{"organism":"Page","children":[{"organism":"Container.Raw","children":[{"organism":"Metadata","model":{"title":"Cold Weather Demands | Synthetic Oils Protect Engines","text":"Winter-proof your engine with low-viscosity synthetics. Sean Nguyen’s ‘cold starts’ guidance shows how faster flow cuts wear and keeps performance consistent.","links":[{"name":"Cold Weather Demands | Synthetic Oils Protect Engines","value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital.html"}],"image":{"src":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/_jcr_content/root/metadata.shellimg.jpeg/1770060094872/side-mirror-in-car.jpeg","alt":"Find which ultra low viscosity oils perform best at sub zero temps and why these oils crank faster than 5W or 10W oils.","width":1635,"height":918},"tags":[{"name":"factsheets; speeches and articles","value":"activities-and-operations:mass-media/factsheets-speeches-and-articles"}]},"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/metadata"},{"organism":"ContentOwner","model":{},"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/contentowner"},{"organism":"Container.Header","children":[{"organism":"Container.Raw","ref":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/_jcr_content/root/header/inherited.model.json","id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/header/inherited","model":{}},{"organism":"Breadcrumb","model":{"links":[{"name":"United States","value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/"},{"name":"Education","value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education.html"},{"name":"Cold Weather Demands | Synthetic Oils Protect Engines","value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital.html"}]},"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/header/breadcrumb"}],"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/header","model":{}},{"organism":"Container.Main","children":[{"organism":"Container.Section","children":[{"organism":"PageHeader","color":"inherited","model":{"title":"How Does Cold Weather Affect Your Motor Oil?","text":"\u003Cp\u003ECold weather plays a critical role in how motor oil performs, particularly during startup, when engines experience the most stress. As temperatures drop, oil thickens, which can slow circulation and delay proper lubrication to key engine components. Understanding how cold temperatures affect oil viscosity can help drivers make informed decisions that support engine performance and longevity during winter driving.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n","image":{"src":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/_jcr_content/root/main/section/page_header.shellimg.jpeg/1770059634938/side-mirror-in-car.jpeg","alt":"Find which ultra low viscosity oils perform best at sub zero temps and why these oils crank faster than 5W or 10W oils.","width":3840,"height":960}},"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section/page_header"},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section/text_copy","model":{"title":"What type of motor oil should I use in cold weather?","text":"\u003Cp\u003ECold temperatures place added demands on motor oil, making low-temperature flow especially important. Low viscosity motor oils, such as 0W and 5W grades, are engineered to flow more easily in cold conditions while still providing protection once the engine reaches normal operating temperature. Full synthetic oils, like \u003Ca href=\"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/products/full-synthetic-motor-oils/pennzoil-ultra-platinum.html\"\u003EPennzoil Ultra Platinum™\u003C/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/products/full-synthetic-motor-oils/platinum-high-mileage.html\"\u003EPennzoil Platinum® High Mileage\u003C/a\u003E,\u003Cb\u003E \u003C/b\u003Eare particularly effective in winter because they are designed to maintain pumpability at low temperatures, allowing oil to reach critical engine components more quickly during cold starts.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EDuring cold starts, it’s important to choose an oil that protects engine components quickly. In cold weather, motor oil should:\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cul\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003EFlow easily at low temperatures to reduce wear during startup\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003EMaintain protection across temperature changes, from cold starts to normal operating conditions\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003C/ul\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EMulti-viscosity synthetic oils, such as 0W-20 or 5W-30, are designed for this purpose. They provide quick flow in cold conditions while ensuring stability at higher operating temperatures. By circulating faster, low-viscosity synthetic oils help establish a protective oil film more quickly, thereby reducing friction during the initial engine operation.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n"}},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section/text_copy_1715086354","model":{"title":"How does cold temperature affect oil viscosity and engine wear at startup?","text":"\u003Cp\u003EAs temperatures drop, oil naturally becomes thicker, which can slow its movement through the engine. This is most critical at startup, when oil has settled, and engine components rely on fresh lubrication.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EA significant portion of engine wear occurs during cold starts. Oils that struggle to flow quickly can delay lubrication to critical areas such as the valvetrain and upper engine components, increasing metal-to-metal contact during the first moments after ignition.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EIn severe cold, higher-viscosity oils, such as 10W-30, may experience reduced flow rates, extending the time it takes for the oil to reach these components. Repeated cold starts under these conditions can contribute to increased wear over time. In vehicles equipped with start-stop systems, the engine turns on and off when the vehicle is at a stop, increasing the possibility of wear and tear due to multiple engine start-ups.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n"}},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section/text","model":{"title":"Expert Insight: How Is Cold-Start Performance Measured?","text":"\u003Cp\u003EOil performance in extreme cold is evaluated using standardized industry tests that assess cold cranking behavior and low temperature pumpability. These tests help determine how effectively an oil can circulate during cold starts and deliver lubrication to critical engine components.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n"}},{"organism":"Quote.Small","color":"inherited","id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section/quote","model":{"title":"Sean Nguyen, Pennzoil Technical Scientist and Automotive Lubricant Specialist","text":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003ECold starts are when engines need protection the most. Choosing an oil that can flow quickly at low temperatures helps reduce wear and ensures critical components are protected right from startup.\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\r\n"}},{"organism":"StandaloneAsset","color":"inherited","colspan":8,"colstart":3,"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section/standalone_asset","model":{"image":{"src":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/_jcr_content/root/main/section/standalone_asset.shellimg.jpeg/1770060356229/car-running-on-road-in-winters.jpeg","caption":"Short trips during cold weather can place additional stress on engines, making proper motor oil selection especially important during colder months.","alt":"Find which ultra low viscosity oils perform best at sub zero temps and why these oils crank faster than 5W or 10W oils.","width":3840,"height":2160}}},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section/text_835312925","model":{"title":"Should I change my oil more often if I live in a cold climate or do many short trips?","text":"\u003Cp\u003ECold climates and frequent short trips can place additional stress on motor oil. When engines don’t fully warm up, moisture and fuel dilution are more likely to build up in the oil, which can reduce performance and oil life over time.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EDrivers who primarily take short trips during winter may expose their oil to harsher operating conditions than those who drive longer distances. While modern oils are designed to manage these challenges, driving habits should be considered when following maintenance recommendations. Drivers should always follow manufacturer-recommended oil change intervals and consult their owner’s manual for guidance.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n"}},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section/text_1546537002","model":{"title":"Can I use the same oil year-round, even during harsh winter conditions?","text":"\u003Cp\u003EFor most modern vehicles, the same oil can be used year-round as long as it meets manufacturer specifications. Advances in oil formulation make it possible for high-quality synthetic oils to perform consistently across a wide range of temperatures.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EMany synthetic oils are formulated for year-round performance by:\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cul\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003EMaintaining more stable viscosity across temperature extremes\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003EProviding reliable protection in both cold and hot operating conditions\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003C/ul\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003ECertain synthetic base oils are engineered with a higher viscosity index, meaning they exhibit less change in viscosity as temperatures fluctuate, supporting consistent lubrication throughout the year.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n"}},{"organism":"StandaloneAsset","color":"inherited","colspan":8,"colstart":3,"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section/standalone_asset_cop","model":{"image":{"src":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/_jcr_content/root/main/section/standalone_asset_cop.shellimg.jpeg/1770059605883/adding-lubricants-in-car.jpeg","caption":"Motor oils formulated for cold-weather performance, like Pennzoil Ultra Platinum, are designed to flow quickly at low temperatures, helping deliver protection during winter startups.","alt":"With a choice between synthetic, conventional, and synthetic blends, keep in mind that full synthetic oils are superior for cold start lubrication and stability.","width":3831,"height":2157}}},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section/text_1616976675","model":{"title":"Does synthetic oil offer better cold-weather performance than conventional oil?","text":"\u003Cp\u003ESynthetic oil typically offers better cold-weather performance compared to conventional oil. Because synthetic base oils are more uniform at the molecular level, they resist thickening and flow more easily at low temperatures.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EImproved cold-flow performance enables synthetic oils to reach critical engine components faster during startup, reducing friction and wear. Synthetic oils also maintain stability longer under extreme conditions, supporting consistent protection throughout winter driving.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003ECold weather can challenge engine performance, but the right motor oil helps ensure reliable protection during winter driving. Oils such as Pennzoil Ultra Platinum™ and Pennzoil Platinum® High Mileage are formulated to flow quickly at low temperatures and maintain stability across operating conditions, play an important role in reducing wear, supporting cold starts, and extending engine life during the colder months.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n"}}],"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section","model":{}},{"organism":"Container.Section","color":"inherited","children":[{"organism":"PromoCard","color":"brand1-subtle","colspan":4,"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section_1044297523_c_53184668/promo_copy_copy_copy","model":{"title":"Learn More About Pennzoil Ultra Platinum","links":[{"value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/products/full-synthetic-motor-oils/pennzoil-ultra-platinum.html"}],"image":{"src":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/_jcr_content/root/main/section_1044297523_c_53184668/promo_copy_copy_copy.shellimg.jpeg/1770241433136/ce20063-pz-productpg-ultraplat-5l-2000x2000-ca.jpeg","width":2000,"height":2000}}},{"organism":"PromoCard","color":"brand1-subtle","colspan":4,"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section_1044297523_c_53184668/promo_copy_137609242_2089458756","model":{"title":"Learn More About Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage","links":[{"value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/products/full-synthetic-motor-oils/platinum-high-mileage.html"}],"image":{"src":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/_jcr_content/root/main/section_1044297523_c_53184668/promo_copy_137609242_2089458756.shellimg.png/1770241465684/cs20063-pz-carousel-plathm-5qt-2000x2000.png","width":2000,"height":2000}}},{"organism":"PromoCard","color":"brand1-subtle","colspan":4,"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section_1044297523_c_53184668/promo_copy_137609242_1051082261","model":{"title":"Learn More About What It Means to Be GF-7 Compliant","links":[{"value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/gf-7.html"}],"image":{"src":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/_jcr_content/root/main/section_1044297523_c_53184668/promo_copy_137609242_1051082261.shellimg.jpeg/1770241200804/gf-7-header-image.jpeg","width":1900,"height":1200}}}],"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main/section_1044297523_c_53184668","model":{"title":"ADDITIONAL RESOURCES "}}],"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/main","model":{}},{"organism":"Container.Footer","children":[{"organism":"Breadcrumb.Large","model":{"links":[{"name":"United States","value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/"},{"name":"Education","value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education.html"},{"name":"Cold Weather Demands | Synthetic Oils Protect Engines","value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital.html"}]},"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/footer/breadcrumb"},{"organism":"Container.Raw","ref":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/_jcr_content/root/footer/inherited.model.json","id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/footer/inherited","model":{}}],"id":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital/jcr_content/root/footer","model":{}}],"id":"/conf/shell/settings/wcm/templates/base/structure/jcr_content/root","model":{}}],"model":{"title":"Cold Weather Demands | Synthetic Oils Protect Engines","text":"Winter-proof your engine with low-viscosity synthetics. Sean Nguyen’s ‘cold starts’ guidance shows how faster flow cuts wear and keeps performance consistent.","links":[{"name":"canonical","value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital.html"},{"name":"errorUrl","value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/en_us/error.html"},{"name":"hierarchy","value":"en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital"},{"name":"homeTitle","value":"Pennzoil®"},{"name":"homeUrl","value":"https://www.pennzoil.com/"},{"name":"locale","value":"en-US"},{"name":"title","value":"Cold Weather Demands | Synthetic Oils Protect Engines | Pennzoil®"},{"name":"textDirection","value":"ltr"},{"name":"template","value":"base"},{"name":"contentPath","value":"/content/shell/business/pennzoil/en_us/education/cold-weather-driving-digital"},{"name":"externalDisclaimerText","value":"Legal Disclaimer\r\nYou are now leaving the Pennzoil website.\r\nThe link you have selected will direct you to a website that is not controlled by Shell plc or any member of the Shell Group. 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