Can You Drive Without Engine Oil?

[RobertRose]

You cannot drive without engine oil, as it will damage the engine. The engine is a high-speed machine that relies on oil for lubrication, and it cannot function without it. The hazards of insufficient engine oil include: 1. Insufficient oil can lead to cylinder scoring; 2. Too little oil causes poor lubrication, leading to component wear, while too much oil increases operational resistance. Engine oil, also known as motor lubricant, serves multiple functions such as lubrication, cooling, sealing, rust prevention, and shock absorption. It consists of base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary component of the lubricant, determining its fundamental properties, while additives compensate for and enhance the base oil's performance, providing additional benefits and making them a crucial part of the lubricant.

[LeKyle]

Never risk driving when the engine oil is low or gone. I was lucky to have met an experienced mechanic early on who warned me that engine oil is like the blood of the engine—without it, increased friction between parts quickly leads to overheating. At best, the pistons can seize; at worst, the entire engine can be ruined. I’ve since made it a habit to check the dipstick every time I refuel, topping up the oil if it’s near the lower limit. If I ever find it empty, I stop the car immediately, turn off the engine, and call for help or a tow truck. Saving a little time isn’t worth the cost of a new engine. Proper maintenance ensures your car lasts longer—don’t make the same lazy mistakes I did when I was younger and pay a heavy price.

[SanGenevieve]

Having worked in car repair for ten years, I've seen countless tragedies caused by running out of engine oil. Without oil, metal parts grind directly during engine operation, overheating and destroying bearings and crankshafts within seconds. Just last week, a customer's engine seized after driving barely a hundred meters, costing them 15,000 yuan. Regular checks are crucial - inspect the oil dipstick when the engine is cold to ensure levels are between the marks; don't drive if it's below minimum. In emergencies, adding the same grade oil can help temporarily, but proper repairs are better. Routine maintenance like regular oil changes saves money and prevents disasters - driving without oil is literally throwing money away.

[NevaehRose]

Last year, I forgot to check the engine oil before a short trip. The car shook violently, and the engine started smoking, costing me thousands in repairs. A hard lesson learned: never drive without engine oil. Engine oil lubricates the engine, reducing friction—without it, the engine wears out and gets ruined. Now, I check the oil level monthly to ensure it's in the middle range, never below the minimum. It's become a habit, giving me peace of mind. If a similar situation arises, I’ll stop immediately to check the dipstick or seek help from a repair shop—never push through. Safety comes first.

[DeAlana]

If you find the engine oil empty or too low, don't hesitate to immediately park in a safe location and turn off the engine. Check the dipstick to confirm the situation. If possible, add a small amount of the same grade oil as an emergency measure, but it's not recommended to continue driving. Call for professional towing or mobile repair service for proper handling. Driving without oil carries high risks – the engine could be instantly damaged, hurting both your wallet and safety. Get into the habit of spending one minute checking oil levels during refueling to prevent issues. Developing this routine ensures safety.