How to Choose the Right Oil and Oil Filters for Your Car

Oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine. It lubricates, cools, cleans and protects the moving parts from wear and tear. But not all oil and oil filters are created equal. Depending on your vehicle’s make, model, engine and mileage, you may need a specific type of oil and oil filter to ensure optimal performance and durability.

In this article, we will explain the basics of oil and oil filters, and how to find the right ones for your car.

What is oil and what does it do?

Oil is a liquid that flows through your engine, carrying heat away from the combustion chamber and reducing friction between the metal surfaces. Oil also contains additives that help prevent corrosion, sludge formation and oxidation.

Oil is classified by its viscosity, which is a measure of how easily it flows at different temperatures. The higher the viscosity, the thicker the oil. The lower the viscosity, the thinner the oil.

Viscosity is expressed by two numbers separated by a letter W, which stands for winter. For example, 5W-30 oil means that it has a viscosity of 5 at low temperatures and 30 at high temperatures. The lower the first number, the better the oil performs in cold weather. The higher the second number, the better the oil performs in hot weather.

The right viscosity for your car depends on your engine type, climate and driving conditions. You can find the recommended viscosity for your car in your owner’s manual or on the oil cap under the hood.

What is an oil filter and what does it do?

An oil filter is a device that removes contaminants from the oil before it reaches the engine. Contaminants can include dirt, dust, metal particles, water and combustion by-products. These can damage your engine or reduce its efficiency over time.

Oil filters are usually located near the oil pan at the bottom of the engine. They have a metal casing that contains a paper or synthetic filter element. The oil passes through the filter element, which traps the contaminants and lets the clean oil flow to the engine.

Oil filters are either full-flow or bypass type. A full-flow filter filters all the oil that goes to the engine. A bypass filter filters only a small portion of the oil at a time, but it can remove smaller particles than a full-flow filter.

How to choose the right oil and oil filter for your car?

The best way to choose the right oil and oil filter for your car is to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. You can find them in your owner’s manual or on their website. They will specify the type, grade and frequency of oil change for your car.

However, you may also want to consider some other factors, such as:

• Your driving habits: If you drive frequently in stop-and-go traffic, tow heavy loads or use your car for racing, you may need a higher quality oil and oil filter than normal.
• Your environment: If you live in a very hot or cold climate, or in an area with high levels of dust or pollution, you may need a different viscosity or type of oil and oil filter than normal.
• Your mileage: If your car has over 75,000 miles on it, you may benefit from using a high-mileage oil and oil filter that are designed to protect older engines from wear and leaks.

You can also consult with a trusted mechanic or an online tool like Mobil™ Motor Oils, which can help you find the right oil and oil filter for your car based on some simple questions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right oil and oil filter for your car is important for maintaining its performance and longevity. By following the manufacturer’s recommendations and considering your driving habits, environment and mileage, you can ensure that your engine gets the best protection possible.

Remember to check your oil level and condition regularly, and change your oil and oil filter according to the recommended intervals. This will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly for years to come.