How To Choose The Right Engine Oil: Don’t Let Your Vehicle Fall Behind

There’s something about car engines that just captures the imagination. Maybe it’s because they’re such complex machines, or maybe it’s because they can be so powerful. Whatever the reason, many people are fascinated by them – and rightly so! After all, your car engine is what powers your vehicle.

So, if you wish to keep your car running smoothly, you need to make sure you use the proper engine oil. But how do you choose the right oil? Don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this blog post, Eastern Shore Hyundai will provide a brief guide about engine oils so you can determine which oil is best for your vehicle. Read on.

Different Types of Engine Oils

Before you can decide which oil to buy, it’s vital that you understand the different types of engine oil available. Engine oils are split into three categories:

• SAE 5W-30 Engine Oil – This is considered a ‘winter-grade’ oil.
• SAE 10W40 Engine Oil – this is considered a ‘summer-grade’ oil.
• SAE 5W-20 Engine Oil – This is considered summer and winter-grade engine oil.

SAE: What Is It?

SAE stands for Society of Automotive Engineers. The letters represent the grading system used by American engineers to measure the quality of engine oils.

There are three significant grades in this grading system – those with four-digit numbers, those with two-digit numbers, and those with single digits. Engine oils with four-digit numbers indicate the viscosity of engine oil at low temperatures. In contrast, those with two-digit numbers indicate the same viscosity at high temperatures. Engine oils with one digit such as 5W-30 and 5W-40 indicate performance under both conditions.

How To Choose the Perfect Engine Oil?

There are 2 main engine oil types to choose from: synthetic and conventional.

If you often face the problem of engine sludge or engine oil breakdown, then it is time that you switch over to synthetic oils.

Engine sludge is a thick, black sludge that accumulates in your car’s engine passages and can reduce the smooth flow throughout. Engine oil breakdown occurs when standard engine oils are not up to the task due to high temperatures or excessive loads.

Certain aspects might help you pick the best Engine Oil suitable for your car.

Car Manufacturer and Series

Identifying the type and model of your automobile is the primary step in selecting the proper motor oil. New vehicles are being manufactured with high-performance engines to boost efficiency, and improved oil formulas are being manufactured to keep up with such changes. So, be sure to choose the one that complies with your vehicle.

Choose Viscosity Grade

Another thing to consider when choosing engine oil is to check which viscosity grade is best for your engine. Engine oil comes in various grades, but SAE 5W-30 is usually recommended for most cars.

Determine Engine Type

If you’re unsure which kind of engine you have, ask your mechanic or check the owner’s manual. It will mention engine type – whether it is a 4-stroke engine or a 2-stroke engine.

Ending Note

So, don’t let your vehicle fall behind. Bring it into Eastern Shore Hyundai serving Mobile, AL, for a quick check-up and oil change. We’ll make sure everything is running smoothly so you can get back on the road worry-free. Plus, our service center always has great deals and coupons available, so be sure to check out our complimentary maintenance and schedule a service appointment today.