As a matter of fact, the monumental role of lubricants in internal combustion engines cannot be overemphasized. They bring about lubricating and cooling effect of the engine and also help to clean the engine. However, the quality and specification of engine oil is of paramount importance since there are a number of engine oil measurements and brands outside there.

Actually, engine oils are rated in cp which stands for centipoises. The measure of a particular specification of engine oil is determined by calculating the time taken for oil to flow through a standard aperture at a particular temperature.

“W” connotes winter while the first number represents the viscosity during winter (the cold weather viscosity). The second number stands for viscosity at hot or elevated temperatures. The overall meaning of 5w 30 engine oil therefore, is that the oil can flow at 5 cp during cold weather and 30 cp during hot weather conditions. With this characteristic property of this specific type of oil, it can be used all through the year, especially in parts of the world where there are extreme weather conditions at different times of the year.

This actually is possible because of the presence of additives in the oil. This type of oil is therefore referred to as multi-grade oil. In reality, single grade engine oils are not suitable for automobiles. They can be easily identified because they are designated by only one number. The professional body responsible for designing specific engine oils is the Society for Automotive Engineers (SAE).

The merits of the 5w 30 engine oil lay in the fact that they are very good to start with, as regards newly refurbished engine or a brand new one. Furthermore, because of the low viscosity it has the capability to continue to function in cold weather without thickening. In the real sense of it, this type of oil is all-purpose and it is highly recommended. However, when compared with 10w 30 engine oil, 5w 30 engine oil has it demerits. For instance, experts say point out that the latter may not be as suitable for hot climates as 10w 30 engine oil. More so, it is also noticed that 5w 30 may not go well with “stop and go cars” in a city setting. Nevertheless, the efficacy of 5w 30 in cold weather is a major advantage and overall, it is good to stick to the type of engine oil recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.