Comprehensive Guide to Engine Oil Selection for Different Car Models

Effortlessly Solve Engine Oil Selection Problems

01. Overview of Oil Selection Guidelines

Engine oil viscosity is predetermined during engine design, and selecting the appropriate oil is critical for optimal engine performance. This guide explores how to choose the right engine oil and viscosity for different car models, focusing on German, French, Japanese/Korean, and American brands.

▲ German Cars Engine Oil Selection

German engines, such as Volkswagen’s EA111, EA888, and EA211 series, require oils meeting VW certifications (e.g., VW 502/504/505/507) with HTHS viscosity >3.5 and 100°C viscosity >12. Recommended viscosities include 0W-30, 5W-30, 0W-40, or 5W-40.

• BMW: Use oils with LONGLIFE 01/04+ certifications (0W-30, 5W-30, 0W-40, 5W-40).
• Mercedes-Benz: Requires MB 229.1/229.3/229.5+ certifications (0W-40 or 5W-40).

▲ French Cars Engine Oil Selection

French engines (e.g., Peugeot, Citroën) are highly adaptable to viscosities like 0W-40 or 5W-40. Urban driving typically uses 40-viscosity oils (0W-40, 5W-40, 10W-40), though 5W-30 is also acceptable.

• High RPM or High Mileage Vehicles: Opt for higher viscosity (e.g., 5W-40) if RPM exceeds 4500 or oil consumption is excessive.
• Burn Oil Issues: Increasing viscosity alone won’t resolve excessive oil consumption; professional inspection is required.

▲ Japanese/Korean Cars Engine Oil Selection

These models prioritize low-viscosity oils (e.g., 0W-20, 5W-20, 0W-30, 5W-30) for fuel efficiency and smooth operation.

• Sedans: Use 0W-20/5W-20/0W-30/5W-30.
• SUVs: Adjust based on driving conditions and manual specifications.

▲ American Cars Engine Oil Selection

American engines (e.g., Chevrolet, Buick) favor 30-viscosity oils (5W-30, 0W-30) for high-performance and heat resistance.

• Imported Models: Often use 5W-20/0W-20/5W-30/0W-30.
• High Mileage Vehicles: Maintain 30-viscosity oils unless upgraded for older/high-performance engines.

▲ Domestic Chinese Cars Engine Oil Selection

Lacking dedicated certifications, domestic brands (e.g., BYD, Geely) often recommend high-viscosity oils (5W-40 or 0W-40). For engines mimicking Japanese designs, 30-viscosity oils (e.g., 5W-30) are acceptable.

• Older/High-Mileage Vehicles: Increase viscosity to 5W-40 for better sealing.
• Turbocharged Models: Use synthetic oils with high-temperature stability.

Key Considerations for All Car Models

1. Viscosity & Temperature:
   • Cold climates: Low W-number oils (e.g., 0W-30).
   • Hot climates or high-stress driving: Higher viscosity (e.g., 5W-40).
2. Engine Condition:
   • New/modern engines: Low-viscosity oils (0W-20/5W-30).
   • Older/worn engines: Higher viscosity (5W-40) to compensate for clearance.
3. Certifications: Follow manufacturer requirements (e.g., VW, BMW, API).

Recommended Brands

• Global Brands: Mobil 1 , Castrol , Shell ,TERZO.
• Domestic Brands: Great Wall, Kunlun, and Changan offer cost-effective solutions for Chinese engines.

By aligning oil selection with manufacturer guidelines and operating conditions, drivers can ensure engine longevity and optimal performance.