How to Choose Engine Oil?
3 Answers
How to choose engine oil: Select according to the specifications in the vehicle's user manual. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, is composed of base oil and additives. Its functions include: 1. Lubrication; 2. Assisting in cooling; 3. Cleaning; 4. Sealing and preventing leaks; 5. Preventing rust and corrosion; 6. Shock absorption and anti-wear. The method for changing engine oil is: 1. Lift the vehicle with a jack, locate and loosen the drain plug to drain the oil; 2. Remove the oil filter and place a container beneath it; 3. Install a new oil filter and add fresh oil. The reason for changing engine oil is: If oil is not changed for a long time, its performance will degrade, and its effectiveness will diminish.
When selecting engine oil, the key is always to check the owner's manual first—the manufacturer's recommended viscosity and standards are the most reliable. For example, my car's manual specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil, which means good low-temperature fluidity in winter and strong high-temperature protection in summer. Don't blindly buy high-end brands; even ordinary mineral oil will do, but synthetic oil performs better in extreme weather and extends engine life. Then, look for API or ILSAC certifications to ensure they meet new car standards and avoid low-quality oil. I change the oil every 5,000 kilometers to keep it clean. By the way, don't overlook the brand—mainstream ones like Shell or Mobil have high credibility. In short, manual + matching type is worry-free and safe, don't let the engine suffer.
When choosing engine oil, I consider cost-effectiveness: First, check the vehicle's requirements. For example, older cars can use mineral oil—it's cheap and sufficient; synthetic oil is for newer cars, but don’t chase expensive big brands. Refer to the manual for the recommended viscosity, like 5W-30—these numbers indicate winter and summer adaptability, preventing winter stalling. Also, check the API standard circle label—using a lower grade is wasteful. I usually compare prices online and buy affordable options to avoid overpriced 4S shop changes. Change the oil every 8,000 km; doing it too often wastes money. Oh, and check the oil’s color and smell—if it’s black or has a burnt odor, it’s time for a change. Keep it simple—focus on affordability.
