Vehicle engines need to be lubricated to work properly, as their parts are constantly encountering friction. This is just one of several reasons engine oil is so important for your car.
Other benefits of oil for an engine include:
- Cooling – by the oil trapping and releasing heat from a working engine generating heat.
- Cleaning – by removing microscopic deposits of dirt and dust from the engine surface.
- Anti-corrosion protection – engine oil neutralises many of the acids leading to rusting.
- Sealing – engine oil forms a protective layer between any two engine parts.
What types of engine oil are there?
Conventional Engine Oil
Pulled from the ground as crude oil and then refined in a factory, conventional oil is a budget-friendly option, and pretty reliable to protect your car engine.
An example of conventional engine oil is Carlube’s Mineral Gear Oil. It’s a versatile, reliable and cost-effective lubrication option – and is available through Autoparts’ products section.
Fully Synthetic Oil
Manufactured entirely in a lab or factory, the refining process in producing this oil means it is a smoother product and is purpose-made for effective engine protection – but with refined production comes increased costs throughout the process, including for the customer.
However, despite a slightly costlier range of oils, their quality is sublime, including Autoparts’ own Ultratec range, such as the one-litre bottle that’s perfectly portable.
Synthetic Blend Oil
A mixture of synthetic and organic oils, the synthetic blend oil is a stable product that can be widely used (although you should always consult your vehicle handbook for this important information).
One such synthetic blend oil is Carlube’s 4-stroke motorcycle oil, perfect for those who love to take to the road on two wheels.
Suitable for use with all bikes from retro runners to modern specialised speedsters.
High-mileage Oil
Most suitable for vehicles driven more than 75,000 miles, high-mileage oil features additives designed to give enhanced protection to ageing engines which are more vulnerable to wear and tear.
Another gem from Carlube, this high mileage engine oil is designed to help your vehicle go the distance – and beyond – when approaching that 75,000-mile mark.
Using the correct oil
To find the correct oil for your car, be sure to check your vehicle’s handbook: it will have all the information you need.
What do the numbers on the bottle mean?
The number, for example, 5w30 represents the viscosity of the engine oil, with the letter ‘w’ meaning winter. The initial number (5) represents how thin the oil is and how it operates/performs in cold temperatures. The secondary number (30) is for how thick the oil is when the engine is operating at its normal temperature.
When should you check the engine oil level?
An important question to ask when looking into the right oil for your car is when and how often the oil level should be checked. Typically, you should be checking your oil level once every couple of weeks; doing so will keep you updated on your engine’s performance and can keep you ahead of any potential issues with your car. However, you might want to do this a bit more regularly if you often travel long distances, as ensuring that everything is working well is a must before any long journey. With a firm understanding of how your engine works with your current oil, you’ll be able to make a much more informed decision on which motor oil will work best for you.
Adding oil to your vehicle
Once you have found the right oil for your vehicle, you need to know where it goes in the vehicle.
First, open the vehicle bonnet. Then, look for the oil filter cap, which will normally feature an old-fashioned oil decanter with a droplet of oil falling from it.
Fill the oil to the level advised in the logbook or by the visible line in the filter. Alternatively, use the dipstick provided to gauge your oil levels before and after starting your oil replenishment.
Then, with the right oil at the right level, your car or vehicle should be better lubricated and cooled for your next drive.
And for the perfect tool to help you add your engine oil, look no further than the Draper Foldable Funnel.
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