Has Toyota Resolved the Issue of Increased Engine Oil and Emulsification?
2 Answers
No, it has not been resolved. The causes of increased engine oil and emulsification are: 1. Increased Engine Oil: When the engine frequently operates under low-temperature and low-speed conditions, the engine oil temperature does not rise sufficiently. As a result, water and gasoline mixed in the oil fail to evaporate, accumulating over time and causing the oil level to rise. 2. Engine Oil Emulsification: The essence of engine oil emulsification is the mixing of water and oil, resulting in a white emulsion. The causes of emulsification include water vapor in the crankcase condensing into water under low temperatures and seeping into the oil, as well as ethanol gasoline's tendency to absorb moisture, introducing water from the air into the engine cylinders. When a car operates for extended periods under low-temperature and low-speed conditions, the water cannot evaporate, remaining trapped in the oil and mixing with it, leading to emulsification.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I pay special attention to Toyota-related issues. The oil dilution and emulsification problems mainly occurred in hybrid models, causing quite a stir a few years ago. Many friends reported rising oil levels with a milky appearance. Toyota later released a software update that forced the engine to heat up earlier, reducing gasoline mixing into the engine oil. Nowadays, many owners report the issue being resolved, but occasional cases still emerge in cold northern winters or with short-distance driving. Emulsification damages the engine and affects its lifespan. I recommend checking the dipstick monthly to monitor oil color—normal brownish-yellow is fine, but a milky appearance means a visit to the dealership is needed. Regular maintenance is also crucial—don’t wait for problems to arise before fixing them. Overall, Toyota has made significant improvements, but it’s not entirely foolproof, so staying vigilant is key.
