When it comes to topping off your engine oil, it’s important to understand if you can mix different weights of oil. We rely on engine oil to lubricate the moving parts of our engines, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear. Mixing oils with different viscosities could result in inadequate lubrication, leading to increased friction, wear, and potential engine damage. Let’s delve deeper into this topic to gain a better understanding.
Is it OK to Mix Engine Oils of Different Viscosities?
The viscosity of an oil refers to its thickness or resistance to flow. Different engines require different oil viscosities to perform optimally. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) assigns a viscosity rating to engine oils, consisting of a number followed by the letter “W” (e.g., 10W-30). The number before the “W” indicates the oil’s cold-flow viscosity, while the number after the “W” indicates the oil’s hot-flow viscosity. Mixing oils with different viscosities could affect their ability to properly lubricate the engine.
Results from various automotive experts and tests shed light on the potential consequences of mixing different oil viscosities:
Revzilla Youtube Channel: The Truth About Mixing Different Engine Oils
A popular YouTube channel, RevZilla, discusses the effects of mixing engine oils. They explain that mixing oils with different viscosities can alter the overall viscosity of the oil in your engine. This alteration in viscosity may result in inadequate lubrication, leading to increased friction, wear, and potential engine damage. Therefore, it is generally recommended not to mix engine oils of different viscosities.
Project Farm Youtube Channel: Oil Analysis Results
Another YouTube channel, Project Farm, conducts tests to determine the effects of mixing different oils. They found that mixing oils with different viscosities can affect the oil’s performance, specifically its ability to protect against wear and tear. Mixing oils may also alter the oil’s anti-wear additives and detergents, further compromising its efficacy.
Based on the information gathered, it is clear that mixing oils with different viscosities is not recommended. It is best to use the oil viscosity recommended by your vehicle manufacturer to ensure optimal performance and engine protection.
Can You Top off Engine Oil with Different Weights?
Now that we’ve established the potential risks of mixing oils with different viscosities, let’s address whether it is permissible to top off your engine oil with different weights. The answer to this question largely depends on the context.
According to several sources, including Quora, it is generally acceptable to mix different weights of oils as long as they belong to the same line of oil. Mixing oils within the same brand and line helps maintain consistency and ensures compatibility between different oil weights. However, mixing different brands and synthetic/non-synthetic oils is not recommended.
It’s important to note that mixing oils with different weights may affect the overall viscosity of the oil in your engine. While it may not immediately cause catastrophic damage, continuous use of incompatible oil weights can lead to poor engine performance and reduced longevity.
Credit: grassrootsmotorsports.com
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is not advisable to mix engine oils with different viscosities, as it can lead to inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage. When topping off your engine oil, it is generally acceptable to mix oils of different weights, as long as they belong to the same brand and line of oil. However, it’s always best to follow the recommendations provided by your vehicle manufacturer.
Maintaining the proper oil levels and using the correct oil for your engine is crucial to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. Regular oil changes and adhering to manufacturer guidelines will help ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your engine.
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