What Type of Engine Oil Should Be Used for Scooters?
2 Answers
Scooters should use synthetic engine oil. Here are three key factors to consider when selecting engine oil: 1. Choose the appropriate oil: The selection of engine oil should be based on the engine's requirements. It is unnecessary to use overly advanced oil in engines with lower requirements, nor should lower-grade oil be used in engines with higher requirements. 2. Prefer multi-grade oil: Multi-grade oil offers benefits such as fuel efficiency, extended service life, and high performance, providing better protection for the engine. Due to the characteristics of multi-grade oil, it may appear darker prematurely or show lower oil pressure compared to conventional oil, which is normal. 3. Choose oil with lower viscosity: If the engine is in good condition and the seasonal temperature is relatively low, it is advisable to use oil with lower viscosity to ensure smooth oil flow. In high-temperature seasons or when the engine is severely worn, selecting oil with higher viscosity helps form an oil film and reduces engine wear.
I've been riding scooters for five or six years, and when choosing engine oil, I mainly look at two indicators: viscosity and certification. The manual usually recommends using all-season oils like 10W-40 or 5W-40, which provide smooth cold starts in winter and sufficient high-temperature protection in summer. Since the scooter's transmission system is immersed in oil, it's essential to choose motorcycle-specific oil with JASO MB or MA2 certification. Using car engine oil can cause clutch slippage. I often buy fully synthetic oils like Shell Advance or Motul, which are more expensive but can extend the oil change interval to over 2,000 kilometers. Remember to check the dipstick every three months; if the oil turns black or becomes thin, it's time to change it immediately, especially for scooters frequently used for long trips in summer.
