Does engine oil consumption increase more when driving on highways?
4 Answers
Does engine oil consumption increase more when driving on highways? Because the engine temperature is relatively higher during high-speed driving, oil consumption may also increase, but generally not significantly. Introduction to Engine Oil: Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant (English name: Engine-oil), serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and cushion shocks in the engine. It is often referred to as the 'blood' of a car. Composition of Engine Oil: Engine oil consists of two main components: base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary constituent of lubricating oil, determining its fundamental properties. Additives are used to compensate for and improve any deficiencies in the base oil's performance, imparting new characteristics, making them an essential part of lubricating oil.
When driving on the highway, I've noticed that oil consumption does increase. Since I frequently take long-distance trips, the engine runs at high RPMs consistently, causing temperatures to rise rapidly, which makes the oil more prone to evaporation loss. For some older cars, especially those with high mileage, this issue is even more noticeable. It's important to check the dipstick regularly and not wait until the warning light comes on. Additionally, the high wind resistance on highways increases engine load, potentially reducing the oil's lubricating performance. It's a good practice to shorten the oil change interval. Personally, I check my oil every 5,000 kilometers to prevent engine overheating and damage.
Engine oil consumption tends to increase during high-speed driving, and I believe the key lies in the changes in engine operating conditions. When the vehicle maintains speeds above 100 km/h with stable high RPM, the oil pump operates under increased pressure. Coupled with high-temperature environments, this accelerates oil evaporation. For regular passenger cars, consumption may fluctuate between 0.1-0.3 liters per 1,000 km. However, if vehicle maintenance is inadequate—such as aging seals—consumption can become more pronounced. I recommend ensuring oil quality meets standards before highway driving, as synthetic oils may offer better high-temperature resistance.
Driving on highways does increase oil consumption a bit, which I've personally experienced. When the engine runs at high speeds, the oil temperature rises, its fluidity improves, and it becomes more prone to leakage or evaporation, especially noticeable when accelerating after traffic jams. I always remind my friends to change the oil in advance or carry spare oil just in case. Additionally, choosing oil with the right viscosity can help reduce consumption, avoiding any mid-journey issues that could disrupt the trip.
