Most people change the oil in their vehicles regularly. But many people remain unaware about what the fluid does, the reason changing it is important, and what happens when the engine is deprived of it. While every fluid in your car is critical, motor oil should be considered a priority. A leak can literally bring your engine to a grinding halt.

Below, we\’ll explain what motor oil does along with the reasons your engine needs it in order to run properly. We\’ll also take a look at viscosity ratings in the context of what they mean for your car. You\’ll learn the most important factors to consider when choosing an oil that is appropriate for your vehicle and driving conditions.

What Is The Job Of Your Motor Oil?

A lot of people realize that motor oil is needed to lubricate the engine. But there is still confusion about the reason this lubrication is necessary. During operation, there are many moving parts in the assembly. Most are made of metal, and many are positioned closely to one another. While the engine is running, oil coats these components and prevents them from rubbing against each other. If the fluid was not present, some of the parts would likely tear each other apart.

Motor oil has another job that is less commonly known. The fluid helps to transfer heat away from the crankshaft and combustion chambers, similar to coolant. It absorbs heat generated from these areas, and carries it away. By doing so, the fluid helps to prevent overheating and engine damage.

Oil also prevents the accumulation of rust and other debris within the engine. It carries contaminants away, preventing them from creating deposits.

How Viscosity Affects Your Engine

Every oil product is accompanied by a viscosity rating. At its simplest, viscosity reflects a fluid\’s ability to flow. For example, water is thinner than milk, and flows more easily. Thus, it has a lower viscosity.

Motor oils are given numbers to reflect their viscosity levels. The lower the number, the thinner the fluid. For instance, an oil product rated at 5W is thinner, and will flow more easily than a product rated with 10W or 20W.

This is worth noting since viscosity ratings inform drivers about the type of oil they should put in their vehicles. High-viscosity products are better suited to warmer weather. They are also well-suited for high-mileage engines since they can offer better lubrication than low-viscosity products. Also, if you typically drive long distances or haul heavy loads, the operating temperature of your engine is likely to be higher. Thus, a high-viscosity oil is appropriate.

How To Choose The Right Motor Oil For Your Car

Selecting the right oil involves several factors. As we\’ve just discussed, the weather in your area and your typical driving conditions should play a role. So too should the current oil in your car. If your engine has a lot of miles, is displaying problems, and you\’re using a thin oil, consider switching to a heavier product. Doing so may help clean out accumulated sludge, and improve your engine\’s performance.

Also, take note of the additives and detergents contained in the product. The additives help your engine to cope with high loads and stress. The detergents help to minimize the accumulation of sludge and various pollutants in the fluid. This improves its ability to lubricate the engine\’s moving parts.

A Note On Changing Your Oil

Mechanics often recommend replacing your oil every 3,000 miles. In most cases, however, doing so is unnecessary. Today\’s motor oil products are more advanced than those used a generation ago. They last longer.

That said, there are a few circumstances that warrant replacing your oil so frequently. For example, do so if you live in area that receives a lot of cold weather; change it every 3,000 miles if you normally drive short distances; and consider doing so if you are driving a car with a high-mileage engine. Otherwise, refer to your owner\’s manual, and follow the recommended service interval. For most vehicles, that interval is 5,000 miles.

The oil that flows through your engine is clearly vital to the assembly\’s long-term performance. Use the guidelines discussed above to make certain the type you choose does its job.

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Category: Automotive
Keywords: Auto, Oil, Vehicle, Tips, Advice, Change