What are the effects of overfilling engine oil on a car?
2 Answers
Here are the effects of overfilling engine oil in a car: 1. Various components of the engine may experience increased vibration during operation; 2. It increases the internal power loss of the engine; 3. More oil may splash onto the cylinder walls, leading to oil burning and exhaust system faults; 4. It creates resistance to the rotation of the crankshaft; 5. It affects power output and increases fuel consumption; 6. It reduces the lifespan of oil seals, potentially causing engine oil leaks; 7. It worsens exhaust emissions and impacts the lifespan of the catalytic converter. Additional information: The functions of engine oil include lubrication to reduce wear, assisting in cooling, cleaning, sealing to prevent leaks, rust and corrosion prevention, and shock absorption.
I usually take good care of my car when driving. A while ago, I accidentally added a bit too much engine oil, and then the car didn't feel right. When accelerating, the engine seemed to struggle, making gurgling sounds, and the RPM wouldn't go up. Fuel consumption was much higher than usual. After checking, I realized the excess oil increased the crankshaft resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. What's worse, the extra oil tends to foam, reducing lubrication effectiveness. This increases friction during piston movement, potentially wearing out internal parts over time, even causing oil leaks and blue smoke. The mechanic said it could severely affect the exhaust system's catalytic converter, costing hundreds or even thousands to repair. Now, I always carefully check the dipstick to keep the oil level at the standard mark. I'd rather add a little less and top up later than overfill it.
