Should the Lamando 280 use 5W30 or 5W40 engine oil?
2 Answers
For the Volkswagen Lamando 280, it is necessary to use Volkswagen's original VW-50200 or higher 5W-40 engine oil. If you wish to change the oil during later maintenance, you can choose brands such as Shell, Mobil, or Castrol, but ensure the oil meets the VW-50200 or higher 5W-40 specification. The viscosity of engine oil changes with temperature, so special attention should be paid to its performance under both low and high temperatures. For example, in 5W-30, the first number indicates low-temperature fluidity. 5W means it can withstand temperatures as low as -30°C. The smaller this number, the better the low-temperature fluidity, resulting in smoother cold starts for the car. The latter number represents the oil's kinematic viscosity at 100°C. A higher number means the oil can maintain its viscosity index better at high temperatures, which can also be understood as better lubrication performance under high-temperature conditions. The method for changing the engine oil in the Volkswagen Lamando 280 is as follows: Wait for the engine temperature to drop, allowing the oil to flow back into the oil pan. Use a wrench to loosen the oil drain plug and place an oil pan underneath to catch the old oil until no more oil flows out. Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds to allow the oil in the main oil passages to drain. Use a specialized wrench to remove the oil filter. Apply some oil to the oil seal of the new oil filter and tighten it clockwise by hand. Add the new engine oil through the oil filler cap on the engine's valve cover. Typically, fill up to three-quarters of the oil container. Start the engine and let it run for 5 minutes, then check for any oil leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter. If leaks are found, perform necessary repairs. After stopping the engine, pull out the oil dipstick and check that the engine oil level is within the standard range.
I've been driving the Lamando 280 for several years, always using 5w30 oil, and it feels quite smooth. The car's manual recommends Volkswagen standard VW 502 oil. Under normal driving conditions, 5w30 flows well and is fuel-efficient, making it generally fine for city driving. However, I remember once during a long summer trip, the engine temperature was high, and the manual also suggests using 5w40 for increased protection in high temperatures or frequent high-speed driving. Don’t switch brands arbitrarily; sticking to genuine oil is crucial. Additionally, regular maintenance is key—change the oil every 5,000 kilometers, and don’t wait for the warning light to check. This helps extend the engine’s lifespan. Driving habits also make a big difference; if you often accelerate aggressively, 5w40 is more stable.
