What Type of Engine Oil is Best for the Outlander?
3 Answers
The best type of engine oil for the Outlander is 5W30. If you want to change the oil during later maintenance, you can choose from brands like Shell, Mobil, BP, Great Wall, Tongyi, Copton, Fuchs, Total, Castrol, or Kunlun. The official manual recommends fully synthetic 5W-30 or 0W-20 engine oil. The viscosity of engine oil changes with temperature, so it's important to pay special attention to its performance under both low and high temperatures. For example, in 5W-30, the first number indicates low-temperature fluidity—5W means it can withstand temperatures as low as -30°C. The smaller this number, the better the low-temperature fluidity, ensuring smoother cold starts for the car. The second number represents the kinematic viscosity of the oil at 100°C. A higher number means the oil can maintain its viscosity better under high temperatures, which can also be understood as providing better lubrication performance under high-temperature conditions. The method for changing the Outlander's engine oil 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 and let it run for 30 seconds to allow the oil in the main oil passage to drain out. Use a specialized wrench to remove the oil filter. Apply engine 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, fill up to three-quarters of a standard 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, perform necessary repairs. After stopping the engine, remove the oil dipstick and check that the engine oil level is within the standard range.
If you drive an Outlander, using 5W-30 full synthetic oil is the most reliable choice. I've been using it in my own car for years. The manual usually recommends this viscosity because it flows well during cold starts, reducing engine component wear. Synthetic oil lasts much longer than mineral oil, extending the oil change interval to one year or 10,000 kilometers, saving both time and money. Just pick a mainstream brand like Shell or Mobil—no need to go for premium options. Remember to check it before winter; oil that's too thick in cold weather can make ignition difficult. If you frequently drive in congested urban areas, this oil can also help reduce fuel consumption and prevent engine overheating. The key is to change the oil regularly—don't delay too long, or a clogged oil filter could cause trouble. I make it a habit to check the oil level every six months to ensure everything's fine. Developing this habit significantly reduces car issues and keeps the ride smooth.
For oil selection, the Outlander is best suited for 5W-30 synthetic oil. The 'W' stands for winter performance, with 5W ensuring quick flow even in sub-zero temperatures to protect the engine, while the 30 viscosity maintains stability at high temperatures, preventing piston wear. Synthetic oil has a more uniform molecular structure, offering better lubrication and cleaning capabilities, thereby extending engine life. The newer Outlander models may achieve better fuel efficiency with 0W-20, but most older models are recommended to use 5W-30. When purchasing, look for the API certification standard to ensure environmental safety. Changing the oil every 8,000 kilometers or so is the most economical approach. You can also perform the oil change yourself by warming up the car first and then checking the old oil—if it appears too dark, it indicates deterioration and should be changed earlier. Opting for mid-tier brands can save costs without significant performance differences, and long-term use can reduce maintenance expenses. Maintaining normal oil pressure also results in quieter engine operation.
