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Any way to test what viscosity of oil is in a car
Any way to test what viscosity of oil is in a car












That was our one shot at playing lubricant scientist, but the experience produced only enough oil for a top-up. When we were finished, we had an oil we thought would be just right for upcoming summer weather in short-trip driving around the New York City area. Sounds pretty neat, and we were given the opportunity to do just that at the Valvoline lab in Lexington, Ky. Now, what if you could custom-blend the oil so it had exactly the characteristics you believe that your vehicle needs for the type of driving you do? Oil is so important that we want no less than the best the engine can get-for a good low price, of course. However, without oil to lubricate and cool moving parts, keep them clean and help to seal the pistons in the cylinders, the engine would run for only a matter of seconds, then sieze. Blood carries nutrients to cells, but it’s air that carries fuel-the “nutrition”-for an engine. Is oil really the lifeblood of an engine? That’s a long-popular analogy, but it’s really not an accurate description. The starburst symbol on the left indicates that the oil has passed the tests listed for SL service. It also provides the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) viscosity number and tells you if the oil has passed the Energy Conserving test. The API donut on the right tells you if the oil meets the current SL service rating (C for diesel engines). These are the labels you’ll find on every container of reputable motor oil. There’s a whole lot more to the story than that.

any way to test what viscosity of oil is in a car

Your third task is to pick the viscosity (thickness) that’s suitable for the temperatures your vehicle normally operates in (check your owners manual), and you’re done. API’s latest service standard is “SL.” SL refers to a group of laboratory and engine tests, including the latest series for control of high-temperature deposits.

any way to test what viscosity of oil is in a car

In addition, there’s a 2-character service designation on the container. Our guide breaks down your choices to help you in the quest to change your oil.Ĭhoosing the correct motor oil for your car might seem daunting but the best way to start is by checking out the starburst symbol that indicates the oil has been tested and meets the standards of the American Petroleum Institute (API). There are many choices when it comes to picking the appropriate oil for your car’s engine.














Any way to test what viscosity of oil is in a car