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As the proud owner of an MK6 GTI, you want to do everything you can to keep your car running smoothly. That includes making sure you’re using the right oil type. But with all the different types of oil on the market, it can be tough to figure out which one is best for your car.
Fortunately, I am here to help. In this comprehensive guide, I will discuss what oil type is recommended for your MK6 GTI, as well as provide some insights into engine oil parameters. I will also cover some common problems that may occur if you use the wrong oil. So, read on to learn more!
MK6 GTI- a Brief Overview
The MK6 GTI is the sixth generation of the Volkswagen Golf GTI, and it was produced from 2010 to 2014. It came in a 2-door cabriolet, 3-door hatchback, and 5-door estate. The GTI model had 207 horsepower, while the performance package increased that to 232 horsepower. The MK6 GTI was also notable for being the first GTI to come with a dual-clutch transmission (Tiptronic). The MK6 GTI is a great car, and it’s important to use the right oil type to keep it running smoothly.
Purpose of Engine Oil
In a car’s engine, its parts are in constant motion. As a result, a lot of friction and heat is produced inside it. To overcome that, engine oil is circulated inside the engine. The oil not only lubricates the moving parts, but also helps to cool the engine. In addition, it keeps the engine clean and sludge-free.
Also read: How Much Does a MK7 GTI Weigh? (In Detail)
Engine Oil Parameters
When it comes to engine oil, there are several different parameters that you need to be aware of. These include the type of oil, the additives, and the viscosity.
Type of Engine Oil
Engine oil is commonly classified into two types, mineral oil, and synthetic oil. Mineral oil is obtained directly by refining petroleum products. It is the conventional oil that has been used from the start when the engine was invented. Whereas, synthetic oil is made by breaking the petroleum products and combining the most appropriate molecules to form a very efficient and superior quality oil. Since this oil is scientifically synthesized; it lasts much longer compared to mineral oil. All modern vehicles now run on synthetic oil.
Additives
Additives are some chemicals that are added to the oil to improve its performance.
Viscosity Grades
Viscosity is a measure of a fluid’s resistance to flow. The higher the viscosity, the thicker the oil, and the more resistant it is to flow. The viscosity grades on the oil bottle indicate the same.
If you have carefully observed an oil bottle, you might have seen SAE 5W-10, 0W-40, etc., written on it. These are the viscosity grades of the oil. (SAE stands for Society of Automotive Engineers)
Let me tell you what this viscosity grade represents. Firstly, if you find two numbers, one before and one after the letter “W”, then it is a multi-graded oil i.e. it is designed for hot and cold working conditions. Most automobiles usually use multi-graded oil.
Let’s say an engine oil bottle that has 5W-30 written on it. The first number (in this case, 5) refers to the oil’s viscosity at low temperatures (temperature when the engine starts). It indicates the viscosity of the oil during the cold start. The lower the number, the thinner the oil. While the second number (30) “W” refers to the oil’s viscosity at high temperatures (when the engine is running).
A powerful engine demands a higher-grade viscosity at high temperatures.
Recommended Oil for Your MK6 GTI
For MK6 GTI, you need an oil that meets the standard VW 502 00. It is issued by Volkswagen for gasoline engine cars in the US. In this standard, there is a list of recommended viscosity grades you can use. For our case, the two suited viscosity grades are SAE 5W-30 and 5W-40.
SAE 5W-30 Fully Synthetic/ Mineral Oil
5W-30 oils are extremely popular because they deliver outstanding performance and protection across a wide temperature range. They are available in different oil types, mineral, semi-synthetic, and fully synthetic. Mineral oil type is a bit affordable option to consider. On the other hand, 5W-30 fully synthetic oil is considered the best option due to its long-lasting life.
SAE 5W-40 Fully Synthetic Oil
If you are working with a very powerful engine or operating at higher temperatures with higher loads, like here in the case of MK6 GTI, 5W-40 may be more appropriate. It has a higher viscosity grade and can perform better at higher loads and high temperatures.
These specific viscosity grade oils are available under different brand names in the market. Volkswagen manufacturers usually recommend using Castrol Oil. The relevant Castrol oil products for Mk6 GTI are:
- Castrol Edge 5W-30 LL
- Castrol Edge 5W-40
However, you can also use products from other brands like:
- Mobil 1 Fully Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-40
- Valvoline fully Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30
- Shell Helix Ultra 5W-30
- Delo® 400 XSP SAE 5W-30
Why Choosing the Right Oil for Your Engine is Important?
The purpose of engine oil is lubrication. To ensure sufficient lubrication, the oil of a specific viscosity grade needs to be chosen for the specific engine. Some engines need thinner oils (0W-10, 5W10) for their cold start. While the powerful engines, where the engine temperature rises high, a higher-grade viscosity (5W-40, 10W-50) is required. If you use a low viscosity grade oil in a powerful engine, the oil will break down when the engine accelerates. So, to ensure the engine stays healthy and keeps running, choosing the right type of oil is very critical.
If you use the wrong oil in your MK6 GTI, you may run into problems like low fuel economy, poor start, and engine damage.
When inappropriate oil is used in the engine, either it is too thick or thin, it doesn’t lubricate properly. As a result, the engine wears out excessively. The engine may seize if it is used with the wrong oil for a long period.
Also read: Does Volkswagen Keep Value? 6 Popular Models Value Loss
How to Change Your MK6 GTI Oil Yourself?
What You’ll Need:
Before you start to change the engine, make sure you have these
- New oil filter
- New oil (choose the oil we recommended)
- A socket wrench and ratchet
- An oil catch pan
- A funnel
- Jack and Jack Stands
Changing MK6 GTI Oil [8 Quick Steps]:
For changing the engine oil, follow these steps.
Step 1: Warm up your engine. This helps the oil flow more easily and gets rid of any contaminants that may be in there. To do this, simply drive around for about 15 minutes before you park your car and begin the oil change.
Step 2: Jack up the car on a floor jack. Make sure to use a jack stand.
Step 3: Locate your oil drain plug and oil filter. The drain plug is usually located on the bottom of the engine block, near the front or rear of the vehicle. While the oil filter is located on top of the engine, towards the back
Step 4: Place your catch pan under the drain plug and remove it using your socket wrench. Be careful not to drop the plug into the pan as this can cause contamination. Allow all of the oil to drain out before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Remove the old oil filter using your socket wrench.
Step 6: Install the new oil filter by screwing it on until it’s tight. Be sure not to overtighten as this can damage the filter.
Step 7: Clean off the drain plug and reinstall it using your socket wrench. Don’t overtighten.
Step 8: Add new oil to your engine using a funnel if necessary. Use one of the oils I have recommended.
Step 9: Once you have added the new oil, start up your engine and let it run for a few minutes. This allows the oil to circulate and ensures there are no leaks.
Step 10: Check the oil level using the dipstick and add more if necessary.
Once you are satisfied, safely dispose of the used oil and filter according to your local regulations.
That’s it! You have successfully changed your MK6 GTI’s oil yourself.
How Long Should be the Intervals During Oil Changes?
Depending on how often you drive and the conditions you typically drive-in, you might need to change your oil more or less frequently. As a general rule of thumb, most mechanics recommend changing your oil every 3000-6000 miles.
However, if you go with fully synthetic oil, it may last up to 10,000 miles. But make sure to check the oil level at regular intervals (once a month or two).
What Will Happen If You Don’t Change Engine Oil in Time?
Reduced fuel economy is one of the problems that can occur if you don’t change your oil on time. The oil breaks down over time and becomes less effective at lubricating the engine. As a result, the engine has to work harder, which consumes more fuel.
Not changing engine oil can severe damage to the engine. Because the dirty oil can cause wear and tear in engine parts.
Sludge build-up is another problem that can occur if you don’t change your engine oil on time. This is because the old oil can form deposits of sludge in the engine, which can clog up passages and cause the engine to run less efficiently.
Best Practices to Keep Your Engine Healthy
To keep the engine running smoothly, follow the practices mentioned below.
- Check your oil level at least once a month. Add oil if necessary.
- Use the correct type of oil for your car. Use the manufacturer’s recommended oil. For instance, in this case, use oil from the list of VW 502 00 standards.
- If you tow a trailer or haul heavy loads, change your oil more often.
- Change your oil filter regularly if you drive in dusty conditions.
- Synthetic oil typically lasts longer than conventional oil, so you can go longer between changes.
- If you are not sure when to change your oil, consult your dealer. They will help you set up a maintenance schedule.
I have recommended synthetic oil with a weight of 5W-40 for Mk6 GTI. This will provide your engine with the best possible protection and performance. Thanks for reading! I hope this guide was helpful.
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below.
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