What kind of engine oil should be used for the Yidong?
2 Answers
The original engine oil brands for the Yidong are Shell and Castrol. For later maintenance, you can choose brands such as Shell, Mobil, Castrol, and Total. The recommended engine oil specifications in the official Yidong manual are 0W-20 and 5W-30. Any engine oil model that meets these two specifications can be used. The viscosity of engine oil changes with temperature, so special attention should be paid to its performance under low and high temperatures. For example, in 5W-30, the first number indicates low-temperature fluidity, with 5W representing the ability to withstand temperatures as low as -30°C. The smaller this number, the better the low-temperature fluidity, making cold starts smoother. The latter number represents the kinematic viscosity of the oil at 100°C. A higher number means the oil can maintain its viscosity index better at high temperatures, which can also be understood as better lubrication performance under high-temperature conditions. The method for changing the engine oil in the Yidong is as follows: Wait for the engine temperature to drop, allowing the oil to flow back into the oil pan; Use a wrench to loosen the oil drain plug and place an oil pan underneath to catch the old oil until it stops flowing. Start the engine for about 30 seconds to allow the oil in the main oil passage to drain out; Use a specialized wrench to remove the oil filter; Apply some oil to the oil seal of the new oil filter and tighten it clockwise by hand; Add the new engine oil through the oil filler cap on the engine valve cover, typically filling up to three-quarters of the oil container; Start the engine and let it run for 5 minutes, checking for any leaks around the oil drain plug and oil filter. If leaks are found, they should be repaired; After turning off the engine, pull out the oil dipstick to check if the engine oil level is within the standard range.
I've been driving the Changan Eado for several years, and I feel that choosing the right engine oil is crucial. The manufacturer recommends a 5W-30 full synthetic oil, which I've always used. Brands like Shell or Mobil are very reliable. This type of oil provides excellent lubrication in high temperatures or congested city driving conditions, protecting the engine from wear and tear while also slightly improving fuel efficiency. Remember to change it every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometers, and replacing the oil filter at the same time yields even better results. I've also noticed that using low-quality oil can lead to increased engine noise and sluggish acceleration, so I'd rather spend a bit more to avoid major repairs. Additionally, check the oil viscosity in cold winter weather to ensure smooth starts, and keep maintenance records for future reference. For most people, simplicity and peace of mind are key—don’t compromise on quality to save a few bucks and risk shortening your car’s lifespan.
