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

The right oil depends on the vehicle maker’s specifications, the engine design, and the driving conditions. The best place to start is the owner’s manual, which lists the recommended viscosity, such as 0W 20 or 5W 30, and may also note whether synthetic oil is required or preferred. The oil cap under the hood can also show the correct viscosity, but the owner’s manual is usually the most reliable source. It is also important to consider mileage and climate. Some newer engines are designed to use low viscosity oils for fuel efficiency, while older or high mileage engines may benefit from oils made for those conditions. If you are unsure, a trained service advisor or technician can help identify the correct oil based on the year, make, model, engine size, and driving habits. If you are using a service page, look there for the vehicle lookup tool or contact information for more guidance.