Choosing the Right Oil Grade: How the Wrong Oil Can Harm Your Car

In this brief article brought to you by Wrights Car Care, we break it down so you can make the best choice for your car while avoiding the pitfalls of using the wrong oil.

If your car is ready for an oil change, then consider Wrights Car Care – your local auto repair shop with a commitment to the community.

What do oil grades mean, anyway?

When you see labels like 5W-30 or 10W-40 on a bottle of motor oil, you’re looking at the oil’s grade. This is set by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and reflects the oil’s viscosity. Basically, how the grade denotes how easily the oil flows at different temperatures.

The first number (5W, for instance) represents the oil’s viscosity in cold temperatures. The “W” stands for “winter.” A lower number means the oil flows more easily in cold weather, which helps the engine start smoothly.

The second number (30, for example) indicates the oil’s viscosity at high operating temperatures. A higher number means the oil remains thicker at high temperatures to provide better lubrication for your engine’s moving parts.

So, 5W-30 oil flows well in both cold starts and high-heat conditions – making it versatile for many cars.

Why choosing the right oil matters

Motor oil does more than lubricate your engine; it also cools, cleans, and protects vital components. Using the wrong oil can disrupt these functions and lead to:

• Poor Lubrication: If the oil is too thin (low viscosity) for your car, it can increase wear and tear.
• Increased Friction: Oil that’s too thick (high viscosity) can struggle to flow through tight engine spaces. This can lead to overheating and reduced fuel efficiency.
• Potential Damage in Extreme Temperatures: The wrong viscosity range can result in poor performance during cold starts or overheating during heavy use.
• Voiding Your Warranty: Many manufacturers specify certain oil grades for their engines. Using oil outside these specifications can void your warranty.

In short, choosing the wrong oil can prematurely wear and tear your car’s engine, reduce fuel efficiency, reduce performance, overheat the engine, and even leave you responsible for costly auto repair service in Doraville.

How to choose the right oil grade for your vehicle

Your car’s manual is your best friend when it comes to choosing oil. It will specify the exact oil grade your engine needs based on its design and expected operating conditions. Look for oils that meet the certifications recommended by your car’s manufacturer.

You should also consider your climate. Cold climates call for low winter ratings of 0W to 5W for smooth startups while hot climates demand higher viscosity.

There’s also the choice between synthetic and conventional oils. Synthetics are engineered for superior performance and durability while conventional oils are less expensive but may need to be changed more frequently.

Get in touch with a mechanic

If you’re concerned about your vehicle’s oil changes, then call Wrights Car Care to schedule an appointment with a mechanic in Dunwoody.