There are different types of engine oil available. The one you need will depend on a number of factors, so it’s important to check before you do anything. In this guide we’ll explain how you can find out which oil you need, how to top it up, and how often to change it.
What type of oil does my car take?
You can find out which type of oil your car needs by looking in your vehicle handbook. The handbook should list the type of oil, as well as the viscosity and volume you need. Some models also print the viscosity on the oil cap under the bonnet.
It’s very important to confirm the type of oil your car needs before you do anything. If you use the wrong type (for example, if you use a non-synthetic oil when it should be synthetic) then your car warranty may be void.
Types of motor oil
Conventional (sometimes known as mineral)
Conventional oil is made from crude oil, which is liquid petroleum extracted from the Earth’s crust and refined so it’s safe to use in engines. Additives are used to help clean the engine, avoid build up of debris and protect against rust.
The most common type of oil, as well as the most affordable, it’s most suitable for older cars. It degrades over time, but changing it regularly removes the debris and helps to keep your engine running smoothly.
Synthetic
Synthetic oil is made in a lab, with formulations varying greatly depending on what the oil is designed to do. It’s broken down to a molecular level in addition to going through a thorough refining process, with impurities removed. The additives are also higher quality. This means it’s more expensive, but it also offers greater protection for the engine. It’s well suited to high-performance cars, newer models which can handle longer intervals between oil changes, and cars which are driven in extremely high or low temperatures.
Semi synthetic
Semi-synthetic oil is a blend of conventional and synthetic oils, with better additives than the former and lower prices than the latter. It offers a compromise for those who’d prefer a higher quality oil but want to save on costs. It’s especially good for cars that are used for short trips, or not used very often.
Low SAPS
A low-SAPS oil contains fewer amounts of sulphated ash, phosphorus, and sulphur (i.e. SAPS). Including some of these in an oil is good for the engine as they help to protect it, but too many SAPS can build up and cause damage. This type of oil is best for diesel engines, as an oil without reduced SAPS can block the diesel particulate filter, which will lead to the car stalling.
High-mileage oil
Specifically for cars that have done over 100,000 miles, high-mileage oil protects older engines by reducing friction and leaks. Some oils are made for specific models, so make sure you check the label, and be aware that a high-mileage oil won’t fix any mechanical problems with your car.
How do I top up engine oil?
Before you start, make sure your car is parked on a flat surface.
Switch the engine off.
Open the bonnet and find your oil dipstick. Pull it out and wipe it clean.
Put it back and pull it out again. This will show you the current oil level.
Add a little of your oil to the engine.
Check the dipstick again to see if the oil level has risen, then replace it.
Close the bonnet.
If you’re not confident topping up your engine oil, be sure to seek guidance from a professional. Hendy’s silver service includes an engine oil and filter replacement.
How often should engine oil be changed?
How often you need to change your engine oil depends on the type of car you have and the type of journeys you make. An older model that you use to make a lot of short journeys will need more regular top ups than a newer model that makes longer journeys, for example.
Oil type is also a factor. Some oils, such as conventional oil and high-mileage oil, need to be changed more often than synthetic oils, for example.
You should find a recommended oil change frequency in your car’s manual. An oil change is included in an annual service, too.
Car engines are made up of a lot of different components and their movement creates a lot of friction. Engine oil lubricates these components so they can do their job without causing damage.
It keeps the engine clean by protecting it from rust and removing dirt and debris. Over time this debris can thicken the engine oil, which is just one reason why it’s important to replace it regularly.
It keeps the engine cool by drawing heat away from the combustion chamber.
It improves fuel economy by helping the engine to run more smoothly. This saves you money and reduces emissions.
What do the different numbers on engine oil mean?
There are many engine oil numbers to choose from. The most common numbers in the UK are:
5W-30: Synthetic oil that is usually compatible with most car models. Ideal for cold weather because of its thin texture.
5W-40: A synthetic oil similar to 5W-30, in that it operates well in cold weather, but this one functions better in warmer temperatures.
10W-30: Conventional oil that is usually compatible with most car models. Thicker than 5W-30, making it ideal for hot and cold weather.
0W-20: Synthetic oil that has a very thin texture, for cold weather only.
The first number refers to the viscosity of the oil when it’s cold outside. The lower the number, the thinner the oil in cold weather.
The second number refers to the viscosity of the oil when it’s hot outside. The higher the number, the thicker it is in warm weather.
All the engine oils above are multigrade oils, which we can see at a glance because there are numbers on either side of the letter W (which stands for ‘winter’). A multigrade oil is one that can run well in a variety of temperatures.
Be sure to reach out to Hendy if you have any questions about oil changes.
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