Can emulsified engine oil still be used?
2 Answers
Emulsified engine oil cannot continue to be used. After emulsification, the oil will produce a white emulsion, and its performance in all aspects will decline. Long-term use of emulsified oil can cause significant harm to the engine. If the engine oil shows signs of emulsification, it is recommended to identify the cause of the emulsification, repair it, and then add new oil. Causes of engine oil emulsification: 1. Water entering the oil; 2. Gasoline entering the oil. During engine operation, the oil is pumped by the oil pump to various parts of the engine that require lubrication, forming an oil film to prevent direct contact between components. If the components inside the engine come into direct contact and generate friction, a large amount of heat will be instantly produced during engine operation, which can be harmful to the engine. Poor engine cooling can directly lead to cylinder scuffing or even more severe damage. Engine oil not only lubricates but also cleans, seals, cushions, dissipates heat, and prevents rust within the engine.
A while ago, my car also encountered engine oil emulsification, which scared me into checking the information immediately. The emulsified oil was sticky like milk tea foam, completely losing its lubricating properties. Continuing to drive would cause the engine to seize and fail in no time. At the time, I found out that it was because of short commutes of only two or three kilometers in winter, preventing the engine from warming up properly, which allowed gasoline to mix into the oil. Later, I took a highway trip to let the engine heat up thoroughly, and the moisture evaporated, improving the situation. However, if the emulsification is severe enough to produce white foam in the oil pan, it’s most likely due to a blown head gasket or internal engine cracks, allowing coolant to mix directly into the oil. In such cases, you must shut off the engine immediately and tow the car to a repair shop—never attempt to restart it. Remember one principle: white engine oil is the engine crying for help—don’t take risks with your beloved car.
