What is spow20 engine oil?
2 Answers
spow20 engine oil belongs to the highest grade of engine oil, and many Japanese cars use this type of oil. 'sp' represents the quality grade of the engine oil, with sg, sj, sl, sm, and sp being the grades for gasoline engine oils, where sp is the highest grade. 'ow20' indicates the SAE standard viscosity value of the oil. Additional information: Functions of engine oil: 1. Lubrication: There is rapid relative sliding between pistons and cylinders, as well as between main shafts and bearing bushes. To prevent excessive wear of parts, an oil film needs to be established between the two sliding surfaces. A sufficiently thick oil film separates the surfaces of the relatively sliding parts, thereby reducing wear. 2. Auxiliary cooling: Engine oil has a relatively low specific heat value and is located inside the engine, so it does not inherently have a cooling effect. However, during engine operation, the oil can carry heat back to the oil tank and then dissipate it into the air, assisting the radiator in cooling the engine. The actual cooling is performed by the water (or antifreeze liquid) outside the engine casing. 3. Cleaning: High-quality engine oil can carry carbon deposits, sludge, and worn metal particles from engine parts back to the oil tank through circulation. The flow of the lubricating oil washes away dirt generated on the working surfaces of the parts.
I personally think SPOW20 refers to a high-performance engine oil, specifically something like an API SP-grade 0W-20 viscosity oil. Many new cars use it now because it combines the latest specifications for engine protection and fuel efficiency benefits. SP stands for the latest gasoline engine certification in the API service category, which reduces wear and prevents emission issues. 0W-20 indicates excellent low-temperature fluidity, ensuring smoother engine rotation during cold starts in winter, while maintaining stable viscosity at high temperatures for noticeable fuel savings. I often use similar oil in my daily hybrid vehicle—quick starts, low fuel consumption, perfect for Japanese or modern turbocharged cars. However, it might not suit older engines, as the thin viscosity could lead to insufficient oil pressure. Always check the manual before switching to ensure compatibility. Overall, this oil enhances driving experience and aligns with eco-friendly trends.
