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How to Find the Correct Oil for Your Car
June 26, 2024
Properly maintaining your car is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. One critical aspect of car maintenance is choosing the right engine oil. Selecting the correct oil for your vehicle can significantly impact its efficiency, engine life, and overall performance. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through how to Find the Correct Oil for Your Car.
Check Your Car's Owner's Manual
The first and most crucial step in finding the correct oil for your car is to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual. The manual provides specific information about the recommended oil type, viscosity, and performance standards for your car’s engine. The manufacturer’s guidelines are tailored to suit your vehicle’s engine and are the most reliable source for selecting the right oil.
In addition to car manuals, there are many websites available in which you simply need to enter your car’s registration plate and it will tell you which oil you need.
Here is Halford’s website with an engine oil finder: https://www.halfords.com/motoring/engine-oils-and-fluids/engine-oil/
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Understand Viscosity
Viscosity is one of the essential properties of engine oil. It determines the oil’s flow at different temperatures. The viscosity rating is represented by a combination of numbers, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40. The “W” stands for winter, indicating how the oil performs in cold temperatures, while the second number represents its performance in high temperatures.
For most modern vehicles, multi-grade oils like 5W-30 or 10W-40 are recommended as they offer good performance in both cold and hot conditions.
Avoid Using the Wrong Type of Oil
Never use engine oil that is not compatible with your car’s engine. Using the wrong type of oil can lead to poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and, in some cases, even engine damage. It’s always better to stick to the oil recommended in the owner’s manual.
Synthetic vs. Conventional Oils
Synthetic oils, though more expensive, offer numerous benefits such as better performance, improved fuel efficiency, and longer oil change intervals. However, not all cars require synthetic oil. If your car’s manufacturer does not specify the need for synthetic oil, conventional oil may be sufficient for your vehicle.