Can Adding Sugar to the Engine Go Undetected?
3 Answers
Adding sugar will always be detected, regardless of the amount. Here are the relevant details: Reasons it can be detected: If sugar is added to the engine and the time elapsed is short, the sugar may not have melted yet and can be detected. If the vehicle has been driven for a while, the high temperature of the engine will melt the sugar, but it can still be identified by checking the viscosity of the engine oil and the condition of the engine's lubrication system components. Effects of adding sugar: Sugar, as a crystalline substance, does not dissolve in engine oil. However, as the engine heats up during operation, the sugar will gradually melt, significantly increasing the oil's viscosity. This can cause the engine to "seize," preventing normal oil circulation. The damage caused by adding sugar necessitates a major engine overhaul. The entire oil system must be cleaned and inspected, and components like the oil pump and oil lines that may be clogged will need to be replaced.
I've been driving for decades, and the amount of engine oil to add isn't fixed. Checking the oil level before each startup is crucial: pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, then pull it out again to see if the level is between min and max. If it's low, add about half a liter of oil and check again. The vehicle manual specifies the total capacity, like 4.5 liters, but if the manual is lost and you can't find the info—maybe it's an old car or a special model—search online for the car's make and year or ask a seasoned mechanic at a repair shop. Never add oil blindly; too much oil can cause smoke, leaks, and damage engine seals, while too little accelerates wear and causes loud noises. When I was young, I once added a whole bottle and had an accident. Now, I only add a little at a time and test it—safe and worry-free. Regular oil changes are even more important to extend engine life and reduce issues.
Hi, I just learned to drive and encountered this issue. The engine oil level is checked on-site by pulling out the dipstick to see if it's low, then adding about 0.5 liters at a time and rechecking to avoid overfilling. The manual records the capacity, but mine is lost and the model might be uncommon, making online information unreliable. So, I search forums for owner shares or use mobile apps to check parameters. Overfilling can cause oil to bubble out of the engine, polluting the cabin and wasting money, while underfilling poses greater risks. Therefore, I prefer adding gradually rather than too much at once. Beginners are advised to ask friends for help to avoid mistakes, as safe driving habits are built from small details.
