What are the effects of good and bad engine oil on a car?
2 Answers
The effects of good and bad engine oil on a vehicle are: 1. Reduced power; 2. Increased fuel consumption; 3. Damage to the catalytic converter. The functions of engine oil are: 1. To separate the surfaces of relatively sliding parts, thereby reducing wear; 2. To carry heat back to the oil tank and then dissipate it into the air to help the radiator cool the engine; 3. To circulate carbon deposits, sludge, and worn metal particles from engine parts back to the oil tank, flushing away dirt generated on the working surfaces of the parts through the flow of the lubricating oil. The signs that indicate the need for an oil change are: 1. Check the oil viscosity—if there is no viscosity, the oil needs to be changed; 2. The oil color turns black; 3. Excessive black particles, metal shavings, or carbon deposits in the oil; 4. The oil has an unusual smell.
As a regular car owner with over a decade of driving experience, I must say that the quality of engine oil directly impacts a vehicle's daily performance. After switching to premium oil, the engine noise noticeably decreased, making the ride smoother and more stable—especially when accelerating on highways. Conversely, using low-quality oil worsened engine vibrations and increased fuel consumption by about 10%. Crucially, good oil protects engine components, reduces wear, and extends the vehicle's lifespan. Regularly replacing it with high-quality oil and checking oil levels can prevent issues like piston ring sticking or cylinder overheating. In the long run, though pricier, it’s far more cost-effective—otherwise, repair bills will skyrocket. Plus, premium oil cleans internal carbon deposits, maintains cooling efficiency, and prevents overheating even with AC on during summer. Bottom line: don’t cheap out—your car will suffer, and so will driving safety.