What is motor oil used for and what are its benefits?

Machines require lubricants in order to run properly, making motor oil an essential element of every vehicle or equipment engine. But what is motor oil specifically used for and what are its benefits? 

What is motor oil for? 

Motor oil plays a range of roles within the engine, with countless systems and components relying on it. 

Lubrication 

The main role of motor oil is to lubricate the engine parts, which are constantly subject to friction – the main cause of wear on engine parts. Lubricants reduce friction and wear, in turn reducing maintenance costs.

Cooling 

During combustion, heat from combustion and friction between mechanical parts each cause engine temperatures to rise. Motor oil helps to trap, transfer and release this heat through the lubrication circuit, supplementing the engine coolant, which can only cool certain parts of the engine. 

Cleaning  

The cleaning power of motor oil is fundamental to engine health. Microscopic deposits consisting of dust or combustion residue build up in the engine as it runs. Without motor oil, this residue would clog the engine and decrease its performance as the flow of motor oil continuously carries these impurities to the oil filter, where they are trapped. 

Protection against corrosion 

Fuel combustion generates corrosive acids that can damage metal engine parts. The additives within modern motor oils neutralise these acids, reducing the corrosive impact of acids. Nevertheless, when in contact with oxygen, motor oil may oxidise over time, no longer playing its corrosion-inhibiting role. That’s why you should change your motor oil regularly. 

Sealing 

Motor oil also enhances engine sealing, specifically the pistons and cylinders. It does it by forming a protective layer between the various components, sealing any clearances that may arise. 

What are the benefits of motor oil?

There are several benefits to using motor oil. 

Keeps engines safe from damage 

The key benefit of motor oil is that it stops the need for costly repairs. Without lubrication, engines can become seriously damaged as heat and friction destroy engine parts.  

Ensures a longer engine lifespan 

By cleaning the engine from deposits and sludge and reducing friction between parts, motor oil prevents the engine from clogging and becoming damaged. It ensures mechanical parts last longer and corrode slower, helping the engine perform better and have an increased lifespan. 

Decreases fuel consumption and CO2 emissions

If there is too little motor oil in an engine, the resulting friction lowers its efficiency, increasing fuel consumption, and with high-performance oils, emissions of gases and particulates are further decreased. 

Choose the right motor oil to ensure optimum efficiency 

Not all motor oils are alike, and it is important to choose an oil that is suited to your vehicle and the local climate conditions to enjoy all the benefits. To choose the right oil, consult your vehicle owner’s handbook or visit our LubAdvisor tool.