Who Makes Kirkland Motor Oil In 2024? (All You Need to Know)

As drivers look to keep engines running smoothly over higher mileages, choosing quality motor oil is essential. For Costco members, the store‘s Kirkland Signature house brand offers a full synthetic option that promises advanced protection at an affordable price point. But who manufactures this exclusive label oil that thousands rely on?

Here‘s an in-depth look at the complex process and company behind Kirkland motor oil inside your engine.

Meet Warren Distribution – the Power Behind Kirkland

While Costco procures Kirkland products across categories, the maker of Kirkland motor oil is Warren Distribution, Inc. Founded in 1885, Warren has 140 years of refined experience producing lubricants. The privately-held company operates 9 manufacturing plants comprising over 2 million square feet across the Midwest and southern US.

With state-of-the-art blending, additive injection and packaging technology in place, Warren Distribution generates over 250,000 gallons per day – making it one of the highest volume lubricant suppliers in the country. In addition to massive production runs for Costco stores specifically, you‘ll find Warren oil marketed under other major labels as well.

Kirkland Motor Oil Surpasses Strict Industry Standards

All Kirkland synthetic oils are put through extensive testing to guarantee they pass API, ILSAC and leading OEM requirements. These certifications examine 11 critical performance areas like oxidation control, deposits prevention and cold temperature pumping. According to Warren‘s VP of technology, their in-house analysis actually subjects Kirkland oil to more stringent benchmarks than mandated.

Independent labs further verify that Kirkland exceeds prescribed specifications:

Figures clearly validate that Kirkland exceeds benchmarks for film thickness, pumpability and evaporation loss that support engine efficiency.

Delivering Premium Lubrication at Member Pricing

There are substantial costs in sourcing base stocks, additive packages and bottles – expenditures a smaller producer couldn‘t effectively manage. However, Warren‘s scale enables formulating high-grade oil meeting automaker specifications, while keeping pricing low through Kirkland-branding and Costco‘s distribution muscle.

This gives peace of mind for the Member that paid $26 for their 5-quart jug. They can trust it protects as well as $50+ alternatives – validated by industry authorities.

Through stringent evaluation in friction, wear prevention, deposits and emissions – Warren proves that efficacy doesn‘t have to be sacrificed for value. And with potentially thousands of dollars saved over a vehicle‘s lifespan, drivers can bank on the adage "you get what you pay for" not always holding true.

Warren Continues Driving Innovation

While other lubricant suppliers play catch up, Warren invests tirelessly in enhancing blend technology. They average 9 new product formulations annually as new automaker engines demand heavier synthetic grades to bolster efficiency.

Warren‘s commitment benefits manufacturers needing durable lubricants but also Costco patrons trusting Kirkland oil for growing mileage intervals between changes. Drivers can feel confident they‘re getting the most advanced protection available.

So while you might not see promotional materials plastered on race cars, Warren‘s Kirkland oils perform where it matters – properly lubricating critical engine components over years of driving. Ultimately, that operational excellence is what counts to keep your investment running smoothly past 100k miles.