Anyone who owns a vehicle knows that the engine is the cars' heart. If you want your vehicle to last a long time, you must have the oil changed regularly.
So, what are the types of lubricants?
There are two types of lubricants:
Petroleum Based-Normally, a vehicle runs off petroleum-based lubricant. This type is designed to protect the parts of the engine that move while the car is driving. It makes sense when you hear the name "Petroleum" (like petroleum jelly).
Synthetic lubricant - Synthetic lubricants are becoming more and more popular as the population wants to use synthetic lubricants over petroleum-based lubricants. Though synthetic lubricants are more expensive, people want them because they are better suited for newer vehicles with modern engines and technology. In addition, consumers do not have to change their oil as often when using a synthetic lubricant, which in turn saves them money.
Hydraulic oils - Hydraulic oils are also petroleum-based and synthetic hydraulic oils, which are used for not only lubrication, but for the actual operation of the vehicle (or any machinery for that matter). Hydraulic oils are designed to flow freely thought the engine parts, but at the same time thick enough to coat the parts, protecting them from wear and tear while they move.
Lubricants based on your locations' climate
You may think all oil is the same when it comes to your locations' climate; however, they are definitely not! Your locations' specific climate has an affect on your engine, therefore it does matter what type you put in your vehicle to ensure you are not damaging your engine by putting in the wrong type. There are kinds of lubricants specially designed for cold weather, hot weather, and mild weather. If you live in a country or state that is hot all year round, you should choose an engine lubricant for high temperatures, or multi-viscosity oil, which is good on vehicles in different climates. You do not want your engine to get too hot; however, you do not want it to get too cold either. If you live somewhere hot and you use lubricants for cold weather, your car may overhear because it is working too hard. You should use high temperature lubricants when you live somewhere warm because it will keep your engine cool!
Lubricants based on questions
- How old is your vehicle? - If your vehicle is old and has been on single-viscosity oil, it could have built-up sludge on the engine parts. Try switching to multi-viscosity oil to free up the sludge.
- How worn out is your vehicles' engine? - If your engine has been carrying loads for several years, it may be a little worn out. If this is the case, use a single-viscosity oil to lubricate the engine parts, and making them work like (almost) new.
Always read your vehicles' owners' manual for more information on what oils and other lubricants to use!
Published on behalf of Mr. Steve. He has a vast experience in Mechanical Engineering and Power Generation which he likes to share through his informative and dynamic writing contents. He spends most of his time in writing on various lubricants, oil & gas products.
