Choosing the Right Engine Oil for Hot Weather

Engine oil does more than lubricate. It carries heat away from the hottest parts of the engine, and in a hot climate that job matters even more. Choosing the right oil comes down to three things.

1. Follow your owner's manual

The manual names the grade your engine was designed for, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40. The second number describes how the oil behaves when the engine is hot, so do not go thinner than the manual allows.

2. Synthetic or conventional?

Fully synthetic oil resists breaking down at high temperatures and flows quickly when you start the car. It costs more, but it usually lasts longer between changes and suits long drives, heavy traffic and summer heat.

3. Change it on time

• Check the level once a month, with the engine cold and the car on level ground.
• Change the oil filter every time you change the oil.
• If you drive mostly in city traffic or on dusty roads, change it sooner than the longest interval the manual allows.