What Do the Parameters on the Oil Bottle Mean?

Although the importance of engine oil when using motorbikes is obvious, very few people actually choose the right type of oil based on their needs. Most motorbike owners only receive one-sided information from oil dealers when changing oil.

Each type of oil has its own function and is produced for different requirements and conditions. You can select the oil yourself if you understand the specifications printed on the oil bottle.

The specifications of engine oil indicate how to use it.

1. The importance of understanding the specifications on the oil bottle

Each oil bottle that reaches the consumer includes detailed information on the label. This is intended to help consumers choose the appropriate oil for their vehicle type, purpose, and environment.

Each product at oil dealers has different indices and functions.

Selecting oil randomly may not cause immediate consequences but will have long-term effects. In particular, using the wrong oil for the vehicle type or for the wrong conditions can result in the engine not achieving the necessary lubrication, reducing the vehicle's performance.

Unfortunately, consumers rarely pay attention to this, often purchasing oil products from unclear or low-quality sources. If you genuinely care about extending the life of your vehicle, start by reading the specifications on the oil bottle.

2. How to interpret the specifications on the oil bottle

Viscosity Index (SAE)

Expressed as xWy, where x and y vary according to the type of oil. For example: 10W20 or 5W40, this index indicates the thickness of the oil. For a more detailed understanding, see the explanations below.

The viscosity index is crucial information that is usually prominently displayed.

The letter W means "winter," indicating that the multi-grade oil can be used in weather conditions for all seasons.

The number x or the digit before W represents the viscosity index suitable for cold climate conditions. However, as Vietnam is in a tropical region, you do not need to focus on this number.

The number y or the digit after W represents the viscosity index suitable for hot climate conditions, which is the figure you need to pay attention to. The larger this number, the higher the oil’s thickness, and the slower the oil will flow through the engine components during operation.

During operation, the temperature within the engine rises, causing the oil to thin, thereby reducing its viscosity. Therefore, to achieve the best operational efficiency, you need to select oil with an appropriate viscosity.

In the Vietnamese market, viscosity grades of 40 and 50 (after W) are the most common, and you can find these at any oil distributor. For oil with