Engine oil is a vital component of internal combustion engine vehicles. When the correct oil is used at the proper frequency, it keeps the car running smoothly while extending the life of the engine. Thus, using the correct oil for your vehicle is essential. Several factors determine which oil your vehicle should use including the manufacturer’s recommendation, the age of the vehicle, the environment, and driving habits.
Given the importance of oil in lubricating the moving parts of the engine, regularly checking and changing the oil is essential to maintaining the vehicle. Oil change frequency depends on several factors: mileage, time, driving habits, and type of oil used. The intervals for an oil change can be measured by time or mileage depending on whichever occurs first. Given the variables, oil change interval recommendations range from 3,000 miles or 3 months to 10,000 miles or 12 months.
Regardless of frequency, drivers should regularly check their oil levels as a preemptive measure as it is critical to ensure that oil is not overfilled or underfilled.
The manufacturer dictates the type of oil used in a vehicle. This information is documented in the owner’s manual along with the viscosity grade and other oil requirements. Given that some models offer multiple engine options, owners should be sure to search for their exact engine as the recommended oil type may differ by powertrain.
Using the Ford Edge 2.0L Ecoboost as an example, by navigating to the engine oil capacity and specification section of its digital owner’s manual, one learns that Ford recommends Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil XO-5W30-Q1SP, XO-5W30-Q1FS. The SAE 5W-30 indicates the viscosity range of the product is from -20 degrees to over 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
If the vehicle is used in extreme cold, Ford recommends using Engine Oil - SAE 0W-30 with a WSS-M2C963-A1 specification for better performance during a cold start. Unlike the SAE 5W-30 viscosity rating, an SAE 0W-30 viscosity rating is designed to function under -20 degrees Fahrenheit and is thus better suited for extreme temperatures.
Air temperature is a consideration when choosing the right oil for your vehicle. If you live in a warmer climate, selecting an oil with a thinner viscosity grade provides more appropriate engine lubrication. In cooler climates, a thicker oil is necessary to enable lubrication in lower temperatures. Ford also suggests using an alternative engine oil when the vehicle is frequently operated at an altitude of 5,000 feet and under -4 degrees Fahrenheit.
Another solution when living in a place with extreme temperatures is to use synthetic oil. Although usually pricier than conventional oil, synthetic oil is expected to provide improved performance and can increase the time between oil changes. However, synthetic oil should only be used if recommended by the owner’s manual.
In addition to climate, mileage can also influence the type of oil used. If your vehicle has over 75,000 miles, using an engine oil intended for higher mileage vehicles might be the best solution. Additives are included in high-mileage oil to provide supplementary protection. For instance, high mileage oils use seal conditioners that limit leaks and smoke, detergents that help the engine run more cleanly and reduce sludge, and anti-wear agents with compounds that slow down engine deterioration. Thus, once over the 75,000-mile barrier, it may make sense to switch to high-mileage engine oil to extend the life of the vehicle.
Similar to high-mileage oil, additives should also be explored for high-performance cars. For instance, if you own a sports car with an engine that operates at a higher temperature, an anti-wear additive with phosphorus, molybdenum, or zinc reduces stress on the engine. Another practical additive for high-performance vehicles is a viscosity improver to preserve oil flow at high RPMs.
Using the correct engine oil reduces emissions, enhances performance, and improves fuel economy. Vehicle owners should consult their owner’s manual before having an oil change to ensure the proper oil is used. Considering driving habits along with the vehicle’s age, mileage, temperature, and altitude exposure also helps when selecting the right oil for your vehicle.
Matt Yantakosol is a lifelong automotive enthusiast and former consultant focused on the consumer aspect of the industry. He has traveled to New York, Detroit, Chicago, L.A., Paris, Geneva, Frankfurt, and Tokyo Auto Shows to track and observe the newest industry innovations. In addition to JDPower.com, Matt's writing has appeared on Pcarmarket.com.
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