What Type Of Oil Do I Use?The answer to this question is
in your owner’s manual under the maintenance schedule. The carmaker
outlines what weight (viscosity) to use. If it says 5W20, use it.
Carmakers make engine oil recommendations based on extensive lab
testing, road testing, and research done in conjunction with petroleum
companies. You can rely on the recommendation because it’s based on a
lot of research.
Should I Change The Weight Of The Oil Based On
Time Of Year/Temperature?No. Multi-viscosity oils are
designed to adjust their rate of flow (weight) based on outside and
inside engine operating temperatures. When you read an oilcan that has a
viscosity rating of 5W20 it means that the winter flow
rate of the oil is 5 (thinner) than the summer flow rate (thicker).
Multi-viscosity oils thicken up in the summer when the temps are hot and
oil tends to thin out. When it gets cold they thin out in order to
maintain optimum flow rate in all temperatures.
What About
Synthetic Oil? Can I Use It?In most cases you can switch over
to synthetic oil. However, consult
your owner’s manual before switching to make sure there are no caveats.
I like synthetic oil because it is chemically fortified to withstand
the rigors of the internal combustion engine environment. While it is
not impervious to, it is highly resistant to viscosity breakdown from
heat, friction, and chemical contamination. Synthetic oil flows better
in winter and provides superior lubrication and protection in the summer
when most oils break down under intense heat. If you switch over, just
make sure you use the viscosity recommended by your carmaker.
How
Often Should I Change The Oil?When using good quality
synthetic oil, change it every 5 -
7 thousand miles or six months, whichever comes first; and make sure to
change the filter. When using petroleum-based oil, change it every 3 - 5
thousand miles or three months. As with synthetic, change
the oil filter with a high quality filter every time you change the
oil. Why the longer drain intervals with synthetic oil? It’s tougher,
therefore you can go longer between drain intervals. Based on my
research of synthetic engine oil, AMSOIL is number one and Mobil One is number two.