What Happens When a Car is Low on Engine Oil?
3 Answers
When a car is low on engine oil, it can lead to insufficient lubrication of the engine's friction surfaces, resulting in abnormal vibrations and reduced power. In severe cases, it may even cause engine bearing failure (commonly known as 'engine bearing seizure'). Engine bearing seizure refers to the burning and erosion of the crankshaft bearings and bearing bushings due to poor lubrication, manifesting as abnormal engine vibrations until the engine stalls. Here are some details about engine oil: 1. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant (English name: Engine-oil), has a density of approximately 0.91×10³ (kg/m³). It serves multiple functions such as lubrication and friction reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, and shock absorption. It is often referred to as the 'lifeblood' of a car. 2. Engine oil consists of two main components: base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary constituent of the lubricant, determining its fundamental properties, while the additives compensate for and enhance the performance shortcomings of the base oil, imparting new characteristics. Additives are a crucial part of engine oil.
My old car once had an incident where the engine oil ran dry. The engine suddenly made a sharp, strange noise, and the temperature gauge skyrocketed. I quickly pulled over, only to realize that the oil warning light had been on but I hadn't noticed. Lack of oil causes insufficient lubrication between the metal components inside the engine, leading to severe friction and high temperatures. In serious cases, it can burn out connecting rods or bearing shells, and total engine failure is a disaster—repair costs can be half the price of the car. I've developed the habit of checking the dipstick every two months or before long trips: after parking on level ground and turning off the engine for five minutes, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check that the oil level is between the min and max lines. If it's below min, immediately top up with the same type of engine oil—never wait for the warning light to come on, as signal delays can lead to regret. Neglecting regular checks can cause increased oil consumption, heavier exhaust smoke, and while short trips might be manageable, long journeys could end in tragedy.
During car repairs, I've encountered numerous cases of major engine overhauls caused by insufficient engine oil, which is quite disheartening. Engine oil is like blood; without it, engine components experience dry friction, leading to a rapid rise in temperature that damages pistons and cylinder walls. At best, it causes deafening noise, and at worst, it results in cylinder scoring or bearing failure, costing thousands in repairs. Checking is simple: when the engine is cold, pull out the dipstick to confirm the oil level is within the normal range. If it's below the lower mark, just add some fresh oil. However, many overlook this small task, leading to sudden engine shutdowns and smoke while driving, compromising safety. I recommend changing the oil and filter every 5,000 kilometers and keeping an eye on oil consumption. If oil levels frequently drop, check for leaks or engine wear. Prevention is far more convenient than repairs after the fact.
