If you drive a car with an internal combustion engine, regular oil changes are a must. They prevent the buildup of carbon and sludge and help keep your engine’s internal parts moving smoothly and healthily. Guarding against thousands of dollars in damage for the relatively tiny cost of oil changes is good investment, but the type of oil you buy matters.
Black Friday offers plenty of deals, including ones on motor oil. Here’s one top deal from NAPA.
NAPA Motor Oil
Product: NAPA Brand full synthetic motor oil 5-quart jugs in 0W-20, 5W-20, and 5W-30 and 10W-30
Regular price: $27
Black Friday price: $19.99
Offer details: Offer ends 11/31
NAPA’s motor oil is manufactured by the former parent company of Valvoline and is very similar to that brand’s SynPower offering and generally gets good reviews from users. If you’re not sure what oil’s right for you, check out our list of the best motor oils.
For more Black Friday deals, visit Forbes Wheels.
FAQs
How often should I change my oil?
Always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations as specified in the owner’s manual. Manufacturers may void a vehicle’s engine warranty if the maintenance schedule is not followed, even with extended performance oils. Many engines still consume oil between oil changes, so it’s vital to periodically check the oil level at the dipstick to monitor the oil level and color. Oil changes are cheap protection against inexpensive repairs, so when in doubt, err on the side of safety.
What are the disadvantages of synthetic oil?
Cost used to be the biggest disadvantage of synthetic oil, but as automakers require the use of synthetic oil in most new modern vehicles, prices have fallen. Synthetic oil is generally better at protecting engines and retains its chemical properties longer than conventional oil, but it doesn’t burn as well if it ends up in the combustion chamber, which can happen on older vehicles with worn seals or piston rings.
While synthetic oil won’t degrade seals, it is thinner than conventional oil and may pass more easily through existing worn seals or leaks, appearing to exacerbate the underlying issues.
While synthetic oil won’t degrade seals, it is thinner than conventional oil and may pass more easily through existing worn seals or leaks, appearing to exacerbate the underlying issues.