What type of oil for my car?
While there is no doubt that car engines have made rapid progress over the years with the increasing use of electronics and high-tech components, the simple truth is that to this day one of the most critical factors determining how well an engine works and performs is its oil. The obvious function of motor oil is to reduce friction between an engine's many moving parts but it goes further than that, it prevents rust in the cylinder block, neutralises the acid caused by the combustion of fuel in the engine, and prevents the build-up of sludge and slurry that can block engine parts and lead to the failure of components.
So it is easy to see just how vital it is to have the correct oil in the correct volume in the engine of a car. Oil obviously degrades with use, so changing the oil at the mileage or time period specified by the manufacturer is vital in prolonging the life of an engine and ensuring its smooth day-to-day running. Here at Protyre, we can give expert advice on all makes, models, and engine types and carry out oil changes when required.
The types of oil
Many drivers are understandably confused when confronted with an array of numbers and letters on a container of oil. To put it simply, the first number indicates the rate of flow of the oil, the lower the number the greater the flow, the W that comes after it simply stands for winter, meaning that the oil can perform at lower temperatures. The number that follows the W indicates how the oil will flow with the engine running at its optimum temperature.
Then there is regular, semi-synthetic, and fully synthetic motor oil. For older cars being used in normal circumstances with low mileage, regular oil is usually sufficient, but certain cars will benefit from the use of synthetic oil which contains high-tech additives to aid vehicles that are working harder or revving faster or running at higher temperatures. There are also certain brands of oil for cars with mileage of over 75,000, and we can give advice about these too.
To find car oil type and characteristics suited to your vehicle, you should check in the owner's handbook or consult us at Protyre, the local garage you can trust. Some cars can check oil through the onboard management system or the car's management system, which will give a readout, while others will require the traditional dipstick method. This should be performed on a reasonably flat surface when the engine is cold. The dipstick should be removed, wiped clean, and then replaced before taking a reading. There are two notches on the dipstick indicating the minimum and the maximum level of oil.
Always check the oil type; you should never put an incorrect type of oil in your car, even if it seems like an upgrade. The engine has been specifically designed with a specific oil in mind and its correct running depends on fine tolerances. If, however, the finer details of car oil leave you confused, then don't worry. The experts at Protyre are just a phone call or a few clicks of a mouse away. With most of us leading busy lives, it is all too easy to forget about the oil in the car, simply filling it up with fuel and driving off. However, this is a mistake and in the long run, taking care to top up with the correct car oil as required and having the oil changed as and when recommended by the manufacturer will pay dividends. In the current climate of sky-high petrol and diesel prices, an efficient running engine can even save you money at the pump as well as prolonging the life of the engine.
The local garage you can trust
At Protyre, we are committed to providing the highest level of service for all your motoring needs. As well as oil changes and related problems, our tyre professionals, as our name suggests, can offer excellent advice and free tyre checks. We have large stocks of leading Brands such as Pirelli, Bridgestone, Falken and Sumitomo. Our qualified fitters can quickly carry out repairs getting you back safely motoring in no time.
Find your closest Protyre garageChoosing the Right Tyre Made Easy
When it comes to your car's safety and performance, tyres can play a huge role. That's why we've put together a collection of helpful articles to guide you through the process of selecting the perfect tyres for your ride and maintaining your vehicle in general.
If you're looking for a smoother, more luxurious driving experience, premium car tyres might be the way to go. Or, if you want added security against flats, run flat car tyres could be your best bet. Trying to decide between summer car tyres and winter car tyres? We've got you covered there, too.
We also dive into the world of tyre brands, comparing top manufacturers like BF Goodrich tyres, Bridgestone tyres, Continental tyres, Dunlop tyres, Falken tyres, General tyres, Goodyear tyres, GT Radial tyres , Hankook tyres, Michelin tyres, Pirelli tyres, Runway tyres, Sumitomo tyres, and Toyo tyres.
But we don't just stop at helping you choose the right tyres – we also share tips on how to keep them in tip-top shape. From checking your tread depth and keeping your tyres properly inflated to extending their life through regular rotation and balancing, our articles have got you covered.
So, whether you're a car enthusiast or just looking to keep your vehicle safe and reliable, our car help and advice articles are here to help you make informed decisions about your tyres. Check them out and feel confident in your tyre choices!
