The best answer is the type specified in your owner’s manual, but let’s take a detailed look in case it’s not handy. Auto experts suggest that for most vehicles, the type of motor oil to be used is the one with “SH" rating. 5W-30 is the most compatible oil for most vehicles and for all around driving. The lighter versions of these oils contain fewer additives that not only allow the oil to reach critical components of the vehicle faster when first started or when the engine is cold, but improve fuel economy. So although this is the recommended oil to use, key is that you use oil that is thin, which will allow it to circulate easily and efficiently at cold temperatures.
For vehicles with older engines and those driven consistently during the summer, recommended oil is 10-W 30 – 10W-40. Reason being that this heavier oil is able to handle high load operations such as hot weather, and are also compatible with higher RPM’s. Although some drivers do not prefer 30W and 40W oils anymore for various reasons, there some diehard fans that still insist on using them. These oils are thicker so they are proven to hold up better in high temperatures and also reduce oil consumption in demanding engines. On the contrary, due to the thickness of 30W – 40W oils, they are not a great choice in cold weather as they may make the engine hard to start, and not provide fast lubrication for the components of the vehicle during start-up.
So to improve oil efficiency, it is best to use 20W for cold weather driving and 30W – 40W oil summer cruising. For the best oil delivers performance, durability and temperature protection, synthetic oil is an excellent choice. The downside of this type of synthetic oil is that it costs a lot more than regular oil so this may not work out for those on a budget. The reason is costs more because unlike regular oil that is refined from petroleum, synthetic oil is manmade, which helps boost performance in every aspect.
Synthetic oil is compatible with high operating temperatures, without breaking down or burning. The limit for regular motor oil is approximately 250° - 300°, while synthetic oil can resist up to 450° or higher. This makes synthetic oil a great choice for motorists especially those with turbo and high powered engines. Furthermore, synthetic oil is more slippery that regular oil, which not only helps cool the engine, but improves fuel economy. Although there isn’t a substantial difference, it is noticeable over time.
Car mechanics claim that because synthetic oil burn at a slower pace, the oil change intervals can be comfortably extended. Even though the above statement is true, it is recommended that you follow the oil change schedule indicated in the owner’s manual especially those vehicles that are still under warranty. Synthetic oil blended with petroleum is also available at a lower cost, but it is also possible to make the mixture yourself rather than buying direct from the manufactures. Furthermore, this would defeat the purpose of using synthetic oil to begin with.
Synthetic oil is a great choice for those with turbocharged engines, those who drive in hot and cold climates, towing vehicles especially in hot weather, high output engines or simply anyone that want the ultimate lubrication for their vehicles. Motor oil is an important fluid of a vehicle and the tips above will definitely help you make a wise choice.
