Can emulsified engine oil still be used?
3 Answers
Emulsified engine oil cannot continue to be used. If emulsified oil is persistently used, it will damage the engine. If engine oil shows signs of emulsification, it is recommended to identify the cause of the emulsification, repair it, and then replace with fresh oil. Emulsified engine oil produces a white milky substance. Causes of engine oil emulsification: 1. Water entering the oil: Water from the heat exchanger infiltrates the oil (due to cracked water chambers); water from the combustion chamber enters the oil. 2. Gasoline mixing into the oil: Gasoline contamination in the oil may result from excessive fuel injection or insufficient air intake, leading to unburned gasoline entering the oil pan; it could also be due to poor sealing of the cylinder liner compression rings, allowing gasoline to seep into the crankcase during injection, resulting in gasoline mixing with the oil.
I've found that emulsified engine oil is absolutely unusable, a problem I've encountered frequently in my auto repair practice. Emulsification occurs when oil mixes with water, turning into a milky white liquid and losing its lubricating properties. The main causes are usually a ruptured engine cylinder gasket or coolant system leakage. Driving with emulsified oil can cause severe engine wear, potentially leading to cylinder scoring or even seizure within minutes. Repairs can cost anywhere from a few thousand to over ten thousand yuan. When helping fellow car owners with inspections, I always remind them to regularly check their oil color - it should be clear and not cloudy. If you notice a milky appearance, stop driving immediately and perform a complete oil change. Remember, safety comes first. For the sake of your vehicle's longevity and your wallet, never compromise by using emulsified oil.
Engine oil emulsification is unusable, and this is my personal lesson. In the past, the oil in my car emulsified, and I foolishly drove for a while. As a result, the engine noise increased, and it eventually led to a blown engine, costing over 8,000 yuan to repair. After emulsification, the oil resembles spoiled milk, with water and oil mixing to form an emulsion, completely losing its lubricating function. In a short time, it can scratch the cylinder walls or seize the crankshaft. The cause is usually due to aging seals or coolant leakage. It's essential to completely replace the oil and inspect related components. I suggest car owners check the color inside the oil cap during every maintenance—normally, it should be dark brown. If it turns milky white, immediate action is required; don't delay.
