What are the causes and consequences of oil emulsification?
2 Answers
The causes of oil emulsification are: 1. Water directly enters the oil in the heat exchanger, causing the water chamber to crack; 2. Water from the combustion chamber enters the oil; 3. The oil deteriorates due to not being changed for a long time. The consequences of oil emulsification are: 1. The performance of emulsified oil decreases, making it unable to form an effective oil film between moving parts, leading to poor lubrication and accelerated wear; 2. Emulsified oil contains excessive water, which can produce harmful substances and corrode engine components. Methods to prevent oil emulsification include: 1. Developing good driving habits, such as warming up the car before each use; 2. Changing to the appropriate oil for the vehicle; 3. Regularly checking the air filter.
I've always believed that oil emulsification mainly occurs when moisture mixes in, such as during winter when making frequent short trips where the engine doesn't fully warm up, allowing humidity to enter. Over time, the oil turns milky white. I often encountered this with older car models - aging gaskets or coolant leaks can also cause it. The consequences are severe: reduced oil lubrication capability leads to severe wear on bearings and piston rings, increased engine noise, and rising fuel consumption. Eventually, it might require major repairs costing thousands to replace parts. My advice is to regularly check the oil dipstick color. If emulsification is detected, get a professional inspection immediately - don't wait until the engine is ruined. This is especially important for owners who frequently make short urban commutes.
