You’re probably aware that there are several different types of engine oil available. However, you may not know how to choose the best engine oil for your particular vehicle. To accomplish this, it helps to know about your vehicle and what the oil is supposed to do for it.

What Does Engine Oil Do?

Engine oil is a lubricant that reduces friction by adding distance between the parts of your engine so that they do not rub up against each other. This allows your engine to makes the most of the energy that it generates and reduces its temperature. This is important because excess heat causes the parts of your engine to wear out over time.

What Helps the Oil Do Its Job?

The oil in your engine does a good job for you, but it can’t perform on its own. You also need a filter to help keep the oil clean and clear. Otherwise, tiny particles build up in the oil over time. These contaminants can damage bearing surfaces in the engine and wear on machined components in the oil pump. If you aren’t sure of the correct oil filter to buy, an STP filter finder can be a useful tool.

How Do You Choose the Right Type of Oil?

In order to choose the right type of oil for your vehicle, you first need to understand thefour basic types and their best uses. You then need to assess your vehicle to determine which type of oil represents the best match.

1. Conventional Oil

The most commonly used oil type is conventional motor oil. If your vehicle has a simple engine design, mileage that is low to average, and is a late model used for light duty, conventional motor oil may be your best choice. Conventional oil is refined in a factory from crude petroleum pulled directly from the ground.

2. High-Mileage Oil

When a car has more than 75,000 miles on it, problems related to seepage and leaks, emissions and smoke, and excess consumption can occur. High-mileage oil includes additives that help to avoid these problems in improve performance.

3. Full Synthetic Oil

Where conventional oil is refined from organic materials, full synthetic oil is created entirely in a lab or factory. Full synthetic oil is a little more expensive but also lasts longer and is better for your engine because of the control the manufacturers have over the process of refinement. It is best for high-performance engines.

4. Synthetic Blend Oil

Synthetic blend motor oil is exactly what it sounds like: a hybrid containing both natural and manmade materials, combining the benefits and reducing the drawbacks of each. A synthetic blend allows you to give your car a little more help without spending an exorbitant amount of money, making it a decent middle-ground option. The cost is better than full synthetic oil while offering at least some of the same advantages over conventional oil that you would get from a full synthetic.

Whatever type of oil you choose for your engine, you should try to find a good deal. Look online to find oil change specials in your area.