Oil is one of most important consumbles during the entire life of a car.

One can save money by driving a car without CD changer, no sunroof, but don't save money on oil - it directly affects the longivity of engine. My recommendations are:

(1) Follow user manual. If it specifies the type of oil to be used, make every effort to get it, even though that means some times you might need to spend more money.

(2) If no specification of oil on the manual, buy quality oil, like Castrol, etc.

(3) Pay attention to the oil numbers - they really mean something. For example, for diesel engine, if no specific requirement, use 15w40, for gas engine use 5w30 (newer cars), or 10w30, and so on.

This post is intended for the newbies; FYR only.