As the seasons change, so do the demands on your vehicle. Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can put additional stress on your engine. That’s why it’s crucial to prepare your vehicle for these seasonal changes, and one of the most important steps is choosing the right motor oil. Let’s explore how to prepare your vehicle for winter and summer with the help of AMSOIL products.
Understanding Oil Viscosity
Before diving into seasonal recommendations, it’s important to understand oil viscosity. Oil viscosity is represented by two numbers (e.g., 5W-30):
- The first number (with W for “Winter”) indicates how the oil flows at cold temperatures.
- The second number represents the oil’s viscosity at high temperatures.
Lower numbers mean the oil is thinner and flows more easily.
Preparing for Winter
Winter Oil Change Tips
- Choose a lower viscosity oil for easier cold starts
- Consider switching to a full synthetic oil for better cold-weather performance
- Ensure your battery is in good condition
- Check and replace wiper blades if necessary
AMSOIL Recommendations for Winter
For winter driving, AMSOIL offers several excellent options:
- AMSOIL Signature Series Synthetic Motor Oil (0W-20, 0W-30, 5W-30): Provides excellent cold-weather performance and protection.
- AMSOIL XL Synthetic Motor Oil: Offers great cold-start protection for a more affordable price.
These oils maintain their viscosity in cold temperatures, ensuring your engine gets the lubrication it needs even on the coldest mornings.
Preparing for Summer
Summer Oil Change Tips
- Consider a slightly higher viscosity oil for better protection in high temperatures
- Check your coolant levels and condition
- Inspect belts and hoses for wear
- Ensure your air conditioning system is working properly
AMSOIL Recommendations for Summer
For summer driving, especially in hot climates, consider these AMSOIL products:
- AMSOIL Signature Series Synthetic Motor Oil (5W-30, 10W-30): Provides excellent protection against high-temperature breakdown.
- AMSOIL XL Synthetic Motor Oil: Offers great protection against heat and oxidation.
These oils maintain their protective qualities even in extreme heat, ensuring your engine stays protected during hot summer drives.
Year-Round Protection with AMSOIL
While seasonal oil changes can be beneficial, many AMSOIL synthetic oils are designed to provide excellent protection year-round. The AMSOIL Signature Series, for example, is engineered to excel in both extreme cold and extreme heat.
Benefits of using AMSOIL synthetic oils year-round include:
- Excellent protection in both hot and cold temperatures
- Extended drain intervals, saving you time and money
- Improved fuel efficiency
- Reduced engine wear
Additional Seasonal Maintenance Tips
While changing your oil is crucial, don’t forget these other important seasonal maintenance tasks:
- Check and replace air filters as needed
- Rotate tires and check tire pressure
- Inspect brake pads and rotors
- Test the battery and replace if necessary
- Check all lights and replace burnt-out bulbs
Conclusion
Preparing your vehicle for seasonal changes is an important part of vehicle maintenance. By choosing the right AMSOIL synthetic oil and following proper maintenance procedures, you can ensure your vehicle is ready to face both the cold of winter and the heat of summer.
Remember, while seasonal oil changes can be beneficial, many AMSOIL synthetic oils are designed to provide superior protection year-round. Always consult your vehicle’s owner manual for specific recommendations, and don’t hesitate to reach out to an AMSOIL dealer for personalized advice on the best oil for your vehicle and driving conditions.
Shop AMSOIL Products for Year-Round Protection