Should I use 30 or 40 oil for 150,000 kilometers?
2 Answers
A car with 150,000 kilometers should consider increasing the oil viscosity and can switch to 40 oil, but it depends on the specific situation. Here are the relevant details: 1. Engine oil: Engine oil is a crucial component for a car's driving power, comparable to human blood. 40 oil has higher viscosity and is thicker than 30 oil. 30 oil is thinner with lower viscosity, which may not effectively adhere to components for lubrication and can also lead to increased fuel consumption. 2. Different scenarios: If a car starts consuming more fuel after reaching 150,000 kilometers, car owners should check if it's due to the oil. If so, switching to 40 oil is advisable. However, if there is no oil burning issue, it may not be necessary to change.
When my car reached 150,000 kilometers, I also struggled with whether to use 30 or 40-weight oil. Based on my experience, as engine wear increases and clearances widen, using 40-weight oil helps stabilize oil pressure better, preventing leaks and unusual noises. Remember, this depends on your driving habits—for instance, 40-weight oil provides extra protection during frequent high-speed driving. But don’t overlook the owner’s manual recommendations; some cars are designed to perform better with 30-weight oil. Weather also affects the choice—thicker oil is preferable in high-temperature regions. After my last switch to 40-weight oil, the engine ran quieter, fuel consumption increased slightly, but overall protection improved. I recommend getting your engine condition checked at a repair shop before deciding. Avoid arbitrarily changing oil types, as this may lead to insufficient lubrication and component damage. During regular maintenance, a technician can measure oil pressure to help optimize your choice, ensuring your car’s longevity.
