What is the purpose of adding engine oil?
4 Answers
Engine oil serves the following purposes: 1. Reducing friction and high temperatures to minimize wear; 2. Decreasing gas leakage and preventing external contaminants from entering; 3. Forming a protective film on parts to shield them from water, air, acidic substances, and harmful gases; 4. Providing cushioning effects; 5. Flushing away contaminants generated on working surfaces of components. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, is an essential lubricant for ensuring proper engine operation. It consists of base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary component of lubricating oil, determining its fundamental properties, while additives compensate for and enhance the shortcomings of the base oil, imparting certain new characteristics.
As a veteran who has driven for twenty years, engine oil is like blood to an engine. It lubricates various internal components such as pistons and cylinder walls, reducing friction and wear between metal parts. I once experienced a situation where the oil level was dangerously low, resulting in terrifyingly loud engine noise and nearly causing cylinder seizure—fortunately, I topped up the oil in time to avoid serious damage. Another critical function of engine oil is heat dissipation; it absorbs heat when the engine runs hot and releases it through the oil pan, preventing overheating-induced deformation. It also has a cleaning effect, carrying away carbon deposits from combustion to keep the internals clean. Using low-quality oil long-term can clog small passages and accelerate engine aging. That’s why I always insist on timely oil changes during maintenance—don’t underestimate this practice, as it can extend your car’s lifespan by years and save you big on repairs.
I usually enjoy tinkering with some basic car knowledge, and the role of engine oil is actually quite fundamental. It continuously circulates within the engine, coating metal surfaces to form a protective film, ensuring that components like gears and bearings don’t directly grind against each other during operation—resulting in less noise and reduced wear. Engine oil also helps with cooling by absorbing combustion heat, preventing the engine from overheating and seizing. Without it, the engine could easily lock up or even suffer catastrophic failure. On a side note, the difference between synthetic and mineral oil is worth mentioning: synthetic oil can better withstand high temperatures and lasts longer, making it more suitable for modern high-performance vehicles. I often advise fellow car enthusiasts to regularly check the oil level and color, and not wait until it turns black or becomes too thin before changing it. Choosing the right oil viscosity is also crucial—too thick, and it affects fuel efficiency; too thin, and it offers insufficient protection. Simple maintenance can prevent major issues down the road.
As a family car owner who frequently takes trips with loved ones, the engine oil serves as the foundation for safety and reliability. It effectively lubricates internal components, ensuring smooth operation and reducing those unsettling abnormal noises. If not replaced on schedule, degraded oil performance and accumulated contaminants can clog passages, leading to inefficient engine operation and increased fuel consumption. Over time, this may result in costly overhauls costing thousands. I've developed the habit of checking the dipstick monthly, topping up with fresh oil if levels are low. It cools the engine, especially during summer highway drives, preventing temperature spikes that could cause breakdowns. Regular maintenance not only extends vehicle lifespan but also provides peace of mind on the road. Just choose certified products during oil changes—no need for premium-priced options.
