The Science Behind Engine Oil: Choosing the Right Type and Frequency

Aside from the various components that help your vehicle operate and perform, your vehicle also relies on a variety of fluids. There's wiper fluid, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and more. Yet, one of the most important fluids that your vehicle requires to perform efficiently and effectively is engine oil.

In this post, we'll take a deep dive into what you need to know about engine oil - from its purpose to why it's so important to the various blends that are offered and the type that's best for your vehicle. Read on to learn more or contact your local GreatWater-affiliated shop for more information.

What is Engine Oil?

If the engine is the key cog that powers the vehicle, then the engine oil is the lubricated mixture that's essential to its efficiency and effectiveness. Yes, engine oil helps lubricate the key components of the engine system to reduce friction and keep the engine running well. Aside from wear protection, engine oil also helps maintain viscosity, prevent buildup, and works to clean and protect key components. It's a bit of a wonder mixture when it comes to helping your engine perform to maximum efficiency.

Is Engine Oil the Same as Motor Oil?

Yes, motor oil is simply another name for engine oil. As the engine may also be commonly referred to as the "motor," engine oil is also commonly called "motor oil."

Why is Engine Oil Important?

Engine oil is important for several purposes, underscoring the importance of ensuring that you adhere to the manufacturer-recommended oil change schedule. In fact, for a high-performing and long-lasting engine, most mechanics say that sticking to a regular oil change cadence is the single most important thing you can do. As a full-service automotive center, your local GreatWater-affiliated auto repair shop can help you stay on track with oil changes to keep your engine running better for longer.

Here's a look at why engine oil - and regular oil changes - are so important:

Lubrication

Engine oil lubricates all the key components of the engine system, reducing friction between moving parts and preventing wear and tear that could cause engine performance problems and potentially even expensive engine repair.

Heat Dissipation

Engine oil also helps dissipate heat that's generated by the engine. This can help prevent your engine from overheating.

Contaminant Filtration

Finally, engine oil also helps to act as a filter. By doing this, it can help capture dirt, grime, debris, and any other contaminants that enter the system, preventing damage to the engine. Because engine oil absorbs these contaminants, it should be changed regularly. Again, this helps reinforce the importance of regular oil changes.

Types of Engine Oil to Choose From

There are several types of engine oil, and selecting the right type of engine oil is a decision that you or your repair shop advisor will have to make to optimize performance. So if you're wondering, "What oil does my car take?" read on to learn about the different blends you have to choose from.

Conventional

As the name implies, this is the most basic type of engine oil. While the most affordable type of engine oil, it's also the type that has to be changed the most often. However, conventional oil is often the best option for four-cylinder engines, simple engine designs, or drivers who aren't demanding a lot of performance out of their engines.

Synthetic

Synthetic oil is a step above conventional oil, ideal for higher-performing engines. It's chemically engineered to have a higher oxidation resistance and perform better in more extreme engine temperatures. Synthetic oil tends to be the best option for turbocharged or supercharged engines, classic cars, or newer vehicles. While a better blend, it's also a more expensive one.

Semi-Synthetic

Semi-synthetic oil is essentially a combination of conventional oil and synthetic oil in that it offers many of the performance benefits of synthetic oil with the price tag of conventional oil. It's an ideal blend for drivers operating vehicles under more moderate conditions.

High-Mileage

As the name implies, high-mileage motor oil is ideal for drivers who are operating older vehicles that are high in mileage. High-mileage oil blends help rejuvenate aging engines and tend to be the motor oil of choice for vehicles that have 75,000 miles or more on their odometers. High-mileage oil is also ideal for vehicles that aren't driven often, operate under heavy duress (i.e., towing heavy loads), or are at least 7 years old.

What Oil Does My Car Need?

What type of oil does my car take? The answer depends on several factors, such as the type of vehicle you drive, how old the vehicle is, how many miles are on your vehicle, the conditions you're driving in, and your driving style.

If you're not sure what type of oil would be best for your vehicle - even after reading about the various types of oil blends in the above section - it's always best to consult with a trusted mechanic. That's where our professional technicians at your local GreatWater-affiliated shop can help. Contact your local shop in the GreatWater network today for more information about what type of oil would be best for your vehicle. As full-service automotive centers, we do everything - from oil changes and tire rotations to full engine rebuilds.

GreatWater Knows Your Car's Oil Needs

For more insight into the type of motor oil that would best suit your vehicle and to schedule an oil change appointment, contact your local GreatWater-affiliated shop today. At each shop in the GreatWater network, we pride ourselves on being more than just expert mechanics, but on providing exceptional customer service as well. We're always transparent, fair, and we'll never sell you on a service that you don't want or that your vehicle doesn't need.

Contact us today to learn more and to schedule an appointment.