The average cost for a new car exceeded $47,000 in December 2021. When you’re paying so much for a vehicle, you’ll want to look after it, and one way to do this is to ensure you use the ideal engine oil.

However, unless you are in the car business, you may be unsure how to choose the right type of oil for your vehicle. If you put the incorrect oil into your car, you could notice leaks or a burning smell because the working parts of your vehicle don’t have enough lubrication.

The good news is you can help your car reach its peak performance level by learning a few helpful hints when it comes to picking the most suitable oil.

Read on to learn how to find the oil type that can help your vehicle run smoothly. 

Your Vehicle Type

One of the easiest ways to find out what type of oil you should be using is to check with your car manufacturer. They can advise which oil is best for your vehicle’s engine and may even be able to point you in the direction of recommended retailers so you can be sure you’re buying quality oil.

Driving Style

Everyone drives differently, and this could be a factor in choosing a synthetic oil or a conventional oil with a certain viscosity level. If you tend to drive fast and brake quickly, this could stress your oil more, and buying a thicker product could be beneficial. However, if you do lots of driving at the same speed and keep your engine revs low, a lower viscosity oil may be adequate.

Getting this choice right is important for your vehicle maintenance program.

Environmental Factors

When deciding between conventional vs synthetic oil, you may also want to consider external factors such as the weather conditions. For example, colder weather could lead to your oil becoming clogged, while hotter temperatures may cause your lubricant to degrade faster than usual. 

You can ask a supplier if you should switch oils depending on the seasons and where you live to get optimal performance results. 

Engine Oil Standards

There are various organizations that evaluate different types of oil, and you may see their ratings on the oil bottle label. Review these standards and determine which ones meet your vehicle care requirements.

If in doubt, you can visit the websites of each body to learn more about how they grade oil types.

Now You Know How to Choose the Right Type of Oil for Your Vehicle

Picking the right type of oil for your vehicle is straightforward when you know what to look for. Always read your car manufacturer’s handbook and consider your driving style. It can also help to be aware of the conditions your vehicle is exposed to and to learn about the quality of a particular engine oil before you put it into your car. 

These tips can help you find the engine oil that can make your car operate efficiently for years to come. 

Before you rush off to change your vehicle’s oil, be sure to check out more of our automotive posts.