The lubricant industry is growing rapidly with every new innovation and technology. With this growth also comes the stake of a lot of myths. Some of them have been etched in the history of automobiles for centuries; especially the ones centred around changing engine oils. When it comes to car ownership, information is the actual wealth. The right knowledge can build your transportation game, and the wrong one could lead to unwanted repairs and expenses. Therefore, it is crucial to filter out the truth from the misconceptions you have heard over the years and give your car engine the right treatment. If you have encountered several myths about changing engines or have been confused, this blog will debunk some of them with factual data. Keep reading to be well-informed and increase the lifespan of your vehicle.
Explore the Common Misconceptions on Changing Engine Oil
Before you go astray listening to different opinions and debates on changing engine oil, have a sneak peek into some of the truths here:
Myth—Synthetic Oil Results in Leaks in Old Engines
Some may think that using synthetic oil in older engines can result in leakage, which would have been true if it had been some years back. However, the advancement of synthetic oil and new formulations has made it fully compatible with older engines as well. Using outdated engines does not cause leakage anymore if one uses the right engine oils. They offer better performance, protection and efficiency than the conventional engine oils in older model cars.
Myth: Warm Up the Engine Before Driving
Surely, some of us must have heard their dads or uncles saying this. Many people feel that it is important to warm up the engine well before taking the car for the drive. This is more commonly practised during winter. This myth stems from the past and doesn’t apply to modern vehicles. Modern cars do not require warming engines for long, which is harmful to both the engine and the environment. The advanced engine oil warms up faster and maintains regular temperature through different seasons, reducing emissions and giving efficient performance.
Myth: You Need to Change Oil Only After Every 10,000 Miles
One of the most common misconceptions is that a car does not require an oil change unless covering 10,000 miles. Yes, there have been significant advancements in engine and engine oil technology to increase oil change intervals, but this myth still remains invalid. The frequency of oil change varies based on different factors, including driving habits, vehicle type and the kind of oil you use. The standard oil change interval should be around 3000 to 5000 miles, while for more high-quality synthetic oil, it can lead up to 7500-10000 miles. You should always consult the owner’s manual to understand specific requirements.
Myth: You Should Always Use the Same Type of Engine Oil
It is a major debate between various owners that one should generally stick to the same type of car engine oil and viscosity suggested by the manufacturer. While it is a good practice, there is no harm in switching between conventional and new-age synthetic oil for your engine. As long as your preferred oil meets the car’s challenges and specifications, you can change your oil type.
Myth: The Engine Oil Should be Topped Off
This myth is rooted in the belief that regularly topped-off engine oil will keep the system well-lubricated all the time. However, in truth, it is not necessary to top off your engine oil as it may lead to filling up your engine with more than what’s required. Overfilling can be as detrimental to the engine as keeping the oil too low. Moreover, it can also result in oil and thus, leakage and other issues. Therefore, maintain the optimum level of oil as indicated on the dipstick or suggested by the manufacturer.
Conclusion
Understanding the common misconceptions of changing oil is just another way of understanding the true nature of engine oils. Be it a car or motorcycle engine oil, avoiding these myths will equip you with the right knowledge to make informed decisions for your vehicle. It can help the owners to elevate the performance of their motor and avoid unwanted risks.
