Is Engine Anti-Wear Additive Useful?
4 Answers
Engine anti-wear additives do have certain effects. Here is a detailed introduction to engine anti-wear additives: 1. Function: Engine anti-wear protectants can effectively reduce wear or corrosion of engine components, inhibit the formation of deposits such as gum and sludge, and form an extremely thin but highly pressure-resistant and wear-resistant protective layer on metal surfaces. They prevent oil oxidation, thickening, and acidification, thereby protecting engine components and extending engine life. 2. Usage Method: Engine anti-wear additives can provide some protection to the engine, but generally, there is no need to add them frequently. Regular maintenance is sufficient. When using them, follow the advice of professionals. Incorrect application methods may not only fail to provide benefits but could also affect the normal operation of the engine.
I've been driving for over a decade and tried many anti-wear additive brands, but found minimal effects. While engine noise may slightly decrease during normal driving, the performance improvement is negligible, let alone any significant fuel economy gains. Honestly, modern engine oils already contain advanced additive packages – spending extra on these products feels like throwing money away. I'd recommend investing in quality oil and sticking to regular change intervals instead. For older vehicles or high-altitude conditions, anti-wear additives might offer marginal benefits, but they're largely redundant for new cars or city commutes. Remember, maintenance habits play a far greater role in engine wear than any miracle additive – don't expect a bottle to solve fundamental issues. Consistent 5,000-km oil changes prove more reliable than any aftermarket additive. In summary, these products can be helpful but aren't essential, and overreliance might distract from proper maintenance routines.
As a daily commuter, I've tried anti-wear additives a few times, hoping to make the engine run smoother. Right after adding it, the car felt smoother to start, but after a week, it was back to normal, no different from before. I asked a mechanic, and he said that engine oil already contains anti-wear components, and adding too much might clog the pipes or damage the piston rings. For someone like me who relies on a salary to maintain a car, spending dozens of dollars on a bottle isn't worth it—better to save that money for higher-quality oil. The core function of anti-wear additives is to reduce metal friction and extend engine life, but in city traffic jams, they don't make much of a difference. The key is to develop the habit of regularly checking the oil level. Don't be fooled by ads—most anti-wear additives fall far short of their claims. If you're really worried about wear, just prioritize high-quality synthetic oil.
My old car is 15 years old, and after adding an anti-wear additive, the noise has noticeably decreased, but the effect is limited. The engine is still the same engine; it won't suddenly become new. From a cost perspective, a bottle of anti-wear additive costs twenty or thirty bucks, and using it monthly is quite wasteful. In the long run, it's better to save and stick to the oil change cycle. Anti-wear additives mainly lubricate engine components through chemical means, offering minor protection for high-mileage vehicles, but they can't replace basic maintenance. For someone like me on a tight budget, paying more attention to oil grade and cleanliness is key. Engine lifespan depends on driving habits and maintenance; anti-wear additives are just supplementary. Don't expect them to prevent major repairs—real savings come from timely garage check-ups.
