15W-50 engine oil

What’s 15W-50 all about then?

You’ve probably seen numbers like 15W-50 on oil bottles and wondered what on earth it all means. It’s basically about how thick (or runny) the oil is in different temperatures. The “15W” bit is for winter – it tells you the oil won’t turn to treacle on a chilly morning, so your engine still gets the lubrication it needs when you first turn the key. The “50” is for when things get hot under the bonnet; it stays nice and thick at running temperature, offering your engine a proper coat of armour when it counts.

Is 15W-50 engine oil right for my car?

Now, this stuff isn’t for every car on the road. If you’re driving about in a brand-new Golf or Fiesta, you’ll likely be better off with something a bit thinner – check your handbook to be sure. But where 15W-50 really comes into its own is with:

• Older classics – if you’ve got an old Jag, MG, Landy, or a Triumph tucked away in the garage, 15W-50 helps keep those characterful old engines happy.
• Performance or sporty numbers – track day toys or anything that comes alive above 4000 revs? This oil handles serious heat and high pressure with ease.
• Motorbikes – some larger, air-cooled bikes appreciate a bit of 15W-50, especially if they’ve clocked up a few miles.
• Workhorses – think vans, tow cars, or anything that’s grafting day in, day out – the thicker oil means it’ll stand up to plenty of stick.

Why bother with 15W-50?

Good question – and there are actually some cracking reasons to make the swap:

1. Warm weather warrior.
   When British summers (or a spin round Brands Hatch) send engine temps soaring, 15W-50 keeps things under control. It doesn’t go all watery like some lighter oils can.
2. Keeps older engines sweet.
   As engines wear, gaps open up and thinner oils can slip through the cracks (or even burn off). 15W-50 is thicker and cushions all those moving parts, helping keep rattles, oil leaks, and blue smoke at bay.
3. Holds on to oil pressure.
   Some engines – especially the classics – lose oil pressure once they’re hot. This oil helps keep things steady, so you don’t see that worrying flicker on the dash.
4. Uses less oil.
   Because it’s harder for the engine to burn off, you’re not forever topping up between services.
5. Ideal for all weathers.
   Our weather is nothing if not unpredictable – one day it’s brass monkeys, the next you’re in a sauna. 15W-50 copes admirably with both the cold starts and the sweltering days.

What’s in the bottle?

Most 15W-50 oils come as semi-synthetic or full synthetic these days, so you’re getting something that lasts and keeps your engine clean. You’ll also find plenty of clever additives thrown in – detergents to stop gunk building up, and stuff to keep corrosion and sludge at bay.

On the technical side, you’ll often spot API SN or ACEA A3/B4 on bottles – these are industry standards meaning it’s up to scratch for tough jobs. If you want the proper details, have a quick look at your owner’s manual, or just drop us a line and ask – we’re always happy to point you in the right direction.

Time to give tour engine a bit of TLC

If you want peace of mind, less top-up faff, and a happier, smoother engine – whether you’re rolling out your pride and joy for a Sunday run, or heading to a track day – our range of 15W-50 oils has you covered. We only stock brands we trust, and every bottle comes with the specs you need at a quick glance.

Have a browse, ask us anything if you’re not sure, and treat your motor to some proper protection. Your engine (and probably your wallet, in the long run) will thank you.

Go on, give your car the oil it deserves – shop our 15W-50 engine oil range today!