Engine oil selection is a critical aspect of vehicle maintenance, especially when it comes to modern engines with turbocharging or variable phasing systems. Kixx G1 5W40 - premium synthetic oil, which is often recommended for Japanese cars, including models Nissan Kicks, Qashqai And X-Trail. But does it really live up to its reputation? In this article we will look at the composition, certificates, real tests and nuances of using the oil. Kixx G1 5W40so you can make an informed decision.

Manufacturer: South Korean company GS Caltex, which is one of the top 5 largest oil refineries in Asia. The oil is positioned as fully synthetic (using technology PAO+Ester), which guarantees stability of properties over a wide temperature range. However, there are many myths circulating in the market: some claim that Kixx G1 5W40 is superior to original Nissan oils in cleaning properties, others warn about the risks of counterfeits. We analyzed lab reports, owner reviews and technical bulletins to separate the facts from the marketing promises.

Technical characteristics of Kixx G1 5W40: what does the label hide?

At first glance, the oil parameters look standard for the class 5W40: viscosity at −30°C does not exceed 6600 mPa s, and at +100°C - 14.5 mm²/s. But the key differences lie in the details:

  • 🔬 Basic basis: combination PAO (polyalphaolefins) and esters (up to 15%), which ensures low volatility and high thermal-oxidative stability.
  • 🛡️ Additive package: technology Dual Protection System (patented by GS Caltex) includes molybdenum and boron compounds for wear protection.
  • 🌡️ Temperature range: retains fluidity down to −35°C (according to independent tests), which is critical for Russian winters.
  • 🔥 Flash point: 230°C - higher than many competitors (e.g. Mobil 1 ESP 5W40 this indicator is 224°C).

It's important to note that Kixx G1 5W40 certified according to standards API SN, ACEA A3/B4 and has manufacturer approvals including Nissan (specification RL011DP for gasoline engines). However, in technical bulletins Nissan for turbocharged models (eg Kicks 1.3 DIG-T) oil with approval is recommended RN0720, which Kixx G1 missing. This does not mean that the oil cannot be used, but it does require attention to change intervals.

📊 What oil do you use in Nissan?
  • Kixx G1 5W40
  • Original Nissan
  • Mobil 1
  • Liqui Moly
  • Other

Comparison with original Nissan oil and analogues

Many owners Nissan doubt: is it worth overpaying for original oil (Nissan Strong Save X 5W40), if Kixx G1 20–30% cheaper? Let's make a comparison based on key parameters:

Parameter Kixx G1 5W40 Nissan Strong Save X 5W40 Mobil 1 ESP 5W40
Base number (TBN), mg KOH/g 10,2 9,8 11,0
Sulfur content, % 0,21 0,25 0,18
Viscosity index 172 168 175
Cost (4l), rub. 2 800–3 200 3 500–4 000 3 800–4 200

Please note: base number at Kixx G1 higher than the original oil Nissan, which theoretically should provide better neutralization of acidic combustion products. However, in real engine tests HR16DE (installed on Nissan Kicks And Juke) the difference in deposits after 10,000 km was less than 5%. This suggests that if replacement intervals are observed (every 7–8 thousand km for severe operating conditions) Kixx G1 will not be inferior to the original.

⚠️ Attention: If your vehicle is equipped with Start/Stop (For example, Nissan Almera T32), oil Kixx G1 5W40 may not meet low temperature pumpability requirements. In this case, it is recommended to use oil approved RN0710.

Real reviews from Nissan owners: pros and cons

Analysis of reviews on forums (Drive2, Nissan-Club.ru) and on social networks shows that opinions about Kixx G1 5W40 polar. Here are the key observations:

  • ✅ Pros:
  • 🔹 "Engine" MR20DD (Nissan X-Trail T32) began to run quieter after switching from Shell Helix Ultra" - review from an owner with a mileage of 80,000 km.
  • 🔹 "Oil consumption for waste has noticeably decreased (from 0.5 l/10,000 km to 0.2 l) per Qashqai J11 with 2.0" engine - confirmed by laboratory sediment analysis.
  • 🔹 “Price/quality: 30% cheaper than the original, and according to analyzes almost as good” - a frequent argument in favor Kixx.
  • ❌ Cons:
  • 🔸 "After 8,000 km the oil turned blacker than Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200" - complaints about cleaning properties during short trips.
  • 🔸 "In frosty temperatures of −28°C, the starter turned harder than with Motul 8100 X-Clean" - isolated cases, possibly associated with counterfeits.

Interesting fact: on YouTube there is a video with engine analysis Nissan Kicks after 50,000 km at Kixx G1 5W40 — no deposits were found on the valves, but the oil channels had a slight coating. This corresponds to the average for class oils ACEA A3/B4.

💡

Before purchasing, check the authenticity of the oil: original canister Kixx G1 has a holographic sticker with a QR code that leads to the GS Caltex website. Counterfeits are often sold in cans without a bottling date.

Nissan Engine Compatibility: Which Models Are Suitable?

The manufacturer states that Kixx G1 5W40 Suitable for most petrol and diesel engines Nissan, released after 2010. However, there are nuances:

  • ✔️ Recommended for:
  • 🚗 Engines HR16DE, MR20DD (Nissan Kicks, Juke, Qashqai J11).
  • 🚗 VQ35DE (Nissan Teana, Murano) - subject to replacement every 7,000 km.
  • 🚗 Diesels K9K (Nissan Terrano) - only in the absence of a diesel particulate filter (DPF).
  • ❌ Not recommended for:
  • ⚠️ VR38DETT (Nissan GT-R) - requires oil with approval RN0700.
  • ⚠️ Engines with system Variable Compression Turbo (For example, Nissan Altima 2.0 VC-Turbo) - viscosity needed 0W20.

For an accurate selection, use the online catalog GS Caltex by car VIN code. For example, for 2020 Nissan Kicks with engine HR16DE the system recommends exactly Kixx G1 5W40, but with the note: “For severe operating conditions (city traffic, frequent cold starts), reduce the replacement interval by 20%.”

Buy an original oil filter (for example, Nissan 15208-9F60A)|Warm the engine to 60–70°C to completely drain the old oil|Check for the presence of a sealing washer on the drain plug (part number Nissan 11026-01M02)|Use flush only when switching from mineral oil|Fill the oil up to the “MAX” mark on the dipstick and check the level after 5 minutes-->

How to distinguish an original from a fake: 5 key signs

The auto chemical market is flooded with counterfeits, and Kixx G1 5W40 - is no exception. According to RNP "Rosstandart", up to 30% of oils of this brand in Russia are fakes. Here's how to recognize them:

  1. Canister: The original has a matte finish with a rough texture. Counterfeits are often glossy or have uneven seams.
  2. Label: The hologram on the front should change color when tilted. On the back there is a QR code that leads to www.gscaltex.com.
  3. Cover: The original has an aluminum membrane under a plastic plug. Counterfeits often have foil or no foil at all.
  4. Color and smell: This oil is transparent with a slight yellowish tint. Counterfeits may be cloudy or have a strong chemical smell.
  5. Bottling date: The date in the format is stamped on the bottom of the canister YYMMDD (For example, 230515 - May 15, 2023). For fakes, the date is often missing or painted on.

If in doubt, order an express oil analysis in the laboratory (cost ~1,500 rubles). For example, in Oil Club or Motul-Lab They will check the viscosity, additive content and the presence of foreign impurities. In 2023, several cases were recorded when, under the guise of Kixx G1 sold oil with viscosity 10W40, which led to oil starvation during cold starts.

⚠️ Attention: Fake oil Kixx G1 5W40 may cause premature timing chain wear on engines HR16DE And MR20DD due to insufficient protection against oxidation. Signs of a problem: metallic knocking when cold and error P0016 (camshaft misalignment).

Oil change instructions: step-by-step algorithm

Changing the oil in Nissan Kicks or other models with engine HR16DE takes about 40 minutes. You will need:

  • 🔧 14 mm wrench (for drain plug).
  • 🔧 Oil filter puller (for example, KING TONY 1032).
  • 🔧 Funnel and container for working out (minimum 4 l).
  • 🔧 New filter (original Nissan 15208-9F60A or equivalent Mann W712/94).

Replacement algorithm:

  1. Warm up the engine to operating temperature (60–70°C), then turn off.
  2. Raise the car on a lift or use a viewing hole.
  3. Unscrew the drain plug (tightening torque for reinstallation is 35 Nm).
  4. Drain the oil (complete draining takes 10–15 minutes).
  5. Replace the oil filter. Before installing a new filter, lubricate the rubber O-ring with fresh oil.
  6. Screw on the drain plug with a new washer (part no. Nissan 11026-01M02).
  7. Fill with 3.8 liters of oil Kixx G1 5W40 through the filler neck.
  8. Start the engine, let it run for 3-5 minutes, then check the level on the dipstick (should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks).
What to do if you overfilled the oil?

If the oil level is above the “MAX” mark on the dipstick, it is necessary to pump out the excess with a syringe through the filler neck. Overfilling by more than 0.5 liters can lead to oil foaming and damage to the crankshaft seals. In critical cases (for example, if oil has entered the crankcase ventilation system), engine flushing is required.

After replacement, reset the maintenance counter in the on-board computer. To do this:

  1. Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).
  2. Click the button TRIP and hold it for 10 seconds.
  3. Go to menu Settings → Maintenance → Oil Change → Reset.

Common mistakes when using Kixx G1 5W40

Even experienced car owners make mistakes that shorten the life of the oil or engine. Here are the most common:

  • 🚫 Ignoring replacement intervals: In the urban cycle (trips up to 10 km), the oil ages 2 times faster. The optimal interval is 7,000 km or once every 6 months.
  • 🚫 Mixing with other oils: Even if the viscosity is the same, different additive packages may react. For example, a mixture Kixx G1 And Castrol Edge leads to precipitation.
  • 🚫 Use without flushing when switching from mineral oil: Mineral oil residues reduce the effectiveness of synthetic additives by 30%.
  • 🚫 Storing an open canister: Oil oxidizes when exposed to air. The maximum shelf life after opening is 6 months.

Particular attention should be paid to the choice of oil filter. Cheap analogues (for example, Framm PH7317) have a paper filter element that is destroyed by additives Kixx G1. This causes particles to enter the oil passages and wear out the camshaft bearings.

💡

Kixx G1 5W40 is optimally suited for Nissan gasoline engines without turbocharging, subject to replacement intervals of 7–8 thousand km. Turbo engines (for example, 1.3 DIG-T) require oil with RN0720 approval.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Can Kixx G1 5W40 be used in a Nissan with over 150,000 km mileage?

Yes, but with reservations. For engines with wear (increased oil consumption, knocking), it is better to switch to oil with increased viscosity at high temperatures, for example, 5W50 or 10W40. Kixx G1 5W40 has a low high-temperature viscosity (HTHS = 3.7 mPa s), which can lead to oil starvation in worn friction pairs. Before moving, check the compression and condition of the oil scraper rings.

How often should I check the oil level when using Kixx G1 5W40?

Check the level every 1,000 km or before long trips. This is especially true for engines HR16DE And MR20DD, which are prone to oil consumption (up to 0.3 l/1,000 km with aggressive driving). Use the dipstick on a cold engine (5-10 minutes after stopping) - this will give a more accurate result than checking “hot”.

Is Kixx G1 5W40 suitable for Nissan with LPG?

Officially, the manufacturer does not prohibit the use of oil in engines with gas equipment, but there are nuances. The gas burns at a higher temperature, which accelerates the oxidation of the oil. It is recommended to reduce the replacement interval to 5,000 km and use oil with a high base number (TBN > 11). Alternative - Kixx G1 Gasoline/Gas 5W40 (special formula for HBO).

Which is better: Kixx G1 5W40 or Nissan Strong Save X 5W40?

According to laboratory tests, the difference in cleaning properties and antioxidant stability is less than 5%. Main differences:

  • Kixx G1 25–30% cheaper, but has a shorter lifespan under extreme loads (for example, track days).
  • Nissan Strong Save X better protects the timing chain on engines MR20DD thanks to special extreme pressure additives.
  • It’s easier to buy original oil without the risk of running into a fake (especially at dealerships).

For everyday use Kixx G1 5W40 — the optimal choice in terms of price/quality ratio. For sporty driving or turbocharged engines, it is better to give preference to the original.

Is it possible to drive Kixx G1 5W40 in winter at −30°C?

Yes, but taking into account the characteristics of the engine. The oil remains fluid down to −35°C (according to tests Oil Club), however:

  • On engines HR16DE And MR20DD A cold start at −25°C and below may be accompanied by a short-term knocking of the hydraulic compensators (up to 3–5 seconds). This is normal and does not require intervention.
  • For regions with frosts below −30°C, it is recommended to use oil 0W30 or 0W40 (For example, Kixx G1 SN 0W30).
  • If the car spends the night outside, use a pre-heater (for example, Webasto) to reduce the load on the oil when starting.