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Why is it now categorically not recommended to change engine oil to “winter”

  • November 10, 2022
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With the onset of cold weather, many motorists are in a hurry to change the oil. In addition, more and more citizens are opting for the so-called “winter”

Why is it now categorically not recommended to change engine oil to “winter”
With the onset of cold weather, many motorists are in a hurry to change the oil. In addition, more and more citizens are opting for the so-called “winter” (0W). About why you should not do this and what problems will lead to the procedure that has already become routine, the AvtoVzglyad portal tells.

Already in November, many motorists rush to services to replace the lubricant in the drive unit of their “iron horse”. Increasingly, they are opting for a “winter” 0W viscosity grade lubricant. By the way, such a product is the most expensive, because it is purely synthetic. So first decide for yourself whether you are willing to pay too much and for what, because the “zeros” are different, and they behave differently in severe frost.

If we compare 0W30 and 0W40, “thirty” is more profitable because the viscosity is lower at low temperatures. This means that at thirty degrees of frost it is easier for the starter to turn the crankshaft. But not all manufacturers recommend using this product in their engines. And if you fill in the “magpie”, it has more friction losses. That is, fuel consumption will increase.

Don’t forget the characteristics of your specific engine. If it is old and not designed to use expensive synthetics, the oil will begin to squeeze out through the seals. And if the oil seals need to be replaced, the lubricant will get on the timing belt and bring the risk of breakage closer. Needless to say, such a nuisance leads to a major overhaul of the unit.

Keep in mind that if you live in central Russia, severe frosts here are very rare. Therefore, it is easier to give preference to more versatile oils – 5W30 and 5W40. They protect the engine better at positive temperatures and are also cheaper. And if the car is stored in a warm garage, then it also does not need “winter” lubrication, because there is simply no problem with a cold start.

Finally, research it before you buy a bus. Pay attention to the API quality standard and the letter markings. SN/CF means it is a universal product. It can be cast in both gasoline and diesel engines. And SN also says the oil is intended for cars produced since 2011. If you have a similar car, you cannot save and fill in lubricant with the letters SJ or SM.

Manufacturer photo

Already in November, many motorists rush to services to replace the lubricant in the drive unit of their “iron horse”. Increasingly, they are opting for a “winter” 0W viscosity grade lubricant. By the way, such a product is the most expensive, because it is purely synthetic. So first decide for yourself whether you are willing to pay too much and for what, because the “zeros” are different, and they behave differently in severe frost.

If we compare 0W30 and 0W40, “thirty” is more profitable because the viscosity is lower at low temperatures. This means that at thirty degrees of frost it is easier for the starter to turn the crankshaft. But not all manufacturers recommend using this product in their engines. And if you fill in the “magpie”, it has more friction losses. That is, fuel consumption will increase.

Don’t forget the characteristics of your specific engine. If it is old and not designed to use expensive synthetics, the oil will begin to squeeze out through the seals. And if the oil seals need to be replaced, the lubricant will get on the timing belt and bring the risk of breakage closer. Needless to say, such a nuisance leads to a major overhaul of the unit.

Keep in mind that if you live in central Russia, severe frosts here are very rare. Therefore, it is easier to give preference to more versatile oils – 5W30 and 5W40. They protect the engine better at positive temperatures and are also cheaper. And if the car is stored in a warm garage, then it also does not need “winter” lubrication, because there is simply no problem with a cold start.

Finally, research it before you buy a bus. Pay attention to the API quality standard and the letter markings. SN/CF means it is a universal product. It can be cast in both gasoline and diesel engines. And SN also says the oil is intended for cars produced since 2011. If you have a similar car, you cannot save and fill in lubricant with the letters SJ or SM.

Source: Avto Vzglyad

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