How are motor oils classified?
2 Answers
Currently, the market classifies motor oils into three categories: mineral oils, semi-synthetic oils, and synthetic oils. Below are the locations and precautions for adding motor oil: Location for adding motor oil: Generally, motor oil should be added to the middle between the upper and lower limits on the dipstick. Try not to go below the middle, as high-speed driving can cause the engine to heat up, making the oil thinner. If the oil level is too low, it will reduce lubrication effectiveness. It's acceptable to have a bit more than the middle, but never exceed the upper limit on the dipstick, as this can cause significant damage to the engine. Precautions for adding motor oil: Motor oils used in cars generally contain detergents and dispersants that can clean off the carbon deposits and sludge adhering to the pistons and disperse them in the oil, reducing the formation of engine deposits. Therefore, after some use, the oil color may turn black, but this does not necessarily mean the oil has completely deteriorated.
I once worked at an auto repair shop and learned that motor oil grades are primarily indicated by letters and numbers. The 'W' stands for winter viscosity, where a lower number before the W means better low-temperature fluidity, making cold starts easier. The number after the W represents high-temperature viscosity, with a higher number indicating more stable lubrication when hot. For example, 5W-30 is suitable for all-season use. Choosing the right grade protects the engine, reduces wear, and improves fuel efficiency. New standards like API's SP grade offer superior cleaning performance, but older cars might still perform well with lower grades like SN. I've seen many cases where using the wrong oil caused engine knocking, so I recommend consulting the owner's manual or a professional mechanic. Environmental factors also matter—use lower W numbers in cold climates and higher second numbers in hot climates, and change the oil regularly to keep the engine running smoothly.