Engine oil is the lifeblood of any internal combustion engine, and understanding its types, grades, and maintenance is essential for the proper functioning and longevity of your vehicle. Let’s demystify the best engine oil in UAE to help you make informed choices and ensure your engine runs smoothly.
Types of engine oil:
Conventional oil: Also known as mineral oil, conventional oil is derived from crude oil. It’s the most basic type of engine oil and is suitable for older vehicles with less demanding engine requirements.
Synthetic oil: Synthetic oil is chemically engineered for high-performance engines. It offers superior lubrication, oxidation resistance, and stability over a wide temperature range. It’s ideal for modern vehicles, high-performance cars, and those subjected to extreme conditions.
Synthetic blend: Synthetic blend oil combines conventional and synthetic oils. It offers some of the benefits of synthetic oil at a more affordable price. It’s a good choice for vehicles that require better performance than conventional oil can provide.
High-mileage oil: Designed for vehicles with significant mileage, high-mileage oil contains additives that help reduce wear, prevent leaks, and maintain engine seals. It’s suitable for older cars with over 75,000 miles.
Oil grades and specifications:
Engine oil is graded based on two systems: viscosity grade and performance specification.
Viscosity grade: Viscosity refers to the oil’s thickness or resistance to flow. The most common grading system is the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) system, which uses numbers like 5W-30 or 10W-40. The “W” stands for “winter,” indicating cold-start performance, while the second number denotes viscosity at operating temperature. Lower numbers indicate thinner oil that flows better in cold conditions.
Performance specification: Performance specifications, often denoted by codes like API SN or ACEA A3/B4, indicate the oil’s quality and its compatibility with specific engine types. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended specification.
Engine oil maintenance:
Oil change intervals: Follow the manufacturers recommended oil change intervals outlined in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. This typically ranges from 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on the oil type and driving conditions.
Check oil level: Regularly check your engine oil level using the dipstick. Ensure it falls within the recommended range. If it’s low, add the appropriate oil type to avoid engine damage.
