What Types of Cars Are Suitable for Semi-Synthetic Engine Oil?
3 Answers
Semi-synthetic engine oil is suitable for cars equipped with naturally aspirated engines. The classifications of engine oil include: 1. Conventional mineral oil; 2. Semi-synthetic oil; 3. Full synthetic oil. The functions of engine oil are: 1. To separate the surfaces of relatively sliding parts between the piston and cylinder, as well as between the main shaft and bearing bush, reducing component wear; 2. To carry heat back to the oil tank and then dissipate it into the air, assisting the radiator in cooling the engine. The method for changing engine oil is: 1. Lift the car, remove the protective plate, and place a container of about 10 liters under the oil drain plug; 2. Unscrew the oil drain plug, use an air gun to blow into the oil filler port for two minutes, then tighten the drain plug after draining and wipe it with a tissue to check for oil leaks; 3. Reinstall the protective plate, lower the car, and use a funnel to add oil through the filler port.
I've been driving a Corolla for seven years and always use semi-synthetic oil. This type of oil is particularly suitable for ordinary family cars like ours, especially those with naturally aspirated engines. Many Japanese cars use 0W-20 grade oil, and semi-synthetic is completely sufficient. I commute over a thousand kilometers every month, and semi-synthetic provides better protection than mineral oil while being one-third cheaper than full synthetic. Last time during maintenance, the mechanic said that for someone like me who often drives on highways, the oxidation resistance of semi-synthetic is sufficient. Even hybrid cars with start-stop functions can use it, as long as you don't pursue extreme performance too much. Remember to choose reputable brands; the one I use costs just over 200 yuan per barrel during promotions, which is quite cost-effective.
Our auto repair shop most frequently recommends semi-synthetic oil for daily commuter car owners. Many current 1.5L naturally aspirated engine vehicles, such as mainstream models like the Lavida and Sylphy, have factory requirements specifying semi-synthetic oil. Even turbocharged vehicles can use it, especially small-displacement turbo models, as long as they're not performance cars. I've seen many Hyundai owners using semi-synthetic oil for over 100,000 kilometers with their engines still in excellent condition. The key is to change the oil regularly every 5,000 to 7,000 kilometers, which is more important than using premium oil. Just the other day, a young woman driving a Sagitar was persuaded by the 4S dealership to use full-synthetic oil, spending an extra 300 yuan unnecessarily. For ordinary commuter cars, semi-synthetic oil's cleaning performance and high-temperature protection are completely adequate.
