The kind of car oil you should opt for depends on multiple factors, such as the manufacturer’s specifications, the type of car you drive, and how old your car engine is. The climate you live in is also of importance, which means you need to check the viscosity of the oil you opt for.
Viscosity refers to a fluid’s resistance to flow. On oil labels, you will see numbers like 5W-20 or 10W-30. The first set measures cold temperature performance, whereas the second set measures high temperature performance. This means that the oil will have a viscosity of the first grade when cold, and a viscosity of the second grade when hot. If you live in colder areas, opt for the lower “W” number, as this means that it’s a thinner oil. To help you choose the right oil for your car, here’s a breakdown of the four types of car oil.
Conventional Oil
Although conventional oil is considered the most inferior of the four oil types, it’s the oil most commonly used in new cars. Plus, it’s also the cheapest oil on the market. It’s made from refined petroleum or crude oil and contains detergent elements, anti-foaming additives, and corrosion inhibitors. If you use this oil, it’s important that you remember to change it regularly, at around every 4,000 miles/four months. Also note, that these oils contain impurities, which means it doesn’t perform well in extreme temperatures.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil contains more uniform molecules with fewer impurities than conventional oil, as it has gone through additional chemically engineered processes. This means that synthetic oil flows better at cold temperatures and also sustains peak lubricity when it’s hot. These oils are mainly used for cars with high-tech engines, such as the Chevy Corvette, and are expensive. Also, you only need to change synthetic oil at around 7,500 to 10,000 miles.
Synthetic Blend Oil
As the name indicates, synthetic oil is a mixture of conventional and synthetic oils. These kinds of oils are great for pickups or SUVs that carry a heavier load, as well as for high temperatures. In general, this oil increases fuel economy, as it’s less volatile and evaporates far less.
Also, for those who want to make the switch from conventional to full synthetic oil but cannot afford it, synthetic blend oil is a good option, as it offers improved performance and durability at a slightly higher price than conventional oil. As is the case with synthetic oil, you want to change synthetic blend oil around every 7,500 to 10,000 miles.
Higher-Mileage Oil
If you have a car that has more than 75,000 miles on it, you should opt for higher-mileage oil, as it contains additives that seal conditioners, prevent leaks, and help your engine last longer. It also reduces the sludge that conventional oils may leave behind. For this improved performance, however, you’ll pay more than for conventional oils. As this also a synthetic oil, you would also start looking at changing the oil at around 7,500 to 10,000 miles.
If you’re not sure what type of oil to opt for, speak to your local car dealer or mechanic and they will guide you in the right direction.
Image via DealerOn
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