Some oil manufacturers claim that their oil, when added to your engine, will remain “golden” in color and not turn dark. Every engine produces soot /carbon as a byproduct, so if the oil does not change color, it means that the soot/carbon is likely remaining stuck on the insides of your engine, which can lead to engine failure.
In these cases, the oil, especially motor oil, contains detergent and dispersant additives that keep the soot or carbon suspended in the oil. This ensures that these deposits do not adhere to the engine’s internal components, causing clogging of smaller clearances and damaging the engine. Hence, an oil change removes these accumulated deposits. There are several other advantages to changing oil regularly for these engines.
Preventing Engine Wear and Tear
Motor oils are formulated with around 30% additives. These additives can perform various functions, including protecting the internal components from wear. However, over time, they become depleted and should be replenished. Changing your oil regularly can help with that. With an oil change, there is a replenishment of additives that protect the equipment.
Maintaining Proper Engine Functioning
Over time, the viscosity of the oil in engines will decrease due to the conditions that exist within the engine. There will come a time when it reaches the end of its life and will no longer be able to protect the engine. At this point, the crosshatch on the cylinder walls can begin to experience some polishing, as the oil can no longer provide the necessary protection. By changing the oil on time or regularly, this can be avoided, and the engine can maintain its proper functioning.
Avoiding Costly Repairs
When the oil starts to degrade, it loses all its protective elements, and wear can start to occur. With frequent oil changes, this can be avoided as new oil will be able to protect the engine and its components to the best of its ability. This way, increased wear can be minimized, and costly repairs can be avoided.
Following Manufacturer Recommendations
Manufacturers typically recommend oil changes every 5,000 to 7,000 kilometers for passenger cars; however, this interval can vary depending on driving habits, environmental conditions, and even the type of fuel used. Oils are designed to protect the engine, and when they reach the end of their life, they can no longer fully perform this function. By changing the oil regularly (or, in some cases, as recommended by the manufacturer), the engine’s lifespan can be extended.
Monitoring Oil Levels and Quality
In some passenger cars, engine manufacturers specify that there is a loss of oil over time. One manufacturer, Audi specifies that owners should top up 0.5 liters of oil every 1000km. As one can imagine, if there is no top-up or oil replenishment, the oil levels can fall below the minimum value, causing damage to the engine.
Hence, it is essential to follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for topping up your engine to prevent damage. These top-ups also serve to replenish some of the used additives, providing additional protection for your engine.
Find out more in the full article featured in Precision Lubrication Magazine.
