For the last 10 years automobile lubrication has been evolving. Within the last few years many of the biggest car makers have developed specific oils for their engines.
Oil changes used to be done with 10W30, 10W40 or in some cases synthetic oil. Now GM, Ford, Saab, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen and Mercedes Benz all have specific engine oils. Synthetic is a generic term that has lots of different meanings in different parts of the world. In North America it's meaningless. There are many cheap synthetic oils that can't pass these more stringent ratings.
There are a number of reasons for the development of these new products. Modern engines have very close tolerances, run at higher temperatures, operate variable valve timing components that are actuated by oil pressure and have high internal shear forces between moving parts that can degrade oil quickly. Once oil degrades, internal wear and damage can result.
These are the practical applications:
- Many shops do not stock all the products to service newer cars.
- These new oils are more expensive.
- However in many cases they are good for longer intervals, so oil changes can be spread out from 5,000 to 10,000 miles.
- Many newer cars have oil change monitors that illuminate a reminder when it is time to change oil, based on driving conditions. Short trips require more frequent changes than longer drives that allow the engine to reach operating temperature.
As auto technology changes we are dedicated to staying current with repair methods and products in both our service and body shops.
Addison Auto stocks all the lubrication products to comply with all manufacturers' requirements. If your car is a candidate for longer oil change intervals that can save you time or money, we will let you know.
