Engine oil: how to choose and when to change. ZR expert advice

When the fuel gauge approaches the zero mark, the driver does not have a question: "What kind of gasoline (diesel) should I fill in the gas tank?" Information about the required octane number is in the vehicle manual, the name of the refinery (fuel manufacturer) interests you even less than the "address" of the oil well.

A normal driver pays attention only to the logo of the gas station (at little-known gas stations there is a risk of buying "unhydrated" or non-standard fuel).
Then why the question: "Which oil is better to fill in the engine?" causing so much discussion?

General information about engine oils

During the operation of any unit, moving parts rub against each other. Rollers (balls) of bearings - on the cages, the crankshaft - on the liners, connecting rods - on the piston fingers. To reduce wear, lubrication is applied to the contact point.

What tasks does the oil in the engine perform:

• creates a thin film with a minimum coefficient of friction. Reduces the load on the engine, reduces wear;
• washes the internal cavities of the engine from slag, temperature deposits, wear products. All "debris" in suspension is driven through the oil filter, and settles in the cartridge;
• counteraction to oxidative processes. Any lubricant contains alkaline additives that neutralize acids that occur during engine operation. As a result of a chemical reaction, corrosion risks are reduced.

The lubricant consists of a whole set of main and auxiliary (chemically active) components. The correct combination will determine which oil to fill the engine.

The car manufacturer has special requirements for lubricants. Chemical enterprises, in order to obtain the so-called tolerance, adjust the basic characteristics to these requirements. As a result, the buyer can accurately determine whether a given composition is suitable for his car or not.

In the technical documentation of the car, in addition to the basic characteristics of lubricants, there is necessarily an automaker's approval for lubricants. When choosing an oil, this combination of letters and numbers carries more useful informationthan the manufacturer's logo.

For example: "Volkswagen" - VW 507.00, "Ford" - M2C917-A, "Mercedes" - MV 229.3.

Important: The examples given are not exhaustive for the listed car brands. The lubricant tolerance is indicated in the instructions for maintenance car, section: "Technical fluids".

As you already understood, manufacturers are trying to produce motor oils in accordance with the requirements of car manufacturers. Market relations do not forgive liberties in the characteristics, and car factories conclude contracts with those chemical concerns that offer a product that best meets the needs of motor engineers.
That is, a really high-quality composition is poured on the conveyor.

The same applies to the network of authorized workshops. It makes no sense for the masters of these workshops to use the first available lubricants, risking "screwing up" the engine and paying warranty repair... But what about car owners who have thrown off the yoke of warranty obligations? On the shelves, canisters from various chemical concerns are located in orderly rows, and all have a permit for your car.


It is better not to consider options without admission, even on the advice of your best friends.

Important: Automakers are constantly changing their tolerance abbreviations. This is due to the emergence of new technologies in motor engineering. If your car is more than 10 years old, you may not find the coveted combination on the oil label.

There are two ways out:

1. Buy lubricants only with your car logo. They will be guaranteed admission for old cars. But it can be too expensive, "original" oils are 10% -25% more expensive.
2. Get reliable information on the compatibility of new tolerances with old ones from the automaker's website. As a rule, when certifying the next admission, auto concerns draw up a list of "absorption" of old standards, new ones.

And of course, in order not to get into a mess when choosing another bright label, you need to understand what the basic characteristics of lubricants mean.

What is oil viscosity

Lubricants change consistency with temperature. Moreover, this very temperature can "jump" within huge limits during one cycle of operation: from the moment the motor is started to its stop.

How it works?

You have selected the oil to be filled based on the average temperature in the region. In the morning frost hit unplanned, and the starter hardly turns the crankshaft: the grease thickened.

Then the engine warmed up, the oil became too liquid, and the film on the contact surface did not adhere. After a trip, when the viscosity of the lubricants is minimal, all the fluid flows into the oil pan: it is dry at the lubrication points.

The next morning, not only does the starter work again with increased load: until the engine warms up and the liquid lubricant rises through the oil channels, the friction units work almost dry.

To understand which oil is better to fill, you need to understand what happens to the oil and how it is in the engine - an interesting video

This is approximately how oils with the wrong viscosity work. 20-30 years ago this was a serious problem: an oil change was required in accordance with the operating season. Simply put: thicker in summer, thinner in winter.

Modern lubricants are dependent only on engine performance. The required viscosity is maintained regardless of the ambient temperature. The higher the quality of the oil (depending on the set of additives), the more stable the properties throughout the entire temperature cycle of the engine.

Viscosity classification of engine oils:

Oil viscosity is a kind of compromise between the ability to maintain an oil film at the points of friction (too liquid consistency will not allow this), and fluidity (the ability of the oil to move through the oil channels).

Viscosity is measured and marked by sAE classification, and consists of two numerical designations, separated by the letter W.


The first number is the temperature index of the so-called cold start (low temperature viscosity). It depends on it whether the starter can crank the crankshaft, say at -25 ° C.
For normal work motor in a warm state, it is required to exactly observe the value of the second digit: high-temperature viscosity. The operating temperature is reached fairly quickly, and the rest of the time the oil operates in the “correct” viscosity mode.

When the question arises: "What kind of oil should you fill?" depending on the season - it is still more important to match the number after the "W". To start in severe frost, the motor can be brought to life with the help of a heater. But the difference in viscosity at standard temperature cannot be compensated for.

Which oil is best for winter and should it be changed?

The question is closely related to the previous section. Let's see if the notorious "winter oil" exists? As we know, the first figure in the SAE viscosity designation characterizes the cold start temperature. That is, with the given characteristics of high-temperature viscosity (for example, 30), 0W30 will be indicated, and summer - 10W30.

The difference can be seen in the illustration:


In some regions, where seasonal temperatures differ by 60 ° C, the corresponding viscosity type is poured each season. If the change of winter and summer coincides in terms of mileage with the timing of maintenance, you do not have to worry about the question: "Which oil is better to fill?" The high-temperature viscosity is higher in summer and lower in winter.

And if, according to the mileage, the oil needs to be changed once a year?

In this case, it is better to pay attention to the base of the lubricant. Synthetic and sex synthetic oil react differently to temperature changes. And mineral water is so strongly dependent on the degree on the street that pouring grease out of season is destructive for the motor.

Which oil to pour, synthetic, semi-synthetic or mineral?

To understand what engine oil better to fill in the engine, consider the difference between the types of base:

• synthetics are made from chemical compounds of hydrocarbons. If you do not go into details, it is made from natural gas. The viscosity of such a base is practically independent of the ambient temperature, therefore general characteristics lubricants do not change, starting from cold start, to warming up to operating temperature. True, the production is quite expensive, so pure synthetics are expensive.
• a mineral analogue of any oil (although it is more correct to say that mineral water has synthetic analogs) is created on the basis of natural raw materials, that is, oil. The prime cost is low, the price of the lubricant is attractive. What about the parameters? As long as the oil is "fresh", the characteristics are no worse than those of expensive synthetics. However, the mineral base "wears out" rather quickly if that term can be applied to a liquid. Besides, mineral water strongly changes its viscosity depending on temperature. Until the engine warms up, it is better not to get under way in frosty weather. If you can turn the crankshaft at all;
• as usual there is always golden mean... Semi-synthetics have a low cost. And the characteristics, in some cases, are not worse than pure synthetics. From the point of view of the term of use, the indicators are not important. Therefore, such oil must be changed strictly according to the maintenance schedule. But the dependence on temperature is an order of magnitude better than that of mineral water.

Despite the variety of brands, there are no more than a dozen real manufacturers. By choosing good oil, you are guided by the promotion of the logo and the price. Do you think it is better to pour expensive oil? Marketers think the same way, offering the same composition at different prices.

Each global manufacturer produces lubricants under a variety of names. If the composition is the same, but the price differs twice, then one brand is highlighted in the so-called. "Elite" category, and the second is classified as an economy class. There is a slight difference in additives, which does not fundamentally affect the quality.

An interesting video about the interchangeability of engine oils and brands

To change the oil in the engine without overpaying for the name - study the structure of the leading manufacturers of oils and auto chemistry. Each group has a dozen subordinate brands. You can be sure: the quality of a product with the same labeling is practically the same. The main thing is to check the compatibility of your car manufacturer's tolerances.

Fuel oil dependence

As you understood from the previous material, it does not matter which brand of oil is better for pouring into the engine. For gasoline and diesel internal combustion engines, there are car manufacturers approvals. What is the difference between them?

The gasoline engine runs smoothly, but the crankshaft speed is higher. The temperature regime is also different. Accordingly, light fuel engine oils need to be more viscous and withstand high temperatures.

The diesel engine warms up slowly, and the operating mode is sharper, associated with vibrations. The characteristics of the oils are matched to these conditions, the manufacturers relieve the buyer from making a decision: which oil to pour into the engine. The packaging has the appropriate markings:

Advice:
Don't chase logos from TV ads. Promoted brands are more often counterfeited by scammers. You risk in best case buy regular oil, paying exorbitant prices, and at worst - get refined working off in a beautiful box.

Dozens of car brands, hundreds of models and thousands of engines are officially represented in Russia. And for each, it is necessary to choose the right oil, focusing on the variety of tolerances of automakers and viscosities of engine oils. But everything is not as complicated as it seems at first glance, if you simply focus on the recommendations of the automaker, which, in turn, are based on two main points: the type of engine and the ambient temperature.

VISCOSITY

The SAE viscosity designation includes two digits. The first, next to the letter W, denotes low-temperature viscosity (0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W). The lower this figure, the lower the temperature you can start the engine. In central Russia, the 5W-X viscosity grade is sufficient, but in the regions of the Far North, where the temperature can drop below –30 ° C, it is recommended to use oil with a 0W-X viscosity grade.

The second digit in the designation of the viscosity class is the high-temperature viscosity (8, 12, 16, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60). Engines of various car manufacturers have very different requirements for this parameter. Some are designed for low-viscosity oils, such as Japanese and korean cars... And some, on the contrary, require the use of oils with a viscosity of XW-40. In any case, when choosing a viscosity grade, you must follow the recommendations of the automaker.

HOW TO UNDERSTAND COMPLIANCE AND APPROVALS?

Automotive manufacturers can have a wide variety of oil requirements. European and American ones often have their own oil approvals and only allow products that have been approved and tested in independent or in-house laboratories to be poured into their engines. Japanese, Chinese and Korean automakers do not have their own engine oil approvals, but require compliance international classifications API or ILSAC.

To obtain a manufacturer's approval, it is necessary to carry out a number of bench and motor tests in independent laboratories. Based on successful tests, an oil approval is issued, confirming the level of performance, and the automobile company adds the oil to the list of officially approved ones. Official approval from the car manufacturer ensures that the oil in the engine works properly. If any breakdown did occur, and it was precisely the oil declared as approved that caused it, then the automaker is obliged to compensate for the repair costs.

FIRST FILL AND SERVICE FILL OIL

The first oil is poured into car engines on the assembly line and, as a rule, the requirements that automakers place on it are higher than for service fill oils. Such oils have a lower viscosity so as not to unnecessarily interfere with the "smoothing" of rubbing surfaces during running-in and bench tests of the engine. After the motor has been run in, it is sent to the assembly line with the filled oil.

The oil that enters the engine when it warranty service, commonly called service fill oil. Many people believe that it is necessary to use only original engine oils in containers with the manufacturer's label. However, it should be noted that now not a single car company is engaged in independent production of oils, but resorts to the help of specialized companies. Therefore, oil in branded packaging differs only in the logo on the label and the inflated price tag. Accordingly, when changing the oil, you can use a product of any brand, subject to the necessary tolerance and level of performance recommended by the automaker in the vehicle manual.

OIL IN THE POST-WARRANTY PERIOD

In the post-warranty period, when the vehicle's mileage can reach more than 100-200 thousand km, the gaps between the cylinder wall and the piston first increase. If you continue to use low-viscosity oils, then the created oil film thickness may not be enough, and combustion gases will breakthrough into the oil sump. In this regard, it makes sense to switch to more viscous oils, which will provide a thicker oil film and prolong the life of the engine.

HOW OFTEN CHANGE THE OIL?

When asked "When to change the oil?" cannot be answered unequivocally, since this moment depends on a large number of factors - from operating conditions to fuel quality. In the car manual, as a rule, slightly underestimated figures are given - up to 15 thousand km. In fact, high-quality oils from large companies that have official approvals from automakers may well last much longer. Therefore, nothing terrible will happen if you tighten the oil change by 500-1000 km. But this should still not be done, since in the event of a breakdown, the automaker has the right to refuse warranty repair.

The mode in which the car is operated has a great influence on the resource of the engine oil.

RESULTS

So, in order to choose the right engine oil yourself, you need to follow these steps:

1. Check your vehicle manual for the oil requirements section.
2. Determine the required level of engine oil properties depending on the engine type and operating mode.
3. Select the SAE oil viscosity class depending on the ambient temperature in which the vehicle is operated and the vehicle mileage.
4. Select the desired brand of oil, carefully study the declared levels of properties, tolerances and compliance with the requirements of automakers.
5. If possible, check whether the oil manufacturer has licenses and approvals online, or request official documents.

Experienced drivers know that the right oil can extend the life of the engine, and the wrong one can significantly reduce it. Entrusting an oil change to a non-professional auto mechanic puts your engine at risk. Even a mistake when choosing oil for a moped, scooter or motorcycle can ruin the engine. To prevent this from happening, it is important to figure out which brand of oil is best for pouring into the engine.

Why do you need engine oil

Although engine oil is a consumable lubricant, experts call it the most important part in an engine. It is difficult to disagree with this statement. The fact is that the quality of the oil affects the smooth operation of the engine and its durability. Many experienced drivers know that more expensive oil can help save money on engine repairs. But more expensive doesn't always mean better. In the case of engine oils, this statement is also relevant.

What influences the choice of oil

The variety of brands and types of engine oil is due to the fact that each of them is intended for different cars... Some are equipped with diesel engines, some with gasoline. Some are turbocharged, others are not. It is important to consider the year of manufacture of the vehicle, mileage and general condition of the engine. As well as the season and operating conditions vehicle.

How often to change the engine oil

It is generally accepted that for the majority passenger carsmobiles, including domestic Lada (Kalina, Priora, Granta, Largus), the oil should be changed every 10,000 km. But in many cases, it is better to change the engine oil every 5000-7000 km. Car enthusiasts might say it's quite expensive. But simple repair or complete replacement the engine will cost much more.

What kind of oil should not be filled

Unfortunately, engine oils are often counterfeited. For VAZ 2107 or 2110 cars, such experiments are not very scary. But the new engines of Ford, Audi or Mitsubishi will hardly survive such tests. Therefore, it is better to choose oil from reputable manufacturers. Their containers are protected from overflow. So you can be sure that the bottle contains the right oil.
It is better to immediately refuse offers of suspicious auto mechanics to fill in their "special" oil. Since most often it is a low-quality diluted liquid, which is most likely to cause more damage to the car.
When choosing an oil, it is better to focus on the price. As practice shows, more expensive options correspond to their cost in terms of quality. But even in the middle price category, there is a good engine oil. But suspiciously cheap lubricants are best avoided. Because of them, cars of the Peugeot 406 class often end up in car repair shops.

Motor oil myths and reality

There are many legends among motorists, for example, that mineral oil able to reduce fuel consumption. Or that after 100 thousand mileage, you must definitely switch to semi-synthetic oil. Some drivers claim that their engine does not "drink" a single gram of oil. Or that it remains light even after 5000 km. mileage.
But these statements are not substantiated by anything other than the authoritative word of the driver himself. For example, there is no motor that eliminates oil loss. The principle of operation of any known internal combustion engine assumes inevitable loss of lubricated material. The minimum oil consumption simply indicates that it is not leaking.
And the myth that oil does not darken even after several thousand kilometers can also be easily dispelled. Any good engine oil contains special ingredients that help clean the lubrication areas. Therefore, after the first hundreds of kilometers traveled, the oil begins to darken. If this does not happen, then the liquid is of poor quality, and all the sediment remains on piston rings, which complicates the operation of the hydraulic compressor. Over time, coke deposits start to burn. This, in turn, leads to piston burnout. For example, many Chevrolet Lacetti cars were put out of action.

Drivers who claim that mineral oil can reduce fuel consumption put not only their cars at risk, but those who believe it. Indeed, mineral oil has a more viscous structure, which can temporarily reduce consumption. But such savings will lead to expensive engine repairs or the need for a complete replacement.

Which oil to choose: synthetic, semi-synthetic or mineral

Many experts say that it is better to fill in synthetic or semi-synthetic engine oil in all cars produced after 90th year. Good "synthetics" allows you to reduce the friction force, thereby protecting the engine from overheating; reduce fuel consumption and reduce the amount of coke deposits on the piston walls. Mineral oils are inferior to synthetic oils in these indicators. But their price is much less, so the drivers inexpensive cars prefer mineral.

It should also be added that by choosing a cheap synthetic or semi-synthetic engine oil, you can accelerate engine wear. The point is that the type of oil does not characterize its quality. Lubricants contain base oil and impurities, which in turn are responsible for its properties. The composition of engine oil can contain up to 20% of impurities. Each of them is responsible for properties such as viscosity, resistance to corrosion and oxidation, and the ability to clean. The quality of the oil directly depends on the amount of additives and their balance. In this case, "synthetics" and "semi-synthetics" may be inferior to mineral oil. For cars like Daewoo Lanos, Sens or Matiz, a good mineral oil may be the best choice.

A quality product will retain its properties even after 15 thousand kilometers. Therefore, some manufacturers have extended the oil drain interval. Thus, expensive oil pays for its cost. But this is only on condition that its quality is better than its cheaper counterparts.
It is useful to carry out two oil filter changes: one during oil changes and one between cycles. This can significantly extend the life of the engine. Moreover, the quality of filters in the domestic market leaves much to be desired.
There is a misconception among drivers that after 100 thousand kilometers of engine mileage, it must be converted to a semi-synthetic type of oil. And over time, even for mineral oil.
To understand why this statement is wrong, you need to go a little deeper into history. Since the beginning of the 90s, the engine mechanism has been improved. They are very different from the design of motors produced since the 50s, for example, as in the Moskvich or Peugeot 402.
Modern motors have a more complex design, maximum amount revs and use high-octane fuel. All this increases the requirements for the properties of motor oils. Therefore, synthetic oil is best suited to engines from Mercedes, Volkswagen, Honda or Mazda. With proper care, after 100 and 200 thousand kilometers, such engines do not drastic changes, which discards the need to switch to other types of oils.

What oil to choose for a diesel engine

Diesel engines differ significantly from gasoline engines in terms of the specifics of their work. Therefore, the properties of oils for them are different. The composition should contain more dispersing and cleaning impurities. The former help to retain microparticles of soot, while the latter prevent the formation of carbon deposits. It should also be noted that diesel fuel contains a large amount of sulfur. To increase the resistance of the fluid to oxidation, the oil must contain an antioxidant additive.

What kind of oil to fill in winter

The notion of seasonality for motor oils has practically disappeared. The fact is that the new lubricants are designed for all year round. So the "winter" oil will not necessarily be better in the cold season for the Hyundai Solaris, and "summer" oil in the summer.
Do not forget that Russia is a large and cold country. In some regions, winter temperatures can drop to extremely low levels. For such cases, there is an oil that retains its viscosity even at low temperatures. You can try this engine oil. But if no noticeable changes have occurred, then you can use the usual all-season brand.
Why switching to a new oil is dangerous
Such a seemingly ordinary process, like switching to another type of oil, can entail some unpleasant consequences:

• Replacing the usual brand of oil is additional load for the motor. Therefore, it is recommended to use one type of oil or from one manufacturer.
• It has been proven that on Toyota 3s and 1zz engines, mixing different types of oils can lead to incompatibility, due to which the beneficial properties of the fluid are lost.

10 brands of motor oils popular in Russia

Today you can find a huge amount of motor oils from various manufacturers. Some of them have become very popular in Russia, as evidenced by positive reviews. Below is a list of the most popular brands of motor oils in our country.

• Castrol. Founded in England, Castrol has been producing lubricating fluids since the end of the nineteenth century. During this period, the manufactured products managed to establish themselves and become a leader in many countries.
• Shell helix. This is the most large concern worldwide. Over a century of history, the company has become a leader in almost all continents.
• Total. The brand appeared on the French market on behalf of the president himself, in order to provide drivers with a domestic product. After a few decades, the products have spread all over the world and are a huge success.
• G-Energy. In the late 2000s, the motor oil market appeared new Product from Gazpromneft Lubricants. Due to its characteristics, the new engine oil quickly became popular.
• Mobil. The company is producing lubricating oils for motors, gearboxes and other mechanisms. In addition to automotive oils, the Mobil brand produces fluids for the shipbuilding and aircraft industries.
• Lukoil. This is a product from the largest oil company in Russia. Its products can be purchased in over 40 countries.
• Zic. The Zic oil is produced by Korea's oldest oil refining company. Thanks to innovative technologies, the brand has become in demand all over the world.
• Xado. At the beginning of its existence, the concern was engaged in the development and production of energy-saving materials. But since the early 2000s, motor oils have been added to the range.
• Elf. A well-known French brand that has been producing motor oils for over 50 years. During this time, the company was able to achieve significant results. One of the main achievements is that oils of this brand are used during the Paris-Dakar Rally, which is characterized by extreme engine operating conditions.
• TNK. The name of this company is undoubtedly familiar to all drivers in Russia and Ukraine. Since TNK products can be purchased at one of the 1500 filling stationsoperating in the territory of the CIS countries.
• Gt Oil. Russian company GT Oil is distinguished by the quality of its products. To make it impossible to counterfeit, the Korean company Hanval incorporation is engaged in the production of packaging.
• Liqui Moly. One of the largest manufacturers of motor oils in the world. The company shares over 50% of the entire German market. Liqui Moly oils quickly became popular for their use in molybdenum particles. That allows you to increase the productivity of the engines.

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Oil is a consumable for internal combustion engines, which provides lubrication of engine parts and components. It differs in composition, performance characteristics, operating temperature and chemical properties. Consists of the main part ( base oils) and additional additives (for example, depressants, anticorrosive, thickening, antioxidant and others) that play the role of improving components. When choosing an oil for a motor, it is necessary to be guided by the degree of viscosity, to correlate the properties and quality of the product with the conditions of use.

About the main functions of engine oil

• reduction of wear of moving parts of the engine (gasoline or diesel) due to the creation of a strong oil film;
• ensuring a hassle-free iCE operation due to the sealing of gaps and gaps in the CPG (cylinder-piston group);
• extending the life of the motor;
• heat removal;
• cleaning rubbing surfaces and parts from products formed as a result of wear;
• additional protection of internal combustion engine elements from corrosion processes;
• ensuring high power and traction characteristics of the engine.

About classifications and designations

Lubricant manufacturers for internal combustion engines adhere to different classifications and the designation of engine oils. In order not to be mistaken when choosing a "consumable" for power unit, it is necessary to learn how to correctly decipher the marking, which indicates the characteristics of the lubricant.

Types of engine oils

1. Mineral. Fuels and lubricants without additives. Obtained by processing oil. IN modern engines internal combustion is rarely used because of the performance that is far from ideal, the least stability in the viscosity range. The main advantage is low cost.
2. Synthetic oils supplemented with various. They are of the highest quality. Modern "synthetics" are versatile. Adapts well to temperature conditions and operating conditions, suitable for different motors... The most expensive of all types of motor oils.
3. Semi-synthetic. Semi-synthetic or partially synthetic lubricants are similar in characteristics to "synthetics". A compromise between expensive and quality oils (synthetic) and the cheapest (mineral).

It is not recommended to mix different types car oil between themselves. When buying a car on the secondary market and there is no information from the previous owner about the type of consumable used, it is necessary to flush the lubrication system and fill with new grease.

GOST 17479.1-2015

Gosstandart applies to "consumables" produced for passenger cars, road construction, agricultural and other machinery. Depending on the characteristics of the kinematic viscosity, it divides the engine oil into 3 main categories:

1. Summer oil. Designed to operate at ambient temperatures above zero degrees Celsius. Not able to start the engine during the cold season.
2. For winter. They have a thinner consistency compared to summer lubricants. Designed for starting the power plant at low temperatures outside. They lose their original performance in hot weather, becoming too liquid, which prevents the formation of a dense and viscous lubricating layer.
3. All-season. The most versatile grease, popular and in demand among motorists. Able to perform basic functions at different temperatures outside.

The alphanumeric designation applied to the packaging of the goods and corresponding to Gosstandart 17479.1-2015 consists of several signs.

The letter “M” identifies the consumable (engine oil) and appears in front of the other symbols. Next are the numbers indicating the kinematic viscosity parameter. The last symbol (capital letter) indicates the belonging of the oil to a particular group, depending on the features of operation.

The code designation may contain an additional letter "z". Placed after the first digit. Indicates the use of special additives designed to improve the viscosity (thickening) of the oil.

For example

The designation M-6-B₂, corresponding to GOST 17479.1-2015, is deciphered as follows: oil with the sixth viscosity class, motor oil, for low-powered diesel engines.

Something else useful for you:

SAE classification of engine oils

SAE Viscosity Chart for Engine Oils

SAE is the Society for Automotive Engineers. Originated in the United States of America. Developed a classification of lubricants for engines by viscosity characteristic, which determines the fluidity of a liquid and is the main indicator of product quality. The temperature range directly depends on this parameter, at which a trouble-free start of the motor is ensured without preliminary warming up. The characteristic is expressed in conventional units. The higher the number, the more viscous the oil is. There are 11 viscosity grades, including 5 summer (20 to 60, no letter) and 6 winter (0W to 25W, with a capital "W"). Engine oils with a designation of a viscosity class over 60 belong to the transmission group.

Oil that is designed for use both in winter and summer period, has a double number. For example, 10W-40.

The FCC symbol indicates the temperature range at which a lubricant provides:

• pumping oil through the system with a pump, excluding the possibility of dry contact of parts and elements of the internal combustion engine (for all-season and winter);
• turning the power plant with a starter (for all-season and winter);
• high-quality lubrication of parts and elements during long-term operation of the vehicle in various modes (for all-season and summer).

API standard

The classification worked on by specialists from the American Petroleum Institute. Her main feature consists in dividing motor oils into categories, taking into account the operational properties and the main characteristics of the internal combustion engine. Determines the ability to use a specific lubricant for a particular power unit. According to aPI classifications, lubrication products are divided into 2 broad categories:

1. S. Consumables for 4-stroke gasoline powertrains in passenger cars, vans and pickups.
2. C. Group of car oils for diesel installationslocated in trucks, construction vehicles, special equipment for road repair and agricultural work.

Most of the codes corresponding to the API classification are 2 letters long. The first indicates the applicability of the motor oil (for cars, trucks and special equipment), and the second (from A to L) is a symbol for the overall quality of the product and its performance. For diesel engines, an additional figure "2" or "4" is put, indicating the number of working strokes.

Lubricants that are simultaneously suitable for diesel engines and gasoline power plants have a double designation. For example SG / CF.

The API classification provides for specific EC markings. It stands for Energy Conserving and translates as energy saving oil. Such motor oils contain special additives designed to reduce fuel consumption. EC oils allow 1.5-2.5% less fuel consumption compared to standard lubricants.

ILSAC classification

Classification of engine oils, developed jointly by Japanese and North American specialists. Designed only for multipurpose lubricants with energy-saving (fuel-saving) properties. Products bearing the ILSAC designation are marketed as the best oils for cars with Japanese engines.

Especially to check the performance, the grease undergoes a large number of tests to determine the following properties:

• volatility;
• degree of filtration at low ambient temperatures;
• resistance to the effect of foaming, etc.

The ILSAC classification divides grease into 5 main categories (GF1 to GF5). In January 2017, it is planned to introduce the new GF6 standard. The higher the number after the letter designation GF, the higher quality the car oil is considered.

ACEA classification

The European Automobile Manufacturers Association worked on the development of this classification. Divides grease into 3 large families:

1. E. For heavy-duty and high-torque engines installed in trucks and running on heavy fuel.
2. C. Powertrain oil compatible with converters exhaust gases... They are universal, i.e. are suitable for engine installations running on gasoline or diesel.
3. A / B. Universal car oils for cars and light trucks.

Each of the families includes several modifications with special properties. For example, A3 / B3-04 oil is a material with an extended service life, requiring less frequent changes.

A number (04, 05, etc.) is often indicated in the code designation of a consumable, which stands for the year the standard was put into operation.

About the approvals of automakers and the right choice

Automotive companies and concerns are nominating additional requirements to lubricants for internal combustion engines based on our own production tests and evaluation criteria. This is due to a large number of technologies and design solutions in the field of engine building, a different approach of minders to the development and assembly of one or another engine. As a result, motor vehicle oil can be in completely different operating conditions.

The requirements of car manufacturers are called tolerances and are indicated in the vehicle operating instructions. This greatly simplifies the search for the required consumables for the internal combustion engine.

Due to the huge number of lubricants on the modern auto chemistry market, a large number of classifications and standards that make it difficult to choose, you should adhere to the recommendations car manufacturer... The types and brands of oils specified in the vehicle operating instructions are sure to be suitable for an internal combustion engine of a specific car model, and will ensure its long-term operation.

This question is asked, perhaps, by every car owner in the world. In fact, such a problem is solved simply: just open the car's manual.

However, special literature does not always contain the answer to the question: what kind of oil is better to pour into the engine.

Most carmakers produce engines that can function normally with any type of oil - synthetic, mineral or semi-synthetic.

Synthetics, semi-synthetics or mineral?

It is possible to determine which engine oil to pour into the engine by calculating the costs that will fall on its periodic replacement.

Any, even the best lubricant, is evaluated according to two main criteria:

1. End-user value;
2. Operational characteristics.

Depending on the method and technology for the production of engine oil, its performance characteristics... It should be noted that the technology for the production of synthetic and mineral species is practically the same.

The basis of any oil is a base component, which is mixed with certain additives that give the finished product certain performance characteristics:

• antioxidant;
• anti-corrosion;
• antiwear;
• detergents and others.

In order to lower the pour point of mineral oil, a limited number of depressants are used in the production process, the use of which allows to obtain a motor mineral agent of 10W- and lower class.

Such additives make it possible to withstand standard parameters this indicator for mineral oils in the range of 10W-30, 15W-40 and 10W-40. The use of synthetic additives in the base base makes it possible to obtain lubricants with a viscosity of 0W-, 5W-, thanks to which it becomes possible to start the engine at low temperatures and is instantly lubricated from the first moments of operation.

However, the most important advantage of a synthetic base over a mineral base is its high thermal-oxidative stability. Simply put, during engine operation, synthetics deteriorate significantly less than its mineral counterpart.

However, in the case of the mineral type, this problem is solved by adding some antioxidant additives. But there is one drawback: the addition of such additives dramatically increases the amount of carbon deposits and varnish deposits that settle on the parts and assemblies of the engine during its operation. Prolonged use of such a product may lead to replacement of the piston rings.

Which engine oil is best to use in winter

Low air temperatures in the winter season significantly complicate starting a car engine. To simplify the starting process and save the driver's nerve cells, you need to know what kind of oil to pour into the engine in winter.

When choosing which oil to pour into the engine in winter, first of all it is worth looking into the technical documentation of the car.

As a rule, such papers indicate which one motor fluid (brand, characteristics) must be filled in the car in winter.

If it is impossible to glean information from such documentation, then a good lubricating fluid is selected according to certain tolerances and parameters. If this is not possible (the specified characteristics are outdated), you will have to rely only on the automotive chemistry market and the driver's knowledge.

What kind of oil to pour into the engine is a purely personal decision of each car owner, and the enthusiastic reviews of friends and the words of the sellers are not helpers in this matter: that fabulous material that suits another car may turn out to be poison for yours.

It is worth determining what kind of engine oil was previously poured into the engine. Quality lubricant determined by its characteristics and the effect on the motor.

If the car was purchased from hands, then all the necessary information is learned from the previous owner. In the absence of information, you will have to flush the engine - a costly procedure, which, however, guarantees an increase in the life of the car.

The choice of engine oil in terms of viscosity

When choosing which oil to pour into the engine, you should pay attention to the viscosity of lubricants, which is one of the main indicators of such fluids.

During engine operation, its components and assemblies with high speed rub against each other. An oil film must be present between the contacting elements: it reduces the friction force, heating and wear of parts and ensures the tightness of the connection during movement.

An improperly selected engine oil can adversely affect engine performance: for example, high viscosity lubricants in the winter will cause additional friction and resistance, which will reduce engine performance. Reduced viscosity will lead to rapid wear of engine parts.

The best option would be car oil, which in the winter season will provide an easy start of the engine, and at a high temperature of the working environment create the necessary protective film.

Engine oil types by chemical composition

For a long time, only mineral oil was poured into car engines. Accordingly, the question of what oil to pour into the engine was not so urgent.

This lubricant is based on natural raw materials, that is, oil. However, it has one drawback - it is not suitable for use in the cold season, especially at temperatures below -10 ° Celsius - it freezes in the engine.

Mineral motor oil has been replaced by synthetic oil, created by the synthesis of molecules, which provides the same performance regardless of the operating temperature.

There is another type of machine lubricant - semi-synthetic, which is a cross between synthetic and mineral analogs and is a natural base to which artificial additives are added.

Each type of engine oil has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, mineral - cannot be used at low temperatures, however, it helps to clean the engine of sludge and burning, which are removed along with the used lubricant during replacement.

Semi-synthetics are more resistant to temperature changes, but they are not suitable for harsh winters: the low temperature threshold of such a lubricant is too high.

The most popular is synthetic motor oil due to its resistance to low temperaturesmaintaining performance regardless of engine temperature.

However, when using high-quality synthetics, there is one caveat: if a bad agent was previously poured into the engine, then a sharp transition to a high-quality lubricant can cause delamination of all sediment and carbon deposits accumulated in the engine, which will lead to clogging of the filter and oil channels and subsequent expensive car repairs.

It is necessary to determine which oil to fill in the engine before changing lubricants. The best option - flush the entire system with a cleaning liquid and only then fill in a new one. In the future, it is recommended to change it strictly according to the schedule established by the manufacturer.

SAE engine oil types

The internationally used viscosity grade for engine oil was created by the American Society of Automotive Engineers:

• Winter

A few years earlier, many car owners, when asked what oil is best to fill in for the winter, answered - winter. According to the SAE classification, its designation was the letter W. The packaging of such a lubricant usually indicated SAE 5W, 10W, 15W, etc.

The number in front of the letter W indicated the minimum temperature the engine oil could withstand without harming the engine. In the winter season, such a product did not become viscous, but with an increase in the temperature of the working environment, it quickly became liquid.

• Summer

This type of engine oil according to the SAE classification is indicated only by a number. Actually, the figure means the highest temperature at which the lubricant can be used.

• All-season

Over the past few years, multigrade engine oil has become very widespread, displacing winter and summer counterparts from the markets. It has certain advantages: it does not need to be changed before each season, it is easier to use.

The designation of this type of lubricant is the letter W and two numbers located on either side of it. The first means winter readings, the second means summer. Of course, multigrade oil also has its own temperature thresholds, but choosing the right option is much easier.

API types of engine lubricants

When choosing engine oil for the winter, they rely on the classification of lubricants created by the American Fuel Institute. This system takes into account the quality of the engine oil.

There are two main symbols in the API classification: S indicates which tool is suitable for gasoline engines, C - what kind of oil to pour into the diesel engine. You can often come across a double designation indicated on the lubricant packaging, which allows the use of oil in both types of cars.

Normal oil pressure in the car engine

One of the most common questions along with the choice of engine oil is determining its level of pressure in the engine.

As a rule, many modern models There are no special devices with pressure data output on the dashboard - only an emergency warning signal in the form of a light bulb is provided.

It is almost impossible to independently monitor pressure changes without direct checking of the engine.

Choosing a quality lubricant is not the whole process of preparing a car for the new season. It is important to know what oil pressure must be in the engine in order to provide it smooth operation... This indicator largely depends on the engine itself: the amount horse power, cylinders and valves, the type of fuel used.

For idle speed the average rate is about 2 bar, for high ones - from 4.5 to 6.5 bar. However, such information is described in each manual and technical documentation for the car.

Where to replace

If the vehicle is a diesel engine, then the engine oil should be of the highest quality. It is advisable to fill it in at proven service stations with a quality guarantee.

Replacement terms

It is impossible to name the exact timing of the replacement of engine oil - for each car, this indicator is purely individual. Given the standard operating conditions, it is advisable to change the lubricant in the power unit every 7-10 thousand kilometers.

If the vehicle is operated in difficult conditions, it is advisable to shorten the interval between lubricant changes. For vehicles with diesel engines, a shift must be carried out every five to six thousand kilometers. Together with the engine oil, the oil filter is also changed.

Flushing the engine when changing lubricants

Changing lubricants may require a complete flush of the vehicle's oil system.

As a rule, such a cleaning of the power unit is carried out if the oil is changed for the first time or it is not known what kind of product was used before; if the brand of lubricant changes, its viscosity or the car engine is very heavily contaminated.

As for the rest of the cases, many experts say that there is no need to do it. Japanese professionals, for example, advise flushing every 40 thousand kilometers.

The main disadvantage of flushing agents is that during their action they settle on the units and parts of the car. Since they often contain caustic substances, thanks to which all contaminants are corroded, they are mixed with new oil when new oil is poured, significantly reducing its performance. As a result, such a decrease in the quality of the lubricant can adversely affect the condition of the engine and lead to its repair - in the worst case.