How to Choose the Right Engine Oil: 5 Things to Check

1. Viscosity grade

The "5W" number is cold-flow behaviour; the second number is thickness at operating temperature. Always follow your owner's manual — thicker is not automatically better and can hurt fuel economy.

2. Oil type

Fully synthetic offers the best protection and drain intervals, ideal for turbo engines and stop-start city driving. Semi synthetic balances cost and performance for most daily drivers. Mineral suits older, low-stress engines.

3. API rating

Look for the API donut (e.g. SP, SN). Newer letters mean newer standards — use at least what your manual specifies.

4. Manufacturer approvals

Some makes require specific approvals. Check the bottle matches your manual if your car is European.

5. Change interval

Typical guidance: semi synthetic every 7,000 km, fully synthetic every 10,000 km — or every 6 months, whichever comes first.