Should the New Santana use 5w30 or 5w40 engine oil?
2 Answers
The New Santana uses 5w40 engine oil. Engine oil, motor oil, or engine lubricant is a substance enhanced with additives in base oil, primarily containing anti-wear additives, detergents, dispersants, and multi-grade oil viscosity index improvers. The main functions of engine oil are to reduce friction and wear on moving parts and to remove sludge (one of the functions of dispersants) and varnish (detergents) from the engine. Taking the New Santana 2021 1.5L Manual Fashion Edition as an example: the manufacturer of this car is SAIC Volkswagen, classified as a compact car, with an energy type of gasoline, body style as a 4-door 5-seater sedan, and a transmission of 5-speed manual.
I've been driving Volkswagen cars for over a decade, including the new Santana, and I believe engine oil selection should depend on actual road conditions. New cars usually recommend 5W-30, which provides smoother cold starts, better fuel efficiency in city driving, and slightly lower noise levels. However, if you frequently drive on highways or live in hot southern climates, 5W-40 might be better as it offers longer engine protection under high temperatures. I've tried both - 5W-30 starts faster in winter, while 5W-40 provides more reliable wear protection for older vehicles. Always check your owner's manual first. Volkswagen's official standard is typically 5W-30, but regular oil changes are more important - change every six months or 10,000 kilometers, and avoid using inferior oil to prevent engine damage. With proper maintenance, you can drive with peace of mind.
