Choosing the proper engine oil is extremely critical for keeping the engine healthy, improving fuel efficiency, and ensuring an extended lifespan for your car. With innumerable engine oils available in the market, it has become quite challenging for you to know which engine oil is best suited for your car. This guide will enable you to consider the bare factors involved in choosing the right engine oil for your car.
Understanding Engine Oil Grades and Viscosity
One very important aspect of choosing engine oil is the understanding of viscosity grades, which are classified by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). Viscosity describes how oil flows in varying temperatures.
Single-grade oils (ex: SAE 30) can be used at specific temperatures, while multi-grade oils (ex: 5W-30) perform well at high as well as low temperatures.
- Decoding Oil Labels: A common engine oil grade designation such as 5W-30 means:
- '5W'-oil viscosity at cold temperature.
- '30'-oil viscosity at high temperature.
- When the engine oil viscosity is correct, smooth engine operations under different conditions are ensured.
Types of Engine Oil
In the automotive jargon, engine oils can be classified into several types based on composition and functioning. Knowing these types helps in better selection for the customer.
Conventional Oil:
- Good for ancient vehicles with simple engine designs.
- Low cost, but needs frequent changes.
Synthetic Oil:
- Above-average performance and protection.
- Best suited for modern engines and extreme temperature conditions.
Semi-Synthetic Oil:
- Made of a mix of conventional and synthetic oil.
- Gives better protection than conventional and is cheaper than full synthetic.
High-Mileage Oil:
- Designed for vehicles with over 75,000 miles.
- Additives work to prevent leaks and help reduce wear and tear.
How to Choose the Right Engine Oil for Your Car?
Choosing the right engine oil is determined by the manufacturer, driving conditions, and climate.
Examine the Owner's Manual:
- The correct engine oil is found in the owner's manual of the car.
- Manufacturers state the oil viscosity and type as a recommendation.
Consider the Driving Conditions:
- If you often drive under extreme temperatures, you should consider synthetic oil.
- In short-distance driving in cities, high-mileage or semi-synthetic oil might be the answer.
Consider the Climate Environment:
- In cold areas, low-viscosity oils like 0W-30 are best for starting the engine quickly.
- Warmer weather would be better for oils with higher viscosity like 10W-40.
Watch for Certifications:
- Ensure that it is certified under industry standards such as API (American Petroleum Institute) and ACEA (Association des Constructeurs Européens d'Automobiles).
- Quality and performance are guaranteed by certification labels.
Common Myths About Engine Oil
There are a few myths regarding their selection and use that lead to poor engine oil maintenance practices.
Myth: Thicker Oil is Always Better
Fact: An oil too thick can reduce fuel economy and put undue strain on the engine.
Myth: You Have to Use Synthetic Oil All the Time
Fact: Synthetic oil may give better performance, but in some vehicles, conventional and semi-synthetic are good enough.
Myth: Oil Changes Are Best Done Very Frequently
Fact: Advances in engine oil and engine technology allow for extended change intervals.
Benefits of Using Right Engine Oil
The engine oil plays a vital role in the functioning and durability of any vehicle. Here are a few benefits of using the correct engine oil:
Better Protection of the Engine: It will prevent wear and tear and will reduce the chances of breakdown.
Better Fuel Economy: Decreases friction and allows the engine to run smoothly.
Better Temperature Regulation: Prevents overheating during extremely high temperatures, while also ensuring easy starting during cold temperatures.
Longer Life of the Engine: It will keep the engine clean by preventing the buildup of sludge and corrosion.
Signs You Need an Oil Change
Changing the oil regularly will help keep the engine lively. Here are some signs it is time for an oil change:
- Dark or Dirty Oil: New oil is amber, while dirty oil is dark and thick.
- Engine Noise and Knocks: Not enough lubrication means metal parts of the engine come together causing some unusual sounds.
- Oil Change Reminder Light: Nowadays, cars come with sensors that tell the owner when an oil change is due.
- Excessive Amounts of Exhaust Smoke: Blue or gray smoke indicates oil being burned in the engine.
Conclusion
Choosing the right engine oil is important for your car's performance and longevity. You can decide well by understanding viscosity, types of oil, and manufacturers' preferences. Regular oil changes with quality oil will keep your car running well and efficiently. Whether going for conventional, synthetic, or high-mileage oil, your engine's best interest should always come first. If in doubt, feel free to seek expert advice and services from FixAnyCar.ae.