Despre UNGERE

The importance of using high quality lubricants cannot be overstated. Two of the most important reference standards commonly encountered are the Society of Automotive Engineers (S.A.E) and the American Petroleum Institute (A.P.I). The SAE classification system establishes the viscosity characteristics of lubrication oils only, and does not give any indication of oil quality and performance.

The API develops and issues standards which classify the performance of automotive lubricants. Since the original API standard was developed - demand led technology has necessitated the on-going development of increasingly higher test standards and specifications.

Since the original API 'SA' classification for petrol engine motor oils in 1960, uprating performance requirements has been required on eight occasions through standard SB to the current 1996 specification 'SJ'. The API 'SJ' classification is a current benchmark for all top quality oils for petrol engines.

A similar API classification system is applicable to oils for diesel engine service under the prefix 'C' with current specification suffix 'G' representing the highest standard (CG-4).

API petrol engine performance classifications SH and SJ were developed for preventing black sludge (SH) and fuel efficiency (SJ). All current vehicle manufacturer warranties on petrol engines require use of performance levels SH or SJ for service fill.

Synthetic oils - although commanding a premium price, these do offer excellent value for money through 'state of the art' technology. Synthetic oils offer advantages in most engines particularly in respect of performance under extreme conditions such as are encountered in turbo-chargers. Under such use the high thermal stability and resistance to degradation of synthetic oils resists the formation of carbon deposits which not only affect performance but which may ultimately cause expensive turbo failure. In comparison to mineral oils, synthetic oils not only offer advantages under high temperature conditions but also at low temperatures where their low viscosities such as SAE 5W or 0W rating allow extremely rapid circulation at engine start up.

Most engine wear occurs, and is associated with, lack of lubrication in the critical moments following a cold start and should therefore be a major consideration in lubricant choice when next changing your oil. Additional benefits of synthetic oil are lower exhaust emissions - a factor of ever increasing importance in respect of environmental regulations and MOT tests, improved fuel economy, and increased engine power associated with less internal frictional drag.

Purchasing synthetic oil is not always a simple procedure since there are a number of different interpretations of the word synthetic and also the availability of 'semi' or 'partially' synthetic oils.

Semi/partially synthetic oils are generally a mixture of conventional mineral oils with an undefined proportion of synthetic oils which can offer some of the advantages of full synthetics but never the full technical advantage. Whilst partial synthetics are excellent oils and do lower costs, if you want the very best technology ask for fully synthetic oil and obtain the very best engine protection your money can buy.

Some final tips on oil changing:

Always follow the engine manufacturers lubricant specification.

1. For an initial fill in a replacement or reconditioned engine it may be desirable to use a lower performance specification during the 'bedding-in' process (occurring in the first 500 - 1,000 miles) - high specification oils may inhibit this bedding-in process and result in excessive future oil consumption being encountered - check with the engine supplier or reconditioner. Change to high specification oils after this running-in period or as advised.
   
2. For older or high mileage engines it may be prudent to use an engine flushing additive or flushing oil to remove any accumulated sludge or deposit prior to filling with a high performance oil conforming to API SG, SH or SJ standards.
   
3. Always renew the oil filter as part of the oil change.
   
4. For cars equipped with catalytic converters, use of synthetic or high quality mineral lubricants with a low phosphorous content is essential in prolonging efficiency and life of these expensive components.