Questions and Answers
Engine Oil And Fuel Economy
Q. Hi; An FYI on fuel economy. I have a 2000 Ford Taurus wagon with the little Vulcan engine in it. Since new it provided 28 mpg (Imperial gallon) (1.2 US gallons). I then installed a K&N air filter (at 35,000 kms ) replacement and the mileage immediately went to 32 mpg and has stayed there.
I should add this is overall mpg as I track every fill up on Lotus 123 and it calculates the overall for me. There's also much more power and better throttle response. It's quite an improvement.
So now a question... what effect if any does engine oil have on fuel economy? I use 10W30 all the time yet my book says to use 5W30. I use the 10W30 because of an oil report I have that tested a variety of oils and in most cases oil loses its ability to say in grade after about 3,000 kms thus the extra expense of paying for another grade other than 10W30 is a waste of money. Yet I also understand that with the newer oils, 5W30 also is now stable. What's your thoughts?
Mike.....
A. First I have to ask, is it 32 miles per US gallon or 32 kilometers per Imperial gallon?
The slipperiness and flow characteristics of an oil is the main factor in determining an oils effect on gas milage. The easier it flows and its ability to lower friction will increase fuel economy. As to the exact criteria required to get the "Fuel Saving" stamp on the oil can, I don't know. I'm sure there are sites that can explain in great detail how this is determined.
Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA
