Risks of Using the Wrong Oil Grade for Your Car’s Engine

Using the right products is always important when it comes to the care of your vehicle, and any oil change you’re performing or ordering is no exception. Using the right oil grade for your engine is very important for any oil change or oil replacement need, and there are a few risks that appear quickly if the wrong oil grade is used.

At Tip Top Transmissions, we’re proud to offer an extensive range of auto repair services for clients around Salt Lake City, from simple tasks like oil changes to transmission service, diesel repair and numerous other solutions. Here are some basics on what oil grade refers to and the different common oil grades out there, plus some of the risks of using the wrong oil grade and how this area highlights the importance of working with auto professionals. 

What Are Vehicle Oil Grades?

For those just learning about car maintenance, oil grades are a system used to classify different types of engine oil based on their viscosity or thickness. These numbers typically range from 0 to 60, with lower numbers indicating thinner or less viscous oils and higher numbers representing thicker or more viscous oils.

For instance, a common oil grade is 5W-30, which means the oil has a viscosity of 5 when cold (the “W” stands for winter) and a viscosity of 30 when hot. This measurement is important because it determines how well the oil can flow through your engine’s intricate components to lubricate them efficiently.

Viscosity matters because different engine types and sizes require specific oil grades to optimize performance. For example, a small four-cylinder engine may require a lower viscosity oil than a larger V8 engine.

Common Oil Grades

There are several common oil grades used in vehicles today, but some of the most popular include:

  • 0W-20: This is a thin oil grade that’s becoming more widely used due to its ability to improve fuel economy.
  • 5W-30: A good all-around option for many vehicles, this grade offers decent cold weather protection while still being thick enough for high temperatures.
  • 10W-40: A thicker oil grade often used in high-performance engines or older vehicles with high mileage.
  • 15W-50: This is a very thick oil grade that’s only recommended for certain types of vehicles, such as racing cars or diesel engines.

Each vehicle manufacturer typically recommends a specific oil grade for their models based on engine type and size. It’s important to follow these recommendations to ensure your car runs smoothly and efficiently.

Using the wrong oil grade can have serious consequences for your vehicle, including all of the following.

Unneeded Wear and Tear on Engine

For many people, the most costly result of using the wrong oil grade will be premature wear and tear on their engine. If the oil is too thick or thin, it won’t properly lubricate all components of the engine, leading to friction and damage over time.

With oil that’s too thick, your engine may have trouble starting or running smoothly at first, and then it will overwork itself trying to move through the oil. Thinner oil can lead to excessive heat buildup and cause parts of the engine to wear down faster.

Decreased Fuel Efficiency

As mentioned, some oil grades are specifically designed to improve fuel economy. Using the wrong grade can decrease this efficiency, leading you to spend more money on gas in the long run.

This is common when using thicker oil grades in newer vehicles that are designed to run on thinner oils. The oil won’t flow properly and can cause your engine to work harder, leading to decreased fuel efficiency.

Voided Warranty

In some cases, using the wrong oil grade can also void your vehicle’s warranty. If you experience any issues due to using the wrong oil grade, your manufacturer may not cover them under warranty since it goes against their recommended maintenance guidelines.

This is why it’s important to have your oil changes and other maintenance tasks done by professionals who understand the specific needs of your vehicle and use the correct products.

Emissions

Another risk of using the wrong oil grade is increased emissions. Thicker oils, for example, can cause higher levels of pollutants to be emitted from your vehicle’s exhaust.

Aside from being harmful to the environment, this can also lead to failed emissions tests and potential fines or penalties.

Using the right oil grade for your engine is crucial for optimal performance and preventing costly damage or issues. If you’re unsure what oil grade is recommended for your vehicle, consult with an experienced auto professional who can help guide you in making the best choice for your car’s needs. Trusting experts like Tip Top Transmissions will save you time and money in the long run by ensuring your oil changes are done correctly every time – contact us today for these or any other auto mechanic services around SLC or nearby areas!