What Type of Engine Oil Should Be Used for a Car with 200,000 Kilometers?
3 Answers
For a car with 200,000 kilometers, 5W/40 engine oil is recommended. Relevant information about engine oil is as follows: Introduction: Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, is referred to as the 'blood' of a car. It serves functions such as lubrication, cleaning, cooling, sealing, and reducing friction in the engine. Automotive Lubricant Standards: The viscosity standard follows the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) viscosity classification, which distinguishes the suitable temperature ranges for different lubricants. The performance standard primarily adopts the API (American Petroleum Institute) performance classification, used to differentiate the performance and quality of lubricants. Other classifications include ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers Association), JASO (Japanese Automotive Standards Organization), and classifications by various engine manufacturers.
As a veteran driver with over 30 years of experience and my own car having clocked more than 200,000 kilometers, I have extensive experience with high-mileage motor oil. Simply put, a 200,000-kilometer engine has significant wear, is prone to oil leaks or gaps, and regular oil won’t protect it—you must use high-mileage-specific oil. The viscosity is usually 5W-30 or 5W-40, but always check the owner’s manual for recommendations—don’t guess. This type of oil contains extra seal conditioners and detergents to prevent leaks, reduce vibrations, and extend engine life. For example, I use Shell’s high-mileage series, and after every oil change, the car runs smoother. Remember to change the oil every 5,000 kilometers or so and check the oil level. Delaying oil changes can lead to premature engine failure. Don’t cut corners on high-mileage maintenance—saving a little money isn’t worth sacrificing safety. Regularly checking for oil leaks can help avoid major repairs.
As a car enthusiast, I pay close attention to motor oil selection, especially for vehicles with over 200,000 kilometers. My recommendation is to prioritize high-mileage formula oils, which are specifically designed for engine wear with additional anti-wear additives and seal conditioners to effectively prevent piston ring or valve leakage. In terms of viscosity, 5W-30 is the most common choice suitable for most vehicle temperature ranges, while 0W-30 works better in colder regions. For brands, Mobil 1 High Mileage is quite reliable – I've personally used it with good results. Also, pay attention to oil change intervals; high-mileage vehicles should change oil every 6,000-8,000 kilometers along with the oil filter to improve fuel efficiency. Don't overlook the API certification of the oil grade to ensure both environmental friendliness and durability. Daily driving habits also affect oil lifespan – for example, avoiding frequent hard acceleration can reduce wear.