Motor oil Myths vs. Reality: Clearing up common misunderstandings

In the world of automotive care, countless myths circulate, especially when it comes to oil changes. Motor oil plays an essential role in vehicle performance and longevity, a fact acknowledged since the early days of automobiles. Despite advancements in both car and oil technology, many of these myths have persisted across generations, and some continue to this day.

From seasoned mechanics to your car-enthusiast uncle, advice on engine oil is commonly shared. However, while terms like "synthetic" and "viscosity" are often mentioned, most people don't fully understand their meanings or why these myths endure. At Ultra1Plus™, we believe that the more you know about your vehicle, the better equipped you'll be to care for it. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of common myths—many of which you’ve probably heard but never questioned—along with the facts to help clear up the confusion:

Myth: Once you use synthetic oil, you can't switch back to conventional oil

This is a common misconception. You can switch between synthetic and conventional oil without causing harm to your engine, but it’s important to fully drain the previous oil before adding the new type. Failing to do so won’t damage your engine, but it can affect the oil’s performance. Remember, using an oil that isn’t recommended by your car’s manufacturer could void your warranty. Always check your owner’s manual and warranty details before changing oil types.

As long as the oil meets the viscosity requirements listed in your manual, you’re free to switch between synthetic and conventional oil as needed.

Myth: You can skip oil changes if you don’t drive often

Even if your car spends more time parked than on the road, the oil still degrades over time due to factors like moisture buildup and temperature fluctuations. To maintain your engine's health, it's essential to follow both mileage and time-based oil change intervals. For most vehicles and oil brands, an oil change once a year is recommended.

Myth: The "W" in 0W-20 Stands for "Weight"

The "W" in oil ratings like 0W-20 doesn’t stand for "weight"; it stands for "winter." The numbers in a multi-grade oil rating indicate the oil's viscosity, or thickness. The higher the number, the thicker the oil. Ideally, oil should be somewhere in between—neither too thick like sludge nor too thin like water.

Since oil viscosity changes with temperature, the multi-grade rating shows the oil’s performance in both hot and cold conditions. For example, 10W indicates the oil's winter viscosity, based on a scale developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). This explains why the "W" in 10W-30 refers to "winter."

Myth: Change your oil before a long road trip.

There’s some truth to this. It’s always smart to check your car before long drives. However, if your scheduled oil change doesn’t fall during the trip, there’s no need to change it ahead of time. If the oil change is due while you're traveling, it's best to take care of it before you hit the road.

Myth: All oil additives are the same.

This isn’t true. Oil additives come in various formulations, each designed to target specific parts of the engine and provide different benefits. Not all additives are created equal, and each one serves a unique purpose.

Myth: You Don’t Have to Change Your Oil Filter Every Time You Change Your Oil

Ultra1Plus recommends replacing your oil filter every time you change your oil. This helps prevent contaminants, like dirt, trapped in the filter from re-entering the oil. Be sure to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for your manufacturer’s specific recommendation.

Myth: Top it Up! But Don’t Skip Oil Changes

Topping up your engine oil is fine if the level drops but relying on it instead of regular oil changes is a mistake. Oil changes are essential for maintaining engine health. While mixing oil brands is generally not recommended, switching between brands with the same API donut level (e.g., API SP) won’t harm your engine, if you follow the viscosity and API category in your owner’s manual.

Over time, oil degrades, accumulating contaminants. Simply topping up won’t solve this, as it dilutes new oil with old, degraded oil. Regular oil changes replace the old oil and contaminants, ensuring your engine gets the fresh lubrication it needs.

Remember to follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals and use high-quality motor oil like Ultra1Plus™ Motor Oils to keep your engine running smoothly.