Decoding the designations of motor oils

Oil labeling. Classification of automobile oils. Decoding the labeling of motor oils

Cars November 29, 2014

Every car owner who cares about his car pays special attention to the quality of engine oil. After all, not only the reliable operation of all moving engine parts, but also the durability of their service depends on its properties and quality. In addition, low-quality or incorrectly selected oil can cause failure of the entire lubrication system.

To ensure that your car’s engine runs like a clock and its parts last a long time, you need to learn to understand the types of lubricants on the market today.

Why do you need to label oils?

You can choose the right lubricant for an engine or transmission only by knowing what the oil marking means.

A set of letters and numbers that are incomprehensible at first glance, printed on a container of lubricant, determines its manufacturer, composition, possibility of use in various types of engines or transmissions, as well as the maximum temperature conditions for operation. In addition, the labeling of oils allows you to determine their classification by quality group and viscosity properties.

To understand all this, you first need to understand what the symbols on the label of the lubricant container mean. Without getting ahead of ourselves, let's start with engine oils.

Decoding the labeling of motor oils

When choosing a lubricant, the first thing you should do is ask the seller about its purpose, characteristics and manufacturer, and then compare the information provided with the data indicated on the label.

Typically, engine oil labeling contains the following information:

• manufacturer;
• name of oil;
• lubricant base (organic, synthetic or semi-synthetic);
• quality and purpose according to API classification;
• viscosity properties according to SAE classification;
• batch number;
• date of manufacture

Today on the market you can find products from both world leaders in the production of lubricants and unknown, semi-underground imported and domestic companies that produce motor oil. The price of a brand and a self-made product, of course, differs, but it is hardly worth pursuing cheapness when it comes to lubricant for your personal car.

When choosing an oil, there are usually no questions about the manufacturer and name. Advertising and recommendations from experts are the best criterion here.

The batch number and date of manufacture of the oil indicate the suitability of the lubricant. Although lubricants are not a perishable product, it is better to refrain from using expired products.

If everything is more or less clear with the manufacturer, name and date of manufacture of the lubricant, then with other quality indicators contained on the label it is worth understanding in more detail. Correctly deciphering the labeling of motor oils will help not only to understand how the lubricant matches the engine of your car, but also to choose the best quality product.

Video on the topic

Oil base

Absolutely all lubricants according to their composition are usually classified into three groups:

• mineral (organic);
• semi-synthetic;
• synthetic

Mineral oils are made from a natural material – petroleum. They do not have ultra-high lubricating characteristics and sharply change viscosity with temperature changes. Such lubricants are used mainly for use in old domestic cars and tractors. The labeling of oils derived from petroleum contains the inscription “Mineral”.

Synthetic lubricants are a man-made product obtained through organic synthesis. In terms of their performance properties, these oils have a huge advantage over mineral oils. They were created artificially specifically for use in critical temperature conditions. The labeling of synthetic oils contains the inscription “Fully Synthetic”.

Synthetic lubricants have minimal volatility during use, have a long service life, and also ensure the most stable operation of mechanisms at low temperatures. They are used for both diesel and gasoline engines, including highly accelerated ones.

For the vast majority of modern cars, exclusively synthetic oil is used. The price for it is much higher than for mineral, but the use of the latter in the latest engines is simply unacceptable.

Semi-synthetic lubricants are a universal lubricating product obtained by proportionally mixing mineral and synthetic oils. Possessing all the best qualities of “organic” and “synthetic”, they are a universal lubricant for any type of engine. Semi-synthetic oil can be identified by the “Semi Synthetic” marking.

Oil viscosity

The main characteristic of motor lubricants is viscosity. This is what you should focus on first when choosing engine oil. Today, the SAE classification is considered the generally accepted system for separating motor lubricants by viscosity. It was developed by the Society of American Automotive Engineers and is one of the most important in oil labeling.

According to it, the viscosity of motor oils is of two types: kinematic and dynamic. The first is characterized by the ability to flow through a special capillary tube over a certain period of time. The second shows how viscosity changes under the influence of temperatures and the speed of movement of the rubbing elements.

Oil, like any other liquid, tends to change under the influence of ambient temperature. Its viscosity is higher in winter and lower in summer. With strong differences, this figure can increase or decrease hundreds of times. Oil marking according to SAE takes into account the seasonality of its use with gradations as follows:

• summer;
• winter;
• all-season

Summer oils

Summer lubricants have a higher viscosity, which provides the best lubrication of rubbing parts with the least friction. However, when the temperature drops below 00C, such oil becomes too thick, which makes starting the engine almost impossible. The starter is simply unable to rotate the entire mechanism due to such viscosity.

The summer range of motor lubricants has a digital designation from 20 to 60 units, which determine the viscosity class depending on temperature in increments of 10.

Thus, the marking of oils for summer use has the designations SAE 20, SAE 30, SAE 40, SAE 50 and SAE 60, where the numbers indicate the minimum and maximum viscosity at an operating temperature of 100-1500C. The higher this indicator, the thicker the lubricant when heated.

Winter oils

The marking of winter oil contains numbers from 0 to 25 with a discreteness of 5 units, indicating the operating temperature conditions, as well as the letter W, indicating the season of use (from the English “winter” - winter).

In order to determine the minimum temperature for its use, you need to subtract 40 from the indicated number. For example, for 5 W winter oil it will be -350C, for 20W -200C, etc.

This is the lower limit temperature at which pumping of lubricating fluid through the system is possible.

However, for winter lubrication, another criterion is important, which determines the lower limit of the temperature at which the starter can turn the engine mechanism to start it - this is crankability. To find it out, you need to subtract 35 from the indicated number. Thus, for 10 W oil, the lower temperature limit for starting the engine is -250C.

All-season oils

Such lubricants are universal and make it possible to use them all year round. These are the most popular and in demand automobile oils.

The marking of all-season lubricants consists of two numbers and the English letter W between them.

The first indicator indicates the minimum limit temperature at which a cold engine can be started, and the second indicates the viscosity at maximum operating heating.

For example, the 5W40 oil marking means that the engine will start with this lubricant at -350C. The letter W, separating winter and summer indicators, indicates universal seasonal applicability here.

The maximum viscosity at a temperature of +100-1500C will be 40 units.

Oil marking according to SAE and its compliance with GOST

The Russian classification of motor oils meets the requirements of GOST 17479.1-85. It divides lubricants into classes according to viscosity and intended use.

Summer oils are marked with numbers 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 24. They indicate viscosity in mm2/s. The higher the number, the thicker the lubricant. Winter oil markings include only three numbers – 4, 5 or 6.

All-season lubricants have a double divided designation, where the numerator is the winter class and the denominator is the summer class. In addition, the labeling often contains the letter “z”, indicating that the oil is thickened with special additives (4z/10, 6z/16).

In order to determine which domestic oil according to the GOST classification corresponds to an imported analogue, special tables have been created. With their help, you can easily select our lubricant for a foreign car and vice versa. For example, the oil marking 5W30 corresponds to our designation 4/12, 15W50 - 6z10, 20W40 - 8z/16, etc.

API classification of oils

In addition to viscosity class, lubricating products are usually classified according to their performance characteristics and scope of application. The American Petroleum Institute (API) is studying and systematizing them. According to this system, all motor oils are divided into two groups:

• for gasoline engines;
• for diesel engines

Lubricants for gasoline engines are designated by the letter S and are intended for use in the internal combustion engines of passenger cars, minibuses and small trucks.

Diesel engine oils are marked with the letter C, which is intended for use in industrial, commercial and agricultural vehicles.

In addition, the API classification includes another letter indicating the quality level of performance characteristics. The further it is from the beginning of the alphabet, the better the quality of the product. For example, the SJ marking indicates that this is an oil for a gasoline internal combustion engine with an average quality indicator.

However, most foreign manufacturers of engine lubricants produce universal products, which can be used in both gasoline and diesel engines. The oil marking for both types of internal combustion engines contains 4 letters, 2 separated by a fraction. For example, SD/CJ.

This greatly simplifies the choice of lubricant, but it is worth paying attention to the first letter of the marking. If it is S, then this product, according to the manufacturer, is more suitable for gasoline engines, if C, then for diesel engines.

Source: http://monateka.com/article/3037/

Motor oil markings

The production of lubricants itself in most cases comes down to adding a package of additives to the base oil (more about it below), which form certain properties, and then packing the resulting mixture into cans.

The resulting oil itself can be mineral, semi-synthetic or synthetic.

The first type is an almost natural base oil, or one that contains a small amount of additives; the second – has a significant amount of additives; the third one consists only of synthetic components and does not (or practically does not) contain any base oil.

Base oil is the oil that is obtained directly from the distillation of petroleum. In Russia, everything is fine with oil, so the cost of base oils is quite low.

However, due to the fact that the properties and indicators of both the oil itself (depending on the deposits) and the quality of its processing (impurities, homogeneity) can fluctuate within significant limits, the resulting base oils already differ significantly in quality.

An additive package is a composition of synthetic substances that protect engine parts from corrosion and wear, dissolve and retain contaminants, and reduce carbon formation and foaming.

For the most part, the performance properties of the oil depend on the additive package, which are determined by the class designated according to various classifications (API, SAE, ACEA or GOST).

Currently, the vast majority of additive components are produced by just a few global manufacturers, such as Exxon, Shell, Pennzoil, Lubrizol, Neste and Chevron. From this it can be seen that there are hundreds of brands of motor oils, but only a few manufacturers of additives.

This does not mean at all that all oils are practically identical - the quality of lubricants, in addition to the choice of base oil, is also determined by the manufacturer’s ability to select an additive composition that will take into account all the requirements as much as possible.

 Already from the fact that for a qualified and informed choice of base oil, as well as for the development and preparation of an additive package, it is clear that the enterprise needs a good chemical laboratory, as well as highly professional research personnel.

Only a fairly large company can afford this, and in smaller ones this process is carried out either “by eye” or based on the recommendations of third-party professionals. Plus, a quality control system is needed at all stages of production - and this is also the field of activity of highly qualified chemists.

Therefore, only oils from a reputable manufacturer with good scientific and technical potential can have high and stable quality.

Now let's move directly to the characteristics of oils and their scope of application. Until recently, only GOST was adopted in Russia, however, with the advent and distribution of imported lubricants, markings of the properties and characteristics of oils according to API, SAE and ACEA began to be used increasingly.

Classification by API

API is a classification developed by the American Petroleum Institute. The first API classification was developed back in 1947 and since then has been changed and supplemented many times. The marking is quite simple:

• the first letter indicates the type of engine or type of vehicle: S (Service) – passenger cars, minibuses and jeeps with a 4-stroke gasoline engine, C (Commercial) – diesel engines of trucks, road and construction equipment. The T series has also been additionally introduced for marking oils intended for use in two-stroke engines of mopeds, motorcycles, snowmobiles, jet skis, etc.

• the second letter for the S and C series indicates the years of adoption of the specification, that is, each subsequent letter indicates more stringent requirements for the quality of the oil and, therefore, for the year of engine manufacture.

• if the number 2 is present, then this oil is intended for two-stroke engines, 4 – for four-stroke engines.

• double marking (for example, SH/CG-4, SG/CF-4, etc.) means that this oil can be used in both gasoline and diesel engines.
The table shown here more clearly explains the meaning of the classification . In this table in the second column are the approximate years of production (development) of the engine.

Marking	Year of issue	Notes
Gasoline engines (S series)
SA, SB, SC,SD and SE	until 1979	Only on the manufacturer's recommendation. Outdated quality requirements are not currently applied.
SF	until 1988	Engines operating under severe conditions on unleaded gasoline, higher for 2-stroke engines
S.G.	1989-1993	High-performance turbocharged engines
SH	until 1996	Highly-powered, highly turbocharged, promising cars
S.J.	after 1996	For all models used, there are very high requirements for oil quality.
SL	since 2001	Latest specification for the latest engine models
Diesel engines (C series)
SA and SV	before 1960	Only on the manufacturer's recommendation. Outdated quality requirements are not currently applied.
SS	since 1961	Highly boosted engines (including moderately boosted ones) operating in difficult conditions
CD	since 1955	Highly boosted, high-boost engines running in harsh conditions on high-sulfur fuels
CD-2	since 1987	High quality requirements for oils for two-stroke engines.
C.E.	since 1987	New quality requirements for classes CC and CD
SF-2	since 1994	Improved characteristics compared to CD-2. Higher for two-stroke engines
CF-4	since 1990	For high speed, four-stroke turbocharged engines, used in place of CE grade oils
CG-4	since 1995	High oil requirements for four-stroke engines operating in severe conditions
CH-4	since 1999	Very high quality requirements for oil for four-stroke engines
CL-4	since 2002	Latest specification for the latest four-stroke diesel models
Two-stroke engines (T series)
T.A.	–	For two-stroke engines of mopeds, lawn mowers and related machines
TB	–	For mopeds, scooters and light motorcycles
TC	–	For two-stroke motorcycles and other land-based equipment
T.D.	–	Special certification for engines of jet skis, yachts, boats and motor boats

SAE classification

In addition to the API classification, which shows only general requirements for oil quality, but does not provide information about specific characteristics, there is a SAE classification. This classification was specially developed to clearly inform the consumer about the viscosity-temperature properties of the oil. Ambient temperature was taken as a publicly available characteristic.

The SAE marking itself divides motor oils into six winter (0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W and 25W) and five summer (20, 30, 40, 50 and 60) classes. All-season oils are designated by a double number, one of which corresponds to the winter class and the other to the summer class, for example, SAE 0W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40, 20W-50, etc.

For winter oils, maximum values ​​of dynamic viscosity at low temperatures and minimum values ​​of kinematic viscosity at 100°C are established. For summer oils, limits of kinematic viscosity at 100°C and minimum values ​​of dynamic viscosity at 150°C and a shear rate of 10e6 s-1 are established.

Each class of winter or all-season oil is characterized by two dynamic viscosity values ​​at a temperature differing by 10°C.

The first of them gives the consumer information about the maximum oil temperature at which the engine can be cranked by the starter, the second - about the maximum temperature at which the oil pump will pump oil under pressure during a cold start. The maximum pumping temperature is necessarily lower in order to avoid dry friction in pressure-lubricated units during a cold start.

As a rule, in order not to force the buyer to remember the temperature values ​​associated with a specific oil marking, an SAE scale is applied to the canister, which looks something like this:

The general table of the most common SAE oil markings in accordance with the ambient temperatures in which the engine will be operated is as follows:

It should be noted that the SAE classification of motor oils does not provide information about either the type of oil (mineral, semi-synthetic or synthetic) or its quality properties. That is why this classification only complements the API marking.

ACEA classification

The third in a row of the most popular markings is the ACEA marking of oils.

ACEA is the Association of European Automobile Manufacturers, which means that oil labeling is based on the recommendations of major automobile companies.

The main difference between this classification is the allocation into a separate group of oils for diesel engines of passenger cars, which is due, first of all, to the fact that in Europe there are significantly more diesel cars than in Europe.

In part, the requirements for oil quality overlap with the API requirements, however, they are more stringent in a number of parameters. Oils for gasoline and diesel engines are designated by the letter combination “A/B” with a certain number after the letter.

And the higher this figure, the higher the requirements for the oil: for example, an oil with an ACEA A3/B3 class also has an API SL/CF class.

However, using highly loaded turbocharged compact engines, Europeans are forced to develop special oils with maximum protective properties and minimum viscosity (in order to reduce friction losses and improve environmental performance). For example, an ACEA A5/B5 class oil may be “cooler” than API SM/CI-4 in a number of parameters.

If both markings (SJ/CH-4) are applied on the label, then the oil is universal and can be used in both gasoline and diesel engines. In addition, the API classification uses the markings EC1, EC2 - this is how oils with energy-saving properties are designated, and the higher the number, the higher the percentage of fuel savings.

There is also a classification of oil according to ISLAC (an international committee created by the Americans and Japanese), however, all ISLAC quality standards overlap with API standards.

Thus, ISLAC GL-1 oils are used for gasoline engines and correspond to API SH oils, ISLAC GL-2 oils are used in gasoline engines and comply with API SJ, and ISLAC GL-3, as you might guess, are used in gasoline engines and comply API SL.

Also, for Japanese diesel cars, oil of the JASO DX-1 specification may be required, which takes into account the stringent quality requirements for motor oils for modern environmentally friendly, highly loaded Japanese turbodiesels.

As you can see, none of the common oil labels can fully tell you about its quality.

 Classification of motor oils.pdf

For DGS we recommend:

SAE classification – 15W40;

API classification – C(F,G,H,L);

ACEA classification – ACEA A(3-5)/B(3-5).

Source: http://cons-systems.ru/markirovka-motornykh-masel

Motor oil markings - DRIVE2

Decoding the labeling of motor oils

Designations of motor oils
Motor oils are divided into three main classes: gasoline, diesel and universal. Oils are also usually divided into all-season, summer and winter. One of the most important quality characteristics of an oil is, as is known, its viscosity. The degree of oil distribution over the friction surfaces, and ultimately the engine life, depends on it.

Oil viscosity is determined at high temperatures and high shear rates of rubbing surfaces, characterized by three indicators - dynamic, kinematic, and viscosity index. For example, a change in dynamic viscosity shows how engine oil will behave under pressure. It is measured in poises (P).

Kinematic viscosity characterizes the change in oil properties under the influence of forces, for example, centrifugal forces, and is measured in centistokes (cSt) or mm2/s. But the viscosity index gives an assessment of the dependence of oil viscosity on temperature. The wider the temperature range in which the necessary fluidity and viscosity of the oil must be ensured, the higher its index should be.

Only then can the motor oil be considered high quality.

The viscosity of motor oil directly depends on the quality of the base components, this is usually evidenced by the original stylish label and back label on the packaging.

A sticker with the SAE mark indicating that the oil is produced from highly refined base oils certified to the international SAE standard.

A sticker with the HC symbol confirms the use of base oils obtained by catalytic hydrocracking.

All-season oils include the following classes:
SAE 0W-30, SAE 0W-40, SAE 5W-30, SAE 5W-40, SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40, SAE 15W-40, SAE 20W-40.

When marking all-season oils, two viscosity numbers must be present, the first is viscosity at low temperatures, the second - at high temperatures.

Summer, most viscous, oils of classes:
SAE 20, SAE 30, SAE 40, SAE 50, SAE 60.

The number after SAE indicates the viscosity grade; the higher it is, the greater the viscosity of a particular oil.

Winter, less viscous, oils of classes:
SAE 0W, SAE 5W, SAE 10W, SAE 15W, SAE 20W.

The designation of winter oils must contain the letter W - winter.

Specialized oils (summer, winter) are now practically non-existent; they have gradually been replaced by all-season ones, but this does not mean at all that you can use any of the all-season motor oils offered on the market.

To choose the right oil for a particular engine, you need to consider a number of factors

1. Climatic conditions of vehicle operation.

Everything is quite simple, the colder the ambient temperature, the lower the viscosity grade of the engine oil should be (the number after the letters SAE):

Selection of oil depending on the seasonSAE 0W-30 from -30° to +20°C;SAE 0W-40 from -30° to +35°C;SAE 5W-30 from -25° to +20°C;SAE 5W- 40 from -25° to +35°C;SAE 10W-30 from -20° to +30°C;SAE 10W-40 from -20° to +35°C;SAE 15W-40 from -15° to +45 °C;

SAE 20W-40 from -10° to +45°C;

2. Service life and current condition of the engine.

Over a long period of vehicle operation, the gaps in the engine friction pairs increase significantly, which requires the use of more viscous oil to ensure satisfactory pressure in the lubrication system.

This is especially important in the summer, when the car engine can reach maximum temperatures.

For old engines that have spent more than half of their service life, you need to use motor oils of the SAE 15W-40, SAE 20W-40 classes; for very old engines it is better to stick to the following classes: SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-50.

In addition to viscosity designations, the labels also contain other letter designations beginning with the letters API (American Petroleum Institute classification). Leading European manufacturers label their products using this system.

The API classification divides oils into two main categories: S (Service) indicates that this oil is intended for carburetor engines of passenger cars, minibuses and light-duty trucks; Category C (Commercial) oil is used in diesel engines of commercial vehicles.

As a rule, there is no special category for passenger diesel engines according to this classification; universal oils of the S/C category are usually used for them.

After the letter S, the level of the basic performance properties of the oil is indicated, which is designated by the letters: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, J, L, arranged in order of increasing properties.

After the letter C (diesel) the level of the main operational properties of the oil is indicated, which is designated by the letters: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H. Additionally, after the letter designation a number indicating the type of diesel engine can be placed: 2 - two-stroke, 4 – four-stroke. Currently, the classes mainly used are: CF, CF-2, CF-4, CG-4, CH-4.

In addition to the above, the designation of motor oil may contain the abbreviation ACEA - classification of the Association of European Automobile Manufacturers.

According to the specifics of this classification, oils are divided into three classes: A - for gasoline engines, B - for diesel engines of passenger cars, E - for diesel engines of trucks.

The letter designation is followed by a number (from 1 to 5), which characterizes the level of basic performance properties of this oil; subsequent numbers indicate the year of approval.

Now you can easily understand the features of the markings on the labels of canisters with motor oils.

Source: https://www.drive2.com/b/2300345/

Decoding motor oils

Automotive motor oils are one of the main consumables used in a car. By performing their main functions, they are able to provide the specified resource of the power unit.

However, for more efficient use of the lubricant, precise compliance with the influences to which it is exposed inside the motor and on the surfaces of cooled and lubricated elements is required.

The service life of the engine, and therefore the cost of repairing the vehicle as a whole, depends on the choice of the right oil.

When choosing suitable lubricants, the motorist has to deal with various designations. Among them are classifications according to ACEA, SAE and API.

And one of the most popular markings is the alphanumeric designation such as 5w40 or 5w30, which manufacturers indicate directly on the canisters, and sellers indicate in price lists. This designation will make it clear to an experienced car enthusiast whether such material is suitable for the engine of his car.

Other drivers should familiarize themselves with some of the nuances of choosing a lubricant and what its parameters mean according to the SAE classification.

The main task of a suitable motor oil is to increase the efficiency of the internal combustion engine in various temperature conditions.

To do this, the viscosity of the material must have an optimal value, allowing the engine to start and operate in any weather, and the oil pump to pump lubricant through the system.

The parameter is determined by vehicle manufacturers for specific models based on the temperature limit during the relevant tests.

Being one of the main parameters of a lubricant, its viscosity should be within certain limits:

• not less than a certain level required to start the engine;
• no more than the indicator specified in the vehicle’s passport data.

An insufficient value of the indicator (the lubricant is too liquid) leads to rapid wear of parts and the appearance of knocking on the gyro compensators, as a result of which the car will sooner end up in a car service center. A material that is too viscous (too thick), on the contrary, reduces the power of the power unit. In this case, engine elements wear out less, but fuel consumption increases.

The boundaries within which a characteristic must be located are not constant. They depend on factors such as temperature, engine condition and vehicle mileage. And when choosing the right oil for a particular car, you need to follow the recommendations of its manufacturer.

The type designation 5w30 indicated on the lubricant canister is determined according to an international system that includes a set of changes in viscosity parameters depending on temperature changes.

The SAE or Society of Automobile Engineers specification is an international standard governing the characteristics of lubricants.

It is not always possible to express its indicators in certain specific units, however, deciphering the designation allows us to divide lubricants into three types:

1. winter, providing cold start of the power unit at low temperatures. However, in summer, such oil is ineffective and does not provide a sufficient level of lubrication;
2. summer, reliably lubricating the engine at high ambient temperatures. It is not recommended to use them in winter, since in frosty conditions the material does not provide a “cold start”;
3. all-season. A universal option that has the characteristics of winter lubricants at low temperatures and summer lubricants at high temperatures.

Each type of motor oil has its own marking - the larger the numbers, the higher the viscosity at negative (for winter brands) or positive (for summer) temperatures.

If the lubricant is designated with just one number (for example, SAE 20 or 40), then the material is intended for use in the summer. The winter version can be identified by the letter W (Winter) added to the end of the designation.

Such materials are usually less dense.

The marking of a universal semi-synthetic lubricant includes not only the letter W, but also 2 numbers showing its characteristics at different temperatures.

For example, for the 5w30 brand, the values ​​mean a combination of the properties of the winter version of SAE 5w and the summer version of SAE 30.

By choosing the optimal parameter value for the engine, you can increase its service life by constantly using the same material throughout the year.

Looking at the markings for 5w40 oils, you can see two indicators at once:

• number 5, indicating the minimum temperature in degrees for which normal pumping of lubricant by the oil pump and cranking of the engine at startup is possible;
• the second number, 40, indicating the viscosity of the engine oil when the engine heats up. The higher this value, the thicker the lubricant.

For the indicator after the letter W in the lubricant marking, an exact interpretation cannot be provided. It is a composite characteristic associated with the density of lubricants in the operating temperature range from 100 to 150 degrees.

It is also not easy to determine the effect that the material has on car parts - only representatives of the vehicle manufacturer know about this, whose passport often indicates specific brands.

For example, for Ford models it is expected to use an oil such as 3000 X1 Formula FE 5W30 from the Mobil Super brand, developed in accordance with all the requirements of the standards used by the American automaker. Although it can be used for most other cars - from cars to minibuses, with a diesel or gasoline engine.

When choosing the right lubricant for your car, you should follow certain rules. First of all, it is worth noting that a high viscosity value, on the one hand, protects the engine, also has certain disadvantages.

Therefore, it is advisable to choose an option not with such critical numbers as 5W40, but 5W30 or 10W25, which are more suitable for most vehicles.

A lubricant that is not too thick both in winter and summer will ensure that the engine starts at any time of the year, protects its parts from friction and allows you to optimize fuel consumption.

Advice: Having chosen a lubricant with suitable SAE parameters and using it for your car, you should not experiment and change it to other brands. The result may be accelerated engine wear and loss of important characteristics.

In addition to viscosity indicators at different temperature conditions, oils are also divided according to the production method and are:

1. mineral, made from natural ingredients - usually oil;
2. synthetic, resulting from the use of artificial raw materials;
3. semi-synthetic, consisting of 2 parts - natural and synthetic.

This factor should also be taken into account when choosing a lubricant. Since it is not possible to determine compatibility with the engine of a particular car based on the 5w30 marking alone. Most modern engines run much better on synthetics.

And for old engines, synthetic lubricant is not allowed - it can increase the load on the unit and further reduce its service life. The ideal option for a car is semi-synthetic oils (Fully Synthetic), suitable for almost any vehicle.

And, although they are more expensive than conventional lubricants, the safety of the engine pays for all costs.

Choosing good motor oils is a rather difficult task, even if you know the parameters that are worth paying attention to and understand what numbers like 5w30 mean and how they are deciphered. Moreover, the range of lubricants with almost identical performance is constantly growing.

And every manufacturer of such materials claims that their products are the best. You can choose a viscosity class and a specific SAE marking by consulting with representatives of the car manufacturer - at a dealer showroom or an official car service center.

You can find out about a suitable option for use in the auto repair shop where the car was inspected.

Source: http://e-migdal.ru/motornoe-maslo/rasshifrovka-motornyh-masel.html

Decoding the markings of automobile motor oils

This article provides a breakdown of the markings on the packaging of motor oils. Why these markings are needed, and how to decide on the choice of oil when changing or upon the arrival of winter or summer. Tables of temperature ranges for choosing oil viscosity for a number of cars are also given.

Full synthetic motor oil

“Oil whose name is synthetic” (usually designated on the packaging as Fully Synthetic), the oil has a complete synthetic base, by obtaining a synthesis of types of chemical elements.

The main differences between “synthetics” are to set a possible number of parameters for the future, when the base of the motor oil is created, as well as a huge number of additives containing it, in the maximum volume.

In general, such motor oils usually provide the best protection and cleaning properties, are subject to minimal thickening at relatively low ambient temperatures, maintaining the maximum operating temperature range.

Mineral motor oil

“Mineral” (often indicated on the box as Mineral), the oil is created on a mineral basis, obtained from petroleum products by processing it; mineral oil becomes relatively cheaper.

In this regard, the oil cannot provide the same maximum operational result as “synthetic oil” - it is not able to withstand such a high operating temperature, thickens quite strongly at low temperatures, oxidizes significantly quickly and requires complete replacement, when boiling - leaves deposits in the form of slag in the engine.

Semi synthetic motor oil

“Semi-synthetic motor oil” (designated Semi-Synthetic) - this type of motor oil should probably be a kind of golden mean between the previous oils.

Otherwise, semi-synthetic motor oil is made on a mineral base, but a large number of different types of additives are added to it, bringing the service life of this semi-synthetic oil closer to the level of “synthetics”.

But the cost of “semi-synthetics” will be several times cheaper than “synthetics”.

Motor oils can be distinguished according to two main parameters, according to which they are classified into different classifications - area of ​​application (in diesel engines, in old gasoline engines, and modern turbo diesel engines, etc.), viscosity and temperature properties. We won’t look at the differences in oil bases; all are classified in order according to standards. The most common ones are divided into SAE and API.

Viscosity-temperature properties are classified only according to the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standard - in other words, this SAE indicator indicates how “thick” or “thin” the engine oil is.

A huge number of motor oils today are “universal”, as they are suitable for winter and summer operating periods. Their SAE classification is defined by two numbers separated by a dash, with the letter W between the numbers - in the example it looks like 10W-40.

The letter W means that this motor oil is completely suitable for use in winter, and the number before the letter W indicates the low-temperature viscosity (roughly speaking, what low temperature threshold this motor oil can withstand).

The second number shows the high-temperature viscosity (what summer temperature range the oil can withstand). However, oil suitable only for summer use will be accurately designated, for example, SAE 30.
Let’s decipher the SAE numbers on the oil packaging

Low temperature viscosity indicators tell us the following:

• * 0W- Oil viscosity suitable for use at ambient temperatures up to -35-30 degrees.C
• * 5W- Oil viscosity is suitable for use at ambient temperatures up to -30-25 degrees.

  C

• * 10W- Oil viscosity suitable for use at ambient temperatures down to -25-20 degrees.C
• * 15W- Oil viscosity is suitable for use at ambient temperatures up to -20-15 degrees.

  C

• * 20W- Oil viscosity suitable for use at ambient temperatures from 10 to 15 degrees C

High temperature viscosity indicators say the following:

• * 30 oil is suitable for use in conditions where the ambient temperature is up to +20-25 degrees.C
• * 40 oil is suitable for use in conditions where the ambient temperature is up to +35-40 degrees.

  C

• * 50 oil is suitable for use in conditions where the ambient temperature is up to +45-50 degrees.C
• * 60 oil is suitable for use in conditions where the ambient temperature is up to +50 degrees.

  C and above

Engine Oil Viscosity Range Table

The lower the digital indicator, the “thinner” the motor oil; the higher the digital indicator, the thicker it is. In this case, motor oil with the following code 10W-30 is allowed to be used at temperature conditions from -20-25 degrees below zero to + 20-25 degrees Celsius.

Decoding motor oils - according to API numbers (American Petroleum Institute)

The area of ​​application of motor oil is systematized as a whole according to the API (American Petroleum Institute) - according to the API definition, two letter symbols are written (for example, SJ or CF), the first one which indicates the type of engine: S is an engine running on gasoline, C is an engine running on diesel fuel. The second letter symbol specifies the place of application of the motor oil - a new engine or a worn-out old one, turbocharged or without it. If the engine oil packaging has the following designation API SJ/CF, it turns out that this engine oil is suitable for both gasoline and diesel engines of this class.

API Marking Definitions for Gasoline Engines:

• * SC - cars created before 1964.
• * SD - cars created between 1964 and 1968.
• * SE - cars created between 1969 and 1972.
• * SF - cars created between 1973 and 1988.
• * SG - vehicles created between 1989 and 1994 for harsh operating environments.

• * SH - cars created between 1995 and 1996 for severe operating conditions.
• * SJ - cars created between 1997 and 2000, have quite good energy-saving qualities.
• * SL - cars created between 2001 and 2003, extended period of operation.

• * SM - cars created since 2004, SL+ increased exposure to auto oxidation.

Definitions of API markings for diesel engines:

• * CB - cars manufactured before 1961, increased amount of sulfur in the fuel
• * CC - cars manufactured before 1983, work in harsh natural environments
• * CD - cars manufactured before 1990, high level of sulfur in fuel and difficult operating conditions
• * CE - cars manufactured before 1990, turbocharged engine
• * CF - cars produced since 1990, with turbocharging
• * CG-4 - cars produced since 1994, with turbocharging
• * CH-4 - cars manufactured since 1998, subject to increased toxicity standards in the USA
• * CI-4 - today's cars, turbocharged, with an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve
• * CI-4 plus - analogue of the previous one, under high toxicity standards in the USA

Markings according to viscosity-temperature characteristics:

API SJ/CD Performance Markings
ACEA A3-96;
B3-96 European performance marking CCMC G-5/PD2 European performance marking
Volkswagen 500.00 and 505.00 (11/92) Additional specifications for automobile manufacturers Porsche, BMW, Mercedes-Benz 229.1

In Europe, oil classification according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) is often used. Partially, the requirements for the basic qualities of motor oil are intertwined with API positions, but only they are relatively strictly related in terms of the number of parameters.

Automotive oils for gasoline and diesel engines are marked with a letter using the combination “A/B” with the required number after the letter. If this number is larger, however, the rule for motor oil will apply to it: for example, motor oil with class ACEA A3/ B3 also has an API SL/CF class.

However, using highly loaded turbocharged compact engines, Europeans are forced to develop special oils with maximum protective properties and minimum viscosity (in order to reduce friction losses and improve environmental performance).

For example, an ACEA A5/B5 class oil may be “cooler” than API SM/CI-4 in a number of parameters.

There is also a classification of oil according to ISLAC (an international committee created by the Americans and Japanese), however, all ISLAC quality standards overlap with API standards.

Thus, ISLAC GL-1 oils are used for gasoline engines and correspond to API SH oils, ISLAC GL-2 oils are used in gasoline engines and comply with API SJ, and ISLAC GL-3, as you might guess, are used in gasoline engines and comply API SL.

Also, for Japanese diesel cars, oil of the JASO DX-1 specification may be required, which takes into account the stringent quality requirements for motor oils for modern environmentally friendly, highly loaded Japanese turbo diesels.

Table of viscosity values ​​of automotive engine oil according to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) classification.

Automotive motor oils – classification SAE J-300 DEC99

SAE class	Low temperature viscosity	High temperature viscosity
Cranking	Pumpability	Viscosity, mm2/s at t = 100 °C	Min viscosity, mPa s at t = 150 °C and shear rate 106 s-1
Max viscosity, mPa s, at temperature, °C	Min	Max
0 W	6200 at – 35 °C	60000 at – 40 °C	3,8	–	–
5 W	6600 at – 30 °C	60000 at – 35 °C	3,8	–	–
10 W	7000 at – 25 °C	60000 at – 30 °C	4,1	–	–
15 W	7000 at – 20 °C	60000 at – 25 °C	5,6	–	–
20 W	9500 at – 15 °C	60000 at – 20 °C	5,6	–	–
25 W	13000 at – 10 °C	60000 at – 15 °C	9,3	–	–
20	–	–	5,6	< 9,3	2,6
30	–	–	9,3	< 12,6	2,9
40	–	–	12,6	< 16,3	2.9 (0W-40; 5w-40; 10w-40)
40	–	–	12,6	< 16,3	3.7 (15W-40; 20W-40; 25W-40)
50	–	–	16,3	< 21,9	3,7
60	–	–	21,9	26,1	3,7

Source: http://remcars.info/informacija-avtolubiteliyam/rasshifrovka-markirovok-avtomobilnyx-motornyx-masel.html