Winter engine oil: which one is better to fill in. Winter engine oil: which one is better to fill in Which oil to choose

26.09.2019

Engine oil is designed to protect one of the most capricious systems in a car - the engine. The correct choice of lubricant depends on the trouble-free cold start of the engine in the absence of oil starvation, its smooth and reliable operation in a wide range of everyday and extreme operating conditions, the period until the next overhaul of the “heart” of the machine, fuel consumption and other indicators.

Which oil to choose

The automaker usually indicates the most optimal lubricant “the one that the doctor ordered” in the instruction manual, and it is advisable to choose this particular option. But, suddenly, the manual was lost or, as often happens, not one brand and type of oil is recommended, but several - which one is better to use in this case?

There is only one way out - to be able to correctly decipher the marking, to understand the characteristics and suitability of the consumable to weather temperatures and a specific motor, to navigate in the ratio of properties to operating conditions.

The most difficult thing is to make a choice between lubricating fluids with similar index values. For example: how is it different from 10w 40?

Or, 5w40 or 10w40 will be suitable in the winter season? Which oil is thinner at high temperatures, and which is thicker at low ambient temperatures?

Drivers often wonder if it is possible to mix 5w40 and 10w 40 from different or from the same manufacturer if both types of oil are listed in the recommendations? Let's get it right!

Briefly about the main classifications of oils.

The most important criteria are the parameters of viscosity and base base. In the international format, these parameters are considered according to two main classification systems for motor oils:

1. In terms of density and viscosity lubricating fluids are usually divided into classes according to the SAE system.
In this classification, all oils are divided into summer, winter and all-weather. By marking, the difference between 10w40 and 5w40 engine oils is determined as follows:

10w (digital value and letter "W") - winter;
40 (number only, no letter designation) – summer;
5w40 (two digital designations with the letter "W" in the middle) - all season.

In practice, only all-season oils are used everywhere. The presence in the marking of the letter "W" (from the English "winter" - winter) indicates the possibility of its use at very low temperatures. The numbers indicate the viscosity indexes of a particular product: the winter index (the minimum temperature for a comfortable cold start) is written before “W”, the summer index (kinematic viscosity determined in the laboratory at a temperature of 100 degrees) is written after the “W”.

For example, if we consider what is the difference between 5w30 and 10w 40 engine oils in terms of the winter parameter, then 5w oil will have a successful cold start temperature lower than 10w oil. As for the difference between the same oils 5w30 and 10w 40 according to the summer index, a lubricant with an index of 30 will have a lower kinematic viscosity than with an index of 40.

2.Based on the basis on the Russian market, the API classification is more often used, which includes three types of chemical base:

fundamental - mineral and synthetic,
as well as semi-synthetic, when mineral water is mixed with synthetics in a percentage ratio of 50:50 or 70:30.

It is worth noting here that most branded manufacturers produce consumables labeled 5w30 and 5w40 as "hydrocracking" synthetics, and labeled 10w 40 as semi-synthetics.

Marking 5w40 - decipher

To determine the main characteristics of 5w40 oil, consider its parameters in accordance with the marking:

According to SAE classification is an all-season engine oil that can be used at any time of the year and does not require replacement with the change of season.
According to API classification in most cases, this lubricant will conditionally refer to “coarse” synthetics, which are recommended for use in any type of engine: gasoline and diesel engines, including those with turbocharging of various modifications, multi-valve, equipped with an intercooler;
Winter index synthetics 5w indicates that in frosts down to -30ºC, the oil will ensure free pumping of the lubricant by the oil pump and engine start;
Summer index 40 says that the kinematic viscosity is 12.5 - 16.3 Cst and will steadily maintain its characteristics at a conditional temperature of +40ºC;
How synthetics have a quality additive package, providing excellent washing and energy-saving properties, low evaporation coefficient.

What the marking 10w 40 will tell about.

Deciphering the abbreviation 10w 40, we can say the following:

According to two viscosity indexes of the SAE classification, this is an all-weather consumable;
On a base basis, 10w 40 is semi-synthetic, which indicates a fairly high density and viscosity;
A winter viscosity index of 10w confirms the possibility of a comfortable cold start of the engine at a temperature of 25 degrees below zero;
The number 40 shows the value of kinematic viscosity in accordance with the standard - 12.5 - 16.3 Cst., retains viscosity characteristics up to + 40 C;
Suitable for use in multi-valve gasoline and diesel engines, including engines with injection and turbocharging;
It has good wear-resistant, anti-caking and fuel-saving performance.

Comparative characteristics of 10w 40 and 5w 40.

Having considered the classification parameters of oils 10w 40 and 5w40, we see that in terms of summer operating conditions and seasonality of use, these lubricating fluids do not have any differences. We list the differences between oils 5w40 and 10w40:

Oil 5w40 in winter provides a safe cold start of the engine at a temperature of -30ºC, unlike 10w40, which can be used at least 25ºC of frost, and therefore the “five” is more suitable for use in winter, and “ten” in summer;
Since 5w40 oil is synthetic, it will be thinner than semi-synthetic 10w40 under the same operating conditions, therefore, in more worn out engines, it is advisable to fill in the top ten;
Since the interval between the viscosity indices of 5w40 oil is less than that of 10w40, the 5w40 lubricant change range will be larger;
Based on the pricing policy, 10w40 semi-synthetics will be much cheaper with similar quality characteristics with 5w40 synthetics.

Is a mixed "diet" appropriate?

If we consider the question: is it possible to mix 5w40 and 10w40 oil, then we will determine the negative consequences of such a “feeding” of the engine:

Despite the fact that all lubricants are produced in accordance with standards, various manufacturers use exclusive additives that, during the operation of the oil, may become incompatible and harm the motor;
You should not add thicker semi-synthetic oil 10w40 to 5w40 synthetics in winter, because. due to the increase, it may not pump lubricant through the system and provoke dry friction of unlubricated parts;
In an extreme situation, it is allowed to add synthetic material to semi-synthetics, which, of course, will reduce the thickness of the lubricating film, but will not cause significant harm.

In any case, when choosing engine oil, you should be guided by the recommendations of the vehicle manufacturer, because lubricants from well-known brands cannot be bad or good, but will become either suitable or not suitable for a particular engine or for specific climatic conditions.

The extended temperature range of 5W30 and 5W40 oils has made them popular with Russian car owners. Why? What benefit will the engine get from this, which oil is better: 5W30 or 5W40 in winter?

Synthetics or semi-synthetics

There is currently a trend towards a wider range of viscosities. Chemists have made the most significant steps in this direction in relation to the creation of synthetics, adding more and more new components there. For example, Mobil, which was the first to bring a synthetic lubricant to the market, has been working with it and experimenting for over thirty years. A huge number of emerging competitors are also on the alert and spend huge amounts of money to create a new product with advanced features. But there are few developers producing highly specialized synthetics, for example, for highly loaded diesel engines.

In addition to "five" - synthetics, there is a similar semi-synthetics. Why not use it? Of course, you can also use liquid mineral water, add thickeners there, a synthetic component with a modern set of additives - and you get a completely standard semi-synthetic in winter, for example. However, it is known that its parameters in any case will be lower compared to synthetics. After all, the oil base plays an extremely important role, setting the physico-chemical base.

A well-known analogy can be traced with gasoline. There is a technology by which a lot of additives are added to low-octane A-80 gasoline in an artisanal way and AI-98 is obtained. But, having worked on such fuel, the engine will soon require repair: at least it will be necessary to flush the injector and replace the spark plugs. After all, it is quite clear that full-fledged gasoline of the highest quality will be obtained only through the use of appropriate technologies.

Viscosity

This characteristic is of paramount importance for a lubricating fluid. This parameter defines the maximum oil application temperature. Therefore, which oil is better: 5W30 or 5W40 (winter or summer) is determined precisely by this parameter. If the indicator is low, the lubricant should not be too viscous to cold start the motor with a starter and pump it through the pump. In high-temperature conditions, the oil, on the contrary, should not have too low a viscosity in order to be able to maintain a constant required level of pressure in the system and form a film that protects against friction around the parts.

So, they are divided into:

Winter. With a low viscosity, the engine will start easily, but the lubricant will not work effectively at high temperatures.

Summer. Cold start will be problematic at temperatures below zero degrees, however, with high viscosity, the motor will be reliably and stably lubricated in warm and hot weather.

All season. When it's cold outside, the oil exhibits the quality of winter lubrication, and when it's hot - summer.

All seasons are becoming more common, replacing the first two types, since now there is no need to change the oil every time the season changes. At the same time, they show themselves to be more efficient and energy-saving. An example of such a lubricant is 5W40 oil (synthetic).

Other characteristics

Of course, other characteristics are also important for oil: detergent, antiwear, anticorrosion and antioxidant (additives are used for this). However, viscosity is one of the main values. Many modern additives increase the price. Therefore, you should always pay attention to this parameter and choose the optimal ratio of lubricant properties and future engine operating conditions.

The main prescription that should be followed when choosing is the requirements of the vehicle manufacturer. They are listed in the user manual. Typically, they not only contain information about the specific properties that should be inherent in the lubricant used, but also offer specific brands of oils with recommendations for using them. Shell oil (5W40, 5W30 or other type) is often found in the manual. At the same time, if your car is far from new, and you have little information about its operation, then you can choose the brand for the engine or transmission yourself.

1999 SAE standard

What do those cryptic SAE letters stand for? From English, the abbreviation translates as "Society of Automobile Engineers" (Society of Automobile Engineers). This is an international standard that viscosity must comply with. For example, in 1999 the requirements of the standard were as follows.

According to the oils, they determine the correspondence to a certain season. It is calculated at low speeds from twenty to one hundred degrees and separately at one hundred degrees.

Starting properties are revealed through resistance at and the possibility of obtaining revolutions. Depending on the viscosity and class, they are determined at temperatures from ten to thirty-five degrees below zero and high shear rates (105s-1), that is, the conditions for working in crankshaft bearings during cold start are considered.

Pumpability determines the rate of passage of lubricant to rubbing parts during a cold start, as well as the possible risk of engine breakdown during a cold start due to the rotation of the liners. The indicator is considered at negative temperatures from fifteen to forty degrees and at low shear rates (10s-1). Under these conditions, the lubricant spreads in the sump to the oil receiver when starting a cold engine.

Viscosity at high temperature reveals the real indicator during operation of highly loaded motors in the warm season. Thus, anti-wear characteristics, losses due to friction and the impact on the efficiency of the motor are visible. It is fixed at high shear rates (106s-1). Under these conditions, the crankshaft bearings operate under high temperature and load.

SAE classification

This is the SAE specification, which determines in various conditions. There are currently six winter classes and five summer classes. Winter is easy to identify by the presence of the letter W (“winter”, which means “winter” in English). The higher the viscosity, the larger the numerical index will be.

Winter viscosity is indicated by 0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W. 25W.

Summer - 20, 30, 40, 50.

Consider 5W40 oil as an example.

Its characteristics are as follows. Class - viscosity 5W. As you know, it can be used in the winter, that is, it depends on this indicator how easy it will be to start the engine in the cold. Thus, in order to understand which oil to fill in in winter, you need to pay attention to this particular indicator.

The number "40" reveals summer performance, that is, the ability of the engine to operate at high temperatures.

If, as in our example, there is a designation of both one and the other classes (that is, motor oil 5W40, as well as 5W30), this indicates the all-weather nature of its use.

How to choose a winter class

When choosing a viscosity, they are primarily guided by the instructions of the car manufacturer. If there are none, follow the general recommendations.

When choosing the best oil for winter, you need to take into account the conditions under which the vehicle will be operated.

Then problems with starting in winter and negative consequences for the motor (for example, rapid wear and jamming at startup, which can occur under oil starvation conditions) can be avoided, regardless of whether you have 5W30 or 5W40 filled in for the winter. It must be understood that when starting the engine, even if this does not happen in severe frost, but with a positive mark on the thermometer, it takes time for the oil pump to pump through the lubrication system so that the liquid enters all rubbing parts and channels. Until this time, the engine has been running in conditions of lack of oil. Therefore, friction and wear are greatly increased. The more the lubricant can keep fluid in low temperature conditions, the better the protection for the motor will be provided.

How to choose an all season

Winter properties are displayed on the left side, and summer properties are displayed on the right. Thus, wondering which oil is better - 5W30 or 5W40 - in winter, you need to pay attention only to the indicator on the left, and in this case it is the same.

Therefore, you should pay attention to the difference in summer mode and select the appropriate option depending on the operating conditions of the vehicle.

Viscosity-temperature properties

Ensuring the engine start without heating, free pumping of oil through the system and, as a result, stable lubrication of all rubbing parts at the maximum possible loads and ambient temperature depends on this indicator.

Even in a temperate climate, the change in winter temperature to the greatest warming up is up to one hundred and ninety degrees. Therefore, seasonal oils must be changed depending on the time of year. However, with the advent of all-weather seasons (they include, for example, motor oil 5W40 and 5W30), the problem was removed. Thanks to their additives, they are able to exhibit the required properties at various temperatures. That is, with a negative value, they are like winter oils, and with high positive values, they are like summer oils.

Additives

Additives do not greatly increase the viscosity at low temperatures, but they increase it strongly at high temperatures, when the number of macropolymer molecules increases significantly. In all seasons (which include 5W30 grease and 5W40 oil), the characteristics lie in the temporary possibility of changing its viscosity, also relative to shear rate. When the speed decreases, it increases, and when it increases, it decreases.

Most of all, this property is manifested at low temperatures, but it is also preserved at high temperatures, which has good consequences for the engine: low viscosity when the engine is cold makes it easier to descend, and when it is warm, energy loss due to friction is reduced, thereby saving fuel.

Low temperature

The low temperature characteristic of an oil is revealed through the pour point when the lubricant stops flowing. This indicator is realized when the temperature is five to seven degrees below that at which fluidity was possible.

Most often, solidification occurs due to the formation of paraffins in the chilled lubricant.

Which oil is better: 5W30 or 5W40 (in winter)

Based on the foregoing, it is clear that in the cold season, both species manifest themselves in the same way. Therefore, both one and the other type of lubricating fluid are perfect for winter.

For many experienced motorists, it is no secret that the quality of the engine oil and a number of characteristics of the lubricant will depend. If in summer the requirements for the protection of parts under conditions of high temperatures and loads are mainly put forward, then in winter other additional parameters must be taken into account. We note right away that the division into winter oil for an engine or oil for summer has almost completely lost its relevance today. The modern fuels and lubricants market offers products of a universal type.

In other words, all-weather motor oil for year-round use is widely represented on sale. Moreover, the line between products only for and engines is gradually blurring, as more and more often an option is offered that can be equally poured into both diesel and gasoline units. At the same time, it has not yet been possible to achieve an unambiguous and complete transition to universal oil for gasoline and diesel engines, taking into account the features of operation, the types of fuel used and other differences between units running on diesel fuel and gasoline. In this article, we intend to talk about which oil is better to fill in the engine in winter, what is the conditional marking of winter engine oil, how to monitor the level and correctly add lubricant to the engine during the winter operation of the car.

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What kind of oil to fill in the engine for the winter

As mentioned above, the vast majority of products on the fuel and lubricants market are all-weather. At the same time, many car owners are still in a hurry to change the lubricant before the onset of cold weather. We note right away that this winter is highly recommended, especially in cases where the old lubricant has worked out half or two-thirds of its resource before a scheduled replacement.

Now let's move on to how to choose oil for the winter season, taking into account viscosity and other parameters that are extremely important for the proper operation of the internal combustion engine and its proper operation. Let's start with the fact that you need to fill in the engine with those products that are recommended by the car manufacturer. This information is contained in the instruction manual. However, the list is not limited to only one or two positions. Not only the motor resource will also depend on the parameters and quality of the filled lubricant. Oil affects the elasticity and noise level during engine operation, fuel consumption, ease of starting at low temperatures, etc.

It is well known that a thicker lubricant creates a thicker oil film, which allows the motor to run quieter. Also, such material is less consumed for waste, the risk of gaskets and other sealing elements is reduced. For this reason, in the summer, car owners, especially with a mileage of more than 100 thousand km, prefer to fill the engine with a lubricant with a higher viscosity, while remaining within the tolerances and recommendations of the engine manufacturer. The argument is that with the run in conjugated pairs, the gaps increase slightly. In other words, if a lubricant with an index, for example, 5W30, was initially poured into the motor, then after a run of 100-150 thousand. km. transition to 5W40 or 10W40 is carried out. At the same time, it should be borne in mind that more viscous technical fluids in conditions of negative temperatures thicken more and are pumped worse. As a result, an engine that normally starts with a thicker oil in summer may have difficulty starting in winter. In this case, the answer, is it possible to change the oil in the engine in winter, will be completely in the affirmative.
Also let's see how to check the engine oil in winter. To check, it will be enough to remove the oil dipstick before a cold start of the internal combustion engine and look at the condition of the lubricant, at what speed the oil collects in a drop at the end of the dipstick, etc. If it is clear that the grease is very thick, then the need for replacement is quite obvious. By the way, given that the lubricant in the engine thickens in the cold, it is useful to know how to properly add oil to the engine in winter. As you know, it is undesirable for the engine, that is, the lubricant is poured strictly according to the level. The oil level in the engine itself is checked in winter no more in the usual way (after parking), but after the internal combustion engine has been preheated to operating temperatures.

The fact is that if you evaluate the oil level on a cold engine, then the readings may be incorrect due to a decrease in the volume of oil during cooling. To accurately determine the level, the engine is fully warmed up at idle and then in motion (only if the level is not lowered to a critical level). Full warm-up makes it possible to warm up not only the coolant, but also the oil itself, the temperature of which increases more slowly. After the unit is turned off, then a pause is maintained for 10-15 minutes. During this time, the completely diluted grease has time to drain back into the sump, and the readings on the dipstick will make it possible to make an objective assessment, that is, add or remove excess grease if necessary.

So, we decided on an oil check. It becomes clear that the less viscous it turns out to be, the easier it will be for the engine to start in cold weather. If you notice that the filled lubricant is not suitable for winter, or you simply intend to choose the most optimal solution, then let's return to the features and nuances when choosing. Next, we will try to answer common questions about which oil to pour for the winter, which is better, 5w30 or 5w40 in winter, etc.

The choice of "winter" engine oil

The main parameters of the oil, which must be taken into account before purchase, can be determined by special markings. In the case of the selection of lubricants for the winter, it is necessary to choose a product that will be best suited in terms of viscosity and temperature indicators. Conditionally "winter" oil in the list of common universal solutions can be considered oils from 0W30 to 10W40.

Oil 0W30 will be the least viscous, that is, even in severe frosts (about -35 or -40) it remains fluid and is well pumped through the system.
Products with the 5W30 index are also well suited for winter, where the temperature drop in the region is quite significant. 10W30 is recommended for use in areas where winters are milder.
Marking 10W40 means that such an oil is universal, well suited both for winter with a slight decrease in temperature (about -5), and for operation in the summer.

At the same time, it is important to know that the smaller the first digit is, the thinner the oil will be after the internal combustion engine has warmed up and the unit has reached operating temperatures. An oil that is too thin will mean that the lubricating fluid will in some cases be inferior in terms of protection of mating loaded engine parts compared to more viscous counterparts. In other words, the thinner the oil, the thinner the oil film and the more the engine wears out. It turns out that for a confident start and minimal wear during a cold start, it is better to use low-viscosity oils, and after the engine warms up, such an oil may not provide the proper degree of protection. Given these features, it is recommended to adhere to the instruction manual and the golden mean rule. For example, if a manufacturer has indicated that both 5W30 and 10W40 oils can be used for a particular engine, then it is necessary to build on the degree of possible temperature drop in the region.

In other words, if winter temperatures don't usually drop below -5 or -7, then 10W40 might be a good choice. If the temperature drop reaches -15 or -20 degrees, then it is more reasonable to stop at 5W30 or 5W40, etc. It is also necessary to take into account the fact that with the onset of heat, the oil may also need to be changed to a more viscous one for improved engine protection. It is for this reason that some experts recommend pouring a less viscous lubricant into the engine in winter and a more viscous oil in summer, that is, to replace it seasonally. We add that such a change is relevant only if the increase and decrease in temperatures in the region greatly exceeds the calculated "universal" parameters of the oil. This means that if in the climatic zone in winter, on average, it is not lower than -20, and in summer not higher than +35, then oil marked 5W30 can be used year-round.

Now a few words about manufacturers and types of oil. Experts and experienced motorists emphasize that, first of all, the tolerances of the internal combustion engine manufacturer are important, and only then should one or another brand be preferred. If otherwise, the necessary marking for temperature and viscosity is first selected, then compliance with all tolerances specified in the manual is taken into account. Only after that, the type of oil is determined (mineral, synthetic or semi-synthetic), and only then can you focus on a specific fuel and lubricants manufacturer, unique product features, final cost, etc.

It turns out that it is not so important whether you fill the engine with Liqui Moly, Castrol, Mobil or Xado. The main thing is that the selected product is original, suitable for this type of engine, has the right viscosity, taking into account seasonality, and meets all the tolerances of the power unit manufacturer.

Summing up

Given the fact that a large number of types and brands of motor oil are available on the market, it is recommended not to opt for the cheapest options. It is also better to purchase fuels and lubricants in trusted car dealerships and large retail outlets, which will help reduce the likelihood of buying fake goods. We add that with a predicted significant decrease in temperatures in the region, one should not opt for mineral oil. In this case, it is optimal to fill in semi-synthetics.

Finally, I would like to note that if the car is in a heated box or garage during long-term parking, as well as during everyday operation, it usually stands idle on the street for no more than 2-4 hours, then there is no particular need to fill in oil with reduced viscosity in winter.

In this case, it will be enough, which will slow down the cooling rate of the internal combustion engine. Another way to reduce the risk of increased wear and facilitate cold starting is to install, use engine auto-heating with help, etc.

What do letters and numbers hide?

The letter W is a symbol for cold atmospheric conditions (from the word winter - winter). The presence of such a letter in the marking of oils indicates that the product will provide a comfortable engine start at low temperatures. The same lubricants can be used under medium and not very high positive conditions.

Indicators 5w and 10w determine the ability of substances designated by them to resist sub-zero temperatures. These designations show what is the minimum limit for a successful start of a cold engine. The smaller the first digit, the lower this threshold.

The number 40 determines the degree of viscosity of the oil when the operating temperature of the engine reaches high limits. For example, a 5w30 oil will have a lower kinematic viscosity compared to a 5w40 product. The latter substance will be thicker at the same operating temperatures.

Technical information on 5w40 oil

According to the classification of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), 5w40 oil is recommended for all-weather use. The atmospheric temperature range is set from -30° to +40°. In other words, the engine will be able to start without tangible negative consequences at -30 °.

The astringent consistency of 5w40 oil ensures that it reaches all rubbing surfaces immediately after starting the engine. It retains acceptable viscosity even at sufficiently high temperature conditions.

5w40 engine oil has the following main characteristics:

Motor lubricating fluid marked 5w40 has the following established properties:

5w40 oil has a composition that ensures the preservation of working qualities with extended service intervals. The use of this product increases the service life of the engine. It does not "stain" with oil and does not require regular flushing.

Substance 5w40 has low volatility and ignition point in the open crucible method. Because of this, the amount of negative deposits decreases, oil waste decreases. 5w40 does not destroy the sealing elements of the engine.

Performance 10w 40

Substance 10w 40 belongs to the group of semi-synthetic oils. Such products are formed by adding various synthetic additives to the mineral base. As a result, many indicators of mineral oils are improved, and in comparison with synthetics, a cheaper version is produced. The golden mean is 10w 40 engine oil, which is considered all-weather.

Motor lubricant 10w 40 has a number of attractive advantages:

unique viscosity indicators;
extended service life without quality losses;
wide temperature range.

Oil 10w 40 maintains the set viscosity parameters in temperature conditions from -25 ° to + 40 °. However, reviews from motorists indicate that 5w30 astringent can also be poured into the engine for the winter.

Semi-synthetics 10w 40 is the most sought-after product in Eastern Europe. Dozens of companies that offer products labeled 10w 40 know this. Prices for it range from $ 4 to $ 20 per 1 liter. It is necessary to try to choose the best option in the ratio of cost and declared quality.

Comparison of the specific qualities of 5w40 and 10w 40 oils

The considered indicators indicate that both products have absolutely the same viscosity in the summer. In this indicator, no substance has tangible advantages. Operational features can only change due to the additives used from a particular manufacturer.

Synthetic 5w40 oil is thinner than semi-synthetic 10w 40. This means that when hot, thickeners will have to be added to the 5w40 lubricating fluid. And here additional difficulties may already arise with the compliance with a specific modification of the engine. Therefore, 10w 40 is best used in hotter climates.

Synthetics 5w40, although less viscous, are more stable and resistant to changes in chemical composition. It provides a high level of protection of rubbing engine parts from wear. Synthetic oil is best suited for new engine applications. For example, many manufacturers recommend using 5w30 at the initial stages of car operation. Such a substance may also be suitable for engines with an average mileage.

For engines with increased wear, 10w 40 oil is better. It has a higher viscosity. This quality will help seal the resulting gaps between parts of the piston group and other engine components. Lubrication 10w 40 will better protect a worn engine from further loss of power.

The difference between 5w40 and 10w 40 oils is due not so much to the indicators of lower temperature parameters as to their belonging to different types. Equal viscosities in practice are corrected for by the synthetic and semi-synthetic nature of each of these products. Do not forget that there will be a noticeable difference in price. Synthetic products are among the most expensive due to manufacturing difficulties.

Accounting for automotive parameters

When choosing lubricants, you can be guided by recommendations from manufacturers of specific car models. However, during the operation of the car, specific indicators that should be taken into account are of great importance. This:

If the engine life has exceeded 150,000 km, then it is necessary to refrain from using additives. In such cases, engine cleaning additives, which have a strong effect, can be of particular danger. It is better to use anti-seize additives. This makes it easier to maintain the performance of an engine that has not yet undergone a major overhaul or high-quality preventive maintenance.

It is not worth ignoring the listed motor parameters. On the contrary, taking them into account, it is much easier to choose the right lubricant option. The 5w40, 5w30, 10w30, 10w 40 product line allows you to meet the basic requirements for ensuring comfortable engine operation in various conditions.

The modern market offers a huge amount of motor fluids in various assortments. An oil that performs well on one scale may be disappointing on other dimensions. The popularity of 5w40, 5w30, 10w30 and 10w 40 motor oils has been proven by their performance and adaptability to weather vagaries. The final choice of one or another product depends on the individual consumer and the expected driving conditions.