Drivers in regions with harsh winters might prioritize a low first number (such as 0W or 5W), while those in consistently hot climates might focus on the second number to ensure high-temperature protection. Higher numbers such as 30, 40, or 50 indicate a thicker oil that maintains its structure and oil film strength when the engine is hot.
Decoding SAE Oil Viscosity Chart: Understanding the Numbers
For winter grades, the oil is tested at temperatures as low as -35°C (-31°F), while high-temperature grades are tested at 100°C. These oils utilize additives called viscosity index improvers to adjust their flow properties.
Conversely, the number following the "W" represents the oil's viscosity at high operating temperatures, typically 100°C (212°F). For example, an SAE 30 oil performed well in warm weather but became dangerously thick in winter.
Decoding SAE Oil Viscosity Chart: Understanding the Numbers
Decoding the Numbers: Winter vs. Viscosity, in simple terms, is a fluid's resistance to flow or its thickness.
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