I'm finding it hard to find out exactly what oil to use in my 2010 2.0 TDCI. The manual says it should meet specification M2C913B, but there is a later standard, M2C913C, which seems to be "backwards compatible". However I've seen some forum posts elsewhere that suggest the C type is not suitable for DPFs. Given the reputed problem of DPFs clogging with ash, it seems important to use the correct spec, but I'm not sure if newer is better or worser in this case!
Can anyone clarify?
Replying to myself because I can't find an edit button!
Well the UK Owners' Handbook was printed in 2008, prior to the C specification and it only mentions the B spec. However I found the French handbook here:
http://www.fordservicecontent.com/pubs/content/~wobglx/~mbe~lfr/pdf/11glxog3e.pdf
It was printed in 2012 and translated, the relevant bit says:
QuoteYour engine was designed to be used with Ford and Castrol motor oils, which
saves fuel while ensuring the longevity of your engine.
Top up the oil: if it is not possible to find an oil that meets the
specification defined by WSS-M2C913-C, you must use SAE 5W-30qui
meets the specifications defined by ACEA A5/B5.
The use of oils other than those specified for the extra oil can cause
for longer periods of startup, reduced engine performance, a
increased fuel consumption and the level of emissions.
Castrol motor oil recommended
So it looks like the -C standard is suitable. I still don't know if it's better though.
(BTW, you can get the UK handbook here: http://www.fordservicecontent.com/pubs/content/~WO8GLX/~MGB~LEN/pdf/08GLXog3e.pdf )
It depends on where you are planning to get your oil from, if you use the Ford stuff you shouldn't encounter any issues, most modern Fords including yours use the formula 'F' synthetic 5-30 oil which meets those specs, take a look here (http://www.fordpartsuk.com/shop/ford_5w30_formula_f_engine_oil_5lts_f_1502266_c_1044.htm), furthermore it doesn't look that expensive!
If I recall correctly, the earlier Ford 5-30 formula 'E' oil was a semi synthetic oil which probably met the earlier spec you were referring to, being that the fully synthetic formula 'F' superseded it I find it highly unlikely that the 'F' grade stuff is inferior to the earlier 'E' grade oil, more likely the reverse is true.
Interesting. It mentions on that page it might not be suitable for >2012 Galaxy diesels but mine's a 2010 so I'll go for it in future, good price.
I don't think that's what they meant, it's not worded very well but the Galaxy diesels it's referring to are the earlier Mk2 diesels with the PD engine which need the formula SD 5-40 fully synthetic (http://www.fordpartsuk.com/shop/ford_5w40_formula_ssd_oil_5ltr_for_ka_and_galaxy_f_1502262.htm) oil due to the unit injector system. The 2012 on models it mentions it isn't suitable for are Transits, not Galaxies.