Browse most popular articles in Oils and Fluids

  • Which oil do I need? Think of vehicle maintenance and an oil change is probably the first thing that comes to mind. We all know that low oil levels and overused engine oil are to be avoided. There are many different types of oil and it's crucial to understand that no single type is suitable for all makes and models. In regard…
  • Which antifreeze is right for me? Antifreeze is going to go right into the heart of your car's engine, so choosing the right one is very important, especially since it’s now vehicle specific. Antifreeze mixes with water to prevent it from freezing; it also raises the boiling point to avoid overheating and reduce corrosion in your…
  • How to check and top up your engine oil Checking your engine oil level is one of the most important checks that you must carry out regularly on your car. Engine oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine - if the level gets too low the engine might overheat, the moving parts would begin to wear out and the engine may eventually…
  • Why is my car overheating? An overheated car can be a stressful experience and you may be unsure of what to do should the situation arise. It is essential to act quickly if your car is overheating to avoid further damage to your car engine and keep yourself safe. Keep reading to discover why a car overheats and what to do if…
  • Semi-synthetic and fully synthetic oil Using the right oil will keep your car running smoothly and its engine delivering its full potential and performance. Engine oil works hard. It reduces friction, helps manage engine temperature and protects the hardworking components. Your engine oil should be changed at least every year as part of an…
  • All you need to know about Adblue What is Adblue? AdBlue is an exhaust fluid, not a fuel additive. It's stored in a separate reservoir and is topped up via a (usually) blue filler cap located either next to your fuel filler, in the boot or under the bonnet. How long does Adblue last? The rate at which you use AdBlue depends on your…
  • What does antifreeze do? Antifreeze is going to go right into the heart of your car's engine, so choosing the right antifreeze is very important. Getting the right type for your car is even more vital now antifreeze has been made vehicle specific.  Antifreeze mixes with water to prevent water from freezing. It also raises…
  • What do the numbers mean on the oil container? When you go to buy motor oil, you'll notice that there's a code on each container. These numbers relate to the oil's viscosity (how well it flows around the engine) in warm and cold conditions, which is an indicator of how it'll perform depending on the outside temperature. Thanks to the hugely varying…
  • What is engine oil and what does it do? Car engine oil is derived from the crude oil extracted by oil rigs, but it goes through a few processes to become the final product you put in your car. The oil has to be refined into something with a lower viscosity – meaning it's much thinner and smoother – to help the engine turn over more easily…
  • What's in engine oil? While the vast majority of engine oil is, of course, crude oil, there are a few things added to make the oil suitable for your car. You'll also find things like detergents, which clean the spaces between moving parts and nooks and crannies where grime and old oil can build up, anti-wear (AW) additives…