What are the consequences of using the wrong engine oil type?
3 Answers
Using the wrong engine oil type can cause damage to the engine. Here is relevant information about using incorrect engine oil: 1. If the oil viscosity index is too low: After adding this type of oil, you may feel that the car runs more smoothly. However, due to insufficient oil film thickness, the oil film covering engine components during operation will be very thin and easily worn through, leading to metal-on-metal contact. This will accelerate engine wear and cause certain physical damage to the engine. Therefore, try not to easily reduce the oil viscosity index. 2. Using higher viscosity oil: If higher viscosity oil is used, the engine noise may become louder and less pleasant, and the engine's frictional resistance will also increase. This will result in higher fuel consumption and less responsive power output. However, the actual physical damage to the engine is minimal and can be ignored. If a higher viscosity index oil is used, it's not a big problem if not changed immediately—you might just experience slightly higher fuel consumption. You can simply use up this batch and switch back next time.
Last time at the repair shop, I encountered a car owner who used the wrong engine oil specification. After starting the engine, it ran unevenly with unusually loud noises, and the oil pressure light flickered on and off. Let me explain: Incorrect viscosity causes improper oil flow - high viscosity makes cold starts difficult, while low viscosity provides insufficient lubrication at high speeds, accelerating piston ring wear. Mismatched additives may also lead to sludge buildup, clogging oil passages and causing engine overheating or premature aging. Fuel consumption will increase, raising daily operating costs. My recommendation is to visit a professional shop immediately to replace with the correct oil and check for engine damage. Long-term neglect of this issue could result in repair costs exceeding tens of thousands. It's best to develop regular maintenance habits to avoid similar mistakes. Driving safety comes first - never be careless about oil selection.
When I changed the engine oil, I once chose the wrong type. During that period, the car made loud noises when driving, like a muffled thunder, and the fuel consumption soared from 7 liters to over 9 liters, which was clearly abnormal. The engine area felt unusually hot, and gear shifts were jerky. After researching, I found that the oil viscosity was too low to protect the high-speed moving metal parts, leading to severe wear over time, which might cost a lot to replace parts. Don't be lazy like me—always check the vehicle manual before adding oil to ensure the correct type is used. If the wrong oil is added, replace it immediately and clean thoroughly; neglecting small details can lead to big problems, wasting both time and money. Developing good habits ensures safe and reliable travel.
