As a car owner, you must know how to take care of your vehicle and ensure its longevity. Did you know that motor oil is one of the most important fluids in your car? It’s responsible for lubricating all the moving parts, and it also helps keep the engine cool. But with so many different types and brands of motor oil available, how do you know which one is right for your car?
Our expert technicians from The Key Online – OKC will teach you the basics about motor oil – what it is, what kind you should use, and how often you should change it. So, settle in and get ready to read motor oil grades like an expert!
What is Motor Oil?
Motor oil is a lubricant used to keep the moving parts in your engine cool, clean, and protected. It also helps prevent corrosion or rust from developing on these surfaces over time. When you start up your car after changing the motor oil, there will be some excess residue left behind, which needs to be removed with a regular engine flush solution (followed by another change).
Kinds of Motor Oil:
There are three types of motor oil- conventional, synthetic, and semi-synthetics.
Conventional motor oil is a product of crude oil that has been refined into different grades of petroleum. It usually contains about 30% additives which help to improve the performance and protect against wear.
On the other hand, synthetic motor oil is artificial and typically costs more than conventional oil. However, it does not break down as quickly and lasts longer between changes. Some people also believe that it provides better protection against wear and tear.
Semi-synthetic oil is a blend of synthetic and conventional oils. It falls somewhere in between the two in terms of price and performance.
Which Kind Should You Use?
The best sort of motor oil for your automobile depends on its make, your driving habits, and climate.
For example, if you live in a hot climate, it might be wise to switch to a synthetic or semi-synthetic oil since they hold up better under high temperatures. If you have an older car, you may also want to use a thicker oil since it will better protect against wear.
If you are uncertain what type of oil is best for your vehicle, check out the owner’s manual. It should have detailed information on which motor oils are most compatible with your engine and driving habits.
How Often Should You Change Motor Oil?
The general rule of thumb is to change your car’s engine oil every 3000 to 5000 miles or every three to six months, whichever comes first. However, this may vary depending on the type of oil, the age and condition of your car, how often you drive, and how well you take care of it.
To be safe, keep a record of when each change is due, so you don’t forget to do it on time.
If you are looking for a reliable dealership to purchase your next car, we invite you to visit us at The Key Online – OKC serving Oklahoma City, OK, We offer various makes and models and would be happy to help you keep your vehicle in top condition.
