What does the 'w' in motor oil specifications mean?

2 Answers
DiNolan
07/24/25 3:27am
The 'w' in motor oil specifications stands for 'winter', indicating that the oil can be used normally during winter if it contains 'w' in its specification. Motor oil, also known as engine lubricating oil, serves to lubricate and reduce friction in the engine, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption. Motor oil consists of two parts: base oil and additives. The base oil is the main component of lubricating oil, determining its basic properties, while additives compensate for and improve the shortcomings of the base oil, imparting certain new properties, making them an important component of lubricating oil.
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OChase
08/10/25 11:01pm
The 'W' stands for 'winter', indicating the oil's low-temperature fluidity in its viscosity rating. For example, in the 5W-30 grade, the '5W' means the oil can remain fluid at -30°C—the lower this number, the better the low-temperature performance. The '30' represents the high-temperature viscosity; a higher number means stronger high-temperature protection. Folks in Northeast China should opt for oils starting with '0W', like 0W-20, which flows smoothly even at -35°C, ensuring smooth cold starts without engine dry grinding. Those in the south can use 5W, but remember—don’t just focus on the numbers before and after the hyphen; always follow the maintenance manual. Using excessively high-viscosity oil can actually increase fuel consumption.
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