Is an engine oil temperature of 120 degrees normal?
2 Answers
Localized high temperatures in engine oil are normal. However, if there is a consistent trend of exceeding 120 degrees, the cause should be investigated. Below is more information about engine oil: 1. Mineral oil: Mineral oil is the residue left after gasoline and heavy oil are refined from petroleum. Although mineral oil is a natural oil, it contains more impurities. It is cheaper compared to semi-synthetic and full-synthetic oils but offers poorer lubrication for the engine and has a shorter service life. 2. Semi-synthetic oil: Semi-synthetic oil falls between mineral oil and full-synthetic oil. It contains a large amount of anti-corrosion additives to enhance the oil's stability and high oxidation resistance. 3. Full-synthetic oil: Among these three types of oil, full-synthetic oil is of the highest quality and durability, and it is also the most expensive. Generally, it can remain effective for 10,000 to 12,000 kilometers in passenger cars. 4. Hazards of water in engine oil: If a small amount of water enters the engine and mixes with the oil, the oil quality deteriorates. Oil containing water can increase wear on engine components, potentially leading to increased engine noise and vibration during future vehicle operation.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I've always paid close attention to oil temperature changes. The ideal oil temperature range is typically between 90 and 110 degrees Celsius, while 120 degrees is noticeably high. I've encountered this situation before during long-distance drives in summer, when the engine was under sustained high load on highways, causing the temperature to spike to 120 degrees. This significantly impacts the engine oil - high temperatures thin out the oil, reducing its lubricating effectiveness and accelerating oxidation and degradation. Prolonged high-temperature operation can lead to increased engine wear. Therefore, I recommend keeping an eye on the dashboard, regularly checking coolant levels, and cleaning debris from the radiator fins. If the high temperature persists, it's best to have a professional inspection at a qualified service center.
