Last week, we talked a bit about the science behind Oil. Today, we’re continuing on that.
Formula is the most important thing when buying oil. Using the wrong viscosity can shorten engine lifespan. Check your owners manual to see what kind of viscosity oil you need.
Now here’s where things get tricky. Let’s say you’re driving a vehicle that needs 5W-30. You go to the auto parts store or shop ready to buy oil or an oil change, and suddenly you see… a lot of options. Pennzoil, Castrol, Mobil 1, Quaker State… Synthetic, Standard, High Mileage, “Once a Year Change…” the list goes on. “Oh, and the owner’s manual of my car heavily implies if I don’t specifically buy Synthetic Pennzoil my engine is gonna explode! What do I pick?”
Oil, fundamentally, oil is the same no matter what. Yes, viscosity is important, but there is nothing about Pennzoil that makes their oil more “oily” than Castrol, Mobil 1, etc. Oil is oil. What makes a difference is the additives.
On top of being a lubricant, oil does lots for your engine – things like being a detergent, a corrosion preventing lube, a heat dispenser and more. Oil companies all have invested trillions of dollars into developing their oils and all believe they’ve found the best method. This is what makes Pennzoil, for example, different from others and vice-versa.
Have any questions? Feel free to call us at 704-545-4597, email us at kenmanchester1@gmail.com, or check us out online at manchesterautoandtire.com
