What Do Motor Oil Specifications Represent?

[JuliannaLynn]

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.

[StOscar]

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.

[DiAnna]

Engine oil grades are primarily determined based on the SAE viscosity standard. Those letters and numbers are not randomly assigned. The 'W' stands for Winter performance, with lower numbers indicating easier cold starts; the high-temperature number represents the protective strength during operation. For example, 0W-20 oil has strong fluidity in cold winter temperatures, reducing engine wear, while the '20' prevents oil film breakdown under high-temperature conditions. Modern oils also have API ratings like SP, which affect environmental performance and fuel efficiency. When selecting oil, I always consider the vehicle's age and driving environment—for instance, new cars suit low-viscosity grades for better fuel economy, while older vehicles need thicker oil to reduce leaks. Never overlook these specifications, as they directly impact engine longevity and daily expenses.

[EllianaLynn]

Before selecting an engine oil model, I recommend checking the owner's manual first, as it specifies the manufacturer's recommended range. A simple rule to remember: The smaller the number before the W, the more suitable it is for cold winter regions, such as 0W for faster starts in northern areas; the larger the number after the W, the better it performs in high temperatures or during long-distance high-speed driving, like 5W-40 for stronger protection. Don't skimp on cheap, no-name oils when changing oil in summer, as using the wrong model may cause abnormal noises or increased fuel consumption. Also, consider road conditions—lower viscosity oils save fuel for city driving, while higher viscosity is better for off-road adventures. Regular oil changes are crucial, and avoid mixing different models to maintain effectiveness.