Your vehicle’s operation and longevity are very much dependent upon how you take care of it on a regular basis. Changing your fluids, checking your tires and brakes and taking your vehicle in for routine maintenance in Conway, AR can keep your car running like a dream for years to come.
One important aspect of maintenance is frequently checking and changing your car’s oil. Allowing your car’s oil to run too low can cause overheating and, ultimately, engine failure. By selecting the best motor oil for your car, you can ensure that you are getting the best performance possible from your engine.
Product standards and viscosity
The first thing you should look for in any oil brand is a starburst symbol from the American Petroleum Industry (API), which indicates that the product has been tested and approved based on petroleum standards. Another important label to look out for is a two-character service designation. The newest service standard set by API is SL, which refers to a series of laboratory and engine tests.
Once you have identified these important labels on your motor oil, your next task is to choose the right oil viscosity. Viscosity is a fluid’s resistance to flow, and it is rated at 0° Fahrenheit and at 212° Fahrenheit. These two ratings are what make up the first and second number designations in the viscosity rating of oil. 10W-30 oil, for example, has less viscosity both when it is cold and when it is hot than does 20W-50.
Because oil thickens when it cools and thins out when it heats up, additives might be put into the oil that would rate it at different viscosities depending on when it is hot or cold. Depending on how resistant the oil is to thinning, the second number will get higher. A 10W-40 oil is more resistant to thinning than a 10W-30 oil is, which can create a better seal and offer increased lubrication of moving parts.
Selecting the best oil for your car
Choosing an oil with a lower low-temperature viscosity rating is recommended for winter months. During other seasons, choosing an oil with a higher secondary viscosity rating will keep your oil from thinning out excessively with high temperatures. When it comes down to it, the most reliable recommendation for the type of motor oil you should use can be found in your car’s manual. The needs of your car can vary greatly depending on the make, model and age of your car, so take a look in your owner’s manual to determine which oil is the best choice for you.
Routine maintenance for your vehicle
If your car needs an oil change or any other type of routine maintenance in Conway, AR, stop by Riverdale Automotive. We specialize in providing maintenance, repairs and service to European cars. We have experience working with all sorts of European car makes and models, and we are equipped with the knowledge and tools to help keep your car in the best condition possible to offer you maximum performance and a smooth ride. Call today to schedule an appointment with one of our trained technicians.