Understanding automotive gear oil: What are the applications and benefits?
When it comes to keeping vehicles performing smoothly and reliably, automotive gear oils play a crucial behind-the-scenes role. These specially formulated lubricants are designed to handle high pressures, reduce wear, and protect vital components like gearboxes and differentials. But what exactly are they, and how do they benefit your vehicle?
What is automotive gear oil?
Automotive gear oils are high-performance lubricants used in a vehicle’s manual transmissions, differentials, and other drivetrain components. They’re built to withstand extreme pressure and friction, particularly in metal-on-metal contact zones. These oils typically include additives like anti-wear agents, corrosion inhibitors, and extreme pressure (EP) compounds to enhance their protective capabilities.
The right gear oil not only lubricates but also ensures smooth gear changes, minimises component wear, and helps extend the life of your vehicle’s transmission system.
Where are they used?
You’ll find automotive gear oils at work in manual gearboxes, transfer cases, and differentials across a wide range of vehicles – from everyday passenger cars and vans to commercial trucks and off-road vehicles. These oils are particularly important in parts of the drivetrain that experience heavy loads, high torque, and fluctuating temperatures.
Texaco Lubricants’ range of gear oils, including Texaco Gear Oil GL-4 and GL-5, are engineered to deliver consistent performance across these demanding conditions – whether you’re commuting in the city or hauling loads on the motorway.
Why gear oil matters
Think of gear oil as a bodyguard for your vehicle’s drivetrain. Without it, the intense friction and heat generated between gears can lead to accelerated wear, scoring, and eventual failure. Over time, that can mean expensive repairs or even full component replacements.
That’s where Texaco Gear Oil GL-4 and GL-5 step in. These mineral-based oils feature advanced additive systems designed to reduce scuffing and wear. Available in viscosity grades such as SAE 80W-90 and SAE 85W-140, they maintain stability under pressure and flow well even during cold starts – getting where they’re needed fast and keeping parts protected from the moment you turn the key.
GL-4 vs GL-5: What’s the difference?
Though both are built for durability and performance, they’re intended for slightly different automotive applications:
- GL-4: Recommended for synchronized manual transmissions, transaxles, and steering systems requiring moderate EP protection.
- GL-5: Designed for hypoid gears in differentials, non-synchronized transmissions and applications needing higher extreme pressure protection.
Choosing the right type helps ensure optimal performance and protects against unnecessary wear and tear.
The bottom line
Automotive gear oils may not grab the headlines, but they’re essential to keeping your vehicle running reliably. They reduce friction, protect vital components, and help ensure smooth operation – mile after mile. Choosing a high-quality oil like Texaco Gear Oil GL-4 or GL-5 helps to give your vehicle the protection it needs, even under the toughest conditions.
Want to help keep your drivetrain running like clockwork? The right oil makes all the difference. Explore our range of automotive gear oils today here.
