What Do Motor Oil Specifications Represent?
2 Answers
Motor oil specifications represent indicators of the oil's low-temperature fluidity and high-temperature resistance. The method for changing the oil is: 1. Lift the car, remove the undercover, and place a container under the oil drain plug; 2. Unscrew the oil drain plug, use an air gun to blow into the oil filler port for two minutes, after draining, tighten the oil drain plug and wipe it with a tissue to check for leaks; 3. Reinstall the undercover and lower the car, then add oil through the filler port. The functions of motor oil include: lubrication and anti-wear, auxiliary cooling, cleaning, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion prevention, and shock absorption. Its classifications are: 1. Conventional mineral oil; 2. Semi-synthetic oil; 3. Full synthetic oil.
The label on motor oil specifications, such as the combination of numbers like 5W-30, essentially represents the oil's viscosity at different temperatures. Through years of car ownership, I've found this crucial for engine protection. The first number followed by a 'W' indicates the oil's flowability during cold starts—for example, 5W means the oil can quickly circulate at sub-zero temperatures, protecting engine components from wear. The latter number denotes the oil's thickness at high temperatures; for instance, 30 ensures stable oil film performance during long summer drives. Using the wrong specification, like opting for 10W-40 when the manual recommends 0W-20, may lead to increased fuel consumption or louder engine noise. Always refer to your owner's manual for the correct oil grade—don’t compromise on quality for cost savings, as vehicle requirements vary, and maintenance often overlooks these details.
