Which lubricant should European automobiles use?

European vehicle models are highly popular in the Vietnamese market due to their attractive design, reliable engine performance, and diverse range of options suited to local road conditions.

Manufactured using advanced technology, European vehicles impose stringent standards on technical specifications and emissions. Therefore, engine oils used for these vehicles must meet comprehensive performance requirements and deliver high efficiency. Let Huynh Chau guide you through the characteristics of engine oils for European vehicles below.

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European vehicles are popular in Vietnam for their attractive design

1. Engine oil characteristics of European vehicles

1.1 Strict standards for oil changes

For vehicle lines in other markets, manufacturers typically recommend that vehicle owners use engine oils meeting general technical specifications applicable to all brands (such as API SP). However, for European vehicle engine oils, each manufacturer has specific requirements for each vehicle model.

For example, certain Volkswagen models are recommended by the manufacturer to use premium 0W-20 engine oil meeting technical standards 508 00/509 00. Meanwhile, manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Porsche, and others have different oil specifications for their vehicles.

1.2 Emission concentration regulations

European Union (EU) countries have established stringent standards for CO2 emissions, NOx gases, and fine particulate matter (PM) that exceed those of other markets. According to new EU regulations, from 2021 onwards, automotive manufacturers must limit NOx emissions to no more than 0.03g/km.

This new standard demonstrates the EU's commitment to developing a green transportation system and reducing harmful emissions that impact the environment and human health. Therefore, European vehicle engine oils are also designed to optimize fuel efficiency and minimize external emissions.

EU countries aim to develop a green transportation system

Since the 1990s, the European market has focused on promoting the production and use of diesel engine vehicles because modern diesel engines emit lower CO2 levels compared to gasoline engines. Additionally, diesel engines offer superior fuel economy advantages.

1.3 Extended oil change intervals

European vehicle engines are designed and engineered to operate approximately 16,000km before requiring an oil change. This specification extends the oil change interval for vehicles and helps owners save on oil change costs, as European vehicle engine oils are typically quite expensive