In this guide, GoSynthetic in Stephens City will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting the best motor oil for winter driving. Read on and choose the right motor oil for your car during this season.
Choosing the right motor oil for your car in winter is important for protecting your engine. Call GoSynthetic in Stephens City at (715) 563-4490 and order the best formulas to help your car endure this winter season.
Winter can be a tough time for your car, especially the engine. The cold temperatures can make it difficult for the oil to flow properly, which can lead to increased wear and tear. That's why GoSynthetic sheds light on the steps to choose the right motor oil.
What to Look For in a Winter Motor Oil
When choosing a motor oil for winter, there are a few things you should look for:
The Right Viscosity
The viscosity of a motor oil is its thickness. A lower-viscosity oil will flow more easily in cold temperatures, while a higher-viscosity oil will be thicker and provide more protection in hot temperatures. For winter driving, you'll want to choose an oil with a lower viscosity.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oils are more resistant to extreme temperatures than conventional oils, and they also flow more easily in cold weather. If you live in a cold climate, it's a good idea to switch to a synthetic oil for the winter.
The Right API Certification
The American Petroleum Institute (API) certifies motor oils to ensure that they meet specific performance standards. The API certification for winter motor oils is "W" for winter. The lower the number in front of the W, the better the oil will flow in cold temperatures. For example, a 5W-30 oil will flow more easily than a 10W-30 oil.
How to Choose the Right Motor Oil for Your Car
The best way to choose the right motor oil for your car is to consult your owner's manual. It will tell you the recommended viscosity and API certification for your car's engine. If you're not sure what to choose, you can also ask a mechanic for help.
Here are some tips to help you choose the right motor oil:
Consider the climate you live in. If you live in a very cold area, you'll need an oil that flows well in low temperatures.
Consider the type of driving you do. If you do a lot of city driving, you'll need an oil that can protect your engine from stop-and-go traffic.
Consider the age and condition of your car. Older cars may need an oil that is thicker and provides more protection.
Consider the cost. Synthetic oils are more expensive than conventional oils, but they offer better performance and protection.
By following the tips above, you can choose the right oil for your car and climate. If you don't know where to start, visit the AMSOIL web store or contact GoSynthetic in Stephens City at (715) 563-4490 to start your AMSOIL journey.
How to Change Your Motor Oil
If you're comfortable doing it yourself, you can change your own motor oil in a few steps:
Gather your supplies. You'll need new motor oil, a new oil filter, a wrench, and a drain pan.
Warm up your engine. This will help the oil flow more easily.
Turn off your engine and open the hood.
Locate the oil drain plug and place the drain pan underneath it.
Use the wrench to loosen the oil drain plug.
Allow the oil to drain into the pan.
Once the oil has drained, replace the oil drain plug and tighten it with the wrench.
Remove the old oil filter.
Apply a thin coat of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.
Screw on the new oil filter by hand until it is snug.
Remove the oil filler cap and add new oil to the engine.
Replace the oil filler cap and start the engine.
Let the engine run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.
Check the oil level and add more oil if necessary.
Turn off the engine and close the hood.
If You Lack the Toolbox, Call an Expert
Here are some tips for reaching out to a professional to change your motor oil in the winter:
Call ahead and make an appointment.
Ask about the mechanic's experience and qualifications.
Ask about the cost of the oil change.
Ask about the type of oil that the mechanic will use.