Changing the oil before going on vacation - a guide

In order for the power unit to be in good condition, it is necessary to change the oil regularly. The engine will get rid of metal filings circulating in the lubrication system, and less friction between parts will extend the life of the engine. The oil also acts as a motorcycle coolant. If it is old, it heats up to too high temperatures, losing its protective properties and negatively affecting the condition of individual components of the drive unit.

ACEA classification

There are two quality classifications of motor oils on the market: API and ACEA. The first refers to the American market, the second is used in Europe. The European ACEA classification distinguishes the following types of oils:

(A) - oils for standard gasoline engines

(B) - oils for standard diesel engines;

(C) - oils compatible with the catalytic system for gasoline and diesel engines with exhaust gas recirculation and with a low content of sulfur, phosphorus and sulphated ash

(E) - oils for trucks with a diesel engine

In the case of standard gasoline and diesel engines, the oil parameters are almost identical, and very often the oil of a given manufacturer, designated, for example, A1 standard, is compatible with B1 oil, despite the fact that the symbols distinguish between gasoline and diesel units. .

Oil viscosity - what is it?

However, when choosing an engine oil, it is more important to choose the appropriate viscosity grade, which is marked with the SAE classification. For example, 5W-40 oil gives the following information:

- number 5 before the letter “W” - oil viscosity index at low temperatures;

- number 40 after a liter “W” - oil viscosity index at high temperatures;

- the letter “W” means that the oil is winter, and if it is followed by a number (as in the example), it means that the oil can be used all year round.

Engine Oil - Operating Temperature Range

In Polish climatic conditions, the most commonly used oils are 10W-40 (operating at temperatures from -25⁰C to +35⁰C), 15W-40 (from -20⁰C to +35⁰C), 5W-40 (from -30⁰C to +35⁰C). Each car manufacturer recommends a certain type of oil for a given engine, and these guidelines should be followed.

Engine oil for engines with a particulate filter

Modern diesel engines are very often equipped with a DPF filter. To prolong its service life, use so-called oils. low SAPS, i.e. containing a low concentration of less than 0,5% sulphated ash. This will avoid problems with premature clogging of the particulate filter and reduce unnecessary costs for its operation.

Oil type - synthetic, mineral, semi-synthetic

When changing the oil, it is important to pay attention to its type - synthetic, semi-synthetic or mineral. Synthetic oils are of the highest quality and can operate at higher temperatures. However, these are the most expensive oils. Minerals are processed from crude oil, which includes the so-called undesirable compounds (sulfur, reactive hydrocarbons), which deteriorate the properties of the oil. Its shortcomings are compensated by the lowest price. In addition, there are also semi-synthetic oils, which are a combination of synthetic and mineral oils.

Vehicle mileage and oil selection

It is generally accepted that synthetic oils can only be used in new cars with mileage up to about 100-000 km, semi-synthetic oils - within 150-000 km, and mineral oils - in cars with mileage of 150 km. In our opinion, synthetic oil is worth driving for as long as possible, because it protects the engine in the most effective way. You can start thinking about replacing it only when the car starts to consume oil. However, before deciding to change the type of oil, it is worth taking the car to a mechanic who will determine the cause of the oil leak or its shortcomings.

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