Is there a motor oil viscosity grade chart?
3 Answers
The viscosity grade of motor oil is closely related to the vehicle model and local temperature. Below is the explanation of its connection with vehicle models and local temperatures: 1. Vehicle model: Japanese cars prefer low-viscosity oil, while German cars prefer high-viscosity oil. 2. Local temperature: (1) 0W suitable temperature — -35°C (polar regions) (2) 5W suitable temperature — -30°C (northeast and northwest regions) (3) 10W suitable temperature — -25°C (north-central and southwest regions) (4) 15W suitable temperature — -20°C (north-central and southwest regions) (5) 20W suitable temperature — -15°C (areas south of the Yellow River and north of the Yangtze River) (6) 25W suitable temperature — -10°C (subtropical regions)
Yes, there is an engine oil viscosity grade chart, which classifies grades according to the SAE standard, such as common models like 5W-30 or 10W-40. The 'W' stands for winter, and the preceding number like 5W indicates good low-temperature fluidity, while the latter number 30 represents high-temperature viscosity. As someone who frequently helps friends with car repairs, I find this chart extremely practical. When the weather gets colder, I always remind people to choose oil with a lower W number, such as 0W-20 for smooth winter starts, while 20W-50 can be used in summer to protect the engine. However, choosing the wrong oil can cause issues like increased fuel consumption or faster engine wear. It's recommended to check the owner's manual or professional websites for the recommended grade. Additionally, in regions with significant temperature variations, oil should be changed according to the season, and regular oil level checks can extend engine life.
Of course there is. The motor oil viscosity grade chart is based on the SAE international standard, where each number affects the driving experience. Having driven for decades myself, I always use it to select oil - 5W-30 suits most daily-use vehicles, providing quick cold starts without effort. High viscosity makes cold-weather starting difficult, while low viscosity in hot weather may lead to insufficient lubrication. The vehicle manual contains detailed charts, and I've developed the habit of checking it seasonally to avoid sluggish performance or excessive noise. It also helps save fuel costs, as using the wrong grade can lead to expensive repairs. Nowadays many apps offer lookup features too - just input your vehicle model for recommendations, which is quite convenient.
