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If you are like many drivers, you do not think twice about what type of oil goes in your car. You likely take your car to the mechanic each time the oil light comes on, which indicates that your oil needs changed.
However, did you know that different types of oil may be good or bad for your car? If you are confused about how to tell which type of oil is best for your car, you are not alone!
How can you be sure that you are choosing the best oil for your car? Make sure to read the manual that comes with your car. In addition, you can check with your mechanic. Lastly, consider the tips below when deciding which kind of oil is best for your unique car.
How to Choose the Best Motor Oil?
An important factor when choosing a great type of oil for your car is how thick the oil is. This is also known as the viscosity of the oil. When considering this factor, you will need to consider which temperatures you normally drive in. The viscosity is typically rated on a spectrum from zero degrees F to 212 degrees F.
You may also see a “W”, which indicates that it is a good option for winter conditions. The thicker the oil, the better the lubrication and seals will be in general.
You need to keep in mind that the oil will get thicker when it is colder and will thin as the temperature outside rises. Thus, considering the weather conditions where you will be driving can aid you in finding a good oil that has the right match of additives.
One of the quickest ways to tell whether the oil you are about to purchase is a good option is to read the label. You want to make sure that the oil has been American Petroleum Institute approved. You may see their abbreviation (API) instead of the full name listed.
There should also be a symbol that looks like a starburst. All of these indicators mean that the oil has been previously tested and found to be acceptable for use.
When reading the labels, you will also want to look for a number of other indicators. First, make sure that the oil has an SL designation on it. In addition, you will want to make sure that the oil is made by a reputable maker, such as Castrol or Valvoline.
Some car manuals specifically state which type of oil will be needed. For example, some cars run on a certain type in order to maximize fuel usage. Other manuals will recommend switching to an oil that is good for high-mileage cars after your car reaches 75,000 miles.
Another important factor that you should consider is whether you want a conventional or synthetic oil. There are benefits and drawbacks to each type of oil. Most newer cars will use synthetic oil. Full synthetic oils are more common in certain brands of cars, such as Mercedes-Benz and Corvettes.
In general, the full synthetic oil means that it protects again engine damage and is lasts longer than other types of oil while performing well in extreme temperatures. A synthetic blend, on the other hand, combines traditional and synthetic oil. In is good for hot temperatures and heavy loads.
As such, it helps prevent against volatility, which can lead to increased fuel usage. These cost less than the full synthetic brands. Conventional oil is also an option for some drivers. This is the type of oil that is used in many new cars.
What Should I Do If I Am Still Unsure?
If you still are not certain about which motor oil is best for your car, you have a number of options. First, you can look online and use a motor oil selector (i.e., https://mobiloil.com/en/product-selector).
Secondly, you can easily check the manual that came with your car or call your dealership to determine which oil is most highly recommended for the car that you own. Lastly, you can ask your local mechanic which type of oil he or she recommends for your car, given all the above considerations.
Taking the time to find the right oil for your car save you lots of money. It may lead to a cleaner engine, better fuel economy, and less trips to the mechanic to change your oil. Thus, although it may seem like a lot to think about, it can save you money in the long run!
