How to Determine the Quality of Engine Oil?
1 Answers
You can determine the quality level of engine oil from the specifications on the oil packaging. Taking "0W-40 API SN/CF" as an example, the first part "0W40" is the main grade. The smaller the number before the "W," the better the low-temperature fluidity, which provides better engine protection. "0W" indicates that the oil can be used at temperatures as low as -35°C. The number "40" after the "W" represents the viscosity index of the oil at high temperatures. The higher the number, the higher the viscosity, which also means better engine protection. Here are methods to determine the quality of engine oil: 1. Listen to the engine sound after adding oil: If, after driving a few hundred kilometers, the engine sound becomes smoother and quieter, and the vibration stabilizes, it indicates good oil quality. Conversely, if the engine sound becomes louder, duller, or the vibration increases, the oil may be problematic. 2. Observe the color and smell of the oil: High-quality oil is light in color, transparent, free of impurities, suspended particles, or sediment, and flows well when shaken. The more transparent the oil, the higher its quality. Fake oil often has a pungent smell due to inferior raw materials or processes, while genuine oil does not. 3. Observe in low temperatures: Since engine oils vary in low-temperature performance, seal a small bottle of oil and place it in a freezer set to -18°C. After 6 hours, check its fluidity. High-quality oil will flow noticeably better, indicating better engine protection in cold conditions. 4. Shake and observe: Pour the oil into a bottle and shake it vigorously until many bubbles form. Then observe how quickly the bubbles disappear. Higher-grade, better-quality oil will see bubbles dissipate faster. If bubbles persist, the oil may be problematic. 5. Check fuel consumption after adding oil: Qualified oil, due to its superior lubrication, anti-wear, and cleaning properties, reduces friction in engine components, leading to better fuel efficiency. If fuel consumption increases significantly after adding new oil, the oil may be of poor quality.
