The lubricant is an essential item for the proper functioning of the engine, reducing friction between internal parts and controlling the temperature. Propeller with oil up to date lasts longer, requires less maintenance and, on top of that, consumes less fuel. But it is necessary to be strict and attentive to the deadlines and mileage for change, always informed in the vehicle manufacturer's manual.

MYTH - It is recommended to use lubricating oil in the specifications recommended in the vehicle manual, whether in terms of viscosity (5W40, for example) and base, which can be mineral, semi-synthetic or synthetic. "There is no point in using synthetic in an engine that asks for mineral or semi-synthetic, spending money for nothing. These more modern oils are designed for engines that are also newer and more complex", teaches engineer Henrique Pereira, member of the Otto engine technical commission at SAE Brasil. "Lubricating oils have to meet the specifics of the manufacturer and the technical attributes of each vehicle.

TRUTH - For the specialist Pereira, it is not normal for the oil level to drop before it is time to replace it, as indicated in the manual. "A new engine should not consume oil. But, if it is necessary to top up urgently, use the same oil that is in the crankcase. The number one rule is never to mix lubricants of different specifications", he warns. Still, the ideal is to change all the oil for a new one. According to Mobil, even using the same lubricant, mixing oil that has already been rotated with new is not a good idea.

Another important tip is to never check the oil level at the gas station, with the engine hot. The correct thing is to check it in the morning, with the engine cold and on a level ground, with the crankcase still full - the lubricant rises to the engine when the vehicle is started, giving the false impression that oil is missing.

MYTH - Additive is totally unnecessary, since all current lubricating oils are already additive, following the exclusive formulation of each manufacturer, bringing detergent elements, to clean carbon residues, and dispersants, to remove impurities from the engine, such as carbon residues, during the lubrication. "The use of additives is not recommended and can cause the formation of lees and other problems. The lubricating oil is already composed of a base oil plus an additive package, the addition of which is not even requested by the automakers", highlights Mobil.

MYTH- Even if the vehicle does not reach the mileage recommended in the oil change manual, there is a maximum period for using that lubricant, usually six months. Therefore, what wins first is worth. "Over time, the oil is contaminated by the fuel and oxidizes, losing its original lubrication properties and contributing to greater friction and wear on internal engine components," says Pereira, from SAE Brasil. In addition, it is necessary to pay attention to the conditions of use of the vehicle: if they are severe, such as running on dirt roads or on low daily mileage, insufficient for the engine to reach the ideal operating temperature, the time and mileage for the change must be done at longer intervals. For more insights jump to: anautomobileblog.blogspot.com

MYTH - High-mileage engine oils available on the market bring greater viscosity to fill internal gaps caused by wear, but they are only a palliative. "A lot of people use this type of lubricant to sell a car that is more run-by, reducing the noise generated by slack. It seems to solve it, but the thicker oil actually forces components and accelerates wear. need a grinding, "recommends the SAE Brasil specialist.