Vehicles have an infinite number of elements capable of performing different functions and ensuring the proper functioning of our vehicle, as is the case oil. This component will be mainly responsible for lubricating the engine parts and, at the same time, will reduce their friction and wear, thus carrying out a process that will allow our four-wheeled friend to travel the different roads of the Iberian territory.
What is oil?
As we indicated above, automobile oil is an essential component for the good operation of the engine. Its main function is to lubricate the moving parts of the engine, reducing friction and wear, in addition to performing other vital functions such as cleaning, protecting and cooling the engine.
Types of oil depending on the car
Currently, There are several types of oils for the engine and available for each vehicle. They are designed to deliver specific performance in different driving conditions, engine types and climates. Likewise, they can be classified mainly based on their composition, viscosity and additional characteristics.
1.-Composition
- Mineral: It is the most basic and natural oil, derived from crude oil, less processed than synthetics, cheaper and less resistant to degradation due to high temperatures and therefore requires more frequent changes. It is suitable for older vehicles or those with less demanding engines.
- Synthetic: It is formulated in the laboratory by chemical modification of compounds derived from petroleum or synthetic materials, giving it superior properties. It offers much higher performance than mineral oil, has greater resistance to oxidation, high temperatures and wear and is used in high-performance sports engines and in extreme temperature conditions.
- Semi-synthetic: It is a blend of mineral and synthetic oil, combining the best of both. It improves the performance of mineral oil, providing greater resistance to heat and wear, but does not have the same extreme performance capabilities as a full synthetic oil.
2.- Viscosity
Oil viscosity refers to its resistance to flow at high and low temperatures. Oils are usually labeled with a number followed by the letter “W”, such as: 5W-30.
- First digit before “W”: shows us the viscosity of the oil when cold in winter. The lower the number, the more fluid the component is at low temperatures. A 5W circulates better in winter than a 10W, which makes it easier to start the engine at low temperatures.
- Number after “W”: in this case it is the viscosity at hot engine operating temperatures. A 30 oil is thicker than a 20 high temperature oil, indicating that it provides greater protection in high temperature conditions.
3.- Multigrade
A multigrade oil is an oil that has varying viscosity, allowing it to perform well in hot and cold temperatures. For example, a 5W-30 acts like a 5W at low temperature (fluid) and like a 30 at high temperature (thicker), providing versatile and efficient performance all year round. It is ideal for vehicles operating in different weather conditions and helps improve fuel efficiency and facilitates cold starting.
4.- Additional properties
- Diesel engine oil: Diesel engines require specific oils due to differences in their combustion process. This element has greater cleaning capacity and greater protection against corrosion, since these types of engines tend to produce more waste. Improves engine durability by controlling carbon deposits and particles and protecting against wear under high workload conditions.
- Petrol engine oil: eIt’s more common and generally less viscous than diesel, because gasoline has fewer residues and corrosive byproducts to dispose of. They provide effective protection under normal driving conditions and provide better cold starting performance and fuel efficiency.
- High mileage oil: It is designed for vehicles with more than 100,000 kilometers. This type of oil contains special additives that help reduce oil leaks, improve the sealing of gaskets and gaskets, and reduce smoke emissions in aging engines. Improves the protection of older engines and prevents excessive oil consumption, while helping to restore the elasticity of seals and seal small leaks.
How to know what oil your car uses by license plate
To find out what type of engine oil your car uses, you can use several methods. Although the license plate in question does not directly provide us with information about the item, you can access details about the car model and specifications that will help you determine which oil is appropriate.
- View the manual
- Using an oil search engine on Google
- Consult a workshop or official dealer
- Consult a parts specialist or auto store
- Use VIN (vehicle identification number) query apps or services.
