How to Choose the Model of Car Engine Oil?

[AmeliaFitz]

Car engine oil model selection: Temperature and working conditions are two important criteria for choosing engine oil. In regions with low winter temperatures, try to choose a smaller number before the W. If you enjoy driving fast or have an older car, opt for a higher viscosity coefficient after the W, and try to choose from higher-end brands. Below is an introduction to engine oil: 1. 5W30 refers to the SAE standard viscosity value, which first indicates that the oil is a multi-grade oil. 2. W stands for WINTER, and the number before the W represents the flow performance at low temperatures. The smaller the number, the better the starting performance at low temperatures. The number after the W represents the stability of the oil at high temperatures. The larger the number, the better the high-temperature stability of the oil. 3. The smaller the number before the W, the lower the low-temperature viscosity, the better the low-temperature fluidity, and the lower the applicable minimum temperature.

[StAsher]

When choosing a car engine oil model, I always remind car owners to first check the owner's manual, which specifies the SAE viscosity and API grade requirements, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40. The manual is the top priority as it's designed for your engine and helps prevent wear. Next, consider the weather: in winter's low temperatures, I use thinner oils like the 5W series to ensure smooth cold starts; in summer's high temperatures, I opt for thicker oils like 40 to prevent overheating. For synthetic oils, I recommend starting with semi-synthetic—moderately priced, long-lasting, and fuel-efficient. But don't just go for the cheapest; the API grade must match the latest standards like SP, otherwise it affects environmental protection. Having repaired many cars, I've found oil-related issues often stem from randomly buying brands or neglecting change intervals. Check every six months to ensure safety.

[StHadley]

As a frugal veteran driver, my approach is to strictly follow the manual recommendations while using 5W-30 base oil for cost-effectiveness and peace of mind. Comparing mineral and synthetic oils, I've found semi-synthetic to be the most economical choice – slightly pricier but extending the oil change interval to 10,000 km, ultimately saving dozens in maintenance costs. I also pay attention to seasonal effects, switching viscosity grades between winter and summer to prevent engine noise. Driving habits matter too – I slightly increase viscosity grade for frequent highway driving. I don't insist on premium brands, finding discounted stock more worthwhile. Always check the API certification to ensure environmental compliance.

[Floyd]

When I was a beginner, it was simple: first check the owner's manual for viscosity and type, such as 5W-30 or 0W-20, and just follow it directly—the manual is the safety net. Don't complicate things; for city driving, standard synthetic oil is fine, just make sure the API grade isn't too low. After changing the oil, you'll notice the engine runs quieter and smoother.