Although OEM engine designs were similar in the past, today engine technology has evolved to a level where some OEM’s engines have different lubrication requirements. In all engines, the oil fulfils a vital role to protect internal engine components, but they also need to meet the specific criteria set by the OEM.

The OEM engine oil criteria will influence the additive package chemistry, base stock selection as well as how the lubricant and the engine interact throughout the lifespan of the vehicle. Because of this, the OEM engine oil recommendations and approvals are vital for selecting the right oil, and in turn, the efficiency, lifespan and performance of the engine.

The additive package of an engine oil is very carefully formulated and balanced to meet the needs of the OEM engine. Additives interact with each other and in the correct proportions, offer significant benefits to the running of the engine, however, if that balance is altered by the addition of a new additive into the lubricant, it can have an unforeseen negative impact. For this reason, topping up a lubricant with after sales additives or mixing engine oils of different quality can be detrimental to the engine, and is not recommended.

Innovation by forward-thinking lubricant experts means that low viscosity multigrade engine oils, like SAE 0W-20, offer fuel economy benefits for your customer’s engines without compromising protection, regardless of the season.

Thicker engine oil typically needs more energy to move and flow between the engine components to provide protection. By using a thinner (lower viscosity) engine oil, less energy is needed for it to flow – resulting in better fuel economy and easier cold start-ups during the winter months.

Lower viscosity engine oils have also been formulated to meet the needs of modern engine technology. Newer engines offer customers better efficiency and fuel economy, and to do this, the internal components of the engine have tighter clearances. This in turn means that a thinner engine oil is needed to flow adequately between components to provide protection and also to enhance the fuel efficiency benefits of the engine for the customer.

The same engine oil can be used throughout a vehicle’s lifespan, if in line with the OEM manual’s recommendation. However, if a vehicle has travelled a considerable distance and is deemed high mileage, the recommendation to use a licensed high mileage engine oil should be made.

High mileage engine oils help protect older engines that are well-travelled and possibly more worn than newer engines. The unique formulation of these oils help prevent breakdowns as well as expensive maintenance to keep your customers’ vehicles on the road and save them money. They can also protect against the build-up of sludge to help the engine maintain its power.

Not all high mileage oils are the same. Like all engine oil recommendations, when selecting a high mileage engine oil for your customer, you should begin by consulting the OEM manual for its recommend oil viscosity and performance level. This should always inform the oil selection to ensure an appropriate high mileage engine oil is chosen to help restore the engine’s reliability and enhance its protection.