Choosing the best engine oil for your car is just as important as changing it regularly to ensure your vehicle’s optimal performance. The quality of the engine oil you purchase affects your car’s performance.
It improves your engine’s health and extends your vehicle’s longevity. Additionally, high-quality engine oil helps you change oil less frequently and reduces engine wear and tear.
When selecting the right engine oil for your car, many factors must be considered, including the type of engine, car model, and weather conditions in the state where you drive. With many top engine oil companies in the UAE, choosing the right engine oil is crucial to ensure it suits your engine type.
Therefore, to make the right choice for your car’s health, it’s essential to understand some key terms. We are here to help you choose the best engine oil to keep your vehicle in optimal condition.
Let’s dive into a detailed guide on engine oil types and quality to ensure you give your car the care it needs.
Key Insight
1. Oil Types: Choose between conventional, synthetic, or high-mileage oil based on your car’s needs.
2. Viscosity: Use higher viscosity oil (e.g., 10W40) for UAE’s hot climate.
3. Key Factors: Consider your vehicle’s age, driving conditions, and style when choosing oil.
4. Maintenance: Change oil every 5,000 to 7,500 km for optimal engine performance.
Understanding Viscosity Grade
It is essential to consider the viscosity grade when choosing the engine oil for your vehicle. Viscosity refers to the thickness of the oil, which varies based on the type of engine and vehicle requirements. To determine the ideal viscosity for your car engine, you can refer to the code on the oil bottle.
For instance, if you see 5W20, the number 5 before W indicates the viscosity at lower temperatures. Meanwhile, the number after W indicates how thin the oil will become at high temperatures or after prolonged use. The larger the last number, the more resistant it will be to thinning.
Living in Dubai means you’ll be driving in a hot climate, and your vehicle may frequently overheat due to the high temperatures. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that the oil you choose can withstand the heat and protect your engine from overheating.
For example, an oil with 10W40 viscosity will work best in hot temperatures. If you’re uncertain about the best oil for your vehicle, you can consult a professional mechanic when you take your car in for an oil change.
However, be aware that some mechanics may recommend an oil that isn’t suitable for your engine to promote their product. It’s essential to understand your vehicle’s circumstances and condition before replacing the engine oil.
Types of Engine Oil
There are three main types of engine oils produced in the UAE. Each category works best based on the engine needs and weather conditions. An old model vehicle requires extra care and maintenance, so it needs higher-quality engine oil for improved performance.
Each has its pros and cons, so look into them and find out which engine oil is best in UAE that is most suitable for your car engine.
Conventional Oil
This oil is used in most cars as it effectively lubricates the vehicle’s components, ensuring smooth engine performance. However, being a naturally produced product, it contains impurities, which is why it is necessary to change the engine oil frequently. Although it is reasonably priced, it provides less fuel efficiency.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic engine oil is a purified and chemically designed oil that offers better performance than conventional oil. It provides greater stability and works better, especially if your car is heavily loaded, weighs more, or is driven on longer routes.
It protects your engine from wear and tear and delivers excellent performance to your vehicle. If you own a sports or luxury car, then synthetic oil is the best engine oil for cars in UAE to maintain the quality of your vehicle. However, it is more expensive than conventional oil due to its high quality.
High Mileage Oil
This type of oil is specifically designed for high-mileage vehicles, especially those with more than 75,000 miles. It protects old cars from wear and tear, improves overall performance, and extends your vehicle’s life.
After learning about the three types of engine oils, you can quickly determine which oil is better for your car. Most importantly, you should not compromise on the maintenance of your vehicle, as it is a valuable asset and deserves good care.
Factors to Consider when Selecting the Right Engine Oil
When choosing the right engine oil for your vehicle’s stability, consider several factors. These factors include the vehicle’s age, driving environment, and driving style.
Vehicle’s Age
The age of your vehicle plays a crucial role in determining the proper engine oil to use. Newer models tend to require less maintenance and care, and regular engine oil will suffice for optimal performance.
However, your vehicle’s mileage affects its fuel efficiency, and the more mileage you have, the more attention your car will need. For newer models, light-condensation engine oil will do the job, while older models will require thicker-condensation oil to lubricate the engine effectively.
Driving Environment
Engine oil viscosity is also affected by driving conditions. In hot and humid areas such as Dubai, thicker engine oil is recommended. The thicker consistency helps to protect the vehicle from overheating in high temperatures, preventing friction and ensuring optimal engine performance.
Driving Style
It’s essential to consider your driving style when choosing the right engine oil for your car. Your driving habits can affect your engine’s performance.
For instance, if you frequently drive short distances in the city, your engine will be subjected to frequent stop-and-go, which can stress it and strain the oil. In this case, it’s essential to use oil that is suitable for city driving to maintain your vehicle’s engine health.
On the other hand, if you drive longer distances or at higher speeds, you’ll need thicker engine oil. It helps lubricate various engine parts, preventing overheating and breakdowns. Therefore, when buying engine oil, it’s essential to share your driving style with the mechanic so they can recommend the right oil for your vehicle.
Also Read: How and When to Change Car Engine Oil in the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What type of engine oil is best for UAE’s hot climate?
Synthetic oil with a higher viscosity, like 10W40, is ideal for handling extreme heat and protecting your engine from overheating.
2. How do I choose the right viscosity for my car?
Check the car’s manual for recommended viscosity. Generally, thicker oils (e.g., 10W40) are better for hot climates like the UAE.
3. Can I use conventional oil in my car?
Yes, but synthetic oil is recommended for better performance, especially in high temperatures or for high-performance cars.
4. What is high-mileage oil?
High-mileage oil is specially formulated for cars with over 75,000 miles, helping to prevent leaks and reduce engine wear.
5. How often should I change my engine oil in the UAE?
Generally, every 5,000 to 7,500 km, but always check the manufacturer’s recommendation and monitor your oil’s condition.
6. Does driving style affect the type of engine oil I should use?
Yes. For city driving with frequent stops, use oil suited for short trips. For long-distance or high-speed driving, a thicker oil is better.
7. Can I use any brand of oil?
It’s essential to use a reputable brand that meets your car’s specifications. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for oil quality and grade.
Conclusion
Maintaining a car is crucial, especially in UAE’s hot climate. The engine is the heart of a vehicle, and keeping it in good condition should be a top priority. This not only enhances fuel efficiency and performance but also extends the car’s lifespan. To determine what is best for your car engine, we recommend referring to the manufacturer’s manual and selecting the oil that best suits your vehicle’s make and model.
For more expert insights on car care and maintenance in the UAE, don’t miss out on ArabWheels, your go-to resource for everything automotive in the region. Stay informed, stay safe, and keep your engine running smoothly!