In digital times it can be easy to find information. However, finding the right information can be a bit tricky. Solution Oil collected 5 essential facts you need to know about motor oil, so that you have the right information from now on!
1 – Change engine oil
True or False: You Need to Change Your Oil Every 10,000 KM?
FALSE: For years the rule of thumb was to change your engine oil every 10,000 miles, but with synthetic oil you can go much further. Gradually, car manufacturers have extended oil drain intervals to 15,000 km, then to 20,000 and now even to 30,000 km.
2 – Labels
True or False: The W in 5W40 refers to ‘Weight’?
FALSE: The W refers to ‘Winter’. The viscosity of motor oil is subject to temperature changes. A single viscosity only represents oil flow when heated, but what if you need to start your car on a cold winter morning? That’s when the multi-grading rating comes into the picture. The oil will flow more slowly, which is different than when it is heated, so this viscosity rating is also important. The number before ‘W’ represents the viscosity at engine start-up, while the number after the ‘W’ represents the viscosity during engine operation.
3 – Color oil
True or False: When engine oil goes dark, is it dirty and needs to be changed?
FALSE: Quite the contrary! Detergent oil disperses small particles, which can result in engine sludge, and keeps them in suspension. This way, these particles cannot build up and therefore the oil will appear darker. Of course, oil is limited to how many of these particulate matter it can hold. It eventually needs to be changed when it becomes saturated. Change your oil as recommended by your car manufacturer, as the color on the dipstick is definitely not the correct indicator for an oil change interval.
4 – Additives
True or False: Engine Oil Additives Improve Your Engine’s Performance?
FALSE: Oil additives give the lubricant its cleaning properties that keep your engine free of sludge. They also contain rust retardants to prevent corrosion and contain additives to protect metal surfaces. They also improve the engine oil’s viscosity index, which is the temperature range under which it flows properly through the engine. Using the correct engine oil for your vehicle not only increases performance, but also avoids a necessary engine flush. Use our product recommendation tool when looking for oil!
5 – Synthetic oil older cars
True or False: Synthetic Oils Cause Leaks in Older Cars?
Admittedly, the seals in engines of older cars (20 years or older) with high mileage may not be able to handle the cleaning capabilities of the additives in synthetic lubricants, which could cause leakage. For these vehicles, it is advisable to follow the instructions and recommendations that you will find in your car manual. The oils for use in older cars are of the mineral type with additives specially adapted to adequately protect these engines.