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Vehicle Maintenance and Motor Oil Advice and Information

Get answers to your automotive care questions and find the best car and motorcycle products for your needs with the help of our technical information. We’ve covered some of the most commonly discussed topics surrounding automotive oils and fluids here, plus other articles about vehicle maintenance more generally. Learn before you buy!


 

Automotive Oil Fast Facts Guide

In a handy A to Z format, just dip into this fast facts guide and find a topic of interest...

Complied by Simon Michell

 

Running in an Engine

Rebuilding an engine is a time and money consuming job for most people, so you want it to be done properly and that means using the right lubricants. When putting all, some...

 

How to Change Your Car Engine Oil

Every keen home mechanic starts somewhere, we don't all jump in at the deep end changing a gearbox or doing an engine conversion, most people start with a humble car engine...

 

DPF (Diesel Particulate Filters) Explained

The diesel particulate filter (DPF) was introduced in 2009 to ensure diesel engine'd vehicles met the emission requirements of "Euro 5". This standard aims to deliver an...

 

10w-60 Car Engine Oils Explained

We are often asked "Why do you advise against the use of 10w-60 oils?". Let's get one thing clear, we supply 10w-60 and recommend it where it is appropriate...

 

ACEA Car Engine Oil Specification Explained

ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers Association) have a system of rating oils, which you will find on the container of almost every...

 

Aftermarket Car Engine Oil Additives

There are several oil additives that can be bought easily and claim to provide amazing benefits for your car or bike, such as increasing the fuel economy...

 

API Car Engine Oil Specification Explained

API (American Petroleum Institute) specifications are often seen on oil containers and they show the minimum standard of oil that can be used in an engine...

 

Car & Motorbike Engine / Gear Oil Base Stocks Explained

All oils are comprised of basestocks and additives. Basestocks make up the majority of the finished product and represent between 75-95%. Not all basestock...

 

Engine Oil Grade / Viscosity Explained

Viscosity is the most misunderstood aspect of oil and yet it is the most important. Viscosity is the force required to shear (break) the oil at a certain speed and temperature...

 

Engine Oil for Heavily Modified or Track / Race Cars

If you are modding your car and adding BHP or using it off road then consider your oil choice carefully as the stock manufacturers recommended oil will not give you...

 

The Making of an Automotive Engine Oil

There are two main components that all engine oils are made of, basestocks and the additive package. The base fluid typically makes up the bulk of the oil...

 

Multi Grade Car Engine Oils Explained

Multigrade oils are essential for the longevity of modern engines as the oil needs to be capable of giving the best possible protection, when both hot and cold. Most modern...

 

Car Engine Oil Additives Packages Explained

Much of the talk about oil revolves around the base stock (which does represent around 80%), but modern oils contain so much more. Here are some of the...

 

Functions of Car Engine Oils Explained

Motor oil must lubricate engine components so that they will easily pass by one another without a significant loss of power due to friction. At start-up...

 

Common Synthetic Car Engine Oil Myths

There is a lot of information on the internet about oils, but a lot of it is wrong or based on out of date information. DO Synthetic motor oils damage seals, Complete...

 

Car Engine Oil, A Basic Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing oil for your car, this in formation may seem like going back to basics, but we at www.opieoils.co.uk are constantly surprised by the amount...

 

The Advantages of Synthetic Car Engine Oils

Extended oil drain periods Better wear protection and therefore extended engine life Most synthetics give better MPG They flow better when cold and are more thermally...

 

Car & Motorbike Coolant / Antifreeze Explained

Coolant and antifreeze is a topic we are asked about on a regular basis, and often causes confusion; types, colours, service life etc. Perhaps the most frequent...

 

Automotive Brake Fluid Explained

To help dispel some myths and for some good solid general info on the mysterious world of brake fluids I decided to contact Millers Oils up in West Yorkshire...

 

Get Your Car or Motorbike Ready For Winter

It's that time of year when you may need to perform some maintenance on your car to keep it safe and give it the best protection through the winter...

 

Engine, Gear Oil & Grease Viscosity / Grade Classifications Explained

The ISO viscosity classification uses mm2/s (cSt) units and relates to viscosity at 40°C. It consists of a series of 18 viscosity brackets between 1.98mm 2/s and 16...

 

Using Spark Plugs To Health Check Your Engine

Ensuring your spark plugs are functioning correctly is an important part of keeping your engine in good health. But how can you tell the difference between a plug that's doing...

 

WD40 A Workshop Essential

Multi-purpose sprays are found everywhere, from professional vehicle workshops, to home DIY'ers and mechanics. There are many brands and products so how do you know which to buy...

 

DPF (Diesel Particulate Filters) Cleaners Explained

A DPF is a common part of a vehicles exhaust systems these days. However not many people know what they do, and fewer know that you have to have a compatible engine oil to ensure no damage or blocking occurs.

 

The Importance of Regular Oil Changes for Classic Cars

Fresh engine oil ensures proper engine lubrication, removes contaminants, controls temperature, and preserves the engine's lifespan.

 

What Is Transmission Fluid? (And When Do You Need to Replace It?)

Transmission fluid plays a pivotal role in ensuring your vehicle's performance and longevity.

 

Car Storage Prep Guide: Safeguarding Your Vehicle During Storage

Long-term storage of your vehicle, whether for a season or longer, requires careful preparation.

 

Car Brake Cleaning Guide

Clean brakes not only ensure a smoother ride but also enhance the safety of your vehicle.

 

A Guide to Ignition Coils and Common Problems

What they are, common problems, symptoms of issues, testing methods, and the cost and time to replace them.

 

Glow Plug Guide

Understanding what glow plugs are, how they function, and recognising signs they need replacing is useful knowledge for any diesel vehicle owner.

 

Windscreen Wiper Blade Guide

Everything you need to know about wiper blades, from their history and types to how they work, maintenance tips, and choosing the right ones.

 

Car Air Conditioning Guide: Ensuring Comfort and Efficiency

Everything you need to know about your car's aircon, from understanding its components to troubleshooting common problems and maintaining it for peak performance.