Engine oil is used for lubrication of moving components, heat control, suspension of contaminants and protection of metal surfaces from wear. However, oil can lose its effectiveness over time due to deposits and normal wear. In some cases, an appropriate motor oil additive can enhance the oil’s protection. However, additives can never replace regular maintenance or mechanical repairs.
Know what your car is telling you before you select a product. These signs can help you decide whether to talk to a qualified mechanic about an additive.
1. Unusual Engine Noise or Increased Ticking
An engine should operate smoothly if it is healthy. Lubrication may not be getting to all components effectively, as indicated by ticking, tapping or light knocking. Worn parts, incorrect viscosity, or lubrication system faults can cause increased friction and noise due to low oil level.
Certain engine oil additives are designed to improve lubricity, so if the noise is due to friction, a compatible product may help. But constant knocking or any loud metallic noise should not be considered as an additive issue only. Cease driving if the noise is loud, safely check the oil level and schedule a professional inspection.
2. Low Oil Pressure Warning or Unstable Readings
An oil-pressure warning should be investigated immediately, as low oil pressure can kill an engine in no time. Stop and turn off the engine and use the dipstick to check the oil level as specified in the manual.
It might be due to low oil, wrong grade, clogged filter/pickup, failed pump, worn bearings, or sensor failure. An oil additive for low oil pressure should not be used to hide the warning or replace diagnosis. No matter how much a product may claim to help maintain the strength of the oil film or change the viscosity, it will not repair a pump or worn bearings. Do not resume driving if warning persists. Before considering an additive, the actual pressure should be measured and the cause determined with the assistance of a mechanic.
3. Sludge, Deposits, or Thick Oil
Although engine oil turns dark when it picks up dirt, color is not enough to establish that an engine is dirty. But if there are thick deposits near the oil filler cap, visible sludge or late oil changes, it may be a sign of oil buildup. Everything from short trips, traffic, overheating and longer oil change intervals can also play a part.
Depending on the type of additive used and the condition of the engine, certain deposits can be dislodged by a suitable engine cleaning additive. But heavy sludge or limited oil passages may make aggressive cleaning inappropriate. Consult manufacturer’s recommendations and consult a mechanic before using a flush. The safer approach to keeping buildup at bay is to make regular oil and filter changes.
4. Increased Oil Consumption Between Changes
If you are filling more often than normal, note how much you added and the rate at which the oil drops. Look for leaks and blue smoke at the exhaust, as that could be an oil leak into the combustion chamber.
Oil consumption may result from worn piston rings, valve seals, a faulty PCV system, leaks, or other mechanical issues. Seal conditioners and engine additives may be marketed to condition seals or help older engines, but are not effective on badly worn parts. So, look for sudden, excessive oil loss rather than additives.
5. Rough Performance or More Friction in an Older Engine
Wear can cause a rough idle, additional vibration or less smooth operation as the engine ages. But similar symptoms can result from spark plugs, injectors, air leaks, ignition or transmission issues.
Certain formulations are rated for higher temperatures or heavier loads and may provide additional protection if used in the engine. However, determine the problem first before choosing a motor oil additive.
6. Frequent Stop-and-Go Driving or Severe Conditions
Engine oil is subjected to extra stress during short trips, heavy traffic, towing, steep hills, cold or scorching heat and dust. Therefore, more heat stress or contamination can occur to the oil.
A compatible product may be used to provide additional protection. However, additives cannot extend the interval between oil changes; stick to the change frequency recommended in your owner’s manual. Use the proper grade of oil and a good filter too.
If you tow often or make frequent short trips, refer to the severe-service recommendations in the manual. These may call for shorter service intervals. Maintaining logs of oil replenishment, service dates, and warning lights can also help a technician detect a developing problem earlier.
7. What to Check Before Using an Additive
An additive is not required for all engines; modern oils have balanced additive packages. Please note that a product may affect the balance or viscosity, so read the manual and product label first.
Match the Product to the Actual Problem
Select a product for a particular, identified need, not just for general marketing claims. For instance, an engine cleaning additive is not a friction modifier or viscosity improver. Similarly, treating an oil additive for low oil pressure will not fix mechanical wear, a plugged oil passage, or a failing oil pump. When the pressure is low, the first step is to diagnose the issue.
Check Compatibility and Instructions
Check compatibility with your engine, oil grade, emission devices and manufacturer requirements. Also, do not exceed the recommended dosage. Do not assume that more product means greater protection, as it may alter the oil’s protective properties. Never mix products unless the manufacturer says it is OK to do so.
Do Not Ignore Warning Signs
NEVER postpone necessary repairs with an additive if the oil pressure light is on, the engine is overheating or severe engine knocking occurs. Additives can only be considered for a healthy engine if the manufacturer specifically recommends them.
Conclusion
Maintenance should be checked for the following conditions: increased oil consumption, rough operation, severe driving conditions, oil-pressure warning, sludge, and engine noise. These symptoms do not necessarily indicate the need for an additive, however. Inspect and monitor oil level(s) and specifications, service intervals, and abnormal symptoms. By regularly checking a few basic things, you can detect any issues brewing before they require a costly repair.
If the cause is identified, engine oil additives or an appropriate motor oil additive can provide some benefit in certain applications. An approved cleaning agent might be considered for deposits upon inspection. Such products are never a substitute for pressure testing or mechanical repair. It is best to refer to your owner’s manual and ask questions of a qualified technician before adding anything to your engine oil.
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