What Type of Oil Should a China VI Vehicle Use?
3 Answers
China VI vehicles typically use 5W30 semi-synthetic oil. The choice of 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. Always select the oil type recommended in the vehicle's user manual. Owners should opt for multi-grade oil whenever possible, as it offers benefits such as fuel economy, extended lifespan, and high efficiency, providing better protection for the engine. The primary functions of engine oil are to reduce friction and wear on moving parts, remove sludge and varnish from the engine, neutralize acids produced by fuel and lubricant oxidation, improve piston ring sealing, and cool the engine by carrying away heat from moving components.
As an experienced driver who regularly drives a China VI compliant vehicle, changing engine oil is quite particular. You must use low-ash oil, such as ACEA C5 or C6 standards, because it has low ash content and low emissions, which can protect the particulate filter from clogging. Otherwise, repairs will be costly and troublesome. The recommended viscosity is 0W-20 or 5W-30, which works well for cold starts in winter and won't be too thin in summer. The specific model should be checked in the manual. Brands like Castrol or Shell have special China VI series. Don't skimp and use regular oil, as it can damage the system and affect emission compliance. Change the oil every 5,000 kilometers or six months to ensure smooth engine operation and fuel efficiency, preventing power loss due to excessive carbon buildup. In short, don't overlook this small but important choice.
Having driven for many years and encountered the engine oil issue with China VI vehicles, I find checking the user manual most reliable. Generally, low-ash oils like 0W-30 or 5W-30 viscosity are recommended to protect the DPF system. They are affordable, stable in performance, and economical, saving a lot on fuel costs per oil change. Avoid using older oil types as high ash content can clog the exhaust, leading to higher maintenance costs later. I always choose certified products from major brands during maintenance to ensure emissions compliance, making driving safe and reliable. Also, pay attention to seasonal changes—slightly thicker oil in summer and thinner in winter. Always confirm details in the manual before proceeding to avoid engine wear and extend vehicle lifespan.
