What kind of engine oil should be used for Hyundai Elantra?
3 Answers
Elantra should use the original Shell HELIX engine oil with the specification SM5W30. According to the manufacturer's requirements, the engine oil should be of the category API SM4 ILSAC GF4 (or above) ACEA A54. Generally, the selection of engine oil is based on the SAE standard, such as SM5W30. Elantra is a mid-size car from Beijing Hyundai, featuring a sharp hexagonal front grille with chrome strip decorations, excellent texture, along with newly designed headlights and L-shaped fog light decorations, giving the car a youthful and stylish appearance. In terms of body dimensions, the Elantra measures 4680mm in length, 1800mm in width, and 1450mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2700mm.
I've been driving the Hyundai Elantra for three or four years and have really looked into the engine oil issue. It's recommended to use 5W-20 or 5W-30 full synthetic oil, which is the viscosity suggested in the manual. My naturally aspirated Elantra feels more responsive with 5W-20, and cold starts are smoother even when temperatures drop below zero in winter. Although full synthetic oil is more expensive, it can last up to 10,000 kilometers before needing a change, making it no more costly than mineral oil in the long run. However, be sure to buy genuine products from major brands – counterfeit oil can make the engine sound rough within six months. It's best to supervise the mechanic during oil changes; last time, a junior technician almost poured in 40-viscosity oil.
From a mechanical perspective, choosing oil for the Hyundai Elantra depends on the model year. For post-2016 models, ACEA A5/B5 standard 5W-30 is recommended, while 5W-20 is more suitable for older models. Turbocharged engines must use full synthetic oil, while semi-synthetic can suffice for naturally aspirated engines. Don't arbitrarily change viscosity—some owners opt for cheaper 10W-40 and end up with a 2-L/100km fuel consumption increase. The most extreme case I've seen involved incorrect oil causing VVT valve seizure, with repairs costing at least 4,000 RMB. The oil filter must also match; Mann's W7015 is a good choice.
