Oil (again !)

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Thu 28 Nov 2002 14:30
Oil (again !) - borasport20
My Bora is shortly coming to the end of its warranty, and I'll be servicing it myself from then on. The question, which i've asked before but not understood the answer to, is what oil to use ?

The technical data section of the handbook specifies 'Multigrade high lubricity oils' to VW 500 00 or VW 502 00, or High lubricity oils to VW 501 01. What is the distinction between 'high lubricity' and 'multigrade high lubricity'and why do I need to know about it ?

the maintenance section states 'if none of the above is available, oil with a specification of VW ACEA A2 or A3 may be used'. I presume that the 'VW' is spurious - oil is either ACEA spec or it isn't. (If i'm wrong, please tell me). Given that I do about 30 miles a day, in heavy traffic, i guess A2 would be the most sensible choice ?

Despite the number of times i've read the handook front to back, back to front, turn it upside down and shake it, I cannot find any reference to what grade of oil i should be putting in. Am I missing something, or is this a bit of a major omission ?


And finally
given that i only do about 30 miles per day, at an average speed of 18mph, and the car uses about 1/2 litre every 1600 km (which is within the spec!!!), would Castrol GTX suffice, and should it be 15w40 or 10w40 ?

I have to grow old - but I don't have to grow up
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Thu 28 Nov 2002 14:42
Oil (again !) - simonsmith473©
I always use quantum gold(if it is a fairly high spec model). It is well priced for synthetic and i have found that the engines i have used it on don't drink too quickly(compared with mobil 1).
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Fri 29 Nov 2002 09:47
Oil (again !) - John S
Yes the VW reference is spurious, the ACEA ratings are international standards.

30 miles/day in heavy traffic means plenty of idling which is defined as hard useage, so stick to A3 rated oils, which are designed for heavier duty than A2. Don't use 'ordinary' GTX (it's A2 rated) use at least Magnatec semi-synthetic. For choice I'd use 10-40 as the cold start wear will be reduced.

Looking at my Vx handbook they suggest that vehicles subject to excessive periods at idle either need to halve the normal oil change interval, or use fully synthetic oil.


Regards

John S
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Fri 29 Nov 2002 10:27
Oil (again !) - TrevorP
Halfords 10-40 Semi-Synthetic will do you fine.
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