What Are the Functions of Engine Oil in a Car?
3 Answers
Engine oil in a car serves the following functions: 1. Lubrication and friction reduction, forming an oil film between two sliding component surfaces to ensure smoother operation; 2. Cleaning and dispersion, flushing away surface contaminants on components through the flow of oil; 3. Cooling and heat dissipation assistance for components; 4. Sealing and leakage prevention, forming a seal between the piston rings and pistons via an oil film to prevent exhaust gases from entering the crankcase after combustion; 5. Corrosion and rust prevention; 6. Shock absorption and cushioning. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, consists of base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary component of the lubricant, determining its fundamental properties, while additives compensate for and improve any deficiencies in the base oil's performance, making them an essential part of the lubricant.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I believe engine oil is literally the lifeline of an engine. Its primary function is to lubricate moving components like pistons and crankshafts, reducing friction and preventing excessive wear. It also carries away heat to cool the engine—without oil cooling, the engine would overheat and smoke in minutes during summer. Its cleaning capability is remarkable too, as it captures combustion residues and dust to keep the internals clean. It seals cylinder gaps to improve compression efficiency and provides anti-rust protection for metal parts. Regular oil changes are crucial—I check mine every six months or 5,000 kilometers. Using higher-quality synthetic oil is even better to avoid costly breakdowns and repairs on the road.
When I first bought my car, I was super curious about what engine oil does, and it took asking a lot of friends to understand. Simply put, engine oil makes the engine run smoother, reducing friction between parts and extending their lifespan. It also helps with heat dissipation, absorbing heat to prevent the engine from overheating. The cleaning function is also crucial—engine oil collects carbon deposits and impurities, keeping the machinery clean. Its sealing effect makes combustion more efficient, boosting power and saving fuel. It also prevents rust, protecting parts from corrosion damage. I usually check the oil level every month and change it promptly if it's too dirty, otherwise, the engine performance drops, and repairs become a hassle.
