Does the Quality of Engine Oil Affect a Car's Performance?
3 Answers
The quality of engine oil does affect a car's performance. Impact of Viscosity: If the oil viscosity is too low, it may reduce the oil's ability to protect the engine; if oil with excessively high viscosity is mixed in, it can affect the engine's power, fuel consumption, and other aspects. Mixing different oils also impacts the engine. Since the existing oil inside the engine has already been used, its performance has degraded, and it contains many impurities. Adding new oil at this point can lower the overall performance of the new oil. Function of Engine Oil: 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 working temperatures reaching 400 to 600 degrees Celsius. Under such extreme conditions, only qualified lubricating oil can reduce wear on engine parts and extend their service life.
Having driven for over a decade, I genuinely feel that oil quality significantly impacts a car's performance. High-quality oils like full synthetic provide excellent lubrication, reducing internal engine friction. This results in quicker throttle response during acceleration and smoother power delivery. Conversely, inferior oils may cause excessive engine wear or carbon buildup, making the engine feel sluggish during hill climbs or overtaking. I once used cheap mineral oil - after 5,000 km, the engine became noticeably louder, fuel consumption increased, and power dropped significantly. Beyond oil type, viscosity matching matters too. Following the manual's recommendation (like 5W-30 for most vehicles) is crucial. Regular changes around 8,000 km prevent performance degradation from oil aging. Proper maintenance extends engine life, maintains power output, and avoids unnecessary repair costs from minor issues.
As an enthusiast who often maintains my car myself, I've found that oil quality directly affects the vehicle's power. High-quality oil like synthetic oil can reduce engine friction, making piston movement smoother and acceleration feel more responsive. Poor-quality oil, such as overly thin or contaminated oil, increases internal resistance, causing significant power loss and making the car feel sluggish at high speeds. From experience, I believe that changing the oil filter simultaneously during oil changes helps maintain system cleanliness, ensuring more sustained power. Choosing the right viscosity is crucial—mismatched viscosity can strain the engine. Regularly check the oil level; if it turns black, it's time for a change, otherwise, fuel consumption rises and acceleration suffers. With simple maintenance, engine responsiveness improves, enhancing the overall driving experience—saving money and providing peace of mind.
