How to Choose the Right Oil Before Changing your Oil?

How to Choose the Right Lube Before Changing your Oil ?

Have you ever tried to change your car’s engine oil and ask, totally confused:

• What kind of oil should I use ?

• How much oil do I need?

If you are a DIYer like me, I am sure you have!

Read on and discover some amazing tips.

Basic engine oil information

Engine oil viscosity indexes

To be sure that you are using the right lubricant, look at the owner’s manual. It contains specifications regarding types of oil that you can use, so you will not limit to just one brand.

Engine oil viscosity indexes

What is viscosity index ?

The viscosity index is a number that represents the level of fluidity of the oil.

You may find it on the front label of the container, (Ex.10W-30, SAE40 ect…) It is worth mentioning that various oils may the same viscosity index but different standards.

Engine oil standards

The SAE globally regulates the standards for viscosity indexes.

However, several institutions have issued various classifications and specifications to ensure better quality and performance of engine oils.

Those institutions are: API (American Petroleum Institute), ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers Association) and JSAO (Japanese Automotive Standards Organization). As engine parts evolve, motor oil evolves accordingly. Thus, the above institutions adapt their standards to the ongoing changes.

For example, they promote innovation and sustainability regarding additives used in oils, so engines will perform and last longer.

That being said, you may use a more advanced oil rating, but do not use one older than the one recommended by the manufacturer.

Standards usually shown on the back of the oil cans and printed in small print characters. So, take your time to read everything.

Tips for choosing engine oil

When I change my oil, I never focus on a pre-defined brand, I just decide on the viscosity and standard. In my experience, it is the excellent way to buy the best quality oil at the lowest cost possible.

Want to choose your oil like a pro?

Check out www.amsoil.com.

There you will find free information on all fluids needed for your the maintenance of your car, including oils.

It will also help you determine how much oil it required for your service which will certainly cut down on the cost.

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