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06/11/2019 News

KEEPING OIL VOLUME JUST RIGHT: HERE'S WHY

There are many ways to keep your car shipshape, including having the oil changed regularly. It’s something a car owner can do at home, so you may want to try it for yourself sometime. One rule to keep in mind: make sure you pour just the right amount. Too little, or too much won’t be doing any favour for your car.

Firstly, what could happen if you’re being too generous with oil? Your car’s performance is affected. You’re pushing down on the accelerator, but your engine hesitates. This is because when the engine is working at high rotation, the excess oil will aerate and turns into foam, which means it now contains water. Oil and water are never a good mix – in this case, the oil is now unable to properly lubricate your engine and oil pump cannot work effectively, which in turn could damage the engine.

Overfilled oil may also cause leak. The precursor is usually damaged seal; excess oil can now overflow and oozes out from your engine.

Next, what’s wrong with too little oil? Similarly, it may lead to engine break. Without enough protection from oil, engine heats up quicker and would easily suffer from wear.

ALSO READ: CHOOSING THE RIGHT ENGINE OIL

You’ll notice it, too. Your engine may sound harsh because there is so much friction between metals. The oil itself would heat and oxidize because of incomplete combustion. After a while, sludge will form, causing corrosion. In a worst-case scenario, your engine surrenders and goes to a complete stop.

So, when you decide to go DIY on oil change, do it carefully and use a dipstick to know where you’re at. The stick’s markings – F (full), or two lines (Max.) and L (low), or a single line (Min.) –indicate your oil volume.

To be safe, keep your oil level consistently between L and F – just under F would be ideal. Remember, not too low, but don’t overflow. Also, check your oil level weekly or after a long trip.

 

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