Corner Wrench: Newer vehicles demand thinner oils for a reason

Article content

If you’ve changed the engine oil in any newer rides over the last 10 years or so, you’ve probably seen a whole new group of lubricants specified by automakers. The days of non-synthetic 10W30-grade oil have pretty much passed, and about the heaviest oil you’ll find suggested by manufacturers for most gasoline engines is 5W30. Many have gone to the even thinner grade of 0W20, and yes, some even call for 0W16. On top of this of course, full-synthetic oils are being recommended for more and more engines every year. The newer oil feature that some engines are now using is a low-ash blend, but even factory dealerships are experiencing supply-chain issues with this lubricant leading to back-orders.

Article content

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

Corner Wrench: Newer vehicles demand thinner oils for a reason Back to video

When it comes to DIY home-garage maintenance types, there’s always an opinion on engine oil brands. Want to start a debate at a quiet neighbourhood party? Just ask what the best brand of engine oil is and stand back.

But before you reach for that bottle of just any engine oil to finish your latest vehicle maintenance task, think about what you may risk.

There’s a reason why automotive engineers specify certain oil types for their creations. Lighter-weight engine alloys, smaller lubrication channels and pathways, higher operating temperatures, variable-valve and -displacement systems all bring their own demands to the table. And it’s not simply a matter of oil grade or weight. On every bottle of engine oil you’ll find a circular label with the API (American Petroleum Institute) logo. It contains information and ratings on performance, energy conservation, soot-resistance, and model-year applications.

Article content

If your ride is still within its maker’s powertrain warranty, using the wrong type of oil can risk a warranty claim denial for a lubrication-related failure. To be absolutely safe, if you’re doing your own oil changes, buy the oil and filter from the dealership and keep the receipts in your service record file. If you frequent an independent shop or an oil-service chain facility, make sure their receipts detail that the correct oil was used. Factory retailers’ service departments will require proof of maintenance for internal engine warranty repairs if they haven’t been the servicing facility. This also means following the automakers’ recommended service intervals to the letter. You can start using your favourite brand of oil when the warranty expires, but make sure it meets the requirements first.