Engine oil is necessary for the efficient working of diesel engines. The oil reduces friction, ensuring that the different parts do not shear off rapidly while the machine is in operation. It forms a thin film between them, which minimizes contact with individual components, thus preventing them from colliding or coming into contact with each other.
This is important because the more friction created between the shafts, the more the engine gets hot, and there is a danger of causing damage. Using the right engine oil is like giving your vehicle the right fuel—it keeps everything running smoothly and helps the engine last longer.
The right oil also helps keep the engine cool, clean, and well-lubricated, which means fewer problems and a smoother ride. Plus, it can improve fuel efficiency, saving you money on gas.
But if you use the wrong oil, it can cause big problems. The oil might be too thick or thin, so the engine parts don’t get the protection they need. When the parts aren’t protected well, they can rub against each other and wear down faster, leading to engine damage.
It can also make the engine overheat or cause oil leaks, making the engine work harder than it should. This can lead to expensive repairs or make the engine stop working completely. That’s why using the correct engine oil for your diesel engine is super important.
Why Choosing the Right Oil Matters
It is not just advisable but crucial when selecting the right type of oil for your diesel engine. This means the right oil ensures an engine runs cooler and is protected simultaneously.
By adding the wrong type of oil, the engine may overheat, develop oil leaks and some other issues. Therefore, the right engine oil is useful for properly functioning your vehicle and is cost-effective in the long run.
What Does Engine Oil Do?
Engine oil does a big job of keeping your diesel engine healthy. It:
- Lubricates or “greases” the moving parts so they don’t rub against each other too much.
- Keeps the engine from getting too hot by carrying heat away.
- Removes dirt and tiny particles from the engine.
Without the right oil, your engine can get damaged easily.
How to Choose the Right Diesel Engine Oil
When picking the best oil for your diesel engine, think about:
- Viscosity: This refers to the oil’s viscosity, or, in other words, how thick or thin the oil is. Every owner’s manual will indicate the recommended viscosity grade of your engine’s oil.
- Type of Oil: There are synthetic and conventional oils. Some engines require synthetic oil because the synthetic fluid copes with high-temperature conditions.
- Additives: They are unique additives that enable the functionality of the oil. Diesel engines require oil that includes additives that stabilize well at high heat and pressure.
What Happens When You Use the Wrong Diesel Engine Oil?
The biggest problem with using the wrong oil is messing up engine lubrication. Here’s what might happen:
- Oil that is too Thick: If the oil is too thick, it might not flow well, especially when starting the car in cold weather. This means the moving parts might not get enough lubrication, causing wear and tear.
- Thinner Oil: If the oil is too thin, it won’t create a good protective layer between parts. This can lead to more friction, which makes the engine wear out faster.
How it Damage Engine Performance
Using incorrect diesel engine oil can make your engine work harder and perform poorly:
- Overheating: The diesel engine runs hot; if the oil used is wrong, it cannot cool the engine as it should. In this instance, the engine tends to overheat, which is not good for the health of the particular engine.
- Lower Fuel Efficiency: This dosing means that when the wrong type of oil is used, the engine needs extra energy to keep running. This means your car will consume more fuel, which is not cheap these days.
- Oil Leaks: Whenever the wrong viscosity of the oil is applied, it hastens the tear and wear of the seals, thus causing oil leaks. This means there is less oil in the engine to lubricate it, as it is customary to safeguard the engine throughout use.
Common Signs of Engine Trouble Due to Wrong Oil
It’s important to know when your engine might be in trouble because of the wrong oil:
- Strange Noises: If the engine starts knocking or grinding sounds, it might mean the oil isn’t doing a good job lubricating the parts.
- Thick Exhaust Smoke: If you see a lot of thick, dark smoke from your car’s exhaust, it could be a sign that you’ve used the wrong engine oil.
- Oil Leaks: Spots of oil under your car can mean that the wrong oil has caused a leak. Leaks reduce the amount of oil in the engine, which means less protection for the parts.
- Engine Warning Light: If the dashboard light comes on after an oil change, it might mean the oil type isn’t right for your engine. You should get it checked out.
How to Prevent Problems with Engine Oil
- Read the Owner’s Manual: Look in the owner’s manual for the right oil type and viscosity grade for your diesel engine. It has the best advice for your vehicle.
- Ask a Mechanic: If you’re unsure which oil to use, ask a mechanic. They can help you pick the right engine oil for your car.
- Stick to Regular Oil Changes: Changing your engine oil on time keeps your engine running smoothly. It helps avoid wear and keeps the oil clean and fresh.
Bottom Line
Incorrect diesel engine oil usually results in adverse consequences such as damaging the engine, overheating or staining by oil leakage. The right engine oil will ensure the lubrication of all the moving parts of your vehicle, it enables one to use less fuel, and your vehicle’s engine will outlive most others.
It is always advisable to use the recommended oil while driving the car, obeying the vehicle’s instructions. At Fubex Lubricants, we have various grades of oils, such as diesel engine oil, that help keep your automobile in perfect condition.
We’re just a phone call away when determining which oil is best for your vehicle. So, when using Fubex Lubricants, you are fully assured that your engine is getting the proper attention it requires.
FAQs
Q1: How can I identify if I’m using the correct diesel engine oil for my vehicle?
Ans: You should check your owner’s manual to find the right oil thickness for your engine. This will help your diesel engine work its best.
Q2: What are the most common signs that my diesel engine may suffer damage due to incorrect oil usage?
Ans: If you think you or the mechanic used the wrong oil in your car, there are some signs to watch for oil leaks, strange engine noises like tapping or knocking, or a weird burning smell.
Q3: Are there specific brands or types of diesel engine oils more compatible with certain engines, and how do I choose the right one?
Ans: Check what the manufacturer recommends. The owner’s manual for a modern diesel engine will tell you which type of Diesel Engine Oil to use, like API CJ-4 or ACEA E4/E6/E7/E9.
