What to consider when choosing the right engine oil?
Inscriptions and labels on canisters are full of a variety of abbreviations and numbers in different orders. ACEA; SAE; 5W-30; A3-B4; VW 505.00, 5W-40 – what does it mean? What oil should I buy to make the motor good? We will try to just answer all the questions about the engine oil.
What is the main task of engine oil?
First of all, it should effectively lubricate the moving parts of the engine, reducing friction. In addition, motor oil absorbs mechanical abrasions and burning residues, thus playing a role, such as sponges and brushes. Engine oil protects against rust, serves to cool engine parts that are particularly “hot”, and ensures tightness.
What to consider when choosing the right engine oil?
The most important criterion for choosing an oil is manufacturer’s tolerances. Neither the viscosity nor the manufacturer have the same key value as tolerances. As a rule, these parameters are indicated in the service books, or instructions for using the car. Accordingly, on each canister of oil such tolerances should also be indicated. You met such combinations of numbers and letters, such as, for example: VW 505.00 or Mercedes-Benz 229.1? Recommendations of the manufacturer of the car and the tolerances on the canister must match.
How often do you need to control the oil level?
About engine oils: SAE, tolerances, recommendations
There is no definite answer, but there are generally accepted rules. For example, if you have a turbocharged car, with a mileage of 300-400 thousand, it is advisable to control the level every morning, before the trip. Usually, if the motor does not sin, then control once a week is the norm. Some cars themselves highlight the oil level on the instrument panel before you start the engine. Each car has an indicator that makes itself felt at a critically low level, but as it often happens, it burns, and when it is too late to fill up, it’s time to repair.
Should diesel engines with particulate filters use special oil?
Yes, so that the remnants of combustion from the engine do not clog the filter. In cars equipped with a diesel particulate filter, so-called low-ash engine oils are used. These are oils that burn almost without ash.
Can motor oils also save fuel?
Yes, they can, really, this is not marketing. The test proved that up to 15-20 percent is certainly nonsense, but up to 6-8% is very real.