The Right Engine Oil for Your Classic Car

When it comes to classic cars, enthusiasts know that maintaining their classic vehicles requires a little more care than your average modern motor.

One of the most crucial factors in ensuring the longevity of your classic car is selecting the right engine oil. Using the correct oil keeps the engine running smoothly and helps protect critical components from wear and tear over time. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the best engine oil for your classic car.

Why choosing the right engine oil matters

Classic cars, by nature, are often much older than modern vehicles, with many of them having been in service for decades. These engines weren’t designed with today’s high-efficiency oils in mind, so using the wrong type of oil can lead to reduced performance, overheating, or even damage. Whether you’re restoring a cherished Triumph, MG or Jaguar, the right oil can make a massive difference.

Key considerations for classic car engine oil

Viscosity

Engine oil viscosity (the oil’s thickness and flow) is one of the most critical factors when selecting the right oil for your classic car. Older engines generally need more viscous oil to ensure they reach all the necessary components and form an effective lubricant.

Rimmer Bros offers a range of oils designed specifically for classic car engines, such as 20W-50 oils. These oils provide the ideal balance between being thick enough to protect engine components but not so thick that they reduce engine efficiency.

Mineral vs. synthetic oil

Mineral oil, refined from crude oil, is often the preferred choice for classic car engines. While beneficial in modern vehicles, synthetic oils may not offer the same protection for classic engines. The high detergents in synthetic oils can strip away the built-up residues that older engines need to keep parts lubricated. Rimmer Bros offers a selection of high-quality mineral oils that provide optimal performance for older engines.

Oil brand and quality

Trusting a reputable brand is essential when choosing oil for your classic car. You want to ensure that you’re using a high-quality oil that meets the specific needs of your classic engine. Brands like Castrol, which Rimmer Bros carries, have been trusted by classic car enthusiasts for years due to their excellent reputation for performance and reliability.

What Rimmer Bros offers

At Rimmer Bros, you’ll find a range of oils specially formulated for classic car engines. Whether you’re seeking the ideal viscosity or a premium mineral oil blend, Rimmer Bros has you covered.

When should you change your engine oil?

Regular oil changes are essential to maintain your classic car’s engine. Typically, it’s advised to change your engine oil every 5,000 - 7,000 miles or so or every 12 months, whichever comes first. If you’re unsure, it’s always worth checking the manufacturer’s guidelines or consulting a classic car expert to determine the best schedule for oil changes.

Selecting the right engine oil is crucial to maintaining the performance and longevity of your classic car. By choosing a high-quality, appropriate oil, you’re investing in the health of your engine and ensuring that your classic vehicle can continue to provide joy for many years to come.