Published on: March 12, 2023
Written by Gian Camilo / Fact-checked by Harun Khan
Engine oil is an essential component of every vehicle’s engine system. It not only lubricates the engine’s moving parts but also plays a crucial role in keeping the engine cool by carrying away heat. Without proper engine oil, a vehicle’s engine can quickly wear out and break down, resulting in expensive repairs or even engine replacement.
With so many different types and brands of engine oils available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your vehicle. The oil’s grade, viscosity, and certification are crucial factors to consider when selecting engine oil.
Engine Oil Grades
Engine oil grades are essential to consider when choosing the right engine oil for your vehicle. The American Petroleum Institute (API) classification system is widely used to grade engine oils. The API classification system consists of two letters and a number, such as SAE 5W-30, where SAE refers to the Society of Automotive Engineers, and 5W-30 indicates the oil’s viscosity. Viscosity refers to the oil’s thickness and its resistance to flow.
The number before the W (winter) indicates the oil’s viscosity at low temperatures, while the number after the W indicates the oil’s viscosity at high temperatures. For example, SAE 5W-30 is thinner than SAE 10W-30, making it more suitable for colder temperatures and quick starts. Thicker oils such as SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 are more suitable for warmer climates or older engines with high mileage.
It is crucial to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the recommended engine oil grade. Using the wrong grade of engine oil can lead to engine damage, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased engine wear and tear. Additionally, using the wrong engine oil grade can lead to engine overheating and failure, resulting in costly repairs or even engine replacement.
Different engine oil grades perform differently under various driving conditions. For example, if you live in a colder climate, you will need an engine oil grade that can handle low temperatures and quick starts. On the other hand, if you live in a warmer climate, you will need an engine oil grade that can handle high temperatures without breaking down or becoming too thin.
Engine Oil Certifications
When selecting engine oil for your vehicle, it is essential to look for certifications that indicate the oil meets industry standards. Engine oil certifications are issued by organizations such as the API, International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC), and European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA).
The API issues certifications for gasoline and diesel engine oils, with the most common certifications being API SN (gasoline) and API CK-4 (diesel). These certifications indicate that the engine oil has passed a series of performance tests and meets industry standards for engine protection, fuel efficiency, and emissions control.
ILSAC certifications are primarily for gasoline engines and include GF-5, GF-6A, and GF-6B. These certifications indicate that the engine oil has passed a series of performance tests, including fuel economy, engine protection, and low-speed pre-ignition prevention.
ACEA certifications are primarily for European vehicles and include categories such as A1/B1, A3/B3, and C2. These certifications indicate that the engine oil meets specific requirements for European vehicles, such as extended drain intervals, fuel efficiency, and low emissions.
Using an engine oil that meets industry standards and certifications is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s warranty and ensuring optimal engine performance. Non-certified engine oils may not provide the same level of protection and performance as certified oils, and using them may void your vehicle’s warranty.
Types of Engine Oil Grades
There are several types of engine oil grades, each designed to meet different performance requirements and specifications. The most common engine oil grades are:
SAE 0W-20
This type of oil has a thin viscosity and is designed for use in modern, fuel-efficient engines. It offers good fuel economy and reduces engine wear.
SAE 5W-20
This oil is also designed for use in modern engines and offers good fuel economy. It has a slightly thicker viscosity than 0W-20 oil and may be recommended for use in hotter climates.
SAE 5W-30
This is a versatile oil that is suitable for use in a wide range of vehicles and driving conditions. It provides good fuel economy and engine protection and is often recommended by vehicle manufacturers.
SAE 10W-30
This oil is slightly thicker than 5W-30 and may be recommended for use in older engines or in hotter climates. It provides good engine protection and is a common choice for high-mileage vehicles.
SAE 10W-40
This oil is thicker than 10W-30 and may be recommended for use in high-performance engines or in hotter climates. It offers good engine protection but may reduce fuel economy.
SAE 20W-50
This is a heavy-duty oil that is designed for use in high-mileage or high-performance engines. It provides excellent engine protection but may reduce fuel economy.
It is important to check your vehicle owner’s manual to determine the recommended oil grade for your specific make and model, as using the wrong oil can result in poor engine performance and even engine damage.
How to Choose the Right Grade and Certification?
Choosing the right grade and certification for your engine oil depends on several factors, including your vehicle’s make and model, the driving conditions you typically encounter, and any manufacturer recommendations.
Consult Your Owner’s Manual
The owner’s manual for your vehicle will typically include a recommended oil grade and certification. This should be your first reference point when choosing an oil for your engine.
Consider Driving Conditions
If you frequently drive in extreme temperatures or heavy traffic, you may need oil with a different viscosity grade than what is recommended in your owner’s manual. For example, if you live in a hot climate, you may want to consider a thicker oil with a higher viscosity grade. On the other hand, if you frequently drive in cold weather, a thinner oil with a lower viscosity grade may be a better choice.
Look for Certification
Look for engine oil that has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API) or International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC). These organizations set standards for engine oil performance and quality, so choosing a certified oil can help ensure that you are using a high-quality product.
Consider Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil can offer several benefits over conventional oil, including better performance in extreme temperatures and increased engine protection. Synthetic oil is typically more expensive than conventional oil, so it may not be the best choice for everyone.
Seek Professional Advice
If you are unsure which oil grade and certification is best for your vehicle, consult with a mechanic or other automotive professional. They can provide guidance based on your specific driving habits and vehicle needs.
Benefits of Using the Right Engine Oil
Choosing the right engine oil for your vehicle can have several benefits. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of using the right engine oil:
Improved Engine Performance
The right engine oil can improve your vehicle’s engine performance by reducing friction and wear on moving parts. This can lead to smoother operation, better acceleration, and improved fuel efficiency.
Longer Engine Life
Using the right engine oil can help prolong your engine’s lifespan by providing proper lubrication and protection against wear and tear. It can also prevent engine overheating, which can cause significant damage and costly repairs.
Improved Fuel Economy
The right engine oil can help improve your vehicle’s fuel economy by reducing friction and drag on moving parts, resulting in less energy required to run the engine. This can save you money on fuel costs over time.
Reduced Emissions
The right engine oil can help reduce harmful emissions from your vehicle’s engine, contributing to a cleaner environment. Certified engine oils, in particular, are designed to meet strict emissions standards.
Maintains Warranty
Using the right engine oil that meets manufacturer specifications and industry certifications can help maintain your vehicle’s warranty. Using non-certified oils or oils that do not meet manufacturer specifications can void your warranty, leading to costly repairs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right engine oil for your vehicle is essential for maintaining optimal engine performance, longevity, and meeting manufacturer specifications. Engine oil grades and certifications play a significant role in selecting the right oil for your vehicle, and it is crucial to understand their importance.
Engine oil grades indicate the oil’s viscosity and its ability to flow in different temperature ranges, while engine oil certifications provide assurance that the oil meets industry standards for engine protection, fuel efficiency, and emissions control.
Using the right engine oil that meets manufacturer specifications and industry certifications can have several benefits, including improved engine performance, longer engine life, improved fuel economy, reduced emissions, and maintaining your vehicle’s warranty.
When selecting engine oil for your vehicle, it is essential to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and look for engine oils that meet industry standards and certifications, such as API, ILSAC, and ACEA.
You have to know that the power steering system in a vehicle is an essential component that enables the driver to turn the steering wheel with ease and maneuver the vehicle effortlessly. Click here for details.