Please take note that this article has been written to address the questions that have been emailed to us after we published an article recently about the selling prices of engine oil in Malaysian hypermarkets (which happens to be so much lower and of the same quality) and it is directed to the car owner/driver who is not a car enthusiast, just a person who needs a car to commute and do errands.
Even with 1.4 billion cars on the roads worldwide, a staggering number of drivers do not know basic car care, including the importance of changing their car oil and what to look for when choosing oil. In a survey by Coopers Tires, one-third of drivers said they were unable to choose the correct oil for their car, while in another report, a staggering amount of millennials believed the standard oil change myth of every 3,000 miles. However, neglecting to know the basics of choosing the right car oil can lead to disastrous consequences for your car and its driver. Making the wrong choice in car oil can significantly reduce your car’s engine life, lead to leaks, and impact your car’s fuel economy. From knowing the signs that it is time to change your oil to understanding the information on your motor oil’s labels, here’s what you need to know about your car oil.
Weigh The Pros Of Synthetic And Conventional Motor Oil Types
Synthetic motor oils are typically priced higher than their conventional counterparts, mainly because they are thought to be better for your car’s engine. While the recommended conventional oil change intervals are twice a year or every 7,500 kilometers, synthetic oil change intervals range between 5,000 to 10,000 and 15,000 kilometers.
Meanwhile, synthetic blend oils can be more budget-friendly and still provide some coverage against high temperatures. Synthetic oil blends also come with higher viscosity, which aids in your car’s fuel efficiency. However, with a price tag of up to two times conventional motor oil, each oil change can get expensive.
Use Your Engine Type And Car Model To Guide You
Another thing to consider when choosing the motor oil for your car is the kind of engine your car has. For cars with diesel engines, synthetic or conventional motor oils with a high viscosity count are recommended. This is because diesel engines work at a much higher compression temperature, and therefore require an oil that can withstand such high temperatures. As a general rule, drivers looking for the right engine lubricant for compression ignition cars should aim for diesel oils with a viscosity of 15W40 or 5W40. Different engines will also have different designated performance levels designated by the American Petroleum Institute. Lastly, older car models may be better suited to high mileage motor oils, since they contain additives that prevent oil sludge buildup and extend their engine lifespan.
Check Your Manual For The Right Viscosity Grade For Your Car And The Season
To ensure you get the right viscosity motor oil, drivers can also use their car manual for guidance. Ideally, you want to focus on the viscosity grade as this indicates your oil’s starting temperature and pumpability – i.e. how well it can lubricate the parts of your car. The Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) uses the expected lifespan of your engine to recommend the ideal viscosity grade of motor oil.
Monitor your car oil levels and look out for signs that its time to change your motor oil before it is too late.
Text and Research by Jennifer Dawson.
