Understand the oil label before you choose.
Viscosity tells you about an oil’s flow characteristics. Performance specifications tell you more about the requirements it is intended to meet. Read both to make a better-informed choice for your engine.
What does 5W-30 mean?
In a multigrade oil such as 5W-30, the first rating describes low-temperature performance; the second describes viscosity at operating temperature. The W stands for winter. These are classifications, not a list of outdoor temperatures at which you should use the oil.
Why is the grade only part of the answer?
Two products with the same viscosity may have different stated applications or performance specifications. Look for the requirements your vehicle manufacturer identifies, then review the selected product’s current information.
Is thicker oil always better?
No. Choose the viscosity specified for the application. Moving to a thicker grade by assumption can create a mismatch with the engine’s design and operating needs. AMSOIL’s viscosity explanation provides the technical background.
A quick label-reading exercise
- Find the viscosity grade.
- Find the product’s stated applications and specifications.
- Compare them with your vehicle requirements.
- Read the service and use instructions for that exact product.
If you cannot complete one of these steps, stop the comparison there and locate the missing information.
Put the information to work
Use the oil-selection checklist to turn these basics into a purchasing decision. Bring Trey the two products you are comparing and your engine details if you need help locating the differences.
Synthetic Oil Depot
Independent AMSOIL Dealer #5573391
Trey Campo · Spokane, Washington
Serving drivers and businesses in the Inland Northwest and across the U.S.
