Here’s more of what you need to know about motor oil, and from a Shell research engineer no doubt. It actually explains something about 5W-30 oil that very people actually knew. “W” stands for winter. The #30 is the oil’s viscosity grade at the engine’s operating temperature. Of course, most people are aware that motor oil is broken down as the engine burns fuel motor oil deteriorates.
The composition of motor oil is comprised of 70-90% base oil, and 10-25% additives. The base oil determines the fundamental properties of the oil, while additives help to enhance those properties. After market oil additives, according to the engineer, are not something that people should be using. Oils already contain carefully balance additives for optimal performance. The manufacturers won’t tell you that though. Their goals are to earn big profits. It’s all about keeping on top of things. When you learn something new that’s valuable, pass it on.