How to know if your car is using the right engine oil?
Your car's engine is important, and at its core flows a vital fluid: engine oil. This lubricant isn't just there to make things slippery; it cools, cleans, and protects the internal components. Using the wrong engine oil can lead to premature wear, reduced performance, and even, in the worst-case scenario, engine failure. So, how do you know if your car is using the right stuff?
The most efficient and trustworthy way to find the correct engine oil for your vehicle is to check your owner's manual. This often-overlooked booklet contains a lot of information that is relevant to your car's make, model, and year, including the manufacturer's recommended oil type and viscosity. Look for sections on "Maintenance" or "Specifications." The manual will usually say something like "SAE 5W-30" or "API SN." These codes are important.
Understanding Oil Codes:
SAE (This stands for Society of Automotive Engineers): This business grades oil based on its viscosity, or thickness. The numbers you see (like 5W-30) indicate the oil's flow characteristics at different temperatures. The number before the "W" (for Winter) indicates its cold-weather viscosity, while the number after the "W" indicates its viscosity at operating temperature. Using an oil that's too thick or too thin can negatively impact engine performance and protection.
API (This stands for American Petroleum Institute). This company sets performance standards for motor oils. The API symbol on the oil bottle will have a letter designation (like SN, SP). Newer letters generally indicate higher quality and compatibility with more recent engine technologies. Your owner's manual will specify the minimum API rating required.
Beyond the Manual:
While the owner's manual is a clear guide, here are some other ways to ensure you're on the right track:
Check the Oil Fill Cap: Sometimes, the manufacturer will print the recommended oil viscosity directly on or near the oil fill cap.
Refer to Reputable Parts Stores or Mechanics: When purchasing oil, provide your car's year, make, and model to the relevant business. They can usually look up the correct type of oil. Similarly, a trusted mechanic will always use the manufacturer-recommended oil unless there is a specific reason not to (for example, very high-mileage vehicles).
Online Oil Finders: Many oil manufacturers have online tools where you can input your vehicle details and receive a recommendation. However, always cross-reference this with your owner's manual.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Oil?
Using the incorrect oil can lead to various problems:
Insufficient Lubrication: Oil that is too thin might not provide adequate protection at high temperatures, leading to increased wear on the parts.
Difficulty Starting in Cold Weather: Oil that is too thick can make it harder for the engine to turn over in cold temperatures.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Incorrect viscosity can increase internal engine friction, leading to lower fuel economy.
Damage to Emission Control Systems: Some modern oils are specifically made to be compatible with catalytic converters and other emission control devices. Using the wrong type can harm these systems.
The best way to know if your car is using the right engine oil is to consult your owner's manual and ensure the oil you're using meets the specified SAE viscosity grade and API service rating.
Don't take risks when it comes to your engine's life; a little research can save you a lot of trouble and money along the way.
Our Recommended Engine Oils for your vehicle
1. Mannol Energy Premium 5W30 C3 Fully Synthetic Engine Oil
Innovative, versatile, all-synthetic ester-containing premium synthetic engine oil
for modern diesel and gas turbocharged and non-turbocharged engines.
Designed in accordance with the requirements of European automakers. SAE 5W-30
Specifications and Approvals
API SN/CH-4
ACEA C2
ACEA C3
VOLKSWAGEN 505.01
BMW LL-04
MB Approval 229.51, 229.52, 229.31, 226.5
GM dexos2
RENAULT RN0700
RENAULT RN0710
2. Fanfaro 0W30 C2/ C3 XTR Engine Oil
Premium PAO-based engine oil for modern diesel- and petrol-powered engines of vehicles produced by European manufacturers with and without a turbocharger.
Specifications and Approvals
SAE 0W-30 API SN Plus
ACEA C2
API SP
Recommendation:
BMW LL-12FE
MB 229.61
FORD WSS-M2C950-A PSA B71 2290
PSA B71 2312
ACEA C3
OPEL OV0401547
3. Mannol Legend Formula 0W20 C5 Engine Oil
