Engine oil is one of the key elements affecting the lifespan and performance of an engine. However, not every product will be suitable for every vehicle. The choice of lubricant should be well-thought-out as it has a real impact on the condition of the engine.
There is no single, universal oil that is ideal for all engines. However, there are characteristics and labels that help to choose the right product. The manufacturer’s recommendations should always be prioritized. These provide a starting point.
If the specific oil from the manual is unavailable, search for a product with similar parameters. In this case, aspects like viscosity, quality standards, and base oil type become particularly important.
The Importance Of Engine Oil Viscosity
Viscosity refers to the oil’s ability to flow at different temperatures. This parameter indicates how the lubricant behaves during startup and while the engine is running. To standardize this, the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) classification was developed, which can be found on every oil label.
The 5W-40 type label describes the behavior of the oil at both low and high temperatures.
The number before the “W” indicates how the oil performs during cold starts. The lower the value, the better the oil lubricates in cold weather.
The number after the “W” indicates the viscosity at 100°C, which is the engine’s operating temperature. A higher value provides better protection under heavy load and high RPM.
A common myth is that thicker oil is better oil. In reality, the consistency at room temperature is irrelevant. Every product is designed to perform correctly under specific conditions – it doesn’t need to appear “thick” during a change to adequately protect the engine while driving.
Does The Base Oil Type Matter?
The type of base used in the oil has a significant effect on its quality and protective properties. The best performance is offered by synthetic oils, as they contain the highest amount of additives that protect the engine against wear, corrosion, and overheating. Modern synthetics form a thin protective layer on metal components. This layer reduces the formation of carbon deposits and soot, and they perform better under challenging working conditions, such as heavy load or frequent starts.
Mineral oils are now considered outdated. While they reduce friction, they lack the ingredients that maintain engine cleanliness and longevity.
A good compromise is semi-synthetic oils, which combine an affordable price with better protection than mineral products. They are suitable for older vehicles and moderate driving styles.
Among popular and proven products, one should mention Motul engine oil – both synthetic and semi-synthetic options.
Other Important Characteristics Of Good Oil
When selecting engine oil, it is important to consider not only its viscosity and base but also other key characteristics. One of these is quality standards, such as API or ACEA. Both classifications specify the conditions under which the oil can operate and the technical requirements it meets. For example, the API SN standard is of high quality for gasoline engines, while ACEA C3 is suitable for modern Diesel engines with a DPF filter.
Another important aspect is the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. Each engine may have different requirements regarding viscosity, thermal resistance, and ash content. Therefore, it is always a good idea to refer to the user manual or service book and choose the oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In modern vehicles, compatibility with exhaust gas cleaning systems is also important. An example is low SAPS oils, which contain limited amounts of sulfur, phosphorus, and sulfated ash. This prevents clogging of DPF filters and catalysts, contributing to the durability of the entire exhaust system.
All these features – proper viscosity, suitable base, compliance with standards, and the presence of additives – combine to create an oil that truly cares for the engine. A well-chosen product not only improves engine performance but also reduces fuel consumption and extends intervals between oil changes.
