Engine Oil Frequently Asked Questions

Your go-to guide for understanding, maintaining, and getting the most out of your engine oil. Curated by RedPoint – your local experts.

Why are there multiple oil recommendations for my car?

Many vehicles are designed to accept more than one engine oil grade or viscosity rating depending on engine design, driving habits, and ambient temperatures. At RedPoint, we list a primary recommendation based on manufacturer specs, along with safe alternatives that meet or exceed the required engine oil standards.

Why are there so many 5W-30 engine oils?

5W-30 is a common engine oil viscosity used in both petrol and diesel engines. However, each version may carry different manufacturer approvals or oil specifications like API SP, ACEA C3, or ILSAC GF-6. We stock a variety of 5W-30 oils to ensure your engine gets the exact protection it needs for performance, economy, and emissions compliance.

What does ‘Service Refill Capacity’ mean?

This is the total quantity of engine oil your car needs during a full oil change, including the replacement of the oil filter. It’s different from a “top-up,” which only adds a small amount, usually 1 litre.

Should I use Engine Flush when servicing my vehicle?

Yes. Using a high-quality engine flush during an oil change helps remove sludge, varnish, and contaminants, creating a cleaner engine environment. This maximises the performance of your new engine oil and helps protect vital parts like oil galleries, bearings, and camshafts.

What do the numbers and “W” mean on an oil bottle?

These refer to the SAE viscosity rating. The “W” stands for winter, indicating how the oil flows at cold temperatures. For example, 5W-30 flows well at low temperatures and still protects effectively at high engine heat. Understanding these ratings is key when choosing the right oil for your car.

What do API, SAE, and ACEA mean?

These are global standards bodies that define engine oil performance:

API – Sets U.S. standards for petrol and diesel engine oils

SAE – Defines oil viscosity grades like 10W-40, 5W-30, etc.

ACEA – Sets oil specs for European car engines

What’s the right engine oil for my car?

Use our online engine oil lookup tool or refer to your vehicle’s owner manual. Knowing your engine size, year, and fuel type will help us recommend the best oil that meets OEM specifications and protects your engine.

What are the benefits of using full synthetic oil?

Full synthetic engine oils offer better lubrication, improved cold start protection, higher resistance to breakdown at extreme temperatures, and longer drain intervals. They’re ideal for modern, high-performance, or turbocharged engines.

Will using the wrong oil damage my engine?

Yes. Using an oil with the wrong viscosity or specification can result in engine wear, poor fuel economy, increased emissions, or even mechanical failure. Always match your oil to your vehicle’s manufacturer recommendation.

Do driving conditions affect the oil I should use?

Absolutely. Towing, dusty roads, high heat, or stop-start traffic place extra demand on your oil. You may need a high-performance oil or more frequent oil changes in these conditions.

My car is burning oil – what should I do?

Try a higher viscosity oil (e.g. 10W-40 instead of 10W-30). High-mileage engines may have worn seals or piston rings. Heavier oil can reduce consumption, but it must still meet the manufacturer’s specifications.

What’s the difference between petrol and diesel engine oil?

Diesel oils have stronger detergents to manage soot and acid from diesel combustion. Petrol oils are formulated differently for spark-ignition engines. Always use the right oil for your fuel type.

Why are synthetic oils more expensive?

They’re made using advanced refining techniques that produce purer, more uniform molecules. Synthetic base oils last longer, protect better under heat and stress, and resist breakdown more than mineral oils.

Are modern oils compatible with older engines?

Often yes—but some older engines need high viscosity mineral oils for proper sealing and wear protection. Avoid using low-viscosity synthetic oil in classic engines unless specified.

What’s the difference between light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles?

Light-duty vehicles (like passenger cars and SUVs) have different lubrication needs than trucks or commercial fleets. Heavy-duty engines require oils with higher detergency and anti-wear protection.

Can I use heavy-duty engine oil in my car?

Not unless the manufacturer recommends it. Heavy-duty oils have different chemical properties that may not be suitable for small engines or vehicles with emission systems like DPFs.

How do I recycle used engine oil?

Used oil can be re-refined or reused as industrial fuel. Most councils offer free drop-off points. Never pour oil into drains or soil—it’s harmful to the environment.

What is LSPI and why does it matter?

Low Speed Pre-Ignition occurs in modern turbo engines and can lead to engine damage. Using oils formulated to resist LSPI helps reduce risk. Look for API SN Plus or SP-rated oils.

Can I use RedPoint oil for logbook servicing?

Yes. Our oils meet or exceed logbook servicing requirements, including OEM approvals where needed. Maintaining correct oil specs ensures your vehicle warranty remains valid.

How do I know if my vehicle has a DPF?

Most modern diesels from 2009 onwards have a Diesel Particulate Filter. Check your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer with your VIN. Always use a DPF-safe low SAPS oil if fitted.

Top 10 FAQs for the DIY 4WD Enthusiast

How do I reduce engine wear in my truck?

Regularly replacing oil and fuel filters ensures clean lubrication and fuel delivery. Using high-efficiency filters improves engine life, reduces injector issues, and supports uptime.

What is a centrifugal bypass oil filter?

These filters use centrifugal force to separate out fine soot and contaminants. They’re often used in high-hour applications to extend oil life and engine protection.

Do trucks need coolant filters?

Yes. Many heavy-duty diesel cooling systems use coolant filters (with DCA additives) to protect against liner pitting, scale, and corrosion. Always match the filter to your coolant type.

What is multi-stage filtration?

This refers to multiple filter layers or units that capture contaminants at different stages—like coarse water separation followed by fine particle filtration in fuel systems.

What engine oil is best for my 4WD?

The best engine oil for your 4WD depends on whether it's petrol or diesel, and how it’s used—touring, towing, or off-roading. Look for an oil that meets the manufacturer’s specs and suits high-load driving. Full synthetic diesel oils like 5W-40 or 10W-50 are popular for 4WDs under load.

Do I need different oil if I tow a caravan or trailer?

Yes. Towing increases engine load and heat, so using a high-performance oil with excellent thermal stability and wear protection is essential. Many 4WD users upgrade to a heavier-grade full synthetic oil when towing.

Should I use an engine flush before an oil change in my 4WD?

Yes. Regular engine flushes help remove sludge and carbon buildup, especially in vehicles doing short trips or dusty tracks. This keeps oil flow passages clean and your engine protected.

What oil filter should I use with my 4WD?

Use a high-quality oil filter designed to handle larger volumes of oil and contaminants. Off-road and towing conditions can clog lower-grade filters more quickly. Match your filter to the vehicle’s OEM specs.

Can I extend my oil change intervals in a 4WD?

Not usually. Off-roading, towing, and dusty environments are severe conditions that require shorter service intervals. Follow your owner’s manual and adjust based on terrain and load.

What is the best transmission oil for a 4WD?

Use a high-performance gear oil or ATF that meets your vehicle’s specification. Some vehicles require LSD (limited slip differential) compatible oils. Check the manual or ask our team for advice.

Shop Filters

Do I need different oils for beach driving?

Yes. Sand driving increases engine load and heat, so thicker full synthetic engine oil and high-temp gear oils are recommended. Also check your diffs, transfer case, and hubs after saltwater exposure.

What coolant is best for 4WDs?

Use a long-life coolant compatible with your engine material (e.g. aluminium). For off-roading or towing, choose a coolant with anti-boil and anti-corrosion protection.

Should I use additives in my 4WD diesel?

Diesel fuel additives can improve injector cleanliness, reduce soot, and restore fuel economy. In older diesels, oil stabilisers or anti-wear additives may also help reduce engine noise and wear.

How do I know if my 4WD has a DPF?

Most post-2009 turbo diesels have a Diesel Particulate Filter. Check your dash lights, manual, or VIN. If you have one, always use a low-ash (low SAPS) oil to avoid DPF damage.

Top 10 FAQs for Farmers & Agricultural Machinery

What oil should I use in my tractor or harvester?

Use a heavy-duty diesel oil that meets your equipment’s manufacturer specs, like CJ-4 or CK-4 for modern engines. Older equipment may need SAE 30 or 15W-40 mineral oil.

Can I use the same oil across different machines?

Only if the oil meets all manufacturer requirements for each engine or hydraulic system. Universal Tractor Oils (UTTOs) are popular, but not always suitable for high-performance or emissions-controlled engines.

What’s the best oil for old diesel farm equipment?

Older diesel engines benefit from higher viscosity mineral oils with strong anti-wear additives. Look for oils with high zinc content and detergency to handle older combustion systems.

How often should I service my farm machinery?

Service intervals depend on hours worked, but most tractors should have oil changes every 100–250 hours. In dusty or high-load work, shorten intervals. Always replace the filter.

What hydraulic oil should I use on my farm equipment?

Check viscosity and compatibility—common grades include ISO 32, 46, and 68. For shared systems (e.g. wet brakes), use a UTTO or STOU oil specified by your OEM.

Can I use automotive oil in my diesel tractor?

Only if the oil meets diesel-specific standards (like API CI-4, CJ-4, CK-4). Petrol engine oils don’t have the detergents or soot handling needed for diesel farm equipment.

What oil should I use in my quad bike or side-by-side?

Use a motorcycle or powersport-grade oil if your ATV or UTV has a wet clutch. For utility side-by-sides, check if your engine is air or liquid cooled before choosing viscosity.

How do I store oil safely on the farm?

Store lubricants in sealed, shaded areas, ideally off the ground and away from water or fertiliser. Keep drums upright and label open products with the use-by date.

What grease should I use for farm machinery?

Use a high-pressure lithium or moly grease for general machinery, or a water-resistant grease for irrigated or exposed equipment. Apply regularly to avoid metal-on-metal wear.

Do biofuels affect oil change intervals?

Yes. Engines running biodiesel or alternative fuels often require more frequent oil changes due to higher soot loading and fuel dilution. Always check with your OEM if using alternative fuels.