Choosing the right engine oil is one of the most important things to keep your car running smoothly. Even beginners can follow this guide and choose the correct oil easily.
1. Check Your Owner’s Manual
Your car manufacturer already recommends:
- The correct viscosity grade (example: 0W-20, 5W-30)
- The correct oil specification (API, ACEA, etc.)
If you do not have the manual, you can also search online using your car model and year.
2. Understand Viscosity (SAE Grades)
This is the number you see on oil bottles, like 5W-30.
- The first number (5W) = cold start flow
- The second number (30) = thickness when hot
Smaller number = thinner oil (better for fuel economy)
Bigger number = thicker oil (better for old engines)
Example:
- Toyota Hybrid → 0W-16 or 0W-20
- Old diesel pickup → 15W-40
3. Choose the Right Oil Type
There are 3 main types:
1) Fully Synthetic
- Best protection
- Best for hot climates
- Best for new engines
- Longer oil change intervals
2) Semi-Synthetic
- Cheaper than full synthetic
- Good balance of protection & price
3) Mineral
- Only for very old cars
- Cheap, but not long-lasting
4. Look for API or ACEA Approval
API ratings look like:
- API SP (best for gasoline)
- API SN
- API CK-4 (diesel engines)
Higher alphabet = better quality.
5. Special Notes
- Hybrid cars need low-viscosity oil
- Turbo engines need full synthetic
- High-mileage engines sometimes need a thicker grade
Conclusion
Choosing the right engine oil is easy:
- Check the manual
- Follow viscosity
- Buy high-quality synthetic
- Choose correct API rating
Your engine will run smoother, quieter, cooler, and last much longer.