Most drivers understand the importance of engine oil. It helps lubricate your car’s internal parts, keeps them cool, and prevents wear and tear. Choosing the right oil for your vehicle can be a bit tricky. Use this guide to sort out all those numbers, letters, and terms so you can go home from the auto parts store with the right product.
Viscosity
Viscosity indicates how easily oil pours at a specified temperature. On the label, that’s the number before the W — which stands for “winter.” It refers to how thick the oil is at zero degrees Fahrenheit. The second number after the dash refers to its thickness at 212 degrees Fahrenheit.
Motor oil thins when it heats up and thickens as it cools. Thicker oil does a better job of maintaining a protective film between moving parts. The higher that second number, 10W-40 versus 10W-30, the more resistant that particular bottle of oil is to thinning.
In low temperatures, the oil must resist thickening in order to flow properly throughout your engine. If it’s too thick, it will be more difficult to start your car, and it may adversely affect your fuel economy ratings. A lower number before the W is the best choice for cold-weather performance, like a 5W product.
Premium Conventional Oil
When you look at the oil on the shelves of your local auto parts store, you’ll see types for all kinds of purposes. Premium conventional oil is the new-car standard. It’s available in several choices for viscosity, such as 5W-20, 5W-30, and 10W-30. These three choices work well for most light-duty vehicles.
Full Synthetic Oil
If your vehicle is equipped with a high-tech engine like the latest model Corvette or it’s designed for heavy-duty use, such as the Silverado, you may want to consider a full synthetic oil. These products have passed stringent tests for superior, long-lasting performance. They are designed to deliver better flow at low temperatures, and they resist breakdown in high heat. This is one of the most expensive options, though, and not every engine needs it. If you’re commuting with a Malibu sedan, don’t waste your money on full synthetics.
Synthetic Blend Oil
Just like it sounds, this type of engine oil is a blend of synthetic and organic lubricants. It’s an ideal choice if you’re towing heavy loads or consistently driving in high temperatures. They resist oil loss from evaporation and increase fuel economy. These blends are popular with truck and SUV owners who want extra protection for less than the cost of a fully synthetic product.
Changing Your Oil
There’s a ton of controversy about how often you should change your oil. Some experts recommend every 4,000 miles, while others say at least twice a year. The best resource to answer this question is your owner’s manual. If you’re still unsure when to perform this routine maintenance, visit the experts at Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC service center.
Oil is vital to keeping your car’s engine running smoothly. Use this guide to help choose the right one for your vehicle.
Image via Pixaby.com by Skica911
Connect with us
