Does engine oil affect car performance?

[MacMichael]

Engine oil does affect car performance. How engine oil affects performance: Engine oil can directly influence vehicle power. Poor quality oil may cause cylinder scoring. If the oil viscosity is too high, it increases engine resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption and some power loss. Methods to improve vehicle performance through engine oil: Choose appropriate oil based on engine type. Naturally aspirated engines can use mineral oil, semi-synthetic or full synthetic oil; turbocharged engines should use semi-synthetic or full synthetic oil. Select oil according to its characteristics. Different brands have different features - some oils focus on cleaning, some enhance performance, some offer better startup protection, while others reduce noise. Choose oil based on viscosity grade. Different oil grades have different minimum starting temperatures, so select according to local climate conditions.

[MacJessica]

After driving for over 20 years, I've deeply realized how significantly engine oil affects performance. I remember using conventional oil when I was younger - the car always struggled when climbing hills, feeling like the engine roared when I stepped on the accelerator but acceleration was sluggish, as if being held back by resistance. After switching to full synthetic oil, the engine runs much smoother, with quicker throttle response and more decisive starts. This is because high-quality oil provides better lubrication, reducing internal engine friction and making piston movement more efficient, thereby indirectly improving power output. Old or inferior oil has higher viscosity, making the engine work harder and consume more energy; whereas clean oil maintains lower resistance. Checking engine oil during regular maintenance is crucial - I change mine every 5,000 kilometers to prevent sludge buildup from affecting performance. Choosing the right oil grade is also important, as requirements differ between seasons.

[SavannahDella]

As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I believe engine oil genuinely affects performance. Modern engines are precision-designed, and oil is one of their lifelines—high-quality oil reduces friction between components like piston rings or bearings, allowing the engine to run smoothly and powerfully. Low-viscosity synthetic oils are particularly suitable for city driving, offering quick response at startup and more direct acceleration; however, high-viscosity oils maintain protection under high-temperature, high-speed conditions. When oil deteriorates, increased internal resistance consumes extra energy, leading to a drop in horsepower. This also ties into fuel economy, as energy-efficient oil helps me save on fuel costs annually. I recommend checking the manual to select the appropriate grade.

[LaCamille]

After the last oil change, the car feels much lighter and more responsive, with a noticeable improvement in power. Previously, when climbing steep slopes, the engine sounded strained and labored; now, it smoothly ascends with just a press of the accelerator, and overtaking feels more confident. Dirty or incorrect oil viscosity can affect engine efficiency, indirectly reducing power. As an ordinary driver, I make sure to regularly check the oil level and condition to maintain cleanliness and lubrication, avoiding excessive friction caused by old oil. I also pay attention to the oil change intervals, prioritizing safety first.