What Type of Engine Oil is Best for Cars in Winter?
2 Answers
For cars in winter, W-grade engine oil is recommended. Winter engine oil must meet three key characteristics: low viscosity, low pour point, and good anti-wear properties to provide optimal protection for the engine. Winter temperatures are relatively low, which can reduce the fluidity of engine oil in cold conditions. Some oils may even solidify in temperatures below minus ten degrees Celsius, so winter-grade oil needs to have excellent low-temperature fluidity. Engine oil, also known as motor lubricant, serves multiple functions such as lubrication and friction reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, and shock absorption. Engine oil consists of two main components: base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary constituent of lubricants, determining their fundamental properties, while additives compensate for and enhance the performance of the base oil, providing additional beneficial characteristics, making them a crucial part of the lubricant.
I always think about engine oil when driving in winter. In cold seasons, the engine needs to start up faster, so it's best to choose oil with good low-temperature fluidity. Synthetic oils with 0W or 5W ratings are the most suitable, as they remain thin and flow easily even in sub-zero temperatures, unlike high-viscosity oils that can thicken and clump. Synthetic oils generally offer better protection, reducing wear during cold starts, and also improve fuel efficiency. My car uses 5W-30 oil, as recommended by the manual, and it has started smoothly every winter for years. Don’t forget to check your car’s manual—different models may have different requirements, and you should also consider local temperatures. Change the oil ahead of seasonal transitions, and during maintenance, check the oil level to ensure it’s normal.
