What is the difference between engine oil and lubricating oil?
2 Answers
The difference between engine oil and lubricating oil lies in their different purposes: engine oil serves to lubricate and reduce wear in the engine, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption; lubricating oil is used on machinery to reduce friction between components, providing lubrication and cooling during machine operation. The method for changing engine oil is: 1. Lift the car, remove the protective plate, and place a container under the oil drain screw; 2. Unscrew the oil drain screw, use an air gun to blow for two minutes at the oil filler port, after draining, tighten the oil drain screw and wipe with a tissue to check for leaks; 3. Reinstall the protective plate, lower the car, and add engine oil through the filler port.
As a seasoned driver with decades of experience, I've encountered many people confusing engine oil with lubricants. Simply put, engine oil is a specific type of lubricant designed exclusively for automobile engines. Its functions go beyond just lubrication—it also cools pistons, cleans carbon deposits, and prevents rust. Engine oils come in various types like mineral and synthetic, and you must choose the correct grade (e.g., 5W-30) based on your vehicle model. Lubricant, on the other hand, is a broad term that includes bicycle chain oil, machine tool hydraulic oil, and even household door lock oil. Engine conditions involve high temperatures and pressures, which general lubricants can't withstand—using them will shorten engine life. In my younger days, I foolishly used cheap chain oil as engine oil to save money, resulting in engine overheating and a breakdown—a hard lesson learned. So, always use specialized engine oil during maintenance and never substitute it with other lubricants.
