Engine Oils. Why Motor Oil is Important Motor oil keeps the hundreds of moving parts in your car's engine from rubbing up against each other and causing.

Engine Oils

Why Motor Oil is Important

Motor oil keeps the hundreds of moving parts in your car's engine from rubbing up against each other and causing wear.

Regular oil changes are crucial for long engine life.

What does oil do for the engine?

• reduces friction, • allows your car to start easily, • keeps the engine clean, • Blocks little gaps between the piston ring

and the cylinder walls, • prevents rust and corrosion. • keeps any particles away from engine parts.

Oil ViscosityViscosity is the ability of a liquid to be poured.

Multi-grade Motor Oil

Example 10W - 30. The first number refers to the viscosity of the oil

when the engine is cold. The second number refers to the viscosity of the

oil when the engine is at operating temperature.

A higher number viscosity rating will not flow as easily as a lower number, so a lower number is better for colder temperatures.

API Service Ratings

• SM - For all automotive engines presently in use. SM oils are designed to provide improved oxidation resistance, better wear protection, and better low-temperature performance.

• SL - For 2004 and older automotive engines. • SJ - For 2001 and older automotive engines.

• API = American Petroleum Institute

Choosing the Right Motor Oil

• Mineral oils are based on refined crude oil that comes from good old Mother Earth.

• Synthetic oils are designed to reduce wear and tear on gears, reduce oil oxidation and sludge formation, and allow for longer intervals between oil changes.

• Semi-synthetic which is a blend of the two.

When to change engine oil:

• http://www.ehow.com/video_2326740_when-change-motor-oil.html

Eventually motor oil breaks down in the engine. Contaminants cause oil to lose viscosity. Additives in the oil are used up in normal operation of the vehicle, after which corrosion and oxidation occur.

Some experts recommend changing the engine oil every 5,000 km (3,000 mi) or every 3 months.

Always follow your owner’s manual.