Specification of motor oils (BMW 3 Series E36)

Only HD oils are approved for modern engines. HD oils are alloyed oils, the lubricating properties of which are significantly improved by adding various chemicals. These additives provide good anti-corrosion protection, reduced oxidation activity, especially low tendency to form sludge in the crankcase, better viscosity characteristics, cleaning and dissolving properties. Cleaning and dissolving additives not only reduce the formation of deposits in the engine, but also have the ability to dissolve deposits and constantly keep them in suspension, as well as other contaminants in the engine oil, so that when changing the oil, they flow down together with the old oil.

HD oil parameters are classified according to the API system (American Petroleum Institut). European manufacturers also adhere to this system.

Two-letter designations. The first letter characterizes the range of application: S = Service is intended for gasoline engines; C = Commercial, intended for diesel engines. The second letter in alphabetical order characterizes the grade of oil.

The highest grades of oils are SG oils for gasoline engines and CE oils for diesel engines (according to API specification).

Note: Motor oils clearly labelled by the manufacturer as diesel engine oils are not suitable for petrol engines. There are oils that are suitable for both petrol and diesel engines. In this case, both specifications are indicated on the packaging (for example, SG/CE).

European oil manufacturers also adhere to the "CCMC" specification. The CCMC classification takes into account the peculiarities of European oil production technology and is therefore becoming increasingly important. Oils for gasoline engines are classified according to grade into classes from G1 to G5; for diesel engines of passenger cars there is CCMC-PD1 oil and high-quality CCMC-PD2 oil.