Engine oil plays a big role in keeping your car healthy. It lubricates the engine, helps it stay cool, and protects it from wear and tear. Using the right engine oil can even help prevent major issues that lead to car engine repair. But when you walk down the aisle of an auto store or shop online, you’re faced with so many types of engine oils — synthetic, conventional, 5W-30, 10W-40 — that it can get confusing fast.
Don’t worry! In this simple guide, we’ll break down how to choose the best engine oil for your car, using easy-to-understand language that works for beginners and experienced drivers alike.
Why Engine Oil Is Important
Before you choose the right oil, it helps to know what it does. Engine oil:
- Lubricates moving parts inside the engine to prevent wear
- Cools the engine by reducing friction
- Cleans the engine by carrying away dirt and particles
- Protects against rust and corrosion
Without good engine oil, your car’s engine can overheat, wear out faster, and even break down completely. That’s why choosing the right oil — and replacing it on time — is so important.
Step 1: Read Your Owner’s Manual
The easiest and most accurate way to find out which oil your car needs is to check the owner’s manual. Every car is different, and the manufacturer knows exactly what type of oil your engine is built for.
In your manual, look for:
- Recommended oil type (like 5W-30 or 10W-40)
- Oil specifications (such as synthetic or conventional)
- How often do I change the oil?
Following the manual ensures your engine gets the oil it needs for peak performance and long life.
Step 2: Understand Oil Grades (What 5W-30 Means)
Engine oils have different grades, shown in numbers like 5W-30 or 10W-40. These numbers refer to the viscosity, or thickness, of the oil.
Here’s how to understand it:
- The first number (before the “W”) tells you how the oil flows in cold weather. Lower numbers (like 0W or 5W) mean the oil stays thinner and flows better when starting your car on a cold morning.
- The second number (after the “W”) shows how thick the oil remains when the engine is hot. Higher numbers, like 40, give more protection at high temperatures.
Example: If your car manual says 5W-30, it means the oil works well in both cold starts and hot engine conditions.
Step 3: Choose the Right Type of Oil
There are a few main types of engine oil:
1. Conventional Oil
- Made from natural crude oil
- Usually cheaper
- Works well for older engines or cars that aren’t driven a lot
2. Synthetic Oil
- Made using advanced chemical processing
- Lasts longer and performs better in extreme temperatures
- Good for modern engines, frequent drivers, and extreme weather
3. Synthetic Blend
- A mix of synthetic and conventional oils
- Offers better performance than conventional oil at a lower price than full synthetic
4. High-Mileage Oil
- Designed for cars with over 120,000 km (75,000 miles)
- Contains special additives to protect older engines and reduce oil leaks
Not sure which to choose? If your car is newer or you drive a lot, synthetic oil is usually the best choice. For older or less-used cars, conventional oil or a synthetic blend might be enough.
Step 4: Think About Your Driving Habits
Your driving style and environment can affect which oil is best:
- Short trips and traffic: Synthetic oil works better if your engine often doesn’t warm up fully or if you drive in stop-and-go traffic.
- Hot or cold climates: Synthetic oil performs better in extreme heat or freezing temperatures.
- Towing or heavy loads: If you haul heavy items or drive in mountainous areas, you need oil that handles extra stress.
- Long-distance driving: If you spend a lot of time on highways, you’ll benefit from oil that lasts longer and protects your engine over long distances.
Step 5: Check for Quality Certifications
When buying engine oil, always check for certification labels. These show that the oil meets industry safety and performance standards.
Look for:
- API (American Petroleum Institute) Certification – usually marked with a “donut” symbol
- ILSAC (International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee) – often marked with a starburst
These labels mean the oil has been tested and is safe for your engine.
Step 6: Change Your Oil on Time
Even the best engine oil won’t do much good if it’s old and dirty. That’s why regular oil changes are a must.
How often should you change the oil? It depends on:
- Your car’s recommendations (found in the manual)
- The type of oil you use (synthetic lasts longer)
- Your driving habits
As a general rule:
- Conventional oil: every 5,000 km (3,000 miles)
- Synthetic oil: every 8,000–12,000 km (5,000–7,500 miles)
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best engine oil for your car doesn’t have to be difficult. Just follow these simple steps:
- Check your car’s manual
- Understand oil grades and types
- Match the oil to your driving habits
- Look for certified, high-quality products
- Stay on top of regular oil changes
If you’re ever unsure, visiting a trusted auto shop in Perth can help you get expert advice and the right oil for your vehicle. By picking the right oil and replacing it on time, you’ll help your engine run better, last longer, and save money on repairs in the future.
