How to choose engine oil for your car that is both economical and helps the engine last longer?

To ensure smooth operation and long life of the car engine, regular oil changes are mandatory. Oil not only helps lubricate the moving parts inside the engine but also plays an important role in cooling and cleaning the engine, preventing the accumulation of sludge and other impurities.

However, not everyone understands the importance of regular oil changes, nor knows how to do it correctly and safely.

According to the advice of engineer Bao Dai - technical expert of Motul oil company on the experiences of changing engine oil for cars below, helping the engine to be durable over time:

Determine when to change the oil

To keep your car running at its best, knowing when to change the oil is extremely important. Car users need to follow the oil change schedule recommended by the manufacturer.

Each manufacturer will provide a specific time frame or mileage for oil changes, based on testing and calculations to ensure engine efficiency. Failure to follow these recommendations can result in engine damage and shorten the life of your vehicle.

In addition, there are signs that indicate that it is time to change the engine oil that you can easily recognize. The color of the engine oil is the first indicator, new oil is usually yellow or light yellow, but over time it will turn black due to the accumulation of dirt and impurities.

Oil viscosity is also an important factor, as oil that has lost its viscosity will no longer be able to lubricate effectively, increasing friction and temperature in the engine. Furthermore, heavily contaminated oil may have a burning or acrid smell.

However, some normal users will find it difficult to check the quality of engine oil after use. Therefore, it is better to change the oil according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Choose the right engine oil

When selecting engine oil for diesel and gasoline engines, it is essential to understand the specific requirements of each engine type to ensure optimum performance and durability.

For diesel engines, the type of oil chosen needs to be able to withstand high pressure and high temperature, often marked with the letter "C" (Commercial) in standards such as API CJ-4 or CK-4. These oils not only protect the engine from corrosion but also help control emissions and reduce deposits.

Meanwhile, gasoline engines will be more suitable for oil with high oxidation resistance, often marked with the letter "S" (Service) such as API SN or SP, to minimize deposits and plaque caused by high temperatures. In particular, for newer gasoline engines, the use of synthetic oil can bring the highest efficiency thanks to its superior lubrication and outstanding durability, especially in severe driving conditions.

For cars equipped with turbocharged gasoline engines, users should choose engine oil with the symbol API SP to reduce premature combustion at low speeds, prolonging engine life. For naturally aspirated gasoline engines, users can choose engine oil with the symbol API SN.

In addition, for cars with old gasoline engines that have been used for many years, users should choose 10W-40 or 20W-50 engine oils with higher viscosity to better protect worn engine parts.

For luxury cars, users should choose 0W-20 oil because the internal engine parts have very low clearance, requiring liquid oils to penetrate into each part and at the same time, oil is also used to control the systems in the engine.

For popular cars using gasoline engines from Hyundai, KIA, Mazda..., Motul's technical experts recommend using 5W-30 engine oil to help save fuel and make the engine more durable over time.

Choosing the right engine oil for your engine is essential not only to optimize your vehicle’s performance but also to extend its life. Each engine, whether diesel or petrol, has its own unique requirements for the right oil, depending on factors such as operating conditions, engine technology and climate.

Using the wrong engine oil not only reduces operating performance, it can also lead to serious damage, causing significant repair costs.

In general, manufacturers have specific standards for engine oil, suitable for each car model sold.

In addition to advice from experts, users should also refer to the manufacturer's specific instructions to choose the right type of oil.