Back to all

An Oil for All Seasons (Engine Oil Selection)

February 2, 2025

You swap your winter boots for flip-flops in the summer.  Why not change your winter engine oil for summer, hot-weather oil?  While it may seem like it makes sense, there's some good news.  Most drivers don't have to, and here's why.

Engine oil can be made in different thicknesses.  That thickness is called viscosity, how easily it flows.  Now, it makes sense that the hotter it gets, oil gets a little thinner and doesn't lubricate as well.  So if you used a thicker oil in the summer, it's logical that it would protect better in the hotter weather. 

While there was a time when oils could be only made in one viscosity, times have changed.  Using an ingenious formula, oil can now be created that changes its viscosity (called "multi-viscosity") as the temperature rises and falls.  It self-adjusts to match the conditions.  Now that's what I call a great invention.

In most temperate climates, you don't have to swap out the type of oil you use in your vehicle each season. There are exceptions in extreme climates, but your service advisor can advise you on that.  Your vehicle's owner's manual recommends the proper viscosity oil to use.

Remember that even though you may not have to switch to a different type of oil, you DO have to CHANGE the oil at certain intervals.  That's because oil eventually breaks down and picks up contaminants, and if you have old, dirty oil in your engine, it can cause damaging friction and heat. Regular maintenance at your vehicle service facility will ensure that your vehicle is running like a well-oiled machine. 

Tuffy Toledo
5154 Monroe Street
Toledo, OH 43623
4198417633
http://www.tuffytoledo.com

More articles from Tuffy Toledo (Monroe St)

The Harm in Skipping an Oil Change for Toledo Drivers

May 24, 2026

People in Toledo have been hearing a lot about higher oil change intervals these days. Maybe you're wondering: What are the key issues?Some new vehicle manufacturers are now recommending much higher oil change intervals than they have in the past. As much as 5,000 to 8,000 miles (8,000 km to 13... More

Automotive Tips from Tuffy Toledo: Air Conditioning Inspection

May 17, 2026

Most auto manufacturers recommend an interval for an air conditioning system inspection. The inspection uncovers leaks, worn hoses and assesses the condition of the other components.Environmental laws in some around Toledo require leaks to be repaired before refrigerant can be added. Also some pa... More

Watching Your Check Engine Light

May 10, 2026

Did you know that most of the cars driving around Toledo, OH, carry more computer power than the Apollo 121 Lunar Module that landed on the moon in 1969?New cars sold in the Toledo area have as many as 12 networked computers and over five miles (eight kilometers) of wiring. In fact, for the las... More