Drivers 'don't care' about engine oil

JUST 4% of drivers choose which engine oil goes into their car during a service, according to new research.

The remaining 96% either don’t care or simply go with whatever a mechanic recommends, leading to calls from a leading engine oil manufacturer and the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) for raised awareness of the benefits of high-grade engine lubricants.

In a study of 1,000 drivers, conducted on behalf of Mobil 1, 65% said they wouldn’t know what oil viscosity their car would need to take, while 69% added they had no idea which brand of oil their car manufacturer recommends.

Practical tests have proven that high-grade engine oils deliver significantly better protection for an engine’s most vulnerable parts, ultimately leading to measurably lower fuel consumption.

Tim Shallcross, Head of Technical Policy at the IAM, said: “Responsible owners must take an active role in their vehicle’s health and wellbeing by using the right components to keep the vehicle running safely, cleanly and smoothly, and oil is one of the most important components to get right.

“The wrong grade or specification can increase engine wear dramatically, risking expensive breakdowns.”

Commenting on the study’s findings, Dan McGoldrick, Field Marketing for ExxonMobil Fuels & Lubricants, makers of Mobil 1 said: “You don’t need any expert automotive knowledge to get involved with deciding what engine oil should be used. Do a little research, talk to your mechanic and express a preference.

“It’s your car and your money, and using the right engine oil will make both go further.”

By Press Association reporter