And you, do you know which oil to put in your engine?

A recent survey commissioned by Castrol highlights a troubling lack of knowledge among French motorists.

Nearly half of French motorists are unaware of which engine oil is suitable for their vehicle. About 38% of car owners say they do not know how to identify the engine oil that best fits their engine. The phenomenon affects women (48%) more than men (23%).

This practical uncertainty often begins at the time of vehicle purchase: only 23% of drivers claim that their dealer specified which lubricant to use. As a result, during maintenance, many would like to receive more personalized recommendations. Nearly one in two motorists (48%) would like their usual workshop to indicate and justify the choice of engine oil. However, only 52% state that their mechanic clearly communicates this point during maintenance.

Today, workshop advice remains one of the main sources of information for drivers: 27% trust them to choose a lubricant, compared to 20% who prefer to rely on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Notably, only 6% of motorists take the time to conduct their own online research to find the right product.

According to Henning von Rheden, Director of Brand and Communication Europe at Castrol, workshops have a central role to play: “Motorists want to be better supported. It is clear that they are listening, which represents a real opportunity for workshops to strengthen customer loyalty while promoting high-quality products.”

This survey reveals a need for education and support. Engine oil is much more than just a fluid: it protects, optimizes, and prolongs the life of the engine. It’s essential to know which one to choose.

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