What are the hazards of engine oil emulsification to the engine?
2 Answers
Engine oil emulsification poses the following hazards to the engine: The lubrication performance of the oil deteriorates, and prolonged use of emulsified engine oil can affect the engine's lubrication and heat dissipation, potentially causing severe damage to the engine. After engine oil emulsification occurs, the cause of the emulsification should be identified and repaired, followed by the replacement of new engine oil. When engine oil emulsifies, white emulsion-like substances form inside the engine, which can be seen by opening the engine oil filler cap. Engine oil needs to be replaced regularly, as prolonged use can degrade all aspects of the engine's performance. With the continuous improvement in oil quality, the service life of engine oil has become increasingly longer, with some oils lasting up to hundreds of thousands of kilometers before needing replacement.
I've been driving for decades, and oil emulsification is a common issue that should not be underestimated in terms of engine damage. The primary hazard is a significant drop in lubrication performance—the oil thickens like milky soup and can't form a protective oil film. This causes direct dry friction on critical components like cylinder walls and piston rings, accelerating wear and quickly leading to abnormal engine noises or even seizure. Another major problem is corrosion. The mixture of water and oil produces acidic substances that rust metal parts, causing air leaks, and deteriorates sealing gaskets, resulting in reduced power and increased fuel consumption. Over time, oil passages clog, oil pump pressure drops, and the cooling system suffers too. In severe cases, you might need an engine replacement. Don’t slack on maintenance—regularly check if the oil has a milky color, especially in winter when low temperatures increase emulsification risks. Early detection and oil changes can save you big money.
