray is a specialized 11 oz aerosol solution designed to enhance your snowblower’s performance. This non-stick polymer treatment effectively prevents snow buildup in critical areas like the auger housing and chute. By reducing friction, Snow-Jet spray helps your machine blow snow further with less effort. The formula is specifically engineered for snowblowers, ensuring optimal compatibility and results. Each bottle provides multiple applications, and you can order in bulk for a complete case. Backed by Stens’ one-year warranty and trusted by professional dealers, this spray is a must-have maintenance product for anyone looking to maximize their snowblower’s efficiency during winter months.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Prevents snow buildup
- Reduces friction
- Improves throwing distance
- Easy to apply
- Trusted brand
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited quantity
- Requires reapplication
Ariens Deluxe Kit
Ariens Deluxe Snowblower 3-Pack Shear Bolt and SAE 5W-30 Sno-Thro Engine Oil
Ariens
Ariens Deluxe Snowblower 3-Pack Shear Bolt and SAE 5W-30 Sno-Thro Engine Oil is an essential maintenance kit for Ariens snowblower owners. This package includes three high-quality shear bolts designed to break under excessive load, protecting your machine’s gearbox from damage. The included SAE 5W-30 Sno-Thro Engine Oil is specially formulated for cold weather operation, ensuring proper lubrication even in freezing temperatures. This oil maintains its viscosity in extreme conditions, providing reliable engine protection throughout winter. As genuine Ariens parts, these components are designed to exact specifications for perfect fit and performance. This convenient bundle saves you time and ensures you have the right replacement parts when needed.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Protects gearbox
- Cold weather formula
- Genuine Ariens parts
- Convenient bundle
- Easy installation
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited compatibility
- Higher price point
Sno-Way Hydraulic Fluid
Sno-Way 96005029 High Performance Snow Plow Hydraulic Fluid Oil 1 Quart
Sno-Way
Sno-Way 96005029 High Performance Snow Plow Hydraulic Fluid Oil is a premium OEM hydraulic fluid specifically designed for Sno-Way snow plow systems. This 1-quart bottle contains advanced formulation that maintains optimal viscosity across a wide temperature range, ensuring smooth plow operation in both mild and extreme winter conditions. The fluid provides superior lubrication to all hydraulic components, reducing wear and extending the life of your snow plow system. Its anti-foaming properties maintain consistent hydraulic pressure for precise control. As an OEM product, it guarantees perfect compatibility with Sno-Way equipment, eliminating the risk of using incompatible fluids that could damage your system or void warranties.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- OEM specification
- Wide temperature range
- Anti-foaming properties
- Extends component life
- Precise control
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Premium price
- Limited to Sno-Way equipment
- Small quantity
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What type of oil should I use for my snow blower?
Most snow blowers use a 5W-30 or 0W-30 synthetic oil for cold weather performance. Check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended viscosity and oil type.
Can I use regular car oil in my snow blower?
Yes, but only if it meets the viscosity and API rating specified in your manual. Synthetic oil is often preferred for better startup in freezing temperatures.
How often should I change the oil in my snow blower?
Change the oil after the first 5 hours of use and then annually or after every 50 hours of operation. Always check the oil level before each use during the season.
What’s the difference between synthetic and conventional snow blower oil?
Synthetic oil flows better in extreme cold and resists breakdown, offering superior protection. Conventional oil is cheaper but may thicken in freezing temperatures.
Is there a specific brand of oil I should use?
Stick to reputable brands like Briggs & Stratton, Toro, or Mobil 1 that meet your snow blower’s requirements. Avoid generic oils unless they explicitly match the needed specifications.
Can I use multi-season oil in my snow blower?
Yes, multi-season oils like 5W-30 are designed to work in both cold and moderate temperatures. However, single-weight oils (e.g., 0W-30) may perform better in extreme cold.
What happens if I use the wrong oil type?
Using the wrong oil can cause poor lubrication, engine wear, or difficulty starting in cold weather. Always verify the correct oil type to avoid damaging your snow blower.
How do I check the oil level in my snow blower?
Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and then pull it out to check the level. Ensure the oil is within the marked range and top off if needed.