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Changing your vehicle’s oil is one of the most basic aspects of maintenance –
every vehicle needs it regularly to continue to function properly. If you are setting
up an appointment with your mechanic, chances are it’s to have your oil changed.
But how much thought do you usually put into this process? Or, like many of our
customers, do you simply follow the 3 months/3,000 mile rule and let our techs
handle the rest?

Our technicians are here for just that – we keep track of the details, know the
manufacturer recommendations, and identify the right type of motor oil for your
vehicle so you don’t have to. But if you have ever wondered what makes different
types of oil unique, or why you should use one type over another in your vehicle,
read on!

This guide from How Stuff Works discusses 5 types of oils and how
manufacturers specify oil type for your vehicle:

“Often times a manufacturer will suggest two or more motor oil viscosities for
an engine, such as a 5W­20 or 5W­30, based on several different factors —
including temperature. The reason for this is that engines often need a different
viscosity based on operating conditions. Knowing how scientists see viscosity will
help an owner determine the best oil for the engine.

Viscosity, at its most basic, is a fluid’s resistance to flow. Within the engine
oil world, viscosity is notated with the common “XW­XX.” The number preceding
the “W” rates the oil’s flow at 0 degrees Fahrenheit (­17.8 degrees Celsius). The
“W” stands for winter, not weight as many people think. The lower the number
here, the less it thickens in the cold. So 5W­30 viscosity engine oil thickens less in
the cold than a 10W­30, but more than a 0W­30. An engine in a colder climate,
where motor oil tends to thicken because of lower temperatures, would benefit
from 0W or 5W viscosity. A car in Death Valley would need a higher number to
keep the oil from thinning out too much.

The second number after the “W” indicates the oil’s viscosity measured at 212
degrees Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius). This number represents the oil’s
resistance to thinning at high temperatures. For example, 10W­30 oil will thin out
at higher temperatures faster than 10W­40 will.

The owner’s manual will advise the best viscosity range and the owner can then
work within those parameters.

With the right viscosity in mind, it’s time to start shopping for a type of oil. Most
commuters follow the 3­month and 3,000­mile (4,828­kilometer) rule. Frequent oil
changes means there’s less tendency to need other types of oil than
conventional. However some car companies, like Mercedes­Benz and BMW,
recommend only synthetic oil in their cars. The following list, as well as the car’s
owner’s manual, will provide a good idea of what type of oil to use. It’s also a
good rule of thumb not to switch between types. If your car started with
conventional, stick with that. If it first used synthetic, be wary about switching to
conventional.

Conventional Oil: This is the oil used in bulk at dealerships and is the
cheapest at the auto store, too. Most adhere to API and SAE standards but
offer little in the way of additive packages. This is good oil for owners that are
religious about frequent oil changes and have low­mile (but well broken­in)
engines.
Premium Conventional Oil: This is the standard new­car oil. Most leading
brands have one for SL, or highest level, service. Most are available in the
common viscosities. Car manufacturers usually specify 5W­20 or 5W­30 oil,
though some require 10W­30. These three ratings cover just about every
light­duty vehicle on the road, though this is changing as engines become
more precise and fussy about specific types oil.
Full­synthetic Oil: These oils are made for high­tech engines. If these oils
pass stringent special tests (indicated by their labeling), it means they have
superior, longer­lasting performance in all the critical areas, from viscosity
index to protection against engine deposits. They flow better at low
temperatures and maintain peak lubrication at high temperatures. While
excellent oil, synthetics are about three times as expensive as conventional
oil and not always necessary for most engines. Use the owner’s manual as a
guide. If it doesn’t call for synthetic oil, using it will only be an additional
expense that may not add anything to the engine’s performance or life.
Synthetic­blend Oil: This is essentially premium conventional oil hit with a
dose of synthetic. They’re formulated to offer better protection during heavier
engine loads and the associated higher engine temperatures. These oils are
popular with pick­up and SUV drivers because they do offer better protection,
but usually cost only a fraction more than premium conventional oils.
High­mileage Oil: More than 60 percent of vehicles on the road have more
than 75,000 miles (120,701 kilometers) on the odometer. Playing to this
growing market, oil refiners and labs developed high­mileage oils. Seal
conditioners are added to the oil (the oil can be synthetic or conventional) to
expand and increase the flexibility of internal engine seals. The conditioners
are very precise and can benefit some engines while not affecting others.

To read more about types of motor oil, read the full article from How Stuff Works.
To discuss the motor oil options for your vehicle, call our experts at 585­242­2360!
Stop by our shop anytime, or schedule your next oil change with us today!