Selecting the correct engine oil is not just a minor detail in car maintenance; it’s not about being slightly more efficient or squeezing out better performance. It does impact performance, but it also impacts the long-term health of the car.
Different cars and vans demand specific types of oil to function optimally. This article will look at why it’s so important to get it right, and ultimately how to get it right.
Importance of Choosing the Right Engine Oil
It’s not too surprising that engine oil plays a big role in maintaining your car’s engine. It essentially lubricates various engine parts, reduces friction between them, and subsequently minimises power loss.
A well-lubricated engine can therefore improve performance by improving the efficiency of the engine — there’s less resistance to its functioning. And, this improved efficiency over time can reduce wear and tear, which ultimately extends its lifespan.
Ford, for example, recommends a special engine oil for the Ford Transit. Off the bat, this gives you an idea of how specific oils are for specific models. For a van that is praised for getting hundreds of thousands of miles in its lifespan, engine oil for the Ford Transit is important if you want the vehicle to fulfil its longevity promises.
Engine oil also prevents corrosion, a major concern for engine parts, and assists in cooling by absorbing the heat generated from friction. Modern engines vary a surprising amount, and each requires a specific oil type, often with a particular viscosity.
If it wasn’t clear already: choosing the wrong oil will make it louder, slower, and shorten its lifespan.
Car manufacturers and industry bodies provide specifications and approvals for oils, ensuring their suitability for specific models and making the selection process more straightforward for car owners.
Types of Engine Oil
Understanding the different types of engine oil is useful in making the right decision for your vehicle. The primary categories include:
• Conventional
• Synthetic
• Synthetic blend
• High-mileage oils
Conventional oils are traditional, widely used, and suitable for simple engines with regular driving patterns.
Synthetic oils are engineered with advanced chemical processes. These offer better performance, higher purity, and stability under extreme conditions. This makes them ideal for high-performance and high-temperature driving.
Synthetic blend oils combine the characteristics of synthetic and conventional oils. So, you’re getting both a good performance and for a good price. This is suitable for moderate driving conditions with varied temperatures.
High-mileage oils are exactly how they sound — these are for vehicles with over 75,000 miles. They contain additives that protect against oil leaks, reduce oil consumption, and improve the older engine’s performance.
How to Choose the Right Oil for Your Car
Choosing the right oil for your car involves a few considerations.
The most important step is to refer to your vehicle’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation. This guide provides the specific oil type and viscosity grade ideal for your car’s engine. Viscosity measures the oil’s resistance to flow, and is denoted by ratings like 10W-30.
The ‘W’ intuitively means ‘Winter’, so this related the oil’s flow to cold temperatures. The lower the number before ‘W,’ the better the oil performs in cold weather. The last number indicates the oil’s resistance to thinning at high temperatures. Between them, you can piece together what you need for your situation.
Consider your driving habits and the environment. If you live in a cold climate or have a short commute, you might need oil with a lower ‘W’ rating. For warmer climates or longer drives, a higher second number might be more appropriate. Aggressive driving or hauling heavy loads requires a more robust oil, like a full synthetic.
Don’t overlook oil additives, either. These include detergents for engine cleanliness, as well as antioxidants to prevent oxidation and anti-wear agents to protect the engine. High-quality additives can enhance engine performance and longevity. Like the word ‘additives’ itself, this is more of an additional consideration and not the primary one.
Conclusion
Choosing the right engine oil is needed if you want to keep a car running happily for its full lifespan. The car manual will certainly help, but it’s worth learning about the viscosity measurements and how they apply to your situation.
