Can You Add New Engine Oil Without Draining the Old Oil?
2 Answers
It is not advisable to add new engine oil without completely draining the old oil. The different densities and compositions of old and new oil can damage the engine. If the old oil is not fully drained and new oil is added, the mixture of old and new oil will shorten the lifespan of the newly replaced oil and reduce its lubrication effectiveness. This will increase engine wear and consequently shorten the engine's service life. Significance: The engine is the heart of a car, containing many metal surfaces that rub against each other during operation. These components move at high speeds in harsh environments, with operating temperatures reaching 400°C to 600°C. Advanced technology can convert natural gas into crystal-clean fully synthetic base oil, which is then enhanced with proprietary power-cleaning technology to create lubricants with superior cleaning and protective properties. Precautions: Under such extreme conditions, only qualified lubricants can reduce wear on engine components and extend their service life. Engine oils on the market can be broadly categorized into mineral oils and synthetic oils based on their base oil (vegetable oils are not considered due to their scarcity).
As a long-time car enthusiast, I've also been curious about this issue during DIY maintenance. The answer is absolutely not. Engine oil cannot be mixed arbitrarily; old oil accumulates metal shavings and impurities from engine wear. If you pour new oil directly without cleaning, it will quickly contaminate the entire oil system and fail to lubricate parts effectively. I made this mistake when I was younger, thinking that adding some new oil would save money, but the engine temperature skyrocketed, producing abnormal noises, and I ended up spending a fortune on repairs. The correct process is to completely drain the old oil every time you change it, replace the filter, and then fill it with clean new oil. This ensures the engine stays clean and avoids premature damage. Checking the dipstick regularly is a good habit, but if you find the oil level low, it's best to check for leaks rather than simply adding more. The core of car maintenance lies in prevention; neglecting even one step can lead to a chain reaction that threatens safe driving. Maintaining good oil change intervals can significantly extend your car's lifespan—always follow the manual's recommendations.