What are the causes of engine oil solidification?

[Barbosa]

Engine oil solidification causes: 1. Failure to maintain the vehicle for an extended period, leading to oil deterioration after circulation; 2. Use of substandard quality oil during maintenance, which turns into sludge under high-load vehicle operation; 3. Existing engine faults allowing gasoline or contaminants to mix with the oil during operation, causing oil deterioration. Engine oil sludge poses significant harm to the engine. The primary functions of engine oil are cooling, cleaning, lubrication, and sealing. Once it deteriorates into sludge, these functions gradually diminish. The engine operating at high speeds under elevated temperatures becomes particularly prone to seizure.

[DeAndres]

I've encountered engine oil solidification quite a few times, mainly caused by low temperatures. When the temperature drops below freezing, the oil becomes thick like jelly, especially in vehicles using high-viscosity oil. Another reason is poor oil quality, such as inferior oil or deteriorated oil stored for too long, which is more prone to emulsification and solidification when moisture gets mixed in. My old car had this issue several times during northern winters, making it hard to start. Later, I switched to low-temperature oil like 5W-30 and regularly checked the oil quality, which significantly reduced the problem. I recommend changing the oil before the cold season, parking in a garage whenever possible, and warming up the engine for five minutes before starting to avoid hard starts that can damage the engine.

[JulianaFitz]

As someone who maintains vehicles daily, there are several common reasons for engine oil solidification. Extremely low ambient temperatures can reduce oil fluidity, especially below freezing. Oil-related issues such as inappropriate viscosity or contamination with water, dust, or coolant leakage can cause emulsification and clumping. I believe prevention is key: choose high-quality synthetic oil with viscosity matching seasonal needs. For example, 5W-40 suits wide temperature ranges; change oil regularly to avoid deterioration from prolonged storage. From my experience, always check oil levels before cold starts. If accidental solidification occurs, avoid forced ignition - find a warm place to thaw before handling.

[McTessa]

Engine oil solidification mainly stems from low temperatures or poor oil quality. At low temperatures, the oil thickens and solidifies, especially in winter; substandard oil mixed with water can clump and age quickly. My car once froze up in snowy weather, but switching to synthetic oil solved the problem. Regular oil changes are crucial, and don't skimp on cheap oil. Keeping the oil fresh can prevent issues proactively.

[SanKatherine]

Oil solidification is quite dangerous as it can seize the engine. Causes include sudden temperature drops, water contamination in the oil, or poor oil quality. Once when I was on a business trip, my car was parked outside overnight and the oil froze, preventing startup. Inspection revealed rainwater had mixed with the oil. Now I always use multi-grade viscosity oil and change it before winter. I park in sheltered areas and warm up the engine slowly during cold starts. If oil solidification is detected, avoid driving immediately—use heating equipment or push the vehicle to a warmer location.