What is the function of engine lubricant?
2 Answers
Engine lubricant serves the following purposes: reducing friction between moving parts of the engine, ensuring smooth engine operation, improving mechanical efficiency, cleaning the engine and removing residual impurities in the filter. Engine lubricant is required wherever there is relative motion between metal components in the engine. If the engine is not protected by lubricant during operation, dry friction will occur in tightly fitted areas such as between the piston and cylinder wall, or between the connecting rod bearing and crankshaft. The heat generated in a short period of time can be sufficient to melt the metal, causing damage to components or even seizure (such as piston scuffing or crankshaft bearing seizure), leading to engine failure. Therefore, in daily use, engine lubricant must be regularly inspected, replenished or replaced.
I've worked in auto repair shops for many years. Engine lubricant is like the blood of a car, preventing metal parts from grinding against each other and protecting gears and bearings from wear. More importantly, it carries away sludge and metal debris accumulated inside the engine, preventing these impurities from clogging oil passages or scratching components. The oil also forms a sealing layer between the piston rings and cylinder walls, ensuring compression pressure doesn't leak and keeping the car powerful. I've noticed that during summer road trips, lubricants also help with heat dissipation, given how high engine operating temperatures can get. Regular oil changes are crucial—I've seen too many cases of major overhauls caused by failed engine oil.
