LUBRICANT PRODUCTS
frequently asked questions

A mixture of the base oil and additives which improve the qualities and performance of the base oil.

To reduce friction between two metal surfaces. To protect mechanical parts from wear and corrosion. To clean and cool them. In engines, the lubricant acts as a sealant between the piston/piston segments and the liners, preventing compression leaks.

Yes. The oil needs to lubricate highly critical parts, such as between the piston and the liner and valves. Some of the lubricating film is necessarily burnt up in the process. With the passage of time, as the play between parts becomes greater because of normal engine wear, the consumption of lubricant becomes greater.

All oils on the market (petrol or diesel engine, mineral or synthetic) can be mixed together. However, mixing two different qualities of oil reduces the quality of the better one.

A mineral oil consists of a base obtained directly from distillation of petroleum and addititives which give it properties improving its performance. In a synthetic oil, the bases are given a physical and chemical treated to give a base of higher quality and performance. Semisynthetic lubricants are a combination of the two, mineral and synthetic oils.

Yes. Synthetic oils are especiallyt designed to meet the requirements of the most modern engines or be used at extreme temperatures and under very demanding conditions of service.

Because the duration of the oil layer/film on moving parts is greater. Better protection (particularly from wear caused by ignition). Lower volatility: this reduces oil consumption.

That recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.

Yes. It may be necessary to match the viscosity to the working conditions of the vehicle, the environment or climatic conditions.

Yes, in an emergency, such as when the oil level is low. It must be remembered that the resulting viscosity will not be optimum.

The interval between two oil changes is determined by the manufacturer according to the technical characteristics of the lubricant and the engine characteristics. In general, it depends on two factors: distance travelled and length of use. However, in certain conditions such as town driving, with frequent stops and starts, it is important to reduce the length of time between oil changes. Whatever the conditions of use, it is important that the oil be changed at least once a year.

The nature of the lubricant: mineral, semisynthetic or synthetic oil. Contents.
Recommendations on use: characteristics, benefits.
Specifications and approvals.
SAE viscosity.

No. When carrying out its lubrication function, the oil is subjected to a lot of a ggression. Particularly, it becomes full of impurities, combustion and oxidation residues. The oil becomes degraded and less effective. When its working lifetime is over, its qualities have cchanged and the protection of the engine elements is no longer guaranteed. So, oil needs to be replaced regularly. Topping up does not regenerate the used oil.
The oil level should be checked regularly (every 1000 km.), especially before a long journey.

No. Cleaning the internal components of the engine is one of the lubricant's functions. In the process of combustion, the engine generates soot, lacquer and other impurities. The lubricant has to absorb these impurities and so necessarily becomes darker.

You should always follow the recommendations of the manufacturer or of a good professional. Generally, if the length of time between oil changes has been long or use has been very intense, you should also change the filter. Otherwise, you can change the filter every other oil change.

In closed cans or drums stored at a temperature over 0º, your oil keeps all its qualities, however, in the case of containers that have been opened, care should be taken to close them properly to prevent contaminants such as water getting in.

No, they are different because of manufacturers' requirements, generally stricter for A3. The same could be said for B2 and B3 diesel oils.

ACEA quality levels A1 and B1 are specific for fuel saving demands of manufacturers, who require them for specific, low-friction engine designs.

The quality and biodegradability of oils are constantly improving, but at the end of their useful life, these products contain pollutant particles. You should always put them in the special containers placed by the authorities for the purpose, or take them to your nearest garage, to be treated by an authorized waste processor.