What are the types of diesel engine oil?
2 Answers
Lubricating oil viscosity classification for all-season oil grades includes: 5W-20, 5W-30, 5W-40, 5W-50, 10W-20, 10W-30, 10W-40, etc. The following is an introduction to diesel engine oil: Diesel engine oil is the lubricating oil used in diesel engines. Diesel engine is the abbreviation for diesel-powered engine, which is characterized by high torque, high efficiency, and good economic performance. Its energy source comes from the combustion of diesel engine oil. Usage method: The maintenance of diesel engines using diesel engine oil is divided into three main parts. Carefully check whether the sealing gaskets of the air cleaner are installed incorrectly, wrongly, or missing, and ensure their tightness; maintain the lubricating oil filter to prevent the filter element from clogging, as negligence in this area can reduce the service life of the diesel engine; special attention should be paid to the fuel filter additive. Here, the fuel filter additive refers to the one in the fuel supply system. During routine maintenance, pay special attention to timely cleaning, promptly remove debris from various components, and ensure timely discharge.
I've driven diesel vehicles for many years, and common diesel engine oil models include the SAE viscosity series such as 15W-40, 10W-30, and 5W-40. The smaller the number before the W, the more suitable it is for cold weather, while a higher viscosity like 40 is better for high temperatures or heavy loads. API classifications are also crucial, with CJ-4 and CK-4 being the mainstream high-performance standards that protect the engine from wear and reduce pollutant emissions. Synthetic oils like 5W-40 are more durable but come at a higher price, whereas mineral oils like 15W-40 are more economical. Choosing the right model depends on the vehicle type and climate—for example, trucks in northern winters should use 10W-30 to avoid cold-start failures. I always check the owner's manual to ensure the model matches, as using the wrong oil can lead to faster engine carbon buildup and aging, doubling maintenance costs. During oil changes, regularly check the oil level, as diligent maintenance can extend the engine's lifespan.
