Multigrade oils are those oils that have two numbers on the grade, indicating that the oil is able to maintain engine performance in high and low temperatures. A multigrade lubricant minimises viscosity differences under temperature variations.

The first number on a multigrade oil is normally followed by a W, which stands for winter. This number represents the lubricant’s viscosity under lower temperatures, giving an indication of how the oil will flow in the winter. The lower the first number, the thinner it is at low temperatures.

The second number, which appears after the W, represents the oil’s viscosity under high temperatures. The higher the number, the thicker the oil will stay at high temperatures. Using the correct viscosity for your engine increases engine performance, reduces engine wear and increases fuel efficiency.

In addition, synthetic oils usually have better low and high temperature properties than normal mineral oils. This maintains protection while allowing better fuel economy and cold starting.