How to Distinguish Good and Bad Engine Oil?
3 Answers
Methods to distinguish good and bad engine oil: 1. Observe the color of the oil. Imported engine oil is golden with a slight blue tint, crystal clear and transparent. Genuine bulk engine oil is mostly light blue with a bright luster and flows evenly. 2. Smell the oil. Qualified engine oil has no peculiar smell and is slightly aromatic. If the gasoline performance is relatively mild, but there is a strong irritating smell, especially a heavy fuel smell, it is likely to be recycled oil. 3. Check with the dipstick. Pull out the oil dipstick and observe the scale lines against a bright light. If the scale lines are not clearly visible through the oil on the dipstick, it means the oil is too dirty and needs to be replaced immediately. 4. Rub and feel the oil. Take a small amount of oil from the oil pan and rub it between your fingers. If it feels sticky and forms threads, it means the oil has not deteriorated and can still be used. Otherwise, it should be replaced.
I've been driving for over thirty years, and the quality of engine oil directly affects engine longevity. First, visually inspect it: pull out the dipstick—good oil should be golden yellow or light brown, clear and bright; if it turns black, dark, or has impurities, it means it's deteriorated or contaminated and needs changing. Then check the viscosity: dip your finger in the oil and rub it—good oil should feel sticky yet smooth, neither too thin nor too thick; if it feels thin, the oil is poor quality or diluted. Smell it: good oil has a faint oily scent, but if it smells burnt or sour, it's gone bad. After the engine warms up, check the oil level—if it's low or foamy, that's no good. After an oil change, take the car for a test drive—if the engine noise is low and idle is smooth, the oil quality is good. For brands, I trust established names like Shell or Castrol—don’t skimp to save money, as one improper maintenance could ruin the engine, costing thousands. Change the oil regularly every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers—don’t delay too long. Remember, good oil extends your car’s life and saves on repair costs.
As a car owner who prioritizes fuel efficiency, there are two practical aspects to consider when evaluating engine oil quality: First, choose reputable brands. I often use major brands like Mobil or BP, which are reliable with national standard certifications. Avoid counterfeit products to prevent engine damage from impurities. Second, observe the actual performance. After an oil change, monitor fuel consumption. If the average drops by more than 10% and the engine starts quickly with smooth acceleration, it indicates good oil quality. When checking the dipstick, light yellow or brown color means the oil is fresh, while deep black suggests it's time for a change. Regular changes every 5,000 kilometers save money without hassle. For new cars, fully synthetic oil is better for high-temperature resistance and fuel efficiency. Always avoid low oil levels and check the dipstick when the engine is warm. Water-oil separation or excessive bubbles indicate oil deterioration. Good engine oil extends your car's lifespan, reduces repairs, and saves money. It's advisable to have a mechanic test the oil quality during annual maintenance for safety.
