a couple of questions regarding oil

[Blurry120]

hi guys, sorry not being on here as often, i have a couple of questions to ask, first regarding my vectra, its a 1.8 16v non vvt, and every few weeks or months i have to top up the oil, its had a service a while back, and i know its not leaing oil on the drive or any where else, and i don`t have to top a massive amount either, is this normal 1.8, i`m only comparing from when i had my 1.9cdti 150bhp astra,

and secondly my other half`s kia rio, 1.4, according to kia it has to have shell helix 10/40w full synth, now what i want to know is do i have to buy shell helix or can i buy a can of 10/40w full synth to top up, don`t really want to be buying shell oil all the time, as its expensive tbh

although i don`t post as much on here like i used to i do visit from time to time

[m8internet]

The oil consumption will be determined by many factors
If there are lots of short journeys at low speed, then expect it to be about 1 litre every 1000 miles
If there are lots of ling journeys at high speed, then expect it to be about 1 litre every 5000 miles
I suggest you keep a record of the consumption (MAX to MIN) and the mileage between the topups
My own car usually goes all the way from service to about 15K miles before it first needs a 1.5L topup, then a second is required just before the next service

For the Shell oil, look at the API specifications
Equally, the handbook for the Kia should also advice (not just by brand)
I have to agree though, any 10W40 Fully Synthetic will be acceptable for topup

[Blurry120]

thanks for the reply mate, to be fair i do about a 12 mile round trip every day to and from work, 5 times a week, and its a lot of stop start on A-roads, for about 20-25 minutes, each way so i`m guessin that the use of oil in my car is bound to drop more often than it would usually do, so if i`m right its nothin really to worry about

as for the kia i`ll have a read up on the handbook, and thanks again for the help

[m8internet]

i do about a 12 mile round trip every day to and from work, 5 times a week

The engine, and consequently the oil, are not heating to the full temperature required for efficient use
As a result the engine will consume oil