How to Check if Engine Oil is Emulsified?
2 Answers
To check if the engine oil is emulsified: 1. Open the engine oil cap. 2. Observe the inner side of the oil cap and the oil filler port. If the oil appears milky white or creamy yellow, it indicates emulsification. Methods to assess oil quality: 1. Remove the dipstick and hold it at a 45-degree angle under light to observe the oil droplets. Clear visibility of droplets without grinding debris indicates good condition. 2. After pulling out the dipstick, smell it closely. A strong sour odor means the oil has deteriorated. 3. Place a few drops of used oil on a clean white filter paper. After the oil spreads, high-quality oil should leave no powder residue.
When I usually check for oil emulsification, I first wait for the car to shut down and cool for half an hour, as this makes the measurement more accurate. Open the hood, locate the yellow or orange oil dipstick, pull it out, and wipe it clean with a clean cloth. Reinsert it all the way in and pull it out again to check, focusing on the oil film condition at the end of the dipstick. If the oil turns milky white like the color of milk tea or has foam like whipped cream, it indicates emulsification. At this point, smell it to see if there's a gasoline odor, as moisture mixing in is particularly common in winter. If emulsification is found, change the oil immediately to avoid engine damage. Regular checks are essential, especially for cars in northern low-temperature areas or those frequently driven short distances.
