How to Determine the Quality of Engine Oil?
3 Answers
Engine oil quality can be checked by the following methods: 1. Packaging: Genuine engine oil packaging is meticulous, with no blurred logos or unclear patterns. If the packaging appears fuzzy or the material is rough, it is likely counterfeit oil. 2. Seal: The seal is made of foil with the brand logo and provides an effective seal. If the seal is not tight, it may be fake oil. 3. Color: Genuine oil has a bright, clear color and flows smoothly when poured, with no suspended particles or impurities. Fake oil appears dull and may contain cloudy substances. 4. Smell: Genuine oil is odorless. If there is a pungent or unusual smell, the oil may not be genuine and could contain other substances.
I've been driving for over ten years, and judging the quality of engine oil starts with simple checks. If the oil turns dark black, significantly different from its original clear and bright state, it indicates oxidation or contamination buildup—time for a change. Feel it with your fingers; if it's too thin or too thick, neither is good. Too thin means poor protection, while too thick makes lubrication difficult. A sudden increase in engine noise or higher fuel consumption is also a clear sign, possibly due to increased internal friction from degraded oil. I make it a habit to check the oil level and color with a dipstick every two to three months to avoid breakdowns on the road. Always use a reputable oil brand; don’t skimp on quality to save money in the short term, as the right oil extends engine life and saves costs in the long run.
I enjoy studying car details, and oil quality is directly related to engine health. You can also identify it by smell: good oil has no odor, while spoiled oil will have a burnt or sour smell. Drop some oil on a piece of white paper and observe the diffusion to judge viscosity changes; poor diffusion indicates the oil has thickened and aged. If there are metal shavings or sediment in the oil, it proves insufficient lubrication is accelerating wear. I recommend regular oil changes—don’t delay too long, check every 5,000 kilometers or so. Full synthetic oil is more durable, so don’t cut corners and regret major repairs later.
