Can I Use Different Brands of Engine Oil for an Oil Change?
3 Answers
You can use different brands of engine oil for an oil change, as long as the oil is from a reputable source. It is not necessary to stick to the same brand, but you should choose the appropriate viscosity grade and a trustworthy brand. Engine oil, also known as motor oil or engine lubricant, is a substance enhanced with additives in a base oil, primarily containing anti-wear additives, detergents, dispersants, and multi-grade viscosity index improvers. Engine oil is used for lubricating internal combustion engines. Its main functions include reducing friction and wear on moving parts, removing sludge and varnish from the engine, neutralizing acids produced by fuel and lubricant oxidation (detergents), improving piston ring sealing, and cooling the engine by carrying away heat from moving parts.
I've been driving for over a decade and frequently change engine oil, having used various brands. The key is to maintain consistent oil specifications - the SAE grade such as 5W-30 must match the recommendation in the vehicle manual. API standards are equally important; SL or SN ratings should correspond, otherwise it may cause engine wear. I've used Shell, Mobil, and Castrol - as long as the specifications are identical, there's no noticeable change in engine performance. Occasionally switching brands can save money, especially when purchasing different brands during discount periods. However, I recommend not switching too frequently - change brands every few maintenance cycles to avoid potential compatibility issues from differing additives. Always remember to completely drain the old oil during changes to prevent residue mixing.
In daily maintenance, I've seen car owners frequently change engine oil brands. As long as the viscosity grade matches, it's generally fine. For example, SUVs are best suited for synthetic oil, while sedans can opt for semi-synthetic. Different brands of engine oil share similar base formulations, with possible variations in additives, but unified standards like ACEA certification ensure compatibility. Pay attention to the quantity when changing, and don't exceed the vehicle's mileage requirements. If old and new oils are mixed, there's no immediate impact, but it's better to use the same series in the long run. The lifespan of engine oil depends on the usage environment; in city driving, changing oil regularly is more important than the brand.
