What Type of Engine Oil Should a Jetta Use?
2 Answers
Jetta requires engine oil of the specification SG5W-40. Below is an introduction to engine oil: 1. Engine oil, also known as motor oil (English name: Engine-oil), serves multiple functions for the engine, including lubrication and wear reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leakage prevention, rust and corrosion protection, as well as shock absorption. It is often referred to as the 'blood' of a car. 2. 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 are used to compensate for and enhance the shortcomings of the base oil, providing additional performance characteristics. Additives are a crucial part of lubricants. 3. The engine is the heart of a car, containing numerous metal surfaces that move against each other under high-speed and harsh conditions, with operating temperatures ranging from 400°C to 600°C. Under such extreme conditions, only qualified lubricating oil can reduce wear on engine components and extend their service life.
I've been driving a Jetta for several years and often get asked about engine oil specifications. The mainstream recommendation is 5W-30 full synthetic oil, which is particularly suitable for most Jetta models, including both new and older versions. Why choose this? Because it can quickly lubricate the engine during cold starts while maintaining stable protection in summer heat. Checking the owner's manual is most reliable—each vehicle's specific requirements are clearly stated there. Don't randomly use other specifications; for example, using 5W-40 might make the oil feel thicker, affecting acceleration feel and potentially increasing fuel consumption over time. Personally, I change my oil every 8,000 kilometers using Shell or domestic Great Wall brand oils, ensuring quality. When changing oil, remember to check the dipstick level and fill to the middle mark. Forgetting this can lead to engine wear, which is expensive to repair. Using the wrong oil in a new car can also void the warranty—getting it changed at a 4S shop costs just over 200 yuan, eliminating risks. The more you drive, the more experience you gain. Choosing the right oil makes driving smoother, with quicker winter starts and better protection for key components, extending your car's lifespan.