Close Motor Unmasked: How To Read Oil Grades
If you're like most car owners, you probably don't think much about the oil that runs your engine. But are you aware of the different grades of motor oil, and the fact that each one is designed for a specific type of engine?
In this blog post, Cumberland Toyota will discuss reading oil grades and what each number or letter means.
How to Check Your Motor Oil
Before purchasing any new oil, it's best to check the oil levels in your engine. The simplest method to resolve this is by checking the oil dipstick, which is located under your vehicle's hood.
First, open the hood and locate the dipstick near your engine. Use a clean rag to remove any dirt or gunk that may have built up on the end of it. It should have at least 2 markings showing the "full" and "add" levels.
Now, carefully insert the dipstick back into your engine and pull it out again. Check the "full" and "add" markings to see where the oil is. If you're low, it's time for a refill!
How to Read Your Motor Oil
Motor oil comes in various grades, identified by a letter or number. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) created this system to indicate the viscosity, or thickness, of the oil.
The most common types of motor oil are SAE 30 and SAE 50. These figures talk about the thickness of the oil. The lower the number, the thinner and more fluid-like it is. A higher number means that you have thicker oil.
You can also find other codes such as 0W-20 and 0W-30. The number before the "W" stands for the winter grade, designed to work better in cold weather. So if you're living in a chillier climate, it might be worth looking into these oils.
How do I Know What's Best?
How can you decide which one is best for your vehicle with so many options available? Your owner's manual will have the exact recommendations. Still, if you don't have it handy, you can always consult an expert.
The perfect oil for your car is chosen based on the following issues:
● The climate you live in: if you live in a warm environment, you'll probably be better off with an oil that has a higher viscosity.
● The weather: if it's cold outside, use the type of oil recommended for the winter months.
●Your driving habits: if you perform any towing or hauling, look into higher-grade oils.
● The age of your vehicle and its make: certain cars are designed to use a specific oil, and your owner's manual will list the recommended grade.
Conclusion
When choosing the best oil, following the manufacturer's recommendation is always a safe bet, for the most part. Cumberland Toyota can help you find the right oil for your car and get it changed quickly and easily.
We serve Pleasant Hill, TN, with solutions you can trust and a team you can rely on.