Why Does the Engine Noise Increase After an Oil Change?
2 Answers
There are several reasons why engine noise may increase after an oil change: 1. Overfilling of 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, the rotational resistance is greater when the engine is cold, and the lubrication is insufficient, leading to increased noise during cold starts. 3. Severe engine carbon buildup: Oil tends to thin out over time, and carbon deposits accumulate. When new oil is first changed, the engine may not immediately adapt to the oil's viscosity, resulting in louder engine noise.
After my recent oil change, the engine noise has increased, and I suspect it's an oil issue. First, check if the oil viscosity is correct; oil that's too thin may not provide sufficient lubrication, leading to increased noise. I checked the dipstick—if the oil level is too high, it can foam and cause noise, while too low means insufficient lubrication; the level should be between the marks. Recalling the oil change process, the bolt might not have been tightened properly, causing leaks, or the filter might not have been installed correctly. Another possibility is poor-quality oil with impurities—try using a high-quality, matching oil. New oil sometimes needs a break-in period; the noise may decrease after a few hundred kilometers. If there's no improvement after a few days, internal engine wear, such as bearing aging or belt loosening, might be the issue, and a visit to the repair shop is necessary to avoid engine damage. Always be meticulous when changing oil yourself.
