What Oil Does My Car Take?

One of the most important maintenance services for any car is the oil change, but what kind of oil does my car take? The answer can be found in your owner’s manual. Different cars have different requirements. A turbocharged coupe might need a more specialized synthetic formula, while older models may function just fine on conventional. Learn all about the different types of motor oil, and schedule your next oil change at Mazda of Claremont in Claremont! 

Does the Type of Oil Matter?: Synthetic or Conventional

All oil begins as crude oil. This oil is refined and blended with additives, including everything from anti-foaming agents to antioxidants. At this point, the oil is conventional oil. Synthetic oil, however, is further refined to create an even more chemically stable product. So, does the type of oil matter between synthetic or conventional? Here’s a brief overview of the differences:

• Conventional: Conventional oil is the most affordable of your engine oil options. It is also slower flowing than synthetic oil, so it can offer better lubrication for older engines in some cases.
• Full Synthetic: Full synthetic oil may be the most expensive option, but it is also the longest lasting. This formulation is designed to operate well at any temperature, in any engine, and under even the most high-performance challenges. 
• Synthetic Blend: If you want the lower costs of conventional and the higher capabilities of synthetic, a synthetic blend combines the best of both worlds. However, if your turbo- or supercharged engine requires synthetic oil, stick to pure synthetic for the best results.

Does the Type of Oil Matter?: Motor Oil Grades

Some motor oils flow easily, while others are slower moving. This is referred to as the oil’s viscosity. Motor oil viscosity is graded, and you may have noticed numbers like 5W-20 and 10W-30 on bottles of oil around our parts department. Here is how the numbering system works:

• Low Temperature: The first number on your bottle describes the oil’s viscosity on a cold winter morning in Rancho Cucamonga. The lower the number, the faster the oil flows. So 5W-20 would flow just a little faster than 10W-30, but not by much
• High Temperature: The second number on the bottle describes the oil’s viscosity after the car is warmed up and traveling around Upland. Once again: The lower the number, the faster the oil flows. So 5W-20 would flow faster than 10W-30. 

In short, it’s best to follow the guidelines set by your manual or your technician. The right oil will prevent damage in your engine and improve fuel economy, while the wrong formulations can speed up wear and tear.

Get More Car Care Tips at Mazda of Claremont

Are you ready to schedule your next oil change? Want to pick up a few bottles of motor oil? No matter your car care needs, Mazda of Claremont is here to help. Contact us to learn more about maintenance and service, or stop by Claremont for in-person assistance.