Types of Motor Oil
What Is The Best For Your Vehicle
Motor oil is the lifeblood of your car. The oil lubricates the moving parts to reduce friction and helps to keep the engine running at its best. Choosing the right motor oil for your vehicle makes a difference. There are four main types of oil. Understand the difference to help choose what is right for your vehicle.
Conventional Motor Oil
This is the most common oil. Generally, it comes in 5w30 or 10w30. Oil weight describes its viscosity, or how the oil flows at a certain temperature. Lower "w" numbers mean that the oil performs better in colder temperatures. Most light-duty cars with average mileage perform well with 10w30 oil.
High Mileage Motor Oil
This motor oil is designed for cars with more than 75,000 miles. High mileage oil contains conditioners for the seals, to reduce degradation and prevent oil leaks. It also contains additives that increase the oil's performance. It's a little more expensive than conventional oil, but it can help give your car longevity.
Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Vehicles that need peak performance may benefit from synthetic motor oil. It's an oil that is resistant to oxidation and breakdown. It's the gold medal of oils. Synthetic oil costs two to four times the cost of conventional oil, but it does have benefits in extreme climates or for vehicles that do a lot of hauling.
Synthetic Blend Motor Oil
Synthetic blend oil combines the best of conventional motor oils and synthetic oils. A synthetic blend isn't as pure as a full synthetic oil, but it also doesn't have the price tag of the synthetic oil. Blends have additives that resist oxidation and maintain performance.
What Types of Oil Additives Do You Need?
Motor oils often come with additives that increase the performance of the oil. Antioxidants help keep the engine clean and make the oil last longer. Detergents prevent rust and corrosion on the surfaces in the engine of the car. Dispersants help the oil absorb the solid particles that contaminate the oil. Talk to your mechanic about additives for the way you drive.
Contact Carlisle Air Automotive for oil changes and service on all makes and models. We'll help you keep your car in top performance.