What happens if I use the wrong oil in my car?

August 5, 2024

Using the wrong oil in your vehicle can have serious repercussions on its performance and longevity. Different engines require specific oil viscosities and formulations to operate efficiently. If you use oil that is too thick or too thin, it can lead to inadequate lubrication.

Using Oil that is too Thick

If the oil is too thick (high viscosity), it struggles to flow smoothly through the engine, especially during cold starts. This can cause increased friction and wear on engine components, leading to overheating and possibly severe damage over time.

Using Oil that is too thin

On the other hand, if the oil is too thin (low viscosity), it might not provide sufficient lubrication under high-temperature conditions, resulting in excessive wear and tear on moving parts.

Using oil without the correct additives

Another critical consideration is the oil’s additive package, which is usually tailored to meet the specific needs of different engines. If you use the wrong oil , your engine might not get the necessary protection against corrosion, deposits, and sludge buildup leading to clogged oil passages, reduced efficiency, and in extreme cases, engine failure.

Additionally, modern engines often come with technologies like variable valve timing and turbochargers that rely on the correct oil pressure and formulation. Using the incorrect oil can inhibit  these systems, leading to performance issues and costly repairs.

In summary

Always refer to your car’s manual or use https://oiltype.co/ to find the right right oil type and capacity for your car to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and reliability of your vehicle.