The engine oil in your car is like the blood in a human body. It helps keep all the parts lubricated, improve fuel consumption, optimize engine performance, and keep it going for long.
- A Quick Tip: Before we delve into the details of selecting the right engine oil, grab your car’s manual. In it you will find complete guidance on engine oil type, viscosity, specifications, and certifications. But don’t worry if all of this looks a bit overwhelming; Nomad is here to take care of all your car maintenance and oil change needs in New Jersey. We offer the best mobile oil change service for seniors, stay-at-home moms, or people who work from home. Let’s get back to our topic of interest and help you select the best engine oil for your car.
6 Tips to Select the Best Engine Oil for Your Car
1. Consider your Driving Routine and Conditions
Evaluate how much you drive your car and in what temperatures? Do you commute daily to work on your car or just take it out on weekends to have a fun ride with friends or family? Factors like temperature, driving style, and mileage affect your engine oil choice. For example, a 5W-30 oil is much better for cold weather than a 10W-40 oil. The latter performs exceptionally well in high temperatures.
2. Check Viscosity Grades
Viscosity means the rate at which oil flows to protect the engine. Viscosity is denoted by numbers such as 0W-20 or 5W-30. A higher viscosity means that the oil is more vicious and more resistant to flow.
Newer cars need oils with less viscosity. Lower viscosity is also perfect for cold weather, as it offers a better cold-start performance. Oils with higher viscosity numbers are great in hot climates. So, the next time you select the oil for your car, keep this simple trick in mind. If you are a senior living in New Jersey and don’t want to get into these technical terms, call Nomad; we are the best mobile oil change service providers in the northern parts of the state.
3. Evaluate Oil Brands
Once you know which oil is best for your car, it is time to find out the best brand. When you are out for an oil change, you’ll be surprised at the number of brands selling countless types of engine oils. On the surface, all of them look good, but you can’t just make a random choice as it concerns the safety of your car’s engine. This is why you must go for brands that have excellent customer reviews and an untainted reputation.
Above all, the oil you are selecting must have certifications like API, ACEA, and ILSAC. Premium and high-end oils are costly, but they are worth it as they often deliver better performance than the cheap ones. The top oil brands in the US include Mobil, Castrol, Valvoline, and AMSOIL.
4. Check for Additives in the Oil
Additives are like superpowers in oil. They enhance the base oil quality. Oils with formulas rich with additives like detergents, dispersants, and antioxidants help keep your car’s engine clean, minimize damage, and enhance fuel efficiency. These oils are a bit costly than the normal ones, but they keep your car’s engine running optimally.
5. Confirm Compatibility with Older Engines
If you own an older car, make sure the oil you are buying is compatible with its engine. This is highly relevant if you plan to use synthetic oil in your car. Some older engines come with seals or gaskets that are not compatible with synthetic oils. If you add synthetic oil to such engines, it can lead to leakage or other mechanical issues. This is why consulting an oil change specialist is critical.
6. Research the Best Oil Change Specialists Near You
Once you have decided the right viscosity and brand for your car’s next oil change, it is time to find out the best oil change service near you. You can do this by simply searching the best oil change service near me with your location turned on. It will display a list of the best oil change specialists around you. Don’t forget to check the reviews and availability before planning your trip. Or you can contact a mobile oil change service and schedule the process as per your availability. Understanding this, we offer top-notch oil change services for seniors in New Jersey.
What is the Difference between Different Types of Engine Oils?
- Mineral Oils: These are derived from crude oil and are the least processed type of engine oil. They are cheaper than other oils and are best suited for older cars sold before synthetic oils got famous.
- Synthetic Oils: They are chemically engineered and processed optimally to provide maximum protection and enhance the performance of your car’s engine. These oils provide a wide range of viscosities, making them best for different climatic conditions.
- Semi-Synthetic Oils: They are the in-between option of the two discussed above. These oils are basically mineral oils enhanced with additives, allowing budget buyers to provide ample protection to their car’s engine at an affordable price.
Being one of the best mobile oil change specialists in New Jersey, Nomad provides the best oil change service for senior citizens and those who don’t want to go to a mechanic. So don’t forget to call us and schedule an oil change for your vehicle at an affordable rate.
Can I Switch from Conventional to Synthetic Oil in my Car?
It depends on the model of your car. Transitioning from conventional (mineral) oil to synthetic oil is generally safe, but it is better to check out the manual of your car or consult an oil change specialist near you like NomadOil.
Which is the Best Engine Oil for Cold Weather?
Overall, synthetic oils are the best option for extremely cold weather. 5W-30 or 0W-30 oils are the best option for starting your car in harsh winters.