The first number + W
The winter grade relates to cold-start behaviour. For example, 0W and 5W are different low-temperature grades, even when both oils end in “30”. W means winter, not weight.
Read the label.
Understand the choice.
Start with your equipment’s requirements. Use these guides to understand the information on the product.
ENGINE OIL GRADES
Understand your engine oil grade.
Change the two parts to explore how a multigrade label is read.
SAE 5W-30
5W is the winter grade, describing performance in specified low-temperature tests. A lower W grade is tested at lower temperatures.
30 describes the high-temperature viscosity grade. It is not an outside temperature or a quality score.
This explains the label; it does not recommend a product. Follow the viscosity and performance specification required by your equipment manufacturer.
Recognise the grade.
Choose an ELOI colour below to explore the label. Colour identifies the grade in our brand system; suitability depends on the full product specification.
Explore ELOI 5W-30 productsTwo numbers. Two different conditions.
The number after the dash
This is the high-temperature viscosity grade. A 5W-30 and a 5W-40 share the winter grade but have different high-temperature viscosity grades.
What the label cannot tell you
Viscosity alone does not establish compatibility, the correct service interval or the required fill quantity. Check the engine variant, manufacturer requirement and exact product’s TDS.
Can I replace 5W-30 with 5W-40?
Do not decide from the viscosity numbers alone. Use only a grade and performance specification permitted for your equipment. Check the handbook or ask for technical advice.
Are all ELOI oils with the same grade interchangeable?
No. Products can share a viscosity grade while meeting different performance specifications. Compare the exact products and their current technical data sheets.
SAE grade is only the starting point.
Two oils with the same SAE grade can have different performance specifications. Start with the vehicle manufacturer’s requirement, then check the current product information. A 5W-30 label alone does not establish suitability for a particular engine.
Further reading: Volkswagen engine oil and fluids ↗︎
STOU and UTTO serve different requirements.
STOU is a multi-purpose tractor oil for the systems specified by the equipment maker. UTTO is designed for transmissions, hydraulic systems and wet brakes where specified; do not assume it is suitable for an engine. Match the exact grade and performance level to the machine manual.
What to check in a TDS and SDS.
A technical data sheet describes the product’s performance levels and typical properties. A safety data sheet covers handling, hazards and emergency information. Ask for the current document matching the exact product before using the fluid or relying on a claimed approval.
Specification is not the same as formal approval.
Check the exact wording in the product documentation. A listed performance level and a manufacturer’s formal approval are different claims. If your equipment requires a specific approval, confirm it for the exact product.
Check product documentation