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What do the engine oil labels mean?

What do the engine oil labels mean? ? [Clearly] | MEFO

Jiří Fulín

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27. září 2024

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What do the engine oil labels mean?

If you are not familiar with the types of engine oils for motorcycles, know that you are definitely not alone. But it is definitely something you want to know so that unsuitable or low-quality oil does not cause your machine's engine to explode. So that you no longer have to think about what the marking of which oils mean and which one to pour where, we have prepared this article for you, in which we will guide you step by step through the issue of motor oils.

Oil viscosity designation - SAE

This classification is the most general division. Viscosity determines how an oil behaves and flows at different temperatures. SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) has created a system for classifying engine oil viscosity that is recognized worldwide.

According to the SAE standard, motor oils are marked XWY - for example, 10W-40, 5W-30, 0W-20. What do the letter and individual numbers mean?

The first number – X (i.e. 10, 5, 0, …) indicates the viscosity of the oil at low temperatures. The lower this number, the better the engine oil's lubricating properties at low temperatures. So the best option is the number 0.

The letter W indicates that it is a motor oil that can also be used in winter.

The second number – Y (40, 30, 20, …) indicates the viscosity at high temperatures. The higher this number, the better the engine lubricates at high temperature.

Which engine oil to choose for winter operation and which for summer?

For winter operation, it is important to choose an oil that is fluid enough at low temperatures to provide easy engine starting and immediate protection after starting. The key is the value before the letter "W" (Winter).

Recommended viscosities:

SAE 0W-20, 0W-30, 0W-40: Oils marked "0 W" are ideal for extremely low temperatures because they remain sufficiently liquid even at very cold temperatures weather. This makes it easier to start the engine and minimizes wear and tear cold start.
SAE 5W-20, 5W-30, 5W-40: These oils are also suitable for winter conditions and provide good starting properties. They are usually recommended for most modern engines and normal winter conditions.
SAE 10W-30, 10W-40: Usable in slightly cold conditions, but are not so suitable for extreme cold. They are recommended where winter temperatures do not drop too low.

For summer operation, it is important that the oil provides sufficient viscosity at high temperatures, which will ensure good protection of the engine under increased load and heat.

Recommended viscosities:

SAE 10W-40, 10W-50: These oils offer balanced properties for warm weather and provide sufficient engine protection at higher temperatures.
SAE 15W-40, 15W-50: Suitable for older engines or at higher loads in hot conditions. They have a higher viscosity when hot, which provides stronger protection.
SAE 20W-50: Oil with high viscosity at high temperatures, suitable for very hot conditions or for engines operating under heavy loads.

Oil performance class - API

API (American Petroleum Institute) is an organization that sets standards and specifications for motor oils and other petroleum products. API specifications are used around the world and provide information on oil performance, helping to ensure that the oil meets the minimum requirements for engine protection in various types of vehicles. They primarily focus on cars and trucks, for motorcycles and their owners this class is not so important.

European classification - ACEA

ACEA (Association des Constructeurs Européens d'Automobiles) is an organization representing European car manufacturers and setting standards for motor oils used in Europe. ACEA specifications aim to ensure the quality and performance of oils in various types of engines, including gasoline, diesel and commercial. They are particularly important in the context of European emission standards and the specific requirements of car manufacturers. Like the API specification, ACEA is not essential for motorbikes.

Just as a biker needs a quality helmet, adequate motorcycle clothing and motorcycle protectors, his machine also needs the right (and weather-appropriate) motorcycle accessories, including the right motorcycle motor oil. When you already know what the individual designations of motor oils used for motorcycles mean, ideally put the acquired knowledge into action and give your machine the right juice for every season.

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