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Which engine oil for your car: correct oil for diesel and petrol cars
Motor oil is the lifeblood of your engine. It keeps the moving parts lubricated, which reduces friction and wear, and helps keep your engine cool by dissipating heat. It also helps to clean the engine by carrying away dirt and debris, which stops sludge from building up. If you don't use the right oil, your engine can wear out more quickly, work less efficiently and end up costing you more in the long run.
What oil for your car?
To find out which oil your car needs, start by taking a look at the owner's manual. This will tell you what type of oil is recommended and whether it should be synthetic or conventional. Your mechanic can also help you choose the correct engine oil for your car. They know all about the different needs of different engines and can recommend the best oil for your vehicle based on the make, model, and driving conditions.
How to choose engine oil for your car
Selecting engine oil for your car involves checking the manufacturer’s recommendations, considering your driving conditions, and choosing the proper viscosity. Make sure you choose oils with the right certifications, such as SAE, API, or ACEA, to get the best engine performance. And don’t forget to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for the oil change interval and service.
Engine oil SAE: meaning
SAE stands for Society of Automotive Engineers. The SAE rating for engine oil indicates its viscosity or thickness. This is important because the oil's ability to protect your engine depends on how well it flows under different temperatures, ensuring optimal performance.
Engine oil API: meaning
The API rating on engine oil indicates the oil's performance level. API stands for the American Petroleum Institute. The rating system classifies oils based on their ability to protect and clean engines.
A higher API rating generally means the oil is better at handling newer engine technologies and tougher driving conditions. For example, an oil with an "SN" rating is designed for modern gasoline engines and offers better protection against wear, sludge, and deposits than older oils.
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VAG Engine oil
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Engine oil ACEA: meaning
ACEA, the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association, sets the bar for motor oil quality, much like API. ACEA oil sequences classify oils based on their performance in key areas like wear protection, deposit control, fuel economy, and emissions. A higher ACEA classification signals a more advanced oil, engineered to meet the rigorous demands of today’s engines, ensuring optimal performance and protection.
Motor oil viscosity explained
Motor oil viscosity is basically how thick or thin the oil is. Thicker oil moves slowly, like syrup, while thinner oil flows more easily, like water. The numbers on the oil bottle tell you how it behaves in different temperatures: one number for cold weather and one for when the engine is hot. The right thickness helps the oil protect your car engine parts, whether it's cold or hot outside.
Engine oil for diesel cars
Generally, diesel engines perform well with 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 oils or higher viscosities. You should choose oils that handle cold starts smoothly and maintain performance during warm/hot conditions.
Also, consider the type of oil and its API classification. Diesel engines often benefit from oils with designations such as CJ-4 or CK-4, which are designed to meet the demands of diesel engines and provide superior protection against wear and deposits.
Engine oil for petrol cars
Both 5W-30 and 5W-40 oils are popular choices for petrol engines, and each has specific advantages depending on the vehicle's needs and operating conditions. 5W-30 oil is versatile and widely recommended for its excellent lubrication over a range of temperatures, promoting fuel efficiency and smooth engine operation.
5W-40 oil, with its higher viscosity at high temperatures, provides enhanced protection in extreme conditions, making it ideal for performance vehicles or those operating in warmer climates or under heavy loads.
Car oil checker
A "car oil checker" usually refers to a dipstick, a simple tool used to check the oil level in a car’s engine. It’s a long, thin piece of metal or plastic with markings that indicate the oil level. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Park on level ground. This will make sure you get an accurate reading.
- Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
- Locate the dipstick. It usually has a bright yellow or orange handle and is near the engine.
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean using a rag or paper towel.
- Check the oil level between the low and high marks.
- If the oil level is low, add the required amount of oil through the oil fill cap on top of the engine. There’s no need to have the dipstick inserted while adding oil.
- After adding oil, wait a moment, then reinsert the car oil dipstick fully to check the new oil level.
How to check oil in a car
To check your car's oil, first park on level ground and let the engine cool down. Locate the dipstick, usually yellow or orange, near the engine. Pull it out, wipe it clean, and reinsert it. Pull it out again and check the oil level against the markings. If it's below the "low" mark, you need to add oil. If it's above the "full" mark, it's overfilled.
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LIQUI MOLY Engine oil
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How much oil does your car need?
The amount of oil your car needs depends on the size of its engine. Smaller engines typically use about 3.8 to 4.7 litres, while larger engines can use 4.7 to 5.7 litres or more. It's important to add the correct amount, as over- or underfilling can damage your engine. To find out the exact amount for your engine size, check your car's manual or consult a trusted mechanic.
What happens if you put the wrong oil in your car?
Don't panic. Although using the wrong oil isn't ideal, it doesn't necessarily spell immediate disaster for your engine. However, continued use of the wrong oil can lead to problems.
Here's what to do:
- Check the type of oil: Consult your owner's manual to determine the correct oil type and viscosity for your car.
- Short-term use: If you've recently used the wrong oil, you can probably drive a short distance without causing significant damage.
- Oil change: Schedule an oil change as soon as possible to replace the incorrect oil with the correct one.
- Be aware of your car's behaviour: If you notice any unusual noises, smoke, or performance problems, it's important to have it checked by a mechanic immediately.
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