How to Identify the Authenticity of Engine Oil?

[VanNova]

There are four methods to distinguish genuine from fake engine oil: observing the oil's appearance; analyzing the oil's viscosity; judging by the engine's sound; and smelling the oil. Specific methods for identifying genuine engine oil: Determine the authenticity of engine oil by its packaging. The method can be summarized as "one touch, two scans, three picks": One touch: Feel the packaging for raised stripe patterns; Two scans: Use a phone to scan and compare the color ratio, angle, and distribution of the stripe patterns; Three picks: Pick out the patterns to complete genuine product identification. Alternatively, official verification codes can be used for authentication. Analyze the oil's viscosity. High-quality engine oil is relatively thin to a certain extent and feels smooth without granular substances when rubbed between fingers, whereas inferior oil may contain particles. Fake engine oil is typically refined from waste oil, hence differing from newly formed oil. Judge by the engine's sound. Fake engine oil tends to become sticky under high temperatures; the higher the engine temperature, the stickier the oil becomes, potentially leading to sludge formation due to burning. Genuine engine oil ensures the engine runs smoothly with uniform sound and no noise, unlike fake oil, which produces a rough and noisy sound. Smell the oil. Genuine engine oil has a faint, pleasant aroma, as it consists of base oil and additives. Except for mineral oils on the market, most other types of engine oils contain chemical additives, specifically 0.6% aromatic hydrocarbons, which vary in scent intensity depending on the oil's composition. If the oil emits a pungent odor, it can be identified as fake.

[LiamLynn]

I have a habit of carefully inspecting the packaging details before every oil change because genuine products have clear printing, intact labels, and no spelling errors. I also take a sniff—authentic oil usually has a mild fragrance without any pungent chemical smell, and the color should be transparent, not cloudy. I compare the anti-counterfeit stickers, scratch off the coating, and scan the QR code on the brand's official website for verification. This step is much simpler and saves me the hassle of going to a repair shop. Sharing an experience from last year when I almost got scammed: I bought a bottle of cheap oil online with rough packaging and a dull color. Luckily, I noticed it in time and replaced it, otherwise it might have clogged the engine pipes and increased fuel consumption. Now I only source from authorized 4S stores. A reminder to everyone: engine oil is crucial to your car's lifespan—don’t take it lightly. Regular maintenance is safer.

[DelMariana]

As a novice driver, I was initially worried about buying fake engine oil affecting my car's performance. Later, I learned that the most reliable method is to prioritize purchasing from large supermarkets or authorized stores and avoid products from roadside stalls. When you get the packaging, check if the anti-counterfeit marks are intact, scan the QR code, and download the official app to verify the results in real-time—it’s quick and convenient. Genuine engine oil feels smooth to the touch, flows evenly when poured, isn’t overly thick, and doesn’t discolor. A money-saving tip is to avoid hoarding—bring the original packaging for comparison when buying. A friend taught me to check if the production date and batch numbers match, which is generally reliable. The counterfeit market is rampant and can easily damage engine pistons. Learning these basic techniques makes driving more reassuring and a better investment.

[IsabelFitz]

Oil authenticity determines engine lifespan. Counterfeit oil contains impurities that accelerate part wear and even cause malfunctions. I carefully inspect the packaging—legitimate products have clear batch numbers, tight seals, and anti-counterfeit labels that are hard to peel off. When poured into an empty bottle and shaken, genuine oil maintains stable viscosity without separation or sedimentation, displaying a golden, shiny color. For purchasing channels, avoid small shops and opt for chain stores to ensure reliability and avoid repair risks. Regular oil changes keep the engine running smoothly—this knowledge protects personal safety and reduces unexpected expenses.