What Type of Oil Should a Four-Stroke Gasoline Engine Use?
2 Answers
For a four-stroke gasoline engine, simply choose a well-known brand of all-season oil such as 10W-30 (or 10W-40) with a grade of SF or higher. Definition of a Four-Stroke Engine: A four-stroke engine refers to an engine where the crankshaft completes two full rotations, undergoing four strokes—intake, compression, power, and exhaust—to complete one working cycle. In contrast, a two-stroke engine only requires one rotation of the crankshaft and two strokes to complete a working cycle. Points to Consider When Choosing Engine Oil: It is particularly important to note: When purchasing, clearly inform the seller that you need four-stroke gasoline engine oil to avoid accidentally buying two-stroke engine oil or diesel engine oil.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I can tell you that choosing engine oil for four-stroke gasoline engines is no trivial matter. It depends on your vehicle type and climate. I typically use 5W-30 or 10W-40, as most cars recommend these two. In cold winters, 5W-30 ensures quicker starts, while in hot summers, 10W-40 provides better stability. I must remind you that the owner's manual is the ultimate authority—it specifies the exact grade, such as API SN or SP, to prevent engine wear. Once, I made the mistake of using uncertified oil to save money, and it led to increased engine noise and nearly caused major issues. Synthetic oil, though more expensive, lasts longer and reduces the frequency of changes. Don’t neglect regular oil level checks and change intervals, or carbon buildup will sap your car’s performance. In short, stick to what’s suitable—don’t switch randomly.
