Incorrect addition of oil can damage your engine

During extensive car trips, circumstances may necessitate topping up the engine oil. But how to determine the correct procedure?

For some vehicles, notably those with dynamic instruction, engine oil tends to diminish faster. If an engine has a propensity to consume oil, always inspect its level before leaving and during the voyage. Carrying an emergency quart of oil is a good idea for any potential top-ups. Yet, what if you run out of oil and the nearest convenience store or gas station doesn't have the brand you usually apply?

Primarily, acknowledge that if the oil level drops too low, it becomes necessary to top it up to avoid engine damage.

Your safest bet is to stick to the oil already existing in the engine, given it's suitable. If you fail to carry extra oil, or lack information on the type of oil needed, don't fret. A majority of oil manufacturers have oil lookup tools on their websites. Simply key in your vehicle's make, model, engine type, and year, and the tool will suggest suitable oils from that specific manufacturer.

For those with limited oil knowledge, simply refer to store shelves for the most popular and accessible brand. Visit the manufacturer's website and utilize their oil finder tool. If such a tool is unavailable, consider opting for a different brand.

Upon determining the suitable oil online, ensure to verify the packaging carefully to corroborate it as the same product. Note the quality class, additional recommendations, and viscosity, usually designated as 0W-30 or 5W-40. Although secondary, it can guide you while procuring oil from the store. If SAPS oil is recommended, it becomes critical to ensure its acquisition.

In case of any emergencies, remember that applying any type of engine oil can be more beneficial than none. But caution must precede the addition of Full SAPS oil to a modern engine needing Full SAPS. While it might seem harmless initially, a larger refill, like a quart, may accelerate the clogging of the particulate filter. Therefore, if your vehicle demands SAPS oil, ensure that the oil you top up with meets this requirement.

Almost any oil can be successfully blended, especially when a 'better' oil is complemented with a 'worse'. These terms relate to the quality and viscosity classes, often detailed on the packaging alongside the abbreviations API or ACEA. For Low SAPS oil, the letter 'C' and a number follow ACEA.

The oil dipstick, typically found under the hood, depicts a range from minimum to maximum, usually equating to one quart. If the oil level drops below the minimum, adding half a quart promptly is advisable. If the level is nearing the minimum, it's best to start with ¼ quart, inspect, then possibly add more. Remember, it's hazardous to add cold oil to an excessively hot engine. Rather, raise the hood and wait for a few minutes, allowing the engine to cool down slightly.

If you remain uncertain about checking the oil level, don't hesitate to consult a gas station attendant or a mechanic. They are usually well-versed in the procedure.