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Engine oil: functions, types, and how much is needed
You should never forget to change your engine oil on time. An engine running on no or too little engine oil is like a man running a marathon in the Sahara Desert with no water. In other words, it won’t end well. This guide covers why engine oil matters, the different types available, and how much oil your engine needs to ensure smooth operation and optimal efficiency for longer.
What is engine oil?
Car engine oil, aka motor oil, is a lubricant specifically formulated for internal combustion engines, vital to their performance and longevity. It reduces friction between moving parts, preventing wear and overheating while also cleaning, cooling, and protecting the engine from corrosion. It forms a protective film on engine parts, allowing them to work efficiently under high temperatures and pressures.
Modern engine oils contain a blend of base oils and additives designed to enhance their lubricating, cleaning, and cooling properties. These additives often include anti-wear agents, detergents, and viscosity enhancers.
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Functions of engine oil
What is engine oil used for? Engine oil serves several critical functions in an engine, including:
- Lubrication – as a lubricant, it reduces friction between the moving components to minimise wear.
- Keeping the engine clean and free of corrosion – the protective layer prevents rust and oxidation while carrying away dirt, carbon deposits, and other contaminants.
- Keeping the parts cool and preventing overheating – by maintaining low friction, it also prevents the motor from overheating.
- Sealing the unit – It forms a seal between piston rings and cylinder walls, improving efficiency.
In combination, these benefits ensure that the engine operates smoothly, reduce fuel consumption, and extend the engine’s lifespan.
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£ 28,67
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VAG Engine oil
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£ 16,46 for 1 litre
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Engine oil types
There are multiple different types of oils available on the market catered to different engine needs, including mineral, synthetic, and semi-synthetic oil. Most older cars made before the 2000s use conventional mineral oil as it was the most common lubricant at that time. Newer cars tend to use semi or fully synthetic oil to increase efficiency.
You should only use the type of oil recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Using a different type may lead to seal damage or leaks. It is also vital to use a product with the same viscosity rating as that listed in the owner’s manual for optimal protection.
| Type of Motor Oil | Characteristics | Applications | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Mineral oil | Derived from crude oil | Older, low-performance engines. | Cheap Good initial lubrication | Rapid degradation at high temperatures |
| Synthetic oil | Lab-made with additives for maximum protection | Modern, high-performance vehicles, designed for extreme conditions | Stability in extreme temperatures Long lasting | Expensive |
| Semi-synthetic oil | Blend of mineral and synthetic oils | Modern mid-range engines; varied driving conditions | Good value for money | Lower performance compared to fully synthetic products |
| High-mileage oil | Contains specific additives to reduce leaks and wear | Vehicles with over 100,000 km or significant wear | Extends engine life | May not be necessary for modern vehicles |
| Eco-friendly oil (bio-oil) | Made from renewable sources, biodegradable and environmentally friendly | Vehicles prioritising environmental impact | Lower carbon footprint Made with sustainable materials | Less availability in the market Limited shelf life |
How much engine oil does a car need?
Car engines generally require between four and eight litres of oil, but the exact amount depends on the engine's size. For instance, a medium-sized 6-cylinder engine may take around six litres, while a 4-cylinder engine usually takes up to 5 litres. You can check your vehicle owner’s manual for your engine’s oil capacity.
When should you check the engine oil level?
You should check the oil level regularly and while the engine is cold. Most experts recommend waiting at least 15 to 20 minutes before measuring to ensure that the motor is at a safer temperature and the oil has settled properly. This way, you can avoid serious burns and spills. Simply remove the dipstick and wipe it with a clean cloth before fully reinserting it. Remove it again to check whether the level is between the minimum and maximum marks.
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When to put oil in a car
You should add oil if the remaining oil is already near to or below the “MIN” mark on the dipstick. The ideal oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks, but it should not get too close to or exceed the maximum amount either. Both a lack and excess of oil can be damaging. If the oil warning light flashes on, check the oil level and inspect for leaks.
What is an oil change?
An oil change is a routine maintenance service where the old lubricant in an engine is replaced with fresh oil. After draining the old oil, you typically replace the filter before refilling the engine with the recommended lubricant.
Over time, the fluid breaks down, collects debris, and becomes less effective at protecting the engine. Regular oil changes are essential to keep the engine running smoothly, improve fuel efficiency, and extend the lifespan of the vehicle by preventing wear and damage.
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