What type of engine oil should be used for China VI vehicles?
2 Answers
China VI vehicles use 5W30 semi-synthetic engine oil. 5W30 is a four-stroke engine oil, representing the viscosity value of the engine oil. In 5W30, the 'W' stands for winter, and the number before 'W' indicates the oil's flow performance at low temperatures. The smaller this number, the better the starting performance in cold conditions. The number after 'W' represents the oil's stability at high temperatures, with a higher number indicating better stability. The '5' means the oil can withstand external temperatures as low as -30°C, while '30' indicates that the oil's kinematic viscosity standard at 100°C is 30. Classification of engine oil: Automotive engine oils are divided into three types: mineral oil, semi-synthetic oil, and fully synthetic oil. Mineral oil is only suitable for low-end vehicles or some new cars. Semi-synthetic oil is a blend of conventional oil and synthetic base oil, generally suitable for non-turbocharged mid-range models. Fully synthetic oil has excellent resistance to high-temperature volatilization and deposits, making it suitable for high-temperature, high-speed, high-compression ratio engines, such as turbocharged engines. Functions of engine oil: Lubrication to reduce wear—there is rapid relative sliding between the engine's pistons and cylinders, as well as between the main shaft and bearings, which can easily cause wear. High-quality engine oil forms a sufficiently thick oil film between these sliding surfaces, separating the moving parts and reducing wear. Cooling—engine oil carries heat back to the oil pan and dissipates it into the air, helping the radiator cool the engine. Cleaning—good engine oil can circulate carbon deposits, sludge, and worn metal particles from engine parts back to the oil pan, flushing away contaminants generated on the working surfaces through the flow of the lubricating oil.
I remember spending quite some time figuring out the engine oil issue when I first switched to a China VI-compliant car last year. The manual usually recommends low-ash engine oils with API SP or SN Plus ratings because the Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) in China VI cars is particularly sensitive—ordinary high-ash oils can clog it, leading to exhaust issues. I opted for a 0W-20 viscosity oil, which made the car start smoother and even slightly improved fuel consumption. The key is not to slack off—always check the user manual before each service, as it provides detailed specifications. For example, China VI models from brands like Volkswagen or Toyota have clear recommendations. I once made the mistake of using regular oil, which triggered a GPF warning, and the repairs were a hassle. So now, I’ve developed a habit of cross-checking the manual every 5,000 km before an oil change, choosing matching brands like Mobil or Shell’s specialized series. Regular maintenance may seem minor, but it can save you from costly repairs—safety first.
