Did you know that all internal combustion engines need oil in order to run properly? However, the Environmental Protection Agency reports that two hundred million gallons of used oil are improperly discarded every year, and this is critical because the used motor oil from just one oil change can ruin one million gallons of water. As a result, it is important to change your oil with the best motor oils available. There are two main ways to discover the best motor oil for your car, and each one is beneficial in its own way.
1. Society of Automotive Engineers. One of the most effective ways to determine which motor oil to obtain is to go by the SAE rating of the oil. The SAE has established a numerical code system, and this system is used to grade oils based on their viscosity. For example, SAE grades include 10W-30, 5W-30, and 5W-20. Your car manual is one of the best ways to determine which SAE grade oil to use, as this will allow you to buy motor oil that is right for your car.
2. American Petroleum Institute. The API is another valuable resource to use when you buy motor oil. The API, similar to the SAE, has established an oil rating system, but API oil ratings are based on the overall quality of the oil. The API rates oils based on strict criteria, and this allows you to find the best motor oils available. Since API oil ratings are determined by monitoring the performance of a car over time using specific oils, only the highest rated motor oils will be suggested for your car.
Although only 10-15% of motor oil is re-refined in the United States, it is important to determine which motor oil is right for your car. It is possible to find the best motor oils based on their SAE grade or API rating, as both are beneficial in their own ways. By using the method that is right for you, you will be able to buy motor oil that is right for your car.