Lubricants play an extremely important role in a car engine, being compared to the “blood” that nourishes the engine to operate smoothly and durably. Choosing and using the right lubricant will help the vehicle operate smoothly, save fuel and prolong engine life.

1.Main functions of lubricants:

  • Lubrication: Creates a thin film covering metal surfaces, reducing friction and wear between moving parts in the engine.
  • Cooling: Absorbs and transfers heat from hot parts in the engine to the outside environment, helping the engine operate stably.
  • Cleaning: Helps remove dirt, residue and by-products generated during engine operation.
  • Anti-rust: Protects metal parts from corrosion caused by acids and moisture in the environment.
  • Anti-bubble: Minimizes the formation of air bubbles in the oil, ensuring effective lubrication and cooling.

2.Classification of lubricants:

Based on base oil composition, lubricants are divided into 3 main types:

  • Mineral oil: The most popular type, cheap but not as effective in lubricating and protecting the engine as other types of oil.
  • Semi-synthetic oil: Combines mineral oil with synthetic oil, has better lubricating performance and engine protection than mineral oil.
  • Synthetic oil: Synthesized 100% from organic or inorganic compounds, has outstanding lubrication and engine protection performance, and can withstand harsh operating conditions.

In addition, lubricants are also classified by viscosity, denoted by the SAE index. For example: 5W-30, 10W-40. This index represents the fluidity of the oil at low (letter W) and high (digit after W) temperatures.

3.How to choose the right lubricant:

Choose according to the manufacturer’s recommendations: This is the most important factor when choosing a lubricant. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to find out the type of oil suitable for your vehicle’s engine.

  • Vehicle type and operating conditions: Vehicles used for personal needs and moving around the city can use semi-synthetic or synthetic oil. Vehicles that often travel long distances, carry heavy loads or operate in harsh conditions should use high-quality synthetic oil.
  • Viscosity: Choose a viscosity suitable for the climatic conditions where you live. Low viscosity oil (small W) is suitable for cold climates, high viscosity oil (large W) is suitable for hot climates.

4.Change oil periodically:

  • Change the oil periodically as recommended by the manufacturer, usually after 5,000km – 10,000km.
  • You should change your oil at reputable maintenance centers to ensure quality and service.
  • Observe the color and viscosity of the oil to know when to replace it. The oil turns black or has high viscosity and needs to be replaced.

5.Some notes when using lubricants:

  • Do not use lubricants of unknown origin.
  • Do not mix different types of lubricants.
  • Check the oil level periodically and add when necessary.
  • Keep the engine operating under normal conditions, avoid overloading the engine or operating for long periods of time.

Using the right lubricant and changing the oil regularly is the best way to protect your car’s engine, help your car run smoothly, save fuel and prolong engine life.