Frequently asked questions about the Auto category
What auto products are most popular for vehicle maintenance?
The most in-demand items are: engine oils, antifreeze/coolants, windscreen washer fluids, brake fluids, automotive filters (oil, air, cabin), batteries, body and glass cleaners, adhesives and sealants. These are consumable materials that require regular replacement in accordance with the vehicle service schedule.
How to choose the right engine oil?
Oil selection is determined by three parameters: SAE viscosity grade (e.g. 5W-30 or 5W-40), quality standard per API or ACEA, and the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. It is important to follow the approval listed in the service book: VW 504.00, BMW Longlife-04, Mercedes MB 229.5, and so on. The oil type (mineral, semi-synthetic, fully synthetic) is chosen based on engine age and operating conditions — city driving, motorway, cold climate.
Can different brands of engine oil be mixed?
Mixing oils of the same type (synthetic + synthetic) with the same API/ACEA classification is acceptable in an emergency but is not recommended as standard practice. Mixing oils with different base stocks (mineral + synthetic), different viscosities or different approvals can degrade the additive package and reduce engine protection. After an emergency top-up, a full oil change with a system flush is recommended at the earliest opportunity.
How often should brake fluid be changed?
Brake fluid (DOT 4, DOT 5.1) is hygroscopic — it absorbs moisture from the air, which lowers the boiling point and increases the risk of vapour lock under hard braking. The standard replacement interval is every 2 years or 40,000 km, whichever comes first. Fluid condition can be checked with a moisture tester — if moisture content exceeds 3%, replacement is mandatory.
What is antifreeze and how do you choose the right one?
Antifreeze is a coolant based on ethylene glycol or propylene glycol that protects the cooling system from freezing and overheating. Main types: G11 (blue/green, silicate), G12/G12+ (red/pink, carboxylate), G13 (violet/yellow, organic). Mixing antifreeze of different types is not permitted — it disrupts the chemical composition and reduces protective properties. The antifreeze type is specified in the vehicle owner's manual and must be strictly followed.
Which windscreen washer fluid to use in winter?
Winter windscreen washer fluid must contain alcohol (isopropanol or ethanol) with a freezing point below the expected minimum temperature. For Estonia, a fluid rated to at least −25°C is recommended. Concentrates are diluted with water according to the instructions. Water must never be used in winter — it will freeze in the reservoir and lines. Using winter fluid in summer is not practical: it is more expensive and less effective at removing oily contamination.
How should car care chemicals be stored correctly?
Car care chemicals should be stored in their original packaging in a dry, cool place at +5 to +25°C, away from open flame and direct sunlight. Aerosols and flammable liquids should be kept in a ventilated space away from heat sources. Open oil containers must be tightly resealed — contact with air accelerates oxidation. All car care chemicals must be stored out of reach of children.
How should used oils and car chemicals be disposed of correctly?
Used engine, transmission and hydraulic oils, as well as spent antifreeze and brake fluid, are hazardous waste — they must not be poured into drains, soil or general waste containers. In Estonia, they are accepted free of charge at hazardous waste collection points (ohtlikud jäätmed), service centres and retail outlets participating in take-back programmes. Information on the nearest collection point can be found at tallinnaprügila.ee or jäätmekeskus.ee.
What car accessories are available in the auto products category?
In addition to consumables and chemicals, the category includes: interior and boot mats, seat covers, snow brushes and ice scrapers, jump leads, warning triangles, fire extinguishers, tow ropes, tyre pumps and compressors, body protection films and covers. Check availability of specific items at sitypro.com or by calling +372 536 16980.
What is the difference between transmission oil and engine oil?
Engine oil is designed to lubricate and cool engine components at temperatures from −30 to +150°C and contains detergent and anti-oxidation additives. Transmission oil (ATF for automatic gearboxes, GL-4/GL-5 for manual) lubricates the gearbox, differentials and axles under different loads and temperature conditions. Using engine oil instead of transmission oil, or vice versa, is strictly not permitted.
What is polish and how does it differ from wax?
Polish contains abrasive particles that remove fine scratches and dullness from the paintwork. Wax (carnauba or synthetic) is a protective coating without abrasives that creates shine and protects the surface from moisture, dirt and UV radiation for 1–3 months. The correct sequence: polish first, then apply wax. Frequent polishing is not recommended for vehicles with soft lacquer or dark colours.
What products help protect the bodywork from rust?
Corrosion protection products include: anti-stone-chip coatings (protecting the underbody and wheel arches from stone impact), bitumen-based underbody sealants, anti-corrosion sprays for hidden cavities (sills, chassis rails), and wax coatings for the body. Annual treatment before the winter season is sufficient to maintain protection. Modern nano-coatings and liquid glass provide a longer-lasting effect — up to 12 months when applied correctly.
Is specialist chemical needed for engine cleaning?
Yes - engine cleaning uses specialist degreasers and engine cleaners that dissolve oil and resin deposits without damaging rubber seals or electrical connectors. The product is applied to a cold or slightly warm engine, left for 5–15 minutes, then rinsed off with water at moderate pressure. Before washing, it is important to protect the air filter and electronic modules from water ingress.
How to order auto products and car care chemicals from Sitypro.com?
The full range of auto products and car care chemicals is available at sitypro.com in the "Auto Products and Car Care" section. Delivery throughout Estonia. For enquiries about availability of specific brands, oil selection or consumables for your vehicle, contact us by phone at +372 536 16980 or via sitypro.com.