For maintaining a vehicle’s engine, the most important task is the selection of the right engine oil. With a vast selection available as per the oil grades and viscosity ratings, it is a crucial task to pick the perfect one for our car. Various engine oil companies in UAE provide various products. Dufelub stands out due to its best quality and service.
We aim to demystify engine oil grades and help you understand viscosity ratings, so you can make an informed decision.
Engine Oil Viscosity
The thickness of the oil and its ability to flow at different temperatures is typically called viscosity. Simply, it measures how easily the oil pours. Oils that are thicker have higher viscosity and flow slowly, whereas thinner oils have low viscosity and flow quickly. The perfect viscosity ensures that the engine parts are adequately lubricated and protected.
Decoding Viscosity Ratings
Viscosity ratings are typically denoted by a combination of numbers and letters, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40.
The First Number and the Letter ‘W’
The number denotes the rating, followed by the ‘W’ letter (which stands for winter), which indicates the oil’s viscosity at low temperatures. The lower the number, the thinner the oil, and the better it will perform in cold conditions. For example, a 5W oil will flow more easily at low temperatures than a 10W oil.
The Second Number
The second number represents the viscosity level at high temperatures. Higher numbers mean the oil is thicker and can maintain better lubrication at elevated temperatures. For instance, a 40 oil is thicker and provides more protection at higher temperatures than a 30 oil.
Multi-Grade Oils
Most modern engine oils are multi-grade, which means can perform well in a range of temperatures. A 5W-30 oil, for example, is designed to work effectively in both cold and hot conditions, providing reliable lubrication regardless of the season.
Selecting the right engine oil depends on various factors, including
- Vehicle’s make and model,
- The climate you drive in,
- Driving habits.
Some general guidelines followed at Dufelub:
Owner’s Manual
The owner’s manual is the best resource for recommended oil grades. Manufacturers specify the ideal viscosity rating to ensure optimal performance and protection for the engine.
Climate
Choose oil as per the temperature range the vehicle is used.
If you live in a region with temperature variations, it’s essential to choose an oil that can handle the weather. For colder climates, oils with lower winter ratings (like 0W or 5W) are preferable. In hotter regions, oils with higher second numbers (like 40 or 50) provide better protection.
Driving Conditions
Driving habits and conditions also influence oil selection. Frequent short trips, heavy towing, or high-performance driving can put additional stress on the engine, requiring oils with higher viscosity ratings for the best protection.
Benefits of Using the Correct Engine Oil
- Enhanced Engine Performance: The engine parts move smoothly, reducing wear and tear and improving overall performance.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Reduces friction and this leads the engine to run more efficiently and potentially, saving fuel.
- Extended Engine Life: Prevents damage and extends the lifespan of the engine.
- Better Cold Starts: Oils with lower winter ratings improve cold start performance, reducing engine strain in low temperatures.
Conclusion
Understanding engine oil grades and viscosity ratings is essential for maintaining a vehicle’s health and performance. Dufelub is one of the top engine oil companies in UAE and we do the following to keep the vehicle’s optimization perfect. Choosing the right oil ensures optimal lubrication, protection, and efficiency for the engine. Always consult the owner’s manual, consider your climate, and assess your driving conditions during engine oil selection. With the right knowledge, keep the engine running smoothly for years to come.
