How to Choose Car Engine Oil

Viscosity

Viscosity is a measure of how easily oil flows. The higher the viscosity, the thicker the oil. Thicker oils are better at protecting engines from wear and tear, but they can also reduce fuel efficiency. Thinner oils are better for fuel efficiency, but they may not provide as much protection against wear and tear.

The viscosity of oil is measured in SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) grades. The most common SAE grades for car engine oil are 5W-30, 10W-40, and 15W-40. The first number in the SAE grade indicates the oil’s viscosity at low temperatures. The lower the number, the better the oil flows at low temperatures. The second number in the SAE grade indicates the oil’s viscosity at high temperatures. The higher the number, the thicker the oil is at high temperatures.

The best viscosity for your car’s engine will depend on the climate you live in and the type of driving you do. If you live in a cold climate, you will need an oil with a lower viscosity, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40. If you live in a warm climate, you can use an oil with a higher viscosity, such as 15W-40.

API Service Category

The API (American Petroleum Institute) service category is another important factor to consider when choosing car engine oil. The API service category indicates the type of engine that the oil is designed for. The most common API service categories for car engine oil are SN, SM, SL, and SJ.

• SN: This is the latest API service category and is recommended for all gasoline-powered vehicles.
• SM: This API service category is recommended for gasoline-powered vehicles manufactured after 2004.
• SL: This API service category is recommended for gasoline-powered vehicles manufactured after 2001.
• SJ: This API service category is recommended for gasoline-powered vehicles manufactured before 2001.

You should always use an oil that meets the API service category recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

Brand

There are many different brands of car engine oil available on the market. Some of the most popular brands include Mobil 1, Castrol, Pennzoil, and Valvoline.

When choosing a brand of car engine oil, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Price
• Quality
• Availability

You should also consider the recommendations of your vehicle’s manufacturer when choosing a brand of car engine oil.

Conclusion

Choosing the right car engine oil is important for protecting your engine and ensuring that it runs smoothly. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the best oil for your car’s engine.