Can Oil Grade Numbers Really Affect Your Car?

You’re probably used to seeing a string of numbers on the engine oil container your car takes its motor oil from. But what do they mean, exactly? Can changing your car’s oil grade make a difference in how it performs?

At Mercedes of Fort Walton Beach, we know that our customers rely on us for reliable service and information. That’s why we’d like to help you decode those all-important oil grade numbers!

All About Numbers

Struggling to make sense of all the numbers on your car’s oil container? You’re not alone! Here’s a simple breakdown of what each number means:

First Figure

The experts at SAE (the Society of Automotive Engineers) have developed a cold-weather rating system to help you determine your engine’s oil grade. The letter “W” in the figure represents “Winter.” The lower the number before the “W,” the less viscous (or thicker) the motor oil is when it’s cold outside.

The “W” number is significant because the oil gets thicker as the temperature decreases. More viscous motor oil can slow the flow of your engine’s components, which can cause damage to your car. A low “W” rating will positively affect starting your vehicle in cold weather while also keeping it running smoothly at all times!

Second Figure

Now let’s look at the number after the “W” mark. This number is the “viscosity index.” It refers to how much an oil’s viscosity changes with temperature.

A higher number means that the oil doesn’t change as much, while a lower number means that the oil is more affected by temperature changes. So, if you’re living in an area with extreme temperatures, you’ll want to be careful with the “viscosity index” number.

Why Should I Read Them?

If everything we’ve mentioned above sounds like a big hassle, think again! The truth is, reading your car’s motor oil specs can be highly beneficial to your vehicle’s performance and lifespan. 

Here are some of the main reasons why we recommend it:

• Newer cars require specific oil types and grades. Reading this information lets you know how to take care of your car best, whether it’s a new or used vehicle.
• As we mentioned before, newer vehicles are more sensitive to changes in temperature. Learning the “viscosity index” number can help you prepare for weather changes and keep your car running smoothly.
• Reading your car’s motor oil will help you catch minor problems before they become big ones. By being aware of the different grades and types of oil, you can be more proactive about maintaining your vehicle’s health.
• When taking your vehicle in for service, your mechanic will take extra care to ensure he chooses the correct grade of oil. This will, in turn, help you keep your car running smoothly.

Conclusion

We all know the saying that knowledge is power, and knowing the different grades of motor oil can help you take charge when it comes to your car’s needs.

For further guidance, get in touch with Mercedes of Fort Walton Beach serving Niceville, FL. We’ll be more than happy to help you keep your car running in top condition.

Schedule a service today!