What is the reason for abnormal engine oil level?
3 Answers
Engine oil level abnormalities are mainly caused by the following reasons: Generally, vehicles experience a certain amount of oil consumption during operation, so it is essential to regularly check the oil level. If the oil level is low, it should be replenished immediately. When blue smoke is emitted from the exhaust pipe while the engine is running, it is necessary to increase the frequency and thoroughness of inspections to prevent insufficient oil, which can exacerbate engine wear or lead to malfunctions. If the oil level is normal but the oil warning light remains illuminated, it indicates an electrical issue or a faulty oil sensor, and the vehicle should be taken to a repair shop for servicing. Below is some additional information: Introduction and Functions: Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption. It is often referred to as the "blood" of a car. Composition: Engine oil consists of two main components: base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary constituent of the lubricant, determining its fundamental properties. Additives are used to compensate for and enhance the performance shortcomings of the base oil, imparting new characteristics, and are a crucial part of the lubricant.
Recently I noticed the engine oil level in my old car was alarmingly low, which usually stems from accumulated minor issues like oil leaks from aged gasket seals or excessive oil consumption due to internal engine component wear. If left unaddressed, insufficient lubrication can cause engine temperatures to skyrocket, potentially damaging critical parts such as cylinder blocks or bearing shells. Checking is straightforward: park on level ground, turn off the engine, wait ten minutes, pull out the dipstick to wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check if the oil level falls between the min-max marks. If it's significantly low, promptly top up with the same oil grade, but avoid overfilling as excessive oil levels can cause foaming and lubrication failure, equally harmful to the engine. For long-term maintenance, inspect the dipstick monthly to prevent breakdowns during long trips. Remember, small oil leaks should be repaired early to avoid escalating into major engine overhauls.
My car occasionally experiences a higher-than-normal engine oil level, which could be due to overfilling during the last service, or worse, coolant leaking into the oil system, causing oil-water mixing. An excessively high oil level can lead to oil foaming, reduced lubrication performance, increased engine operating resistance, higher fuel consumption, and potential internal component damage. During diagnosis, don't overlook the coolant level or oil stains on the ground. Solution: First, try to extract the excess oil yourself or promptly visit a professional shop for drainage. Regularly maintaining and recording oil level changes is key to prevention. Unlike low oil levels, high oil levels don't trigger warning lights, but they are equally dangerous. Ignoring them for too long may lead to mechanical failures.
