How Do You Read Engine Oil Grades?

Changing your automobile's oil is the most basic kind of maintenance, Engine oil helps keep your car's engine running smoothly, efficiently, and for a long time. It may appear difficult to change the oil in your car if you haven't done so for a long time or ever.

The most frequently asked question is, "What type of oil should I use?" This refers to engine oil types. The numbers refer to viscosity, the ability of an oil to flow and keep objects (like engine parts) separated. The viscosity of the oil is indicated by a high number.

Silverpoint, TN, is still cold. Overdrive Used Cars will describe the many oil grades to help you figure out which type of oil is ideal for your vehicle during the winter.

Types of Motor Oil:

Each oil grade will fall into one of the following categories: mineral, synthetic blend, or full synthetic.

Mineral Oils: These are petroleum-based and thicker as they get hotter. Because they're more likely to break down in extreme temperatures and lose their viscosity, these motor oils aren't recommended for high-performance engines that need more resistance from their fluids.

Full Synthetic Oil: This is the most advanced motor oil you can use. It's made from ultra-refined petroleum and has a synthetic additive that increases its heat, cold, and breakdown resistance. Compared with mineral oils, it lasts longer in high-performance engines because of these properties.

Synthetic Blend Oil: These are a mix between full synthetic and mineral motor oils. They're engineered by mixing regular petroleum oil with artificial additives, giving them a better performance than wholly mineral oils while still costing less than full synthetics do.

Introduction to Motor Oil Grades:

Different grades of motor oil are available in the market, and each is suited for a specific use. The number you see on the bottle (e.g., 0W-20) refers to the weight or thickness of the oil, and it's essential to use the correct grade for your car.

Oil weights are measured in "w" s, with lower numbers indicating a thinner oil. So an oil labeled "0W-20" will be much thinner than an oil labeled "30W-50". In general, you'll want to use a lighter weight oil during warm weather and a heavier weight oil during cold weather.

A Little More About Oil Grades:

The "W" in the oil grade stands for "winter" and refers to how the oil behaves in cold weather. The thicker the oil, the higher its number is, and the better it will protect your engine in cold conditions.

Motor oil also comes with various additives that provide additional protection for your engine. Some additives help the engine run more efficiently and reduce friction, which helps increase your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Other additives prevent harmful corrosion in your car's engine.

Takeaway:

It's easy to be perplexed by the figures on your oil can. It can take a little time to get used to reading them, but it will make it easier to choose the right oil for your car once you do.

If you’re still confused, we recommend scheduling a service with us so our certified mechanics can change your oil and guide you better about which oil is best for your car.

Also, our dealership, Overdrive Used Cars, serving Silverpoint, TN, has an impressive collection of vehicles to choose from if you want to buy a new car. Give us a call to chat about what you are looking for, and we will try to find the perfect vehicle for you.