What Issues Should Be Considered When Choosing Engine Oil in Winter?
3 Answers
There are three main considerations when choosing engine oil in winter. Below is a detailed introduction to the precautions for selecting engine oil in winter: 1. Choose engine oil with moderate viscosity: Using engine oil with high viscosity in winter can easily cause damage to the vehicle. You should not blindly choose engine oil with high viscosity. However, engine oil with too low viscosity cannot completely isolate stationary parts from rotating parts to a certain extent, which will lead to rapid wear of bearings. Therefore, engine oil with moderate viscosity should be selected. 2. More expensive engine oil is not necessarily better: The idea that the more expensive the engine oil, the better it is, is incorrect. Different vehicle models have different engine structures and are prone to different types of problems. Therefore, you should follow the vehicle maintenance manual to choose the appropriate engine oil. 3. Others: You should change the engine oil after warming up the car. At the same time, more engine oil is not necessarily better.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I'm particularly meticulous about choosing engine oil in winter. The main reason is that low temperatures can thicken the oil, and if the viscosity is too high, it makes cold starts difficult and increases engine wear. I always refer to the vehicle manual, which recommends oils like 5W-30 for better low-temperature fluidity—the lower the number before the W, the smoother the start. Synthetic oil, though more expensive, ensures quicker starts in winter, lower fuel consumption, and long-term savings. Don't forget to check the oil grade, such as API SP for better anti-wear performance. Regularly inspect the oil level, and if it's too thick or dirty, change it promptly. Safety first—avoid winter breakdowns. I've also tried fuel-saving tips, like maintaining a good oil change interval and not waiting until the oil turns black and sludgy before acting.
From my experience in car repair, the key to choosing engine oil in winter lies in matching viscosity with low-temperature environments. The SAE standard's W number should be lower, preferably 5W or 0W, to ensure the oil flows quickly at freezing temperatures and reduces cold-start friction. Don't overlook the API grade—higher-grade synthetic oils have stronger oil film strength, protecting engine pistons. Avoid oil that's too thin, as it can lead to leaks; also avoid oil that's too thick, as it has poor low-temperature pumpability. I often opt for 5W-30 full synthetic oil, which is more durable in cold weather. In terms of price, synthetic oil is more expensive but more efficient, reducing the risk of breakdowns. In winter, when temperatures are low, check the oil condition more frequently to avoid calling for a tow truck midway.
