What are the types of engine oil?
2 Answers
Engine oil is categorized into mineral oil, semi-synthetic oil, and fully synthetic oil. Below are the relevant introductions: 1. Mineral oil: Mineral oil is a lubricant refined from petroleum. The base oil of mineral oil is the residual bottom oil left after the distillation of useful light substances from crude oil, which is then further refined. Mineral oil is the most common type of lubricant on the market. It is inexpensive, but its service life and lubrication performance are relatively inferior. 2. Semi-synthetic oil: Semi-synthetic oil is a product purified from mineral oil through hydrocracking technology, consisting of a mixture of mineral oil and fully synthetic oil in a ratio of 4:6. 3. Fully synthetic oil: Fully synthetic oil is derived from ethylene and propylene dispersed in natural gas or crude oil, which undergoes complex chemical reactions such as polymerization and catalysis to be refined into a lubricant composed of large molecules.
When I first started learning to drive, I had only a vague understanding of engine oil. Now I know there are three main types: mineral oil, synthetic oil, and semi-synthetic oil. Mineral oil is the cheapest but offers average protection, making it suitable for older cars or daily commutes. Synthetic oil is like a premium skincare product—it handles high temperatures and speeds well, extending engine life, but it's more expensive. Semi-synthetic oil is a balanced option with good cost-performance, suitable for most regular cars. In winter, choose thinner oils, like those labeled 0W, while thicker oils are better in summer to prevent rapid evaporation. Remember to change the oil regularly—otherwise, accumulated contaminants can damage the engine. Once, I forgot to change it, and my engine started making strange noises. Now, I always select oil based on the season and my car's condition during maintenance—simple and safe.
