Drivers should not shy away from taking responsibility about the engine oil used in their vehicles.
Drivers are proud of many aspects of their car, be it the shininess of its exterior or its well preserved interior. However, there are other factors motorists are failing to take into account – and people are therefore being urged to take greater responsibility for them.
One such area is that of engine oil. New research carried out on behalf of Mobil 1 has revealed this is very low down on drivers' priority lists, with many admitting they give little consideration to what type of oil is used.
According to the findings – which are based on survey answers provided by 1,000 UK drivers – 96 per cent of those questioned either do not care which type is used or simply go with whatever has been suggested by the mechanic.
Additionally, 65 per cent admitted they are clueless about the oil viscosity grade recommended by the manufacturer of their vehicle, while 83 per cent do not know which brand their car's maker believes is the best fit.
More than a third of those polled also admitted to not knowing the difference between mineral and synthetic engine oils.
Motorists have been urged to get a better understanding of engine oil because it can have a significant impact on the level of protection offered. For instance, synthetic oil provides more protection than conventional oil against high temperatures, cold weather and excessive sludge because is has been distilled and purified.
Tim Shallcross, head of technical policy at the Institute of Advanced Motorists, explained engine oil is important because it is used – and is able to continue working – in very harsh conditions.
He stated: "It must keep lubricating, cooling and cleaning your engine while being constantly hammered by huge pressures and exposed to temperatures ranging from the sub zero of a midwinter cold start to the searing heat of the combustion chamber.
"Manufacturers know the demands placed on the oil and that is why they are so specific in the grade and quality they recommend."
By Fred Mason