A method and compositions for lubricating surfaces with lubricating oils exhibiting increased antioxidant properties. The lubricated surface includes a lubricant composition containing a base oil of lubricating viscosity and an amount of at least one hydrocarbon soluble metal compound effective to provide a reduction in oxidation of the lubricant composition greater than a reduction in oxidation of the lubricant composition devoid of the hydrocarbon soluble metal compound. The metal of the metal compound is selected from the group consisting of titanium, zirconium, and manganese.