What type of oil does my car take?

Have you taken a stroll down the engine oil aisle at your local auto parts store lately? It can feel overwhelming with all the choices staring back at you. But here’s the thing—engine oil isn’t just another car product; it’s essential for keeping your vehicle running smoothly and extending your engine’s life. Using the right oil at the right intervals makes all the difference. So, how do you figure out which oil is best for your car? Let’s find out.

How do I know which oil is right for my car?

Your car's manufacturer decides what type of oil your vehicle needs, and you can find all the details in your owner’s manual. It’ll tell you the right viscosity grade and any other specific oil requirements.

What does motor oil actually do?

The motor or engine oil’s main job is lubrication—it creates a thin film between engine parts, acting like tiny ball bearings to keep them from grinding against each other. But that’s not all engine oil does. It also:

• Coats metal parts to prevent rust and oxidation.
• Reduces friction between moving parts.
• Dissolves and washes away deposits and sludge from inside the crankcase.
• Helps regulate engine temperature by circulating hot oil to the cooler.
• Neutralizes acids formed during combustion.

Using the wrong oil grade can mess with these protective properties, so it’s crucial to stick with what’s right for your engine.

What does motor oil grade mean, and how can you find it?

Oil viscosity grade is all about how easily it flows, and it’s measured using two numbers. The first number, which ends with a “W” (for Winter), tells you how the oil flows when it’s cold—like during engine start-up. The second number shows how it performs at a higher, normal operating temperature.

The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) created a grading system to help you understand engine oil performance. Basically, the lower the number, the easier the oil flows. For example, a 5W-30 will flow better than a 10W-30 in cold weather, and a 10W-30 will flow better than a 10W-40 when the engine is hot.

This matters because oil naturally thickens when it cools and thins out as it heats up. Thinner, low-viscosity oils are great for protecting engine parts in cold conditions, while thicker, high-viscosity oils are better at holding their protective strength under high heat.

Where to find the grade your car needs

If you’re wondering which grade your car needs, it’s usually printed right on the engine oil cap. You can also check your vehicle’s maintenance guide or look it up online.

Types of motor oil

Ever catch yourself thinking, "Aren’t all engine oils basically the same?" Well, they’re not! Sure, they all start with a base oil refined from crude oil, but that’s where the similarities end. There are some key differences between regular and synthetic oil types, even if they all look pretty much the same. We'll explore each one in detail below:

Conventional oil

Crude oil pulled from the earth has to go through a refining process before it’s ready for your engine. After impurities are removed, it’s blended with detergents and additives designed to keep your engine clean and running smoothly.

But once conventional oil is in your engine and doing its job, it starts to break down. In just a few months or a few thousand miles, it becomes loaded with contaminants and particles that could harm your engine. As it degrades, it also loses its ability to protect your engine. That’s why regular oil changes are so important—they clear out those harmful compounds and keep your engine healthy.

Synthetic oil

Here’s a fun fact: synthetic oil isn’t entirely “synthetic” like many people think. It’s actually made from crude oil, just like conventional oil. The difference? Synthetic oil goes through a much more advanced refining process. This creates molecules that are more uniform in size, which means better protection against wear and tear in your engine. It starts with a higher-quality base oil, making it more stable, less prone to oxidation, and slower to lose its protective qualities.

On top of that, synthetic oil usually comes loaded with premium additives and detergents. That’s why it keeps your engine cleaner, handles wear better, performs under higher temperatures, and lasts longer than conventional oil.

Synthetic blend

The downside to fully synthetic engine oil? It’s pricey. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, synthetic blends (or semi-synthetic oils) are a great alternative. They combine synthetic and conventional base oils, along with additives and detergents that are usually a step up from what you’d get with regular oil. It’s a popular choice for carmakers and service shops; for many vehicles, it’s now the standard grade required.

High mileage oil

Just like it sounds, high-mileage oil is made for engines that have been around the block—specifically, those with over 120,000 kilometres. At this point, parts like the crankshaft, pistons, rod bearings, and valve seals just aren’t in the same shape they were at 20,000 kilometres, even if you’ve stayed on top of oil changes. That’s where high-mileage oil comes in. It’s regular oil with special additives designed to help prevent the common problems that tend to pop up in older engines.

So, what is the correct oil type for my car?

Using the right engine oil helps cut emissions, boost performance, and improve fuel economy. Keep these things in mind:

Oil type

For most regular car engines, known as naturally aspirated or NA, conventional oil is typically the standard. But if you want to give your engine a little extra love, upgrading to semi-synthetic or full synthetic oil can provide better protection.

If you live in a place with extreme temperatures, synthetic oil can be a great option. It’s generally more expensive than conventional oil, but it offers better performance and usually lets you go longer between oil changes. Just make sure synthetic oil is recommended for your car by checking your owner’s manual before making the switch.

Now, if your car has a turbocharger or supercharger or is a high-performance model, it probably requires semi-synthetic or full synthetic oil. Downgrading to conventional oil in these cases isn’t a good idea—it just doesn’t have the right properties to properly protect your engine.

Oil grade

If you live in a warmer climate, a thinner oil is better for proper engine lubrication. In colder climates, a thicker oil is a better choice to ensure your engine stays protected in low temperatures.

As for what grade you need, remember that it's usually printed right on the engine oil cap. Sometimes, the manual will list two grades—one for colder months and one for warmer weather. For instance, your car might use 5W-20 in the summer, but 10W-20 is recommended for winter driving.

As we mentioned earlier, your car’s owner's manual or maintenance guide is the go-to source for the minimum type of engine oil and grade it needs—always stick to it.

How often should I change my oil?

For conventional oil, it’s usually recommended to get an oil change every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometres (3,000 to 5,000 miles) or about every six months—whichever comes first. High-quality synthetic oils, however, can often last longer between changes. With synthetic oil, you might only need to change it every 11,000 to 15,000 kilometres (7,500 to 10,000 miles), or roughly once a year, depending on what comes first.

Another good habit is to tie your oil changes to your seasonal summer and winter car maintenance routine, as some car manufacturers suggest switching oil grades for summer and winter months, so it’s worth checking what your vehicle needs. These are also good times to check on your other fluid levels, such as your transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant levels.

How much does an oil change cost?

The cost of an oil change can vary depending on where you are and other factors, but in Canada, you can generally expect to pay between $40 and $75 for a conventional oil change. Synthetic oil changes are more expensive because synthetic oil is designed to deliver better performance and protection for your engine. On average, a synthetic oil change will cost between $65 and $135.

Can I change my oil myself?

Absolutely. Changing your own oil can save you time and money compared to a trip to the local express oil change shop. Here’s how you can do it yourself:

1. Basic prep

Before you begin, you'll need to determine:

• Your vehicle's engine displacement (look under the hood for a vehicle emission control information sticker)
• The correct type of oil you need to use (check the oil cap for a label)
• How much oil you'll need

You can also find all of these in your owner's manual. You'll also need to order the correct oil filter. This will also be listed in your owner's manual.

2. Jack up your vehicle

Start by safely lifting your car to give yourself enough room to work underneath. Whether you use a hoist, ramps, or jack stands, safety comes first—never work under a car supported only by a floor jack.

Many modern cars have a plastic undertray that improves aerodynamics and protects the underside of the engine. To reach the oil pan and filter, you might need to remove this undertray. It’s usually secured with bolts, screws, or plastic clips, which you can take off using basic hand tools.

While you’re under the car, take a moment to check for any oil leaks. If you spot one, it’s a good idea to have a mechanic inspect your vehicle to address the issue.

3. Drail your old oil

Place a drain pan under the oil pan, making sure it’s in the perfect spot to catch the oil without causing a mess. Keep in mind, there’s going to be a lot of oil—most cars hold at least a gallon, and some even more.

Next, loosen the drain plug with the right wrench and carefully unscrew it. Hold onto the plug firmly as you remove it—you don’t want it to fly out when the oil starts pouring. Let the oil drain for about five minutes or until it slows to a trickle.

4. Replace the filter

Locate the oil filter—it’s usually a cylindrical component about the size of a softball screwed onto the engine. (Some engines use a housing with a filter cartridge inside.) To loosen it, use your hand or an oil filter wrench (you’ll probably need the wrench) and turn it counterclockwise. Once it’s loose enough, oil will start dripping out, so make sure your receptacle is ready to catch it. Wait until the dripping slows down, then finish unscrewing and removing the filter.

Double-check that the old oil filter gasket—a thin rubber O-ring—didn’t stick to the engine. This step is crucial. If the old gasket is left behind, the new filter won’t seal properly, and all your fresh oil could leak out within minutes of starting the engine.

Next, grab your new oil filter and use your finger to apply a thin layer of oil around the rubber gasket at the top. This helps create a solid seal when you tighten it. When installing the filter, don’t overdo it—screw it on until it’s “hand tight,” then give it just a little extra turn to make sure it’s snug. That’s all it needs!

5. Replace the drain plug

Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it until it’s snug, but don’t overdo it—overtightening can damage the drain plug or the oil pan. Just use enough force to secure it. If you have a torque wrench, check your owner’s manual for the specific tightening torque recommended by the automaker.

Also, many vehicles use a washer behind the drain plug that might need replacing when you put the plug back in. Double-check your owner’s manual to see if that’s required for your car.

6. Add your new oil

After replacing the oil filter and drain plug, reinstall the undertray if your car has one, and then lower the car back to the ground. Pop the hood and find the oil cap—it usually has an oil-can symbol on it. Remove the cap, grab a funnel, and pour in the amount of oil specified by the manufacturer.

7. Check the oil level

After pouring in the oil, start your car and let it run for about 10 seconds. This gives the oil a chance to circulate through the engine. Then, check the oil level using the dipstick—it’s easy! Pull the dipstick out of its tube, wipe it clean with a paper towel or rag, reinsert it fully, pull it out again, and check that the oil reaches the "full" mark on the tip. If it doesn't, add a bit more.

What happens if I use the wrong type of engine oil?

Using the wrong oil in your car can cause a range of issues, from reduced engine performance and increased wear and tear to lower fuel efficiency. In the worst cases, it can even lead to engine damage, which can be expensive to fix. That’s why it’s so important to use the right oil for your vehicle.

Wrong oil grade

One common mistake is using the wrong oil grade. Oil grades are based on viscosity—or thickness—and choosing the wrong one can be bad news for your engine. If the oil is too thick, your engine might feel sluggish, burn more fuel, and experience extra wear. On the flip side, oil that’s too thin can offer less protection, lower fuel efficiency, and lead to faster oil consumption.

Wrong oil filter

Another thing to watch out for is the oil filter. It plays a key role in keeping your engine clean and running smoothly. Using the wrong filter can restrict oil flow, which could lead to long-term engine damage.

Always double-check you’re using the right oil and filter for your car—it’s a simple step that can save you a lot of hassle down the road.

I used the wrong engine oil—now what?

If you think you’ve put the wrong oil in your car, don’t wait—take action right away. Driving with the wrong oil can lead to serious engine damage, and fixing it can be costly.

Start by draining the incorrect oil and replacing it with the right one for your engine. Don’t forget to swap out the oil filter, too—that’s key to keeping your engine protected and performing well.

However, if you’ve been driving with the wrong oil for a while, it’s a good idea to have a professional mechanic or your dealership inspect the engine to make sure there’s no lasting damage.

Will my car insurance cover engine failure?

Car insurance typically doesn’t cover engine failure unless it’s caused by something your policy specifically covers, like an accident or rollover. The key here is that the failure must result from an insured event. Engine failure itself isn’t automatically included or excluded—it depends on the cause and whether that cause is covered by your policy.

Engine failure can happen for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common is lack of maintenance. Skipping routine tasks like oil changes, filter replacements, and other upkeep—or using the wrong engine oil—can lead to excessive engine wear and, eventually, failure.

When is engine failure covered by car insurance?

Engine failure can also result from events like collisions, weather-related accidents, theft, vandalism, acts of nature, or road hazards—all of which could be covered by insurance if you have the right coverage.

A policy that includes mandatory coverages (like third-party liability, accident benefits, and uninsured motorist) along with collision and comprehensive coverage is more likely to cover engine failure caused by these types of incidents.

For instance, if you hit a large animal, like a deer, and it damages your engine, your comprehensive coverage might cover the repairs. Or, if you’re in a collision, either with another vehicle or a stationary object, and the damage is severe enough to cause engine failure, your collision coverage could help pay for the repairs.

Another option is to add optional mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) to your policy. MBI is a type of coverage that helps pay for repairs to specific car parts when they fail due to mechanical issues—not because of an accident or normal wear and tear.

It’s always a good idea to review your policy to ensure you have the coverage you need for unexpected events. Knowing what your policy includes can provide peace of mind, and it also helps you spot any coverage gaps before they become a problem.

What other options do I have for covering engine failure?

In addition to insurance, warranties can also help cover things like engine failure. Dealerships typically offer two types of warranties:

The first is a manufacturer or factory warranty. This comes straight from the carmaker and is usually included when you buy a brand-new vehicle. Depending on the manufacturer, this warranty can last up to five years or until a certain mileage limit (usually between 60,000 and 100,000 km) is reached. These warranties cover costs related to mechanical and electrical breakdowns, including unexpected engine failure.

The second option is an extended warranty, which you can buy once the manufacturer’s warranty expires. It’s an optional add-on available through the carmaker or third-party providers. An extended warranty can be a good choice if you’re worried about the financial burden of future repairs. Just remember that warranties don’t replace insurance—you still need to carry car insurance with or without a warranty.

Learn more with BrokerLink

Engine oil might seem like a small detail, but it’s absolutely essential to keeping your car running smoothly. It lubricates the engine, reduces wear and tear, and helps keep everything cool. But here’s the thing—just using oil isn’t enough; it has to be the right type and changed regularly. Neglecting your oil or using the wrong type can lead to major problems, including engine failure, which is costly to fix.

Think of engine oil as your car’s lifeblood—it keeps everything working as it should. But even with proper oil changes, unexpected issues can still arise. That’s why having the right car insurance is so important. Optional coverages like collision, comprehensive, or mechanical breakdown insurance can be a lifesaver when things go wrong. A BrokerLink insurance broker can help you explore your options and find the coverage that works best for your vehicle and budget.

You can reach us by phone, email, or in person at any one of our locations throughout Canada. No matter how you choose to get in touch, a BrokerLink insurance advisor will be happy to assist you. We also encourage you to take advantage of our free online quote tool that can provide you with a competitive quote in minutes.

Get an auto insurance quote 1-866-724-2372

FAQs about engine oil and its types

How long does an oil change take?

Generally, an oil change takes about 30 minutes to an hour, though this could vary depending on a few factors, like how fast your oil drains, how easily your filter can be replaced, and whether you have a general inspection done first.

How do I know what oil my car takes?

All the details about your engine oil can be found in your owner’s manual. It’ll list the right viscosity grade and any other specific oil requirements so you can keep your engine running smoothly.

Does my car take regular or synthetic oil?

Whether you need regular or synthetic oil depends on what type of vehicle you drive. For most standard car engines, conventional oil usually does the job. But if you’re looking to give your engine a little extra care, upgrading to semi-synthetic or full synthetic oil offers better protection. If your car has a turbocharger or supercharger or is a high-performance model, it likely requires semi-synthetic or full synthetic oil. To be sure, always check your owner’s manual—it’s the best source for knowing exactly what type of oil your car needs.

Conventional oil vs synthetic oil—which is better?

When it comes to choosing oil for your car, synthetic oil is generally the better option. Both synthetic and conventional oils can keep your engine running, but synthetic oil tends to offer better performance. Conventional oil breaks down faster is less chemically stable and is more prone to oxidation. Synthetic oil, on the other hand, helps reduce wear and tear, resists breakdown, prevents sludge buildup, and handles high temperatures better. If you’re looking for a little extra protection and longevity for your engine, synthetic oil is the way to go. But before you switch, double-check your owner’s manual to make sure it’s recommended for your car.

When do I need to change my transmission fluid?

How often you should change your car’s transmission fluid depends on several factors. But while there are general guidelines, the best place to look is your owner’s manual. The type of car you drive plays a big role in determining the right interval, and automakers include recommended timelines for each model in the manual. So, when in doubt, check there for the specifics!

If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.