What Causes Poor Acceleration and Dullness After an Oil Change?

[SanAlan]

It may be caused by overfilling or underfilling the oil. Below is relevant information: 1. Engine Lubrication System: If the engine lubrication system has not been cleaned for a long time and is dirty with many deposits, changing to new oil will flush out some impurities suspended in the oil, potentially clogging the oil filter and causing insufficient power. Changing the oil once will make the system cleaner and improve performance. 2. Oil Viscosity Grade: Regarding oil viscosity grade classification, the standard of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) is generally used. Car owners can choose the oil based on their vehicle's operating temperature. For example, SAE 15W-40, 10W-40, or 5W-50. The smaller the number before the W, the lower the low-temperature viscosity, providing better protection during cold engine starts. The number after W indicates the oil's high-temperature resistance.

[DeMatthew]

I've encountered similar situations before. Lack of power and sluggish acceleration after an oil change are mostly caused by incorrect oil viscosity. For example, using oil that's too thick can lead to insufficient engine lubrication, restricted piston movement, and ultimately poorer power output. Overfilling the engine oil can also cause excessively high oil pressure, making the engine feel sluggish. Additionally, improper installation or clogging of the oil filter can restrict oil flow, directly affecting acceleration response. I recommend first checking the dipstick yourself to ensure the oil level is within the normal range. If you're using a non-recommended oil type, switch back to the appropriate one as soon as possible. Don't forget to check if the air filter got dirty during the oil change, as insufficient air intake can worsen the problem. If the issue persists, take it to a repair shop and let a technician diagnose it with a scanner - don't keep driving it hard to avoid engine damage.

[LaPatrick]

Last time I changed the oil, I also felt sluggish acceleration, possibly due to too much or too little oil. Excessive oil volume increases oil pressure, putting more burden on the engine; too little oil leads to insufficient lubrication. A loosely installed or leaking oil filter can also restrict oil flow. During the oil change, the intake system might have been accidentally disturbed, such as the air filter being displaced, reducing intake efficiency. It's recommended to check the dipstick after parking and adjust the oil level between min and max. If the issue persists, try replacing the oil filter. Be meticulous with DIY maintenance—don't save small money only to face bigger problems later. Poor acceleration affects driving safety, so address it early for peace of mind.

[MilesDella]

I've driven many cars, and experiencing sluggish acceleration and a dull feeling after an oil change is often due to incorrect oil type or the break-in period. The viscosity change in new oil requires the engine to adapt, which might initially feel dull. Issues like misaligned seals during filter installation can obstruct oil flow. Check if the oil level and type match the vehicle's specifications. Drive for a few days to allow for break-in; if the issue persists, have it rechecked at another shop. Safety first—never ignore abnormalities.