Car Engine Oil Basics The primary function of automotive engine oil is to
provide lubrication to the metal surfaces inside an engine. With proper
lubrication the components will not rub against each other as frequently and
wearing out due to friction can be reduced. Engine oil also cleans the engine by
carrying away contaminants and harmful chemicals,the unwanted by-products of the
combustion process;cools the engine by transferring heat that is generated away
from the components that may be damaged with increased temperature,and improves
sealing around the critical components inside the engine minimizing their
exposure to oxygen Autel
Maxivideo MV101. Engine oil also contains an additive package designed to
counteract the acids that are a result of the combustion process. What does it
mean? The API Certification Mark,also known as the Starburst: An oil displaying
this mark meets the current engine protection standard and fuel economy
requirements of the International Lubricant Standardization and Approval
Committee (ILSAC) elite
MD802,a joint effort of U.S. and Japanese automobile manufacturers. Most
automobile manufacturers recommend oils that carry the API Certification Mark.
The API Service Symbol,also known as the Donut: 1. Performance Level: Gasoline
engine oil categories (for cars,vans,and light trucks with gasoline engines):
Oils designed for gasoline-engine service fall under API's (Service) categories.
Diesel engine oil categories (for heavy-duty trucks and vehicles with diesel
engines): Oils designed for diesel-engine service fall under API's (Commercial)
categories. 2. Viscosity Grade: The measure of an oil's thickness and ability to
flow at certain temperatures. Vehicle requirements may vary. Follow your vehicle
manufacturer's recommendations on SAE oil viscosity grade. 3. Energy Conserving:
The Energy Conserving designation applies to oils intended for gasoline-engine
cars,vans,and light trucks. Widespread use of Energy Conserving oils may result
in an overall savings of fuel in the vehicle fleet as a whole. The API Service
Symbol Donut with CI-4 PLUS: Used in conjunction with API CI-4 and CJ-4,the CI-4
PLUS designation identifies oils formulated to provide a higher level of
protection against soot-related viscosity increase and viscosity loss due to
shear in diesel engines. Like Energy Conserving,CI-4 PLUS appears in the lower
portion of the API Service Symbol Donut. Things to watch for Some of the motor
oil components are consumed sacrificially while doing the job of protecting your
engine. Foreign contaminants also accumulate in the oil. The correct oil change
interval is the one recommended by the engine manufacturer for your individual
driving conditions. It is printed in the vehicle owner's manual. Severe use
typically includes stop-and-go driving,frequent high-speed driving and short
trips,towing,operating in dusty conditions and operating in cold / hot weather
are typically considered severe service. You should review the severe service
definition in your owner's manual to determine the proper oil drain interval
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