At What Color Should Engine Oil Be Replaced?
1 Answers
The color of engine oil primarily depends on its composition. The base material of engine oil is mineral oil, and after adding various additives, the color can vary widely. Common colors include light yellow transparent, brown transparent, and reddish-brown transparent. In short, new engine oil must be translucent and exhibit a continuous, unbroken flow when poured. Below is a description of when engine oil should be replaced based on its color: 1. Level 1: There is no clear boundary between the deposit zone and the diffusion zone of the oil spot. The entire oil spot is uniform in color, with a light and bright oil ring, indicating good oil quality. 2. Level 2: The deposit ring is dark in color, the diffusion ring is relatively wide with a clear boundary, and the oil ring appears in varying shades of yellow. The oil is already contaminated but can still be used. 3. Level 3: The deposit ring is deep black with dense deposits, the diffusion ring is narrow, and the oil ring has darkened in color, indicating that the oil quality has deteriorated. 4. Level 4: Only the central deposit ring and oil ring are present, with no diffusion ring. The deposit ring is pitch black with dense and thick deposits that do not dry easily. The oil ring appears deep yellow or light brown, indicating that the oil has oxidized and deteriorated, requiring replacement.
