How many grades are there for car engine oil?
2 Answers
The "S" series represents oil for gasoline engines, with specifications including: SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM, SN. The "C" series represents oil for diesel engines, with specifications including: CA, CB, CC, CD, CE, CF, CF-2, CF-4, CG-4, CH-4, CI-4. Introduction to engine oil: 1. Base oil is the main component of engine oil, determining its basic properties. Additives can compensate for and improve the shortcomings of the base oil's performance, giving it certain new properties, making them an important part of engine oil. 2. Engine oil can lubricate and reduce friction in the engine, assist in cooling, seal and prevent leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption and cushioning.
I'm a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, and I know engine oil classification is crucial. It's mainly divided into two categories: viscosity grades and API service classifications. Viscosity grades follow the SAE standard, like 5W-30. The smaller the number before the 'W', the better it is for cold starts in winter. The number after represents viscosity at high temperatures, with 30 being suitable for most cars. API classifications are for gasoline engines, such as SN and SP, with SP being the latest standard offering better engine protection against wear and combustion. Choosing oil depends on your car's manual—I use 0W-20 for my SUV year-round, ensuring smooth highway driving with less noise. I change synthetic oil every 8,000 km, significantly extending engine life and avoiding carbon buildup from low-quality oil. Remember, don't just look at price or brand; focus on viscosity matching and certifications to suit your climate and driving conditions for safety.
