What are the hazards of oil emulsification to the engine?
2 Answers
Oil emulsification causes the following hazards to the engine: the lubrication performance of the oil deteriorates. Long-term use of emulsified engine oil will affect the lubrication and heat dissipation of the engine, and in severe cases, it may even damage the engine. After the engine oil emulsifies, the cause of the emulsification should be identified and repaired, and then the engine oil should be replaced. After the engine oil emulsifies, white emulsion will form inside the engine, which can be seen by opening the oil filler cap. Engine oil needs to be replaced regularly. If used for a long time, every performance of the engine will basically decrease. With the continuous improvement of oil quality, the service life of engine oil is getting longer and longer, and some can even reach hundreds of thousands of kilometers (engine running mileage) before replacement.
I've encountered the headache of oil emulsification, especially during cold winter temperatures. The oil turns milky, like milk mixed with water, completely losing its lubricating effect. The rotating components inside the engine, such as the crankshaft and pistons, end up with direct metal-to-metal friction, accelerating wear and even causing seizure. What's even more troublesome is that the water corrodes metal parts, leading to rust and structural damage; clogged oil passages hinder the oil pump's ability to deliver oil smoothly, making the engine prone to overheating and stalling. Over time, this can shorten the engine's lifespan, with repair costs often running into thousands. My experience is to drive more on highways to avoid frequent short trips and stop-start cycles, which helps evaporate the moisture. Checking the oil color during seasonal changes can nip problems in the bud, saving you from trouble down the road.
