When it comes to your vehicle, making sure you choose the right type of oil for your engine will help ensure its longevity. In this blog, the maintenance experts at Coffman GMC will explain viscosity ranges as well as the types of oil used in vehicles. By the end of this blog, you should be able to pick your replacement oil with confidence when you drive into the Coffman GMC service department for your next oil change.
Oil Viscosity Ranges
When we talk about oil viscosity, we're referring to the thickness of the oil.
Oils are categorized with a numerical code, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40, which indicates their viscosity range. The first number before the "W," which stands for "winter," tells us about the oil's viscosity in cold temperatures, while the second number informs us about its viscosity in hot temperatures. The lower the first number, the better the oil can flow in cold temperatures. This kind of oil is an excellent choice for colder regions, like Batavia's freezing winters.
The higher the second number, the thicker the oil, and the better it can protect the engine in hot temperatures. At Coffman GMC, our knowledgeable mechanics will make sure you choose the right oil for your GMC vehicle to get you back on the road in a safe vehicle running smoothly.
Types Of Oil
Conventional Oil
Conventional oil is the most common and least expensive type. It provides adequate engine protection but requires more frequent changes compared to synthetic oils. It is recommended for vehicles with low-to-average mileage and normal driving conditions. At Coffman GMC, we can give you expert recommendations on the oil change intervals and correct viscosity ranges of conventional oil for your vehicle when you book your next service appointment.
Premium Conventional Oil
Premium conventional oil is refined using advanced technology to provide better engine protection and longer oil life. It contains additives that enhance its performance, such as detergents that clean the engine. This oil type is suitable for vehicles with higher mileage or those that experience severe driving conditions.
Full-synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is created through chemical engineering to offer improved engine protection and performance. It has fewer impurities compared to regular oil, which makes it more resistant to breaking down. Plus, it flows better in colder temperatures, which ensures better engine protection during cold starts during those chilly Batavia spring mornings. This type of oil is ideal for high-performance engines and tough driving conditions.
Synthetic-blend Oil
Synthetic-blend oil combines synthetic and conventional oils. It offers better engine protection and performance than conventional oil while being more affordable than full synthetic oil. It contains a mix of additives that improve its performance, including detergents that clean the engine and anti-wear agents that protect engine components. It offers better engine protection in extreme temperatures and can be used in high-performance engines.
Remember to always consult the manufacturer’s manual when choosing the oil type for your vehicle. At Coffman GMC, we will not only change your vehicle’s oil but also help you with any questions or concerns you may have. Don’t just call us... call us family!
630-518-4217
