Why Does the Engine Noise Increase After an Oil Change?
4 Answers
There are several reasons why engine noise may increase after an oil change: 1. Overfilling of engine oil: When there is too much oil in the engine, it creates unnecessary resistance to the rotation of the crankshaft, affecting power output, increasing fuel consumption, and consequently raising noise levels. 2. Unsuitable oil viscosity: If the oil viscosity is too high, it creates greater rotational resistance when the engine is cold, leading to insufficient lubrication and increased noise during cold starts. 3. Severe engine carbon buildup: Over time, engine oil becomes thinner, and carbon deposits accumulate. When new oil is first added, the engine may not immediately adapt to the oil's viscosity, resulting in increased engine noise.
I just changed the engine oil and noticed that the engine noise is louder than before. The first thing that comes to mind is that I might have used the wrong oil. If the oil viscosity is too thin or too thick, such as using a grade that doesn't meet the vehicle's requirements, it can lead to insufficient lubrication, increased friction, and naturally louder noise. Additionally, if the oil level is too low or too high, it can affect the oil pump's operation and may also cause unusual noises. Don't forget to check if the oil filter is properly tightened; a loose filter can allow air to mix into the oil passages, or using low-quality oil can result in poor lubrication. After an oil change, it's best to start the engine for a few minutes to let the new oil lubricate the internal components. However, if the noise persists, you should check the oil dipstick or return to the repair shop for inspection. Don't delay to prevent engine damage.
If the noise increases significantly after an oil change, I usually check the oil level first. Too little oil can cause the oil pump to struggle with suction, while too much can increase operational resistance. Next, I examine the oil type—for instance, using a low-viscosity summer oil in winter may lead to gap impact noise. A poorly installed or clogged oil filter can affect oil supply and potentially cause abnormal noises. If the oil brand was changed, residual contaminants mixing with the new oil might accelerate wear, suddenly revealing underlying issues. It's advisable to test whether the noise persists with some lubricant and promptly adjust the oil level or revert to the original oil grade to prevent serious damage.
Increased engine noise may be due to unsuitable viscosity of the new oil. Switching to lower viscosity oil can cause insufficient lubrication at high temperatures, leading to increased friction sounds. Abnormal oil levels, such as underfilling or incomplete drainage of old oil, can strain the oil pump. A poorly sealed oil filter may allow air to enter the system. I once tried a DIY oil change and heard noise immediately upon starting—turned out I had selected the wrong oil type, and simply switching back fixed it. Choosing the right oil brand during regular maintenance can often prevent noise issues.
