What type of oil is officially recommended for the Jetta VS5?
2 Answers
The Jetta VS5 officially recommends using 5W-30 grade engine oil. The oil type can be selected according to the maintenance manual's recommendations. The first maintenance for the Jetta VS5 is required after driving 5,000 kilometers or approximately half a year. Every vehicle comes with a maintenance manual upon leaving the factory, which can be consulted to determine the appropriate oil viscosity for the car. Additionally, some car manufacturers mark the recommended oil viscosity grade on the engine oil filler cap. The choice of oil grade primarily depends on the car manufacturer's requirements. Nowadays, new cars generally require the use of API SN or higher-grade lubricants, regardless of the vehicle's price. Most urban vehicles often operate in harsh driving conditions and require higher-quality lubricants to protect the engine. In regions with unstable fuel quality, higher-grade lubricants should be used. If it is necessary to mix oils, whether oils can be mixed depends on whether the mixing is done strictly according to the mixing principles. However, it should be noted that mixing different types of oils will result in turbidity. Since different brands and types of oils have different chemical additives, these chemicals may react when mixed, reducing lubrication effectiveness and potentially producing acidic or alkaline compounds that accelerate corrosion of engine components. Most oil dispersants and detergents use sulfonates, while some dispersants are salicylates. These two are incompatible. If two lubricants are mixed, phenomena such as layering, turbidity, and reduced cleaning ability may occur.
I've been driving a Jetta VS5, and the official manual states that fully synthetic engine oil meeting Volkswagen VW 502.00 or 508.00 standards should be used, with common viscosities being 5W-40 or 0W-20. This ensures better lubrication for the engine at high RPMs and protects turbocharged components, especially during city traffic jams or long-distance driving. I personally use Castrol EDGE 5W-40 and change it every 10,000 kilometers, feeling that the engine responds more sharply. If incorrect oil like mineral oil is used, it may cause carbon buildup or wear. I recommend checking the manual or consulting an authorized service center before maintenance. Also, regularly check the dipstick, with the oil level ideally at the middle mark—this saves money and gives peace of mind.