How to Choose the Right Engine Oil for Your Car
2 Answers
Engine oil is a crucial lubricant that protects your vehicle's engine. Choosing the right oil ensures optimal engine protection. How to correctly select car engine oil: 1. Choose the appropriate oil grade. Generally, gasoline engine oils have quality grades, typically starting from SG level, with SJ, SL, SM, SN indicating progressively better quality. Make sure to select the right one. 2. When purchasing oil, opt for reputable brands. Quality often matters more than brand size – well-reviewed and reliable oils are good choices. 3. Consider your vehicle's usage when selecting between mineral oil and synthetic oil. Typically, mineral oil requires more frequent changes (every 5,000-6,000 km), while synthetic oil lasts longer (around 8,000-10,000 km). 4. When adding oil, pay attention to the dipstick markings. The ideal level is between the maximum and minimum marks. Overfilling can lead to oil burning. 5. During regular use, check the oil level every 1,000 km to monitor consumption and top up if necessary.
When choosing car engine oil, I think the first step is to check the vehicle manual—it tells us what type and viscosity of oil to use, such as SAE 5W-30. Having driven many cars, I’ve found that the manual’s recommendations are the most reliable, saving the hassle of random experimentation. Additionally, consider the driving conditions: for city traffic or long highway trips, synthetic oil is better as it withstands high temperatures and protects against engine wear. Don’t forget the season—low-viscosity oil like 0W-20 is ideal for winter, ensuring smoother starts. Regular oil changes are also crucial; conventional oil typically needs replacement every 5,000 km, while synthetic oil can last 8,000 to 10,000 km. Don’t skimp on price—low-quality oil can increase engine noise and accelerate wear. Finally, opt for a trusted brand like Mobil or Shell for peace of mind.