Which oil to buy
The key decision is the class of oil quality. Many car owners may not know exactly which oil is already in their engine. The practical approach is straightforward: for a new car, any oil meeting the SP specification is suitable. It aligns with current standards and remains compatible with older products such as SN and SM. Modern oils are formulated to work with a wide range of brands and certifications, so the brand itself is less critical than meeting the correct specification.
Choosing the best viscosity is more nuanced. In many cases, 5W-30 is a common choice because it suits a broad spectrum of engines. However, today many modern engines are designed for 0W-20 oils, which allow tighter tolerances and smaller oil passages. Low-viscosity oils can reduce fuel consumption, but they may not be appropriate for engines with larger clearances or older designs. In those cases, insufficient oil pressure and inadequate oil film formation can risk engine wear. It is important to note that low-viscosity oils should not be used in engines that fall below a certain environmental class. For any car, keeping a supply of engine oil on hand is sensible, ideally in a compact bottle at least a liter in size.
Do I have to bring oil
There are several practical reasons to carry a can of oil in the trunk. Modern engines typically consume more oil due to higher compression and increased cylinder pressure. This can push small amounts of oil into the crankcase ventilation and, in turbocharged setups, into the compressor and cylinders. Having oil on hand helps prevent unexpected issues before a service visit. When purchasing a small bottle from a service provider, you’re often guaranteed that the oil has already been poured into the engine, though it can be more expensive. On long trips, if the oil level drops, there is usually no need to buy something roadside. Compatibility with the previously filled oil remains reliable. A compact bottle can be tucked away discreetly in a spare tire cavity. In practice, a liter-sized container tends to oxidize less than larger containers because its surface area exposed to air is smaller, making it a practical choice for travelers.
When to change oil
There is no one-size-fits-all rule. For daily drivers stuck in traffic, the engine runs longer hours and temperature conditions vary. In such usage, changing the oil every 7,000 to 8,000 kilometers is a sensible guideline. For a vehicle used mainly on weekends, with relatively light duty on rural roads, following the manufacturer’s mileage-based interval—often around 15,000 kilometers—is reasonable. If a car pulls heavy loads, such as hauling trailers or frequent mountain driving, consider shortening the interval to the manufacturer’s recommendation. For cars that see little road time, an annual oil change is still prudent because oil oxidizes over time. Fresh oil maintains its protective properties best when not stored for extended periods in open air; a sealed container helps, but aging remains inevitable if rarely changed. The engine’s longevity benefits from a timely oil change that preserves the oil’s intended performance.
Oil minimal level — is it dangerous?
Driving with the oil level at the minimum mark is possible, but not ideal. It resembles a late warning that the oil is working harder than designed. Lower oil levels reduce the oil’s ability to lubricate the moving parts, leading to faster aging and a shorter service life. If the level is routinely low, it is a clear sign to top up or inspect for leaks.
Oil has leaked — what to do?
If a local shop cannot supply the recommended oil, top up with a compatible grade to avoid running the engine in oil starvation mode. Then arrange service to identify and fix the leak or the source of oil loss and replace with the recommended oil. Restoring proper oil levels protects engine components and maintains performance.
Does the oil filter need to be filled with oil before installation?
If the dipstick shows a heavy, tar-like residue, the oil should be changed promptly. Filling the filter before installing it generally provides little benefit. In many engines the filter is mounted in orientations where pre-filling is not practical, and oil will flow through during startup anyway. In most manuals, there is no recommendation to pre-fill the filter before installation. If the filter is contaminated or the oil is heavily degraded, replacing both the oil and the filter is the prudent course of action.
- Information for drivers is often shared across community pages and regional forums, underscoring the practical nature of this advice.