What Type of Oil Should a Naturally Aspirated Engine Use?
2 Answers
Naturally aspirated engines should use 5w20, 0w20, 5w30, or 0w30 engine oil. Engine oil serves functions such as lubrication and wear reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, and shock absorption. A naturally aspirated engine is a type of automotive intake system that relies solely on atmospheric pressure to force air into the combustion chamber without any turbocharger. Methods for maintaining the engine include: 1. Using high-quality engine oil; 2. Using qualified coolant; 3. Regularly cleaning the radiator to remove scale; 4. Frequently removing carbon deposits; 5. Timely replacement of the car's three filters (air, oil, and fuel filters); 6. Maintaining reasonable engine speeds.
Having driven naturally aspirated cars for decades, I use full synthetic oil, such as 5W-30, because it provides better engine lubrication and reduces wear. Naturally aspirated engines don’t have turbochargers, so they aren’t as demanding on oil, but viscosity selection is crucial. In cold winter regions, the 5W series ensures quicker starts, while in hot summer areas, 10W-40 is safer to prevent overheating and engine seizure. I find the user manual most reliable—for example, my older Accord’s manual recommends 5W-20, and sticking to it gives peace of mind. A full synthetic oil change lasts up to 7,000 km, outperforming semi-synthetic oils and saving on long-term maintenance costs. Don’t skimp by choosing off-brand oils; API-certified full synthetics protect cylinders and pistons, ensuring smooth and long-lasting performance. Always check oil levels during maintenance, fix leaks promptly, and make it a habit—it never hurts.
