Motor oil keeps your automobile engine lubricated, which ensures that it runs smoothly. Check your user's manual to determine which grade of motor oil your automobile requires. This information may also be printed on the dipstick or oil filler cap.
The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) grades motor oil based on viscosity, which is how well a fluid pours at a certain temperature. SAE grades range from zero to 60 and increase as the oil thickens. Multi-grade oils contain grades for both cold and warm temperatures. Cold temperature ratings include the letter W, which stands for winter. For example, 10W30 motor oil has a 10 rating in cold weather and a 30 rating in warm weather.
Using the recommended grade of motor oil can improve your gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent, according to FuelEconomy.gov. This can save you the equivalent of 3 to 5 cents per gallon. Using oil that is too thick or too thin can affect proper lubrication of the engine.
If you change your motor oil, recycle it at a designated recycling location or at retail outlets which handle used oil. These locations work with firms which clean used motor oil so it can be reused. Throwing away used motor oil damages the environment and is illegal in most states.
