What is Low Ash Engine Oil?
3 Answers
Low ash engine oil is a specially designed lubricant for vehicles equipped with exhaust gas purification systems. To achieve specific performance characteristics, various types of additives are incorporated into engine oil. The particulate matter generated through the combustion of these additives constitutes what is known as ash. Currently, there isn't an effective method to distinctly identify low ash engine oil other than through the certification standards it meets. Engine oil certifications primarily follow two standards: the ACEA standard and the API standard. When distinguishing based on the ACEA standard, one should select oils certified under the ACEA C category. For API standards, it's advisable to choose engine oils with an SP grade rating. The difference between low ash engine oil and conventional engine oil is not substantial, with the primary distinction lying in the ash content value. Ash is produced from the combustion of certain additives in the oil, and a portion of this ash can accumulate inside the engine, forming what car enthusiasts commonly refer to as 'carbon deposits'.
Low-ash engine oil refers to motor lubricants with exceptionally low ash content. Ash is the residue left after the combustion of metallic components in oil additives, such as calcium and zinc, which can easily accumulate and clog particulate filters in modern vehicles. If your car is a newer model, especially gasoline or diesel vehicles equipped with GPF or DPF, you must use this type of oil. Otherwise, a clogged filter can trigger warning lights and even lead to expensive component replacements. When selecting oil, check the specification labels on the packaging—for example, the ACEA C3 standard indicates low-ash oil, and certain API grades also specify this. I often encounter friends complaining about car issues, and upon inquiry, it's always due to improper use of regular oil. Regular maintenance combined with the right oil choice can extend both engine life and the emission system.
Let me talk about low-ash engine oil from an environmental perspective. It's primarily designed to reduce ash buildup, and less ash means fewer polluting particles emitted by the vehicle, which helps protect both the car's filters and outdoor air quality. I pay special attention to this when driving my hybrid, because using high-ash oil can cause the filters to fail prematurely, leading to high replacement costs and contributing to smog. For daily oil selection, always refer to the manual or consult a service center—most automakers now recommend low-ash types to comply with emission regulations. I believe such small choices can make a big difference, helping everyone breathe cleaner air.
