What is the purpose of car engine oil?
3 Answers
Car engine oil is used for lubricating internal combustion engines. Engine oil is a substance enhanced with additives in base oil, primarily containing anti-wear additives, detergents, dispersants, and multi-grade viscosity index improvers. The functions of car engine oil include: 1. Cleaning: It can carry away carbon deposits, sludge, metal wear particles, and other contaminants from engine components back to the oil pan, achieving a cleaning effect; 2. Sealing and leak prevention; 3. Rust and corrosion prevention; 4. Cooling; 5. Shock absorption and buffering; 6. Lubrication and friction reduction. Based on the type of base oil, engine oil can be divided into mineral oil and synthetic oil, with synthetic oil further categorized into semi-synthetic and full-synthetic engine oil.
Over the years, I've changed engine oil quite a few times for my car. Its primary function is to protect the engine by reducing friction between metal components and preventing excessive wear. When the engine operates in high-temperature conditions, the oil also helps dissipate heat and cool it down, preventing overheating damage. Its cleaning properties are equally important, as it carries away dirt and carbon deposits inside the engine, keeping the internals clean. Additionally, it enhances sealing by filling gaps, improving efficiency. If the oil quality is poor or not changed for too long, engine problems may arise, such as oil burning or increased noise. Therefore, regular inspection and replacement are essential maintenance tasks. Using the right oil makes my car run smoother and last longer, reducing repair costs and making the vehicle feel years younger.
As someone who frequently goes on road trips, I understand the crucial role of engine oil in lubricating internal engine components, such as pistons and bearings, ensuring smooth and quiet movement while reducing friction heat to prevent engine overheating. In terms of cleaning, engine oil flushes away metal debris and impurities, preventing blockages. The sealing function helps minimize gas leakage and maintains compression ratios. Choosing the right oil viscosity—different grades for summer and winter—ensures stable performance. Neglecting oil change intervals shortens engine life and increases costs, so I always follow the manual's recommended schedule for oil changes, saving money and giving me peace of mind.
