What type of engine oil should be used for Wuling Zhiguang?
2 Answers
For Wuling Zhiguang, the officially recommended engine oil is SAIC-GM-Wuling's 5W-30 oil, which is essentially Total brand oil. The choice depends on the driving environment: in the south, use higher viscosity oil such as 15W-40 or above, while in the north, 5W-30 is sufficient. If temperatures drop to -30°C, opt for 0W-20 oil. Oil quality is indicated by grades like SJ, SL, etc., with higher letters after "S" denoting better quality. Additionally, based on driving frequency, you can choose mineral oil, semi-synthetic, or synthetic oil. Synthetic oil is more expensive but offers better quality, benefiting the engine and extending oil change intervals. Oil change procedure: Prepare the vehicle on a lift, check the lift support points, and raise it slightly. Open the driver's door; there are two hooks under the driver's seat securing it. Release the hooks and tilt the seat backward to access the engine oil cap. Unscrew the cap, then raise the vehicle to a suitable height. Loosen the oil drain plug with a wrench but do not remove it yet. Position an oil container underneath, then slowly unscrew the plug by hand. Hold the plug and quickly remove it to drain the oil. Once drained, reinstall and tighten the drain plug with a wrench. Use an oil filter wrench to remove and replace the oil filter, tightening it securely. After inspection, lower the vehicle and pour new oil into the engine through the oil cap. After filling, check the oil dipstick to ensure the level is within the standard range. Tighten the oil cap, start the engine, and raise the vehicle to check for leaks. Confirm no leaks, lower the vehicle, and recheck the oil level. Finally, reinstall the seat to complete the oil change.
I've been driving the Wuling Zhiguang for several years. The engine of this microvan is quite durable, but using the right engine oil is crucial. I recommend SAE 5W-30 with an API rating of SG or higher. This grade can withstand high temperatures in summer and ensures smooth cold starts in winter. Wuling's official manual also suggests this viscosity, which is moderate and avoids seasonal change issues. Regular oil changes are essential—I usually change it every 5,000 kilometers or so. If you drive mostly in the city, you should change it even more frequently. Don't try to save money by skipping oil changes. Proper engine protection keeps the car running smoothly and even improves fuel efficiency. Mid-tier products from reputable brands like Kunlun or Mobil are affordable and practical. From my experience, using the wrong oil can accelerate wear or cause oil burning, leading to costly repairs.
