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What engine oil should I use in my old car?

My dad is letting me restore one of his older cars, and I can’t wait to get it on the road. However, I don’t want to use the wrong oil and damage the engine. What’s the best oil to use in an older car?

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Kara Vanderbeek · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
How exciting! Older vehicles are a treat to take on the road, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure your car runs smoothly.
Vehicles made in the 1990s and earlier have different needs than their modern counterparts, as they were designed to run on the oil that was used at that time. As such, using an oil that was designed for an older car will impact your car’s performance and longevity.
As a general rule, older cars are designed to run on monograde oil, such as 10w30. This type of oil is still widely available and can be used in cars from the 1950s and older.
However, to find the specific oil recommendations for your vehicle, your best bet will be to refer to the owner’s manual.
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